The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is facing backlash from cricket enthusiasts and experts for excluding former cricket captain and Prime Minister Imran Khan from a social media video that commemorates Pakistan’s cricket achievements since its inception in 1947.
Released on the occasion of Pakistan’s 76th Independence Day, the video showcased the country’s cricketing progress and achievements over the years.
Imran Khan, an iconic figure in both cricket and politics, was notably absent from the video. In recent months, there has been an unspoken ban on mentioning Khan’s name or displaying his image in broadcasts. The media regulatory authority in Pakistan has also prohibited airing his speeches and press conferences.
Imran Khan, a cricket legend who represented Pakistan internationally for over two decades, led his team to victory in the 1992 World Cup and is widely regarded as one of the sport’s finest players.
Critics have raised their voices against this omission, expressing their disappointment and concern. Urooj Mumtaz Khan, former captain of Pakistan’s women’s cricket team, pointed out the absence of Imran Khan, stating, “Reminiscing in Pakistan cricket’s history, 11 images of the 1992 World Cup win and not one pic or mention of the greatest that ever played the game for the country!”
Noted cricket historian and journalist Osman Samiuddin remarked on the effort it took to create a video without acknowledging the “greatest Pakistani cricketer ever.”
British broadcaster and writer Peter Oborne criticized the attempt to erase Khan’s contribution from Pakistan cricket’s history, likening it to a “Stalinist” approach.
Imran Khan holds numerous records in international cricket and is credited with introducing the concept of neutral umpires. After retiring from cricket, he ventured into politics and achieved significant success when his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party emerged victorious in the 2018 general elections, propelling him to the position of Prime Minister.
However, Khan’s political journey has been tumultuous. He was deposed last April following a no-confidence vote prompted by the Supreme Court’s ruling that his actions were unconstitutional. Khan openly accuses the powerful military and intelligence agencies of attempting to undermine his political career and his party, PTI.
While the PCB is an autonomous sports body, it has often been influenced by the country’s political leadership. Key appointments within the PCB, including the chairman’s position, are often influenced by the Prime Minister.
Critics have expressed disappointment, asserting that Pakistan should rise above political considerations, especially since the country frequently criticizes political interference in other nations. The incident has reignited debates about the autonomy of the PCB and its relationship with the political establishment.
Despite facing challenges, Imran Khan remains a revered figure and continues to enjoy immense popularity, particularly among young Pakistanis within and outside the country.
