Loud Thinking

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Introduction
The world has once again witnessed a horrifying act of terrorism with the brutal hijacking of the Jaffar Express and the merciless slaughter of innocent passengers by the Baluchistan Liberation Army (BLA). The BLA, a proscribed terrorist organization designated by both the United States and Pakistan, has long been responsible for heinous acts of violence in the region. This latest attack was met with strong condemnation from UN Secretary-General António Guterres and the UN Security Council issued the following statement:

UN Security Council Statement

The members of the UN Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the “heinous and cowardly terrorist attack” on the Jaffar Express travelling from Quetta to Peshawar near Sibi and the taking of passengers as hostages earlier this week. “This reprehensible act of terrorism resulted in the grievous loss of at least 25 Pakistani nationals. The Baluchistan Lib-e-ration Army claimed that the attack was
carried out by its Majeed Brigade,” said the statement, issued by Council President Christina Markus Lassen.

The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and the people of Pakistan, and they wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured. “The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace
and security.”

In the aftermath of this atrocity, the government of Pakistan has unequivocally held India responsible for sponsoring and supporting the BLA, which has been engaged in sustained terrorism against unarmed civilians in Baluchistan. India’s long standing policy of destabilizing Pakistan through violent non-state actors is well documented and has been repeatedly acknowledged by Indian civil and military
leadership. Moreover, this serious concern was also very strongly taken up by Pakistan during the meeting of Prime Ministers of Pakistan and India at SHRAM-EL SHEIKH on July 16, 2009, which was reflected in the joint statement and it reads ‘Prime Minister mentioned that Pakistan has some information on threats in
Baluchistan and other areas.’ Despite mounting evidence and repeated warnings, the international community has yet to take decisive action against India’s state sponsored terrorism. The failure to do so will only embolden India to continue its campaign of destabilization, not only against Pakistan but across South Asia and beyond.

India’s Direct Involvement in Terrorism Against Pakistan
Admissions and Evidence:

Kulbhushan Yadav’s Confession
Kulbhushan Yadav, an Indian Navy serving officer, was arrested by Pakistani authorities and confessed to orchestrating terrorist attacks inside Pakistan. His admission confirmed that India had been actively funding and directing militant groups, including the BLA, to destabilize Baluchistan and target Pakistani civilians. Yadav’s capture was accompanied by intelligence evidence, including financial
records and operational plans, clearly linking India to terrorist activities.

Statements by Indian Leaders
Renowned world personalities and senior Indian military and intelligence officials have publicly spoken about the Indian plans and intent to “bleed Pakistan through a thousand cuts” using groups like the BLA.

Few details are summarized below:
In this regard, besides the other evidences like the video of Indian NSA Ajit Doval wherein, he is talking in detail about his defensive offensive strategy and removing thorn with a thorn, the following was an eye-opening proof of the Indo-Afghan designs against Pakistan:

– In 2008, the Indian naval chief, Admiral Suresh Mehta, expressed concerns over the development of Gwadar port and had said, “Being only 180 nautical miles from the exit of the Straits of Hormuz, Gwadar, being built in Baluchistan coast, would enable Pakistan to take control over the world energy jugular and interdiction of Indian tankers.” – Senator Chuck Hagel, who later became US Secretary of Defence, earlier
commented on India’s role in Afghanistan, during a speech at the Cameron University in Oklahoma in 2011, quoted as below:
Quote “India has over the years financed problems for Pakistan from across the border in Afghanistan.”

In his talk on Afghanistan, Hagel reportedly said that India had been using Afghanistan as a second front against Pakistan. “India has over the years financed problems for Pakistan on that side of the border, and you can carry that into many dimensions.” He noted that India took advantage of tensions between Kabul and Islamabad for fomenting troubles in the areas that border Afghanistan. “The point being [that] the tense, fragmented relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been there for many, many years,” he said.

– Hagel is not the only American to suggest that India has been using Afghanistan for stirring troubles in Pakistan. C. Christine Fair, an assistant professor at Georgetown University, made similar suggestion during a congressional hearing on Afghanistan in 2011.

– In June 2015 the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Bangladesh said “heard what my ears would never want to hear again – Narendra Modi’s acceptance of India’s lethal plan in the disintegration of East Pakistan in 1971, and its threat to destabilise Pakistan through terrorism.” His statement also proved that the specific aim of creating RAW in 1968 was to subvert the people of
former East Pakistan and prepare grounds for the creation of Bangladesh for the training of over one million Mukti Bahini terrorists.

