Pakistan Team Criticized for Family Presence During T20 World Cup
The Pakistan cricket team faced heavy criticism following their poor performance in the T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA. This backlash stemmed from the presence of players’ families at the team hotel. Reports indicated that, apart from the 34 players, support staff, and officials, around 26 to 28 family members, including wives, children, parents, and siblings, were also staying with the team. Notable players like Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, and Muhammad Amir had their families accompanying them. The team was eliminated after losing group stage matches to India and the USA.
Impact on Player Focus and Expenses
Critics argue that the presence of family members distracted the players and affected their focus on the game. While players paid for their family members’ expenses, the situation led to 60 rooms being booked at the team hotel to accommodate everyone. This created a family-oriented environment with frequent take-away dinners and outings. Babar Azam, who is unmarried, had his parents and brothers with him. The extra expenses and distractions were seen as detrimental, especially during such a crucial tournament.
Opinions on Family Presence During Major Events
Former Test wicketkeeper Atiq uz Zaman expressed understanding for players wanting their families with them during low-profile or bilateral tours. However, he stressed that for major events like the World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should not have permitted families to join. Zaman emphasized that players needed to concentrate solely on their cricket, and having families around diverted their attention. Muhammad Amir, for instance, brought his personal trainer to the World Cup, training separately from the team despite the presence of a full support staff.
PCB Considers Legal Action Against Unverified Reports
In response to the backlash and unverified reports of corruption and personal attacks on players, the PCB is contemplating legal action using a new defamation law introduced by the Punjab government. This law allows the PCB to challenge digital or mainstream media allegations, requiring them to prove their claims or face significant penalties. The law mandates that cases be resolved within six months to avoid prolonged litigation. This move follows accusations against skipper Babar Azam, who was alleged by a YouTuber to have accepted an expensive car as a gift.
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