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The PCB versus Afridi issue that has created headlines over the last two weeks has drawn varied reactions amongst the cricket fraternity in Pakistan. PakPassion.net recently had a brief discussion with former Pakistani bowler, Sikander Bakht on the latest developments in Shahid Afridi’s case

By Nimra Ishtiaq (10th June, 2011)

With allrounder Shahid Afridi filing a petition at the Sindh High Court against the PCB, the matter does not look likely to get resolved anytime soon. The PCB versus Afridi issue that has created headlines over the last two weeks has drawn varied reactions amongst the cricket fraternity in Pakistan. PakPassion.net recently had a brief discussion with former Pakistani bowler, Sikander Bakht on the latest developments in Shahid Afridi’s case.

Sikander Bakht, who has 53 international appearances under his belt, emerged as a popular commentator and analyst following his retirement from cricket. Speaking exclusively to PakPassion.net, he stated, “The board had decided not to appoint Shahid Afridi as captain, but they had to do it in the end.”

“After his appointment, the team performed well. However, Afridi is aggressive by nature and he is an outspoken person, so he couldn’t manage the players properly – he failed to handle the captaincy with diplomacy” he added.

Being a keen follower and a seasoned observer of the game, Sikander Bakht is a worried man. The gangling medium pacer of the past, famous for breaking the arm of English captain Mike Brearly, expressed concerns over the involvement of the High Court in Shahid Afridi’s case.

“Now that the case has been taken to the Court, a lot of hidden facts will be revealed, and this is certainly not a good scenario! It is going to be bad for Pakistan's reputation and will be a cause for embarrassment to all of us.”

“Afridi should have opted for a compromise [with the PCB] instead of taking the matter to the Court,” he opined.

Sikander who has worked with the Pakistan team in the past as an analyst believes that indiscipline should be nipped in the bud. Citing the example of Umar Akmal allegedly feigning injury during Pakistan’s tour to Australia in 2009/2010, he stated “When Umar Akmal refused to play after Kamran was dropped, he should have been sent to Pakistan right away.”

“The PCB should take immediate action the moment a youngster is found guilty of a breach of discipline. Take action before they become stars.”

In Afridi's case it is slightly different as Sikander further added “Afridi is a huge star now – You cannot treat him in this manner now.”