The following news titled “Capture of spy proves India’s interference in Pakistan: army” reported by the daily Dawn on 30 March, 2016 leaves no doubt of active Indian sabotage and killings in Pakistan, which clearly tantamount to waging undeclared war by India against Pakistan.

These statements provide clear evidence of India’s long-term strategy of fostering separatism and terrorism to weaken Pakistan. India’s aggressive takeover of Siachen, followed by its unlawful annexation 5 August 2019 of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh in violation of UN Security Council resolutions, is further proof of its disregard for international law. The Indian government continues to employ terrorism tactics in Baluchistan, using its intelligence agencies to foment violence and insurgency.

India’s Global Terrorist Activities
Extrajudicial Killings in Pakistan, Canada and the West India’s worldwide involvement in state-sponsored assassinations and terrorism extends beyond Pakistan. The country has been implicated in targeted killings, espionage, and illegal operations on foreign soil. India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) spy agency orchestrated a covert assassination campaign, fueling a wave of targeted killings in Pakistan, according to a report from The Washington Post.
The report adds that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi having positioned himself as the most assertive Indian leader since independence, is the driving force behind the nation’s actions beyond its borders. Canada has accused India of assassinating a Sikh leader on its soil, leading to a diplomatic crisis between the two countries. The US has uncovered evidence of Indian plot to assassinate dissidents and activists, revealing India’s increasing reliance on extrajudicial killings to silence critics abroad.

This pattern of targeted assassinations demonstrates India’s blatant disregard for international sovereignty and human rights.

Support for ISIS and Other Extremist Groups India has been implicated in supplying banned materials to ISIS, further demonstrating its role in fueling global terrorism. Reports have surfaced indicating that Indian intelligence agencies have facilitated the movement of extremists across borders, using militant groups as proxies to achieve strategic objectives.

Call for UN Security Council Action
Given India’s extensive record of sponsoring terrorism, the United Nations Security Council must take immediate action to prevent further destabilization in South Asia.

Following urgent measures must be implemented:
Designation of India as a State Sponsor of Terrorism India should be formally designated as a state sponsor of terrorism, leading to international sanctions and restrictions. This designation would prevent India from using international financial systems to fund terrorist groups.

Economic and Military Sanctions

The global community must impose strict sanctions on India to prevent it from financing terrorism.
Arms embargoes should be enforced to limit India’s ability to supply and train militant groups.

Investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC)
Given the ongoing genocide of Muslims in India, as highlighted by Professor Gregory Stanton, an expert on genocide studies, the UN Security Council should advise the ICC to immediately investigate Indian civil and military officials for crimes against humanity committed in the IIOJ&K, India and other affected world countries like Pakistan, USA and Canada etc. In this regard the most authentic UN document titled
“First-ever UN human rights report on Kashmir calls for international inquiry into multiple violations – Kashmir report dated 14 June 2018” must be officially handed over to the Prosecutor General of the Internation Criminal Court (ICC) for starting the inquiry of the war crimes of the Indian Civil and military officials on lines of its inquiry of Human Rights violations in Myanmar. The world cannot afford to ignore India’s actions, which bear striking similarities to past genocidal regimes.

Implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions on Jammu & Kashmir
The UN must enforce its resolutions, ensuring that Kashmiris are granted their right to self-determination through a free and fair plebiscite as India’s continued illegal occupation of Kashmir and its brutal suppression of Kashmiri voices are in direct violation of international law.

Strengthening International Monitoring Mechanisms
The UN should enhance its monitoring mechanisms in South Asia, deploying independent observers to document India’s violations of human rights and its sponsorship of terrorism in its neighboring countries.
An UN-led fact-finding mission should be established to investigate India’s role in cross-border terrorism.

Conclusion:

A Looming Catastrophe if the UN Fails to Act
India’s continued sponsorship of terrorism, its involvement in international assassinations, and its blatant violations of human rights make it a clear threat to global peace and security. Pakistan has exercised immense restraint in the face of repeated provocations, but its patience is running out. If timely action is not taken by the United Nations to rein in India’s terrorist activities, there is a serious apprehension that a full-fledged war may break out at any moment between these two nuclear-armed neighbors.

Such a conflict would not only destabilize South Asia but could escalate into a catastrophe of nimaginable proportions—one that would be nothing short of an Armageddon for the region and beyond. A war between nuclear-armed states would lead to widespread devastation, massive loss of life, and global economic repercussions.

