Imran Khan criticizes Pakistan's early exit from the Champions Trophy

Following Pakistan’s disappointing exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former World Cup-winning captain and ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan has expressed his frustration, warning that cricket will be "destroyed" if decision-making positions continue to be given based on favoritism.

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The former captain warns cricket will be "destroyed" if favoritism continues

Pakistan, which was hosting an ICC tournament for the first time in 29 years, saw its campaign come to an abrupt end within just five days. The team suffered consecutive losses in the group stage against New Zealand and India, resulting in their elimination. The performance left Pakistani fans and cricket supporters deeply disappointed.

"Imran says cricket will be eventually destroyed when favourites are put in decision-making positions," said Aleema Khan, Imran Khan’s sister, as quoted by Geo News.

Pakistan’s struggles in ICC tournaments have persisted, and their latest setback only added to their ongoing woes. Despite needing Bangladesh to defeat New Zealand to keep their semi-final hopes alive, the Kiwis secured a five-wicket victory in Rawalpindi, sealing their place in the knockouts alongside India and ending Pakistan’s chances.

Imran Khan also directed criticism towards Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, questioning his leadership and claiming that his repeated appointments to various positions have led to poor outcomes.

"Imran Khan said that no one in Pakistan has as many positions as Mohsin Naqvi has. When Naqvi was appointed [Punjab] Chief Minister, he committed injustices. He is appointed interior minister, he again committed injustices. Whichever position he is appointed, he makes a mess of it," Aleema Khan told The Express Tribune.

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"Imran Khan said that a respectable man would resign after such a poor performance but this could not happen," she added.

Pakistan will play their final group-stage match against Bangladesh at the National Stadium in Rawalpindi, but with both teams already eliminated, the game is a mere formality.

This latest failure continues a pattern of disappointing performances in global tournaments. In the 2024 T20 World Cup, Pakistan was knocked out early after losses to the United States and India. Similarly, in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, the Men in Green managed only four wins in nine matches, finishing fifth and failing to reach the knockouts.

With growing criticism from former players and fans alike, Pakistan cricket faces significant challenges in rebuilding ahead of future international events.

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