In our latest exclusive interview, Jonathan Agnew – former England cricketer, BBC Radio’s legendary voice of cricket, and Wisden Cricketer of the Year – shares his unfiltered insights on Pakistan cricket, India-Pakistan tensions, and the future of the sport. Fresh from his recent trip to Pakistan, Aggers dives into the highs and lows of cricket diplomacy, team dynamics, and the challenges facing modern formats.
By Saj Sadiq (24th March 2025)
Key highlights of the interview:
Security and Hospitality in Pakistan: Agnew expressed his appreciation for Pakistan’s hospitality and security arrangements. Traveling with his wife, he stated, “We felt completely safe in Pakistan,” countering the longstanding concerns about touring the country.
Champions Trophy and Unfair Logistics: He criticized the scheduling of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, suggesting that Lahore would have been a “brilliant final venue” but logistical decisions seemed to favor India, raising concerns about fairness in international cricket.
Pakistan’s Leadership Crisis: According to Agnew, Pakistan cricket appears “rather rudderless,” with instability at the leadership level affecting the team’s performance. He also reflected on Jason Gillespie’s short-lived coaching stint, labeling it a failed experiment due to deeper structural issues.
Babar Azam vs. Sachin Tendulkar – A Pressure Comparison: Drawing a comparison between two batting greats, Agnew noted that “Sachin had positive pressure, but with Babar, it’s a bit more hostile.” He emphasized how criticism of Babar Azam often feels more intense and unforgiving, unlike Tendulkar, who received support even in tough times.
The Decline of 50-Over Cricket: Agnew believes ODI cricket is struggling to stay relevant, stating bluntly, “50-over cricket is in terminal decline.” With the T20 format dominating global cricket, he questioned whether ODIs could survive in their current form.
An Emotional Experience at Wagah Border: Agnew described his visit to the India-Pakistan Wagah border as “absolutely extraordinary.” He was deeply moved by the patriotic fervor on both sides, making it a highlight of his trip.
Watch full interview here:
