Pakistan players 'more focused on earning money': Former chief selector makes huge claim

Former Pakistan Test spinner and ex-chief selector Iqbal Qasim has voiced concerns about the current generation of cricket players, stating that many are more preoccupied with earning money than honing their skills and understanding of the sport. Qasim, a former player himself who made 50 Test appearances and served on the national selection committee, also pointed to the absence of long-term planning and consistency in selection choices.

He noted that while selectors now receive generous salaries for their roles, the lack of vision in decision-making is evident. Qasim emphasized that young players should prioritize improving their game awareness and skills rather than focusing solely on financial gains. He highlighted the need for players to dedicate more time to individual practice and studying the game, a practice that has diminished in Pakistan cricket in recent decades.

Qasim recalled Pakistan's historic Test victory over India in Bangalore in 1987, where advice from former India captain Bishen Singh Bedi played a crucial role in his strategy. By following Bedi's guidance on bowling in the right areas and utilizing the pitch's natural swing, Pakistan secured a significant win. Qasim also recounted his decision to include Shahid Afridi on a West Indies tour despite opposition from captain Misbah-ul-Haq, ultimately leading to Afridi's valuable contributions in the series.

Qasim believes that the interference between various authorities in cricket, leading to confusion and controversy, continues to be a significant issue for Pakistan cricket's development.