Faheem Ashraf blasts PCB over domestic umpiring standards, makes shocking revelations

Pakistan bowler Faheem Ashraf has launched a scathing attack on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over the state of umpiring in domestic cricket, revealing a stark contrast to international standards. He highlighted that while domestic umpires are familiar faces, their performances are now under intense scrutiny due to increased visibility and coverage.

Ashraf lamented that decisions made by umpires, which had been unnoticed or unchallenged in domestic circuits over the years, are now on full display for the world in the ongoing Champions One-Day Cup. He pointed out that without the protective shield of friendships and local biases, every call is scrutinized under the spotlight in the ongoing tournament.

Faheem Ashraf exposes flaws in domestic umpiring, urges PCB to review panel selections

He criticized the PCB, suggesting that the real test of umpiring quality is now evident as every decision is broadcast to Pakistan and the fans across the world. The Pakistani pacer said that umpiring in Pakistan was under the clouds over the years because there was no such coverage then to have any idea what was going on during the domestic cricket matches.

Faheem Ashraf said at the post-match press conference: “In our domestic cricket, the quality of our umpires is evident, and many have advanced in their careers. The standards of umpiring remain consistent at the domestic level, but the lack of extensive coverage there means that the quality often goes unnoticed.

In domestic matches, whether a decision is correct or not can be subject to doubts—if a decision is given out, players often question it, and if not, bowlers might argue otherwise. Now, with increased visibility and scrutiny, everyone can clearly see the state of our umpiring. Whether it is good or bad, the decisions are on full display for all to see. I cannot label it as bad because the same umpires are performing well.

'Now there is no friendship, so everything is on the screen'

"However, those responsible for the panel selections need to review the appointments carefully, as every decision is under public scrutiny. In domestic cricket, there is a friendship. If we have friendship, we are safe from the umpires. The umpire takes the number from us. Now there is no friendship in this tournament, so everything is on the screen. You are seeing everything. The whole world is watching. The whole of Pakistan is watching.”

صرف سوچیں یہ بیان عمر اکمل / احمد شہزاد یا کراچی کے کسی کرکٹر نے دیا ہوتا تو کرکٹ بورڈ کیا کرتا pic.twitter.com/nfVmeW7TvL

— Shoaib Jatt (@Shoaib_Jatt) September 19, 2024

"Koshish Kar Rahay Hain PERFORM KAR KAY Comeback Karain, Yeh Na Ho Ek Series Khel Kar Bahir Hojayain," Faheem Ashraf pic.twitter.com/04WkpstXbH

— Thakur (@hassam_sajjad) September 18, 2024

Faheem Ashraf stresses consistency to cement a place in the Pakistan Cricket Team

Meanwhile, Faheem Ashraf emphasized that a single good performance isn’t enough to secure a place in the Pakistan cricket team for a longer period. He stressed that consistency is key for any player aiming for a long career at the international level.

Faheem Ashraf mentioned that one strong performance might earn a call-up, but it doesn't guarantee a second opportunity without consistent excellence. The star pacer further acknowledged the Pakistan team's efforts to make a comeback, as they have been going through a tough phase since last year.

Faheem Ashraf also pointed out that experienced players are better equipped to handle pressure compared to younger players. According to Faheem, there's a huge difference in how pressure affects youngsters compared to experienced players.