The UN Security Council must act now to prevent this impending disaster before it was too late. The failure to address India’s terrorism sponsorship today will only ensure greater chaos tomorrow. The time for warnings has passed—concrete action is now the only option to preserve peace and prevent an irreversible catastrophe.

Moreover, the seriousness of the situation can be gauged by the announcement of Pakistan that it will take on terrorists, enablers both inside and outside Pakistan and rules of the game have changed.

Syed Nayyar Uddin Ahmad
Lahore – Pakistan

The plan to build six water canals from the Indus River in Punjab province has sparked significant controversy, particularly from Sindh province, which is concerned about the potential impact on its water share and ecological balance. This issue is deeply rooted in historical, political, and environmental factors, and resolving it requires a balanced approach that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders. Below is a detailed overview and a proposed amicable resolution:

Overview of the Issue

1. Historical Context:

   – The Indus River is the lifeline of Pakistan, providing water to Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and Balochistan.
   – The Indus Waters Treaty (1960) and the Water Apportionment Accord (1991) govern water distribution among provinces. However, disputes over water allocation have persisted.
   – Sindh has historically felt marginalized in water distribution, fearing that upstream projects in Punjab could reduce its share.

2. Current Plan:

   – The federal government proposes building six new canals in Punjab to enhance irrigation and agricultural productivity.
   – Punjab argues that these canals will improve water management and support food security.
   – Sindh fears that the canals will divert water away from its share, exacerbating water scarcity and harming its agriculture, ecology, and economy.

3. Key Concerns:

   – Water Scarcity: Sindh already faces water shortages, and the new canals could reduce its share further.
Environmental Impact: Reduced water flow could harm the Indus Delta, leading to salinity intrusion, loss of biodiversity, and damage to mangrove forests.
    Inter-Provincial Distrust: Sindh perceives the plan as favoring Punjab, deepening mistrust between the provinces.
   – Legal and Constitutional Issues: Sindh argues that the plan violates the Water Apportionment Accord and provincial autonomy.

Proposed Amicable Resolution
To resolve this contentious issue, a multi-faceted approach is needed, focusing on transparency, equity, and sustainability. Here are the steps:

1. Inclusive Dialogue and Stakeholder Engagement

   – Establish a high-level inter-provincial commission comprising representatives from all provinces, federal authorities, and technical experts.
   – Include stakeholders such as farmers, environmentalists, and civil society to ensure all voices are heard.
   – Use platforms like the Council of Common Interests (CCI) to facilitate dialogue and build consensus.

2. Transparent Water Audits and Data Sharing

   – Conduct an independent water audit of the Indus River system to assess current water usage, losses, and availability.
   – Share real-time data on water flows and allocations with all provinces to build trust and ensure accountability.

3. Equitable Water Distribution

   – Reaffirm the principles of the Water Apportionment Accord (1991) and ensure that any new projects do not violate Sindh’s water share.
   – Develop a water-sharing formula that accounts for seasonal variations and ensures fair distribution.

4. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

   – Conduct a comprehensive EIA for the proposed canals, evaluating their impact on the Indus Delta, agriculture, and ecosystems in Sindh.
   – Implement mitigation measures to address any adverse effects, such as ensuring minimum downstream flows to protect the delta.

5. Modernization of Water Infrastructure

   – Invest in modern irrigation techniques (e.g., drip irrigation) and water storage projects to reduce wastage and improve efficiency.
   – Upgrade existing canal systems in both Punjab and Sindh to minimize water losses and ensure optimal utilization.

6. Compensation and Development Packages

   – If the canals are deemed necessary, provide compensation to Sindh in the form of development projects, such as building reservoirs, improving irrigation systems, or investing in the Indus Delta’s restoration.
   – Allocate funds for climate resilience projects in Sindh to address water scarcity and environmental degradation.

7. Legal and Institutional Reforms

   – Strengthen the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) to ensure impartial water distribution and conflict resolution.
   – Enact legislation to protect the rights of downstream provinces and ensure compliance with water-sharing agreements.

8. Public Awareness and Confidence Building

   – Launch public awareness campaigns to educate stakeholders about the benefits and safeguards of the proposed plan.
   – Build confidence through transparent decision-making and regular updates on project progress.

