In this exclusive interview, former Pakistan all-rounder and seasoned coach Yasir Arafat provides a candid assessment of Pakistan's current cricket challenges. He analyses the performances of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi in the Big Bash League, discusses his first-time experience as a head coach in the T10 League, and gives his stark views on the instability plaguing the Pakistan Cricket Board and its impact on the national team's World Cup preparations.
By Saj Sadiq (December 30th, 2025)
Key revelations include:
Performance in Big Bash League (BBL): Arafat describes the BBL as the world’s No. 2 T20 league after the IPL, providing a tough competitive standard and challenging conditions. He notes that several leading Pakistani players — including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi — are struggling to impose themselves, revealing gaps in adaptability and preparation.
Assessment of Babar Azam: While acknowledging Babar’s stature, Arafat states that his early BBL showings are below expectations compared to his reputation, suggesting that elite players must perform consistently across leagues and conditions.
Player Fitness & Injury Risks: Arafat expresses concern over players returning from injury — such as Shadab Khan — without sufficient domestic match practice, warning that premature comebacks significantly increase re-injury risk.
Coaching Experience in T10 League: Discussing his debut as head coach of Quetta Cavalry in the T10 League, Arafat reflects on the challenges of managing star players in a fast-paced format and the learning experience gained from leadership responsibilities.
Critique of PCB Instability: Arafat strongly criticizes the frequent changes in management, coaching staff, and policies within the PCB, arguing that ongoing instability is damaging team continuity and World Cup preparation.
Reluctance to Pursue Pakistan Head Coach Role: He states that given how top-level coaches have been treated in recent years, he is not currently interested in seeking the Pakistan head coach position.
Watch full interview with Saj here:
