Mohammad Amir Points Gun At Mohsin Naqvi After PCB Imposes Fine On Pakistan Players

Mohammad Amir and Mohsin Naqvi [Source: X]

Pakistan had a disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup 2026 after their loss to England, and a net run rate battle with New Zealand in the Super 8 stage placed them out of contention.

This has led Pakistan Cricket Board chief Mohsin Naqvi to impose financial penalties on the players. As per sources cited by news agency PTI, players could face fines reaching up to 5 million PKR or USD 18,000. However, this move has been severely criticised by veteran cricketer Mohammad Amir.

Although the team failed to progress to the semi-finals, the Men in Green had a fairly decent campaign, with four wins from six matches. Although they started on a slightly slow note, they concluded strongly in the Super 8 clash. However, despite that effort, the financial penalty has become a major topic of debate, with Mohammad Amir defending his counterparts.

Pakistan’s Sub-Par Performance Infuriates Top Officials

Salman Agha & Co.’s disappointing T20 World Cup 2026 exit has reportedly frustrated not only the PCB but also influential government figures, including Mohsin Naqvi.

According to PTI sources, there has been resentment towards the players, with growing frustration over what is seen as repeated underachievement on the international stage despite massive backing and support.

“The feeling is enough is enough. These players, despite so much backing, let down the nation in big events,” a source told PTI.

Also Read: Bangladesh Cricket Board Hits Back At Pakistan After Series Cancellation Emerges

Mohammad Amir Slams Mohsin Naqvi & Co. For ‘Unfair’ Penalty

Amir was very critical of the PCB's approach, arguing that punishing players for what they have done, whether good or bad, is simply misguided. Amir emphasised that responsibility should be shared with selectors and administrative officials as well, instead of solely blaming the players.

While the cricketers have been bearing the brunt of the poor performance, team selectors should also take a significant share of responsibility since the playing XI composition depends on them.

Mohammad Amir supported this view and stated that if players are to be financially penalised, then everyone from selectors to administrators should also face fines.

“If fines are the solution, apply them to everyone – from selectors to administration. Players weren’t forced at gunpoint. Hold selectors accountable for wrong combinations. Double the fine for them. Stop scapegoating players,” Amir said.

Amir Questions Bad Practice For Players

Since the Pakistan Cricket Board is reportedly intending to impose these fines on each and every player, Mohammad Amir questioned whether fringe players like Fakhar Zaman, who played just two matches, or a solid performer in the T20 World Cup 2026 like Sahibzada Farhan, who almost became the top run-scorer of the tournament, should also be punished.

Speaking about the root problems in domestic cricket, Amir advocated greater investment in grassroots development instead of simply playing the blame game with national team players. He strongly stated that building the foundation should be the main priority.

“The biggest punishment for a player is being left out of the team. Fines aren’t the solution. Strengthen domestic cricket to produce quality players consistently,” Mohammad Amir added.

Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi In Danger Of Getting Axed?

Interestingly, there have also been rumours that players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi could be axed by the team management after their poor performances in the ICC tournament.

Members of the Pakistan cricket team are under central contracts, including monthly retainers, match fees and bonuses. The repeated underperformance may have triggered the financial penalties that the Mohsin Naqvi-led PCB is considering imposing.

Whether the financial penalties are sanctioned or not, Pakistan are next set for a tour of Bangladesh for a three-match ODI series beginning March 11, with the final ODI scheduled for March 15 at Mirpur.

Also Read: India Pacer Ruled Out Of International Tour; BCCI Announces Replacement