Conclusion:
The construction of six canals on the Indus River in Punjab is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of technical, environmental, and political factors. By prioritizing transparency, equity, and sustainability, the federal government can address Sindh’s concerns and build consensus among all stakeholders. A collaborative approach that respects the rights of all provinces and ensures the long-term health of the Indus River system is essential for Pakistan’s water security and national unity.

Syed Nayyar Uddin Ahmad
+92 321 9402157

Pakistan’s economic potential is immense, but realizing it requires bold, strategic action. Dubai’s rapid transformation into a global business hub offers valuable lessons that Pakistan can adapt to its own circumstances. This plan outlines actionable steps to achieve similar success by focusing on judicial efficiency, economic liberalization, and infrastructure development. By designating Karachi, Gawadar, and Sialkot as special economic cities (SECs) and implementing key reforms, Pakistan can set itself on a path to achieving a GDP of over $1 trillion within three years.

1. Swift Judicial Decisions & Strict Rule of Law Without VIP Culture

A strong and fair judicial system is critical for economic confidence. Dubai’s success is partly due to its rapid legal processes and strict enforcement of contracts. Pakistan must replicate this by:

1.1 Establishing Special Economic Courts

• Objective: Ensure swift dispute resolution and legal protection for investors.
• Action Steps:
• Establish dedicated courts in Karachi, Gawadar, and Sialkot to handle business-related cases within 30 days.
• Introduce alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms, such as arbitration and mediation, for quick settlements.
• Implement a zero-tolerance policy for corruption in the judiciary. 1.2 Enforcing Contracts and Strengthening the Rule of Law Without VIP Culture
  A major factor in Dubai’s success is its strict implementation of laws without discrimination. No individual—whether a high-ranking official, a wealthy businessman, or an ordinary citizen—is above the law. Pakistan must adopt a similar approach by:
• Abolishing VIP culture: Every citizen and business should be subject to the same laws, without exceptions.
• Introducing extremely strict punishments: Heavy fines and severe penalties should be enforced against those who violate laws, including officials and influential individuals.
• Ensuring immediate legal action: Cases involving financial fraud, corruption, and business malpractices should be resolved within weeks, not years.
• Strengthening law enforcement agencies: The police and judiciary should be empowered to act independently, ensuring the law is upheld at all costs.

With strict enforcement of the rule of law, investor confidence will rise, corruption will decrease, and businesses will thrive in a fair environment.

2. Business-Friendly Tax Policies

Dubai’s tax-free environment has been a magnet for global investors. While Pakistan cannot immediately eliminate taxes, it can create attractive fiscal policies within SECs.

2.1 Introducing Tax-Free Zones in SECs

• Objective: Attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and multinational corporations.
• Action Steps:
• Offer a 10-year tax holiday for businesses setting up in Karachi, Gawadar, and Sialkot.
• Exempt startups from corporate income tax for the first five years.
• Reduce import duties on machinery and raw materials for industries in SECs. 2.2 Simplifying Tax Regulations
• Objective: Reduce bureaucratic hurdles and encourage compliance.
• Action Steps:
• Implement a single-window tax system to streamline business taxation.
• Digitalize all tax filings to eliminate corruption and inefficiencies.
• Offer tax credits to companies investing in infrastructure and technology. 3. Infrastructure Development & Connectivity

Dubai’s success is largely due to world-class infrastructure. Pakistan must develop its major economic hubs with modern facilities.

3.1 Developing Karachi, Gawadar, and Sialkot into Global Trade Hubs

• Objective: Improve logistics and transportation to facilitate trade.
• Action Steps:
• Upgrade Karachi and Gawadar ports to match global standards, ensuring efficient cargo handling.
• Expand road and rail networks connecting SECs to major industrial and commercial zones.
• Develop high-speed internet and digital infrastructure to support tech industries.

3.2 Expanding Gawadar as a Regional Trade Center

• Objective: Leverage Gawadar’s strategic location for international trade.
• Action Steps:
• Develop Gawadar as a tax-free logistics hub for the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa.
• Establish free trade agreements (FTAs) with neighboring countries to boost exports.
• Attract global shipping companies by offering incentives for port operations. 4. Tourism Development: Unlocking Pakistan’s Natural Beauty

Pakistan has vast potential in tourism, but it remains largely untapped due to poor infrastructure, lack of international marketing, and security concerns. Dubai has leveraged tourism as a key economic driver, and Pakistan must do the same.

