In this exclusive interview, veteran Pakistani journalist Shahid Hashmi joins PakPassion for a detailed discussion on the critical issues facing Pakistan cricket. Hashmi offers his expert analysis on the T20 future of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, the selection puzzles ahead of the World Cup, the PCB's takeover of the Multan Sultans, the search for a red-ball coach, and the state of cricket relations with India.
By Saj Sadiq (January 4, 2026)
Key revelations include:
• Babar Azam's Struggles: "He has some problems. Maybe mental problems. Maybe some family problems." – Hashmi notes that Babar is resting while playing in the Big Bash League (BBL) as part of a reciprocal arrangement between the PCB and Cricket Australia.
• Unpredictable Selection: "You cannot rule out anything in Pakistan cricket." – Hashmi highlights Usman Khan and Abdul Samad’s inclusion, viewing Samad as a key middle-order prospect. He also discusses the competition between Shadab Khan and Fahim Ashraf for a T20 World Cup all-rounder spot.
• Rizwan's Captaincy Chance: "Maybe Rizwan is announced as the captain for the Pakistan team." – He suggests that Rizwan could still force his way back into the team for the World Cup, potentially even as captain
• Multan Sultans Fallout: "PCB will run Multan Sultans, which is a sad thing." – While acknowledging Tarin's passion and the franchise's success, he notes that communication breakdowns and public grievances led to this situation. He expresses hope that Tarin might return to the PSL by potentially buying one of the two upcoming new franchises.
• Coaching Vacancy: "Pakistan should definitely have one of these gentlemen as red-ball coach." – With the red-ball coaching position vacant, Hashmi identifies Mike Hesson, Misbah-ul-Haq, and Mohammad Hafeez as strong candidates.
• India-Pakistan Dynamic: "The best answer from Pakistan's side is to beat India." – The conversation ends with the ongoing "bad blood" and political tension affecting cricket between India and Pakistan. Hashmi argues that while politics remains a barrier, the financial necessity of India-Pakistan matches for world cricket means they will continue to be a priority for international bodies.
Watch full interview with Saj here:
