Afridi calls PCB ‘narrow-minded’ over PKR 50 lakh fine after World Cup debacle, demands tougher action

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over reports that it imposed a PKR 50 lakh fine on each member of the national squad following their exit from the 2026 T20 World Cup. The penalty was reportedly handed out for poor performance rather than disciplinary reasons after Pakistan failed to reach the semifinals of a global tournament for the fourth consecutive time.

According to reports, the fines were imposed immediately after Pakistan’s 61-run defeat to India in the group stage, with a condition that the penalty would be waived if the team progressed to the semifinals. Pakistan advanced to the Super 8 stage but were eventually eliminated after a washed-out match against New Zealand and a loss to England left them struggling on net run rate despite a final win over Sri Lanka.

Speaking to Samaa TV, Afridi questioned the logic behind the reported punishment, arguing that it was too lenient. “This is a decision that’s hard to understand. That’s narrow-minded thinking. This is a small amount. What will you even do with 50 lakhs? It doesn’t even sound like a penalty,” he said.

Afridi called for stricter measures, suggesting that players who underperformed should be sent back to first-class cricket. He also said some players should not be considered for national selection for at least two years as part of a stronger accountability process.

The PCB has not officially addressed the reports. Despite the team’s early exit, Shahidzada Farhan emerged as a standout performer, breaking the record for most runs in a T20 World Cup with two centuries in seven matches.