4.1 Developing World-Class Tourist Destinations
Pakistan is home to breathtaking landscapes and historic sites. The following cities should be prioritized for tourism development:

• Kund Malir – A stunning coastal destination with pristine beaches.
• Nathiagali – A scenic hill station ideal for summer tourism.
• Kalam – A lush green valley in Swat, perfect for adventure tourism.
• Saidu Sharif – A cultural and historical hub in Swat.
• Bahawalpur – A gateway to Pakistan’s vast desert tourism opportunities.
• Kaghaan – A beautiful valley with stunning rivers and mountains.
• Naraan – A mesmerizing valley known for its lakes and meadows.
• Kafirisran – A unique and untouched location with great tourism potential.

4.2 Tourism-Friendly Policies

• Objective: Attract international tourists and investment in the hospitality sector.
• Action Steps:
• Develop luxury resorts and eco-tourism lodges in Kund Malir, Nathiagali, Kalam, Saidu Sharif, Bahawalpur, Kaghaan, Naraan, and Kafirisran.
• Introduce visa-on-arrival policies for tourists from key markets.
• Launch aggressive global tourism campaigns to promote Pakistan as a top destination.
• Improve security and infrastructure to facilitate tourism growth.

By capitalizing on its natural beauty, Pakistan can generate billions in revenue annually from tourism.

5. Strengthening Trade and Investment Relations

To boost trade, Pakistan must enhance its global partnerships.

5.1 Expanding Trade with the Middle East and China

• Objective: Increase exports and attract FDI.
• Action Steps:
• Strengthen ties with UAE, Saudi Arabia, and China for trade and investment deals.
• Develop special trade agreements focused on Pakistani goods.
• Invite global investors for high-level business summits. 5.2 Promoting Pakistan as an Investment Destination
• Objective: Rebrand Pakistan’s image to attract foreign investment.
• Action Steps:
• Launch an aggressive international media campaign showcasing Pakistan’s economic potential.
• Organize global investment expos to connect businesses with local entrepreneurs.
• Develop a Pakistan Sovereign Investment Fund to facilitate joint ventures.

6. Political Stability & Policy Continuity

Economic growth is impossible without a stable political environment.

6.1 Ensuring Policy Continuity

• Objective: Prevent disruption of economic policies due to political changes.
• Action Steps:
• Introduce economic reforms with bipartisan consensus to prevent reversals.
• Establish independent economic advisory councils to guide long-term planning.
• Implement five-year economic plans with clear targets and accountability. 6.2 Reducing Political Interference in Business
• Objective: Create a stable and predictable investment climate.
• Action Steps:
• Ensure business decisions are free from political influence.
• Strengthen anti-corruption measures to build investor confidence.
• Promote public-private partnerships to reduce government control. Conclusion

Pakistan has the potential to become a major economic power, but it requires urgent, decisive action. By implementing swift judicial reforms, strict rule of law without VIP culture, tax-free economic hubs, world-class tourism, and investor-friendly policies, Pakistan can replicate Dubai’s success. With political stability and policy continuity, the country can attract massive foreign investment and achieve a GDP of over $1 trillion in just three years.

The time to act is now—Pakistan’s future as a global economic leader depends on it.

Syed Nayyar Uddin Ahmad
+92 321 9402157
Lahore.

#Pakistan can take inspiration from Dubai’s extraordinary economic transformation, which was driven by strategic policies and robust governance. A key factor in Dubai’s success has been swift judicial decisions, ensuring strict enforcement of the rule of law without discrimination without any discrimination between the VIPs and ordinary persons. Heavy fines and stringent punishments for violations have fostered a disciplined business environment, boosting investor confidence.

Another pillar of Dubai’s growth has been tax-free earnings, which have attracted global businesses and skilled professionals, turning the city into a financial hub.

To replicate this success, Pakistan should designate Karachi and Gwadar and Sialkot as special economic cities, enacting necessary legal and constitutional reforms with the urgency seen in the passage of the 26th constitutional amendment. A business-friendly environment, underpinned by transparent regulations and judicial efficiency, can unlock rapid economic development, making Pakistan a major player in regional and global trade with a GDP of over one trillion USD in just next three years.

Syed Nayyar Uddin Ahmad
+92 321 9402157
Lahore.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced significant leadership changes ahead of the national team’s upcoming tour to New Zealand. Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as the T20I captain, with Shadab Khan serving as vice-captain. Mohammad Rizwan will continue to lead the ODI squad.

These decisions come in the wake of Pakistan’s disastrous performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where the team failed to secure a single win and was eliminated in the group stages. Notably, the match against Bangladesh was washed out, leaving both teams without a win in the tournament.

