The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed its disappointment regarding comments made by former PCB Chairman Mr Khalid Mahmood about the national cricket team in a recent interview with a TV channel.

In a statement PCB said, these remarks come at a crucial time when the national side prepares to face T20 world champions England, leading into the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

“At a time when the entire nation is rallying behind the national men’s team, Mr Khalid Mahmood, who served as PCB Chairman 25 years ago, has made irresponsible comments aimed at seeking attention. His remarks are disheartening, disrespectful and demotivating, clearly lacking in cricketing insight and knowledge.

“By outrightly predicting that the national side has no chance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 without any cricketing basis, Mr Khalid Mahmood has overlooked the significant progress and preparation made by our players and coaching staff, as well as the potential for new talents to emerge and make a substantial impact. Such comments from a former PCB Chairman are discouraging for our players and disrespectful to those who have faith in their capabilities and are prepared to support them throughout this journey.

“As a former PCB Chairman, the PCB expected Mr Khalid Mahmood to be more supportive and encouraging towards the Pakistan men’s cricket team, rather than making comments that are factually incorrect, ill-informed and potentially aimed at creating a feeling of doom and gloom.”