Pakistan cricket is facing heavy criticism on multiple fronts, with poor performances in batting, bowling, and fielding exposing major flaws. Their struggles on the field have already disappointed fans and experts alike, raising serious concerns about consistency and preparation.

However, the problems are not limited to cricketing skills alone. Off the field, the team’s approach to handling media interactions has drawn further embarrassment. Press conferences and media sessions have shown a lack of confidence, with officials and players often appearing hesitant.

The reluctance, particularly in dealing with the Indian media, has sparked debate. Critics believe avoiding questions and shying away from scrutiny only worsens the team’s image, making their challenges even more visible beyond the cricket field.

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Pakistan Skipper Avoids Indian Media at Press Conference:

Captains are generally expected to meet the media after every match, regardless of the result, and handle tough questions with composure. Pakistan, however, has struggled to uphold this standard. During the Asia Cup group clash against India on September 14, the focus shifted to the “handshake controversy” rather than the game itself.

Following a seven-wicket defeat in Dubai, the Pakistan captain chose not to attend the mandatory post-match press conference. After a significant delay, coach Mike Hesson was sent in to address the media on the team’s behalf. This move drew criticism, highlighting the team’s reluctance to face scrutiny and the challenges in managing public relations.

The trend of avoiding media scrutiny continued ahead of Pakistan’s clash against the UAE. Captain Salman Ali Agha was supposed to address the press but cancelled the conference entirely, sidestepping the tough questions likely to come from the Indian media.

When India defeated Pakistan again by six wickets in the Super Four stage on Sunday, attention once more turned to the team’s media approach. Fans and analysts wondered if Pakistan would finally conduct a proper post-match press conference. The issue became a major talking point following their second loss, highlighting ongoing concerns about the team’s handling of public relations and accountability.

A press conference eventually took place, with Salman Ali Agha attending, but controversy quickly arose. Indian journalists, who were present and waiting to ask questions, were denied microphones. Pakistan’s media manager, Naeem Gilani, allowed only local journalists to engage, creating a clear one-sided situation and drawing criticism for biased media handling.

Despite the restrictions, the Indian media did not remain passive. Their frustration over being excluded from questioning highlighted ongoing tensions between the two sides. The incident underscored Pakistan’s struggles with transparency and fair media access, raising concerns about how the team manages public communication during high-profile matches.

Earlier PCB Chief Smiles, Offers Evasive Answer to Indian Reporters:

Ahead of the Super Four clash, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi visited the ICC Academy, where Indian reporters sought answers about Pakistan skipping regular press conferences and ignoring their media. Naqvi responded with a smile and a vague reply, offering little clarity on the ongoing controversy surrounding media access. He responded, “We will talk soon.”

The controversy continues after Pakistan’s two defeats to India in the tournament. Key questions linger: Will captain Salman Ali Agha or PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi hold a proper press conference? Can Pakistan’s management handle media interactions professionally and face challenging questions from Indian journalists with transparency and accountability?

Pakistan could take a lesson from India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav. During a recent press conference, when asked about the handshake controversy by a Pakistani journalist, he faced the question openly, smiling and answering with confidence. His approach showcased professionalism and poise, setting an example that Pakistan’s team and management could follow in handling media interactions.