Former Pakistan captain Azhar Ali has voiced serious concerns regarding the declining state of Test cricket in his nation, attributing these struggles directly to the erosion of departmental cricket. He underscores the critical role these departmental teams played as a foundational “nursery” for nurturing talent, providing a structured pathway for aspiring cricketers to develop their skills and ultimately represent Pakistan on the international stage. Azhar, who himself honed his craft through this system, warns that the weakening of this crucial infrastructure is a significant setback for the future of Pakistani cricket. He believes that the decision to dismantle and subsequently dilute the influence of departmental teams has severely hampered player development, and their reintroduction has not been given the necessary priority or robust support.
Azhar particularly laments the frequent and often abrupt changes to Pakistan’s domestic cricket structure, arguing that this instability prevents any system from taking root and demonstrating its true potential. He points out the recent removal of long-standing domestic teams like WAPDA and Sahir Associates from the 2026-27 season due to new regulations as a clear example of this problematic trend. He passionately advocates for a more consistent approach, urging the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to commit to any implemented system for a substantial period, allowing it ample time to flourish. Constant restructuring, he asserts, is indicative of either a flawed previous approach or a current misjudgment.
Crucially, Azhar highlights the vital financial security that departmental cricket offered to young players. He explains that these teams provided salaries and employment opportunities, even for those overlooked by regional selections, thereby enabling them to continue pursuing their passion for cricket without the burden of financial instability. This support was instrumental in allowing countless promising athletes to dedicate themselves fully to the sport. Azhar emphasizes that while there is no shortage of young individuals with an inherent desire to play cricket in Pakistan, the economic realities of many families mean that pursuing a career in the sport is simply not feasible without robust financial backing. He questions how many aspiring cricketers can truly afford to commit to the sport if it doesn’t offer a viable financial return, especially for those who need to support their families. Without such institutional support, Azhar fears that Pakistan risks losing a generation of talented youngsters who may either abandon cricket altogether or seek opportunities abroad, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the national team.