The PCB’s choice to appoint Salman Ali Agha as the T20I captain has raised concerns among cricket analysts and fans. Salman, known for his Test cricket temperament and style, may face challenges adapting to the aggressive and fast-paced nature of T20 cricket. Similarly, Shadab Khan’s appointment as vice-captain has been met with skepticism, given his recent exclusion from the national team due to subpar performances.

Critics argue that these leadership changes, executed by the same selection committee responsible for the recent Champions Trophy squad, may not yield the desired improvements. Former cricketers, including Wasim Akram, have called for a comprehensive overhaul of Pakistan’s white-ball cricket strategy, emphasizing the need for fresh talent and a more dynamic approach.

Without addressing the underlying issues within the selection and coaching staff, the PCB risks continued underperformance in future tournaments. A strategic reassessment and potential restructuring may be necessary to revitalize Pakistan’s cricketing fortunes on the international stage.

Syed Nayyar Uddin Ahmad

First of all, it must be clearly understood that the biggest factor in creating rift in Pakistani players is appointing two separate players as captains of the T20I and ODI versions of the game.

For appointing the captain of this young and new look Pakistani T20I & ODI squads, the ideal choice should be someone who has leadership qualities, experience in high-pressure situations, and a solid track record in both the versions of cricket. Based on these criteria, here are my observations on the following three players: 

1. Naseem Shah (Fast Bowler and a successful lower order batter) 

– Already has international experience and has played crucial roles during matches in all the versions of the game.

– Respected by senior and junior players alike for his work ethic and composed temperament. 

– A fast-bowling captain, which is rare in Pakistan but could bring a fresh perspective. 

2. Mohammad Wasim Jr. (Fast bowler and a dependable lower order batter)

– A utility player who contributes with both bat and ball. 

– Has a strong cricketing brain and has been part of Pakistan’s setup for some time. 

– His calm and composed nature under pressure makes him a captaincy candidate. 

3. Shadab Khan has experience leading Pakistan in T20Is and is one of the most accomplished all-rounders (batting. fielding and bowling) in the squad. However, appointing him as the permanent captain comes with certain concerns and weak points:

1. Inconsistent Form

– His recent performances with both bat and ball have been inconsistent. 

– Struggles to deliver match-winning performances consistently, which is crucial for a captain. 

2. Fitness Issues 

– Has suffered multiple injuries in the past, leading to frequent absences from the team. 

 – A captain needs to be available consistently, and his fitness concerns raise doubts about his long-term leadership. 

3. Tactical Limitations 

– While he has captained Pakistan in some matches, his tactical decisions have been questioned, especially in high-pressure situations. 

– Has sometimes struggled with field placements and bowling changes at critical moments. 

4. Struggles Under Pressure

– As a leader, he has shown signs of struggling in crunch moments. 

– Pakistan needs a captain who remains composed and can turn the game around, especially in tough situations. 

5. Not a Guaranteed Starter 

– Given his recent dip in form, he is no longer an automatic selection in the playing XI. 

– A captain should be one of the first names on the team sheet, but if his performance continues to decline, dropping him as a player would create unnecessary leadership confusion. 

Conclusion
While Shadab has leadership experience, Pakistan might benefit from appointing a young, in-form player who is a guaranteed starter and can lead the team with fresh energy.

The Pakistan
Cricket Board (PCB) chairman must take bold, corrective, and drastic administrative and technical steps to address the severe public backlash following the team’s disastrous performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. To dampen the anger of fans and stem the rot in PCB, the following immediate actions should be taken:

1. Overhaul the Selection Committee & Team Management

• Sack the current selection committee responsible for poor team selection and appoint competent former cricketers having proven success records with a merit-based approach.
• Fire underperforming coaching staff and hire internationally reputed professionals with a modern cricketing approach.
• Appoint a psychologist and performance analyst to address the team’s repeated mental and strategic failures. 2. Accountability for Players & Leadership
• Remove ALL underperforming senior players and introduce fresh, talented youngsters.
  Reassess the captaincy in all formats based on leadership qualities, not favouritism.
• Introduce performance-based central contracts, where salaries and perks are linked to individual and team performances. 3. Revamp Domestic Cricket Structure
• Restore a strong domestic cricket structure, including departmental teams, to create competition.
• Increase domestic players’ salaries to discourage reliance on T20 leagues and ensure commitment to Pakistan cricket. 4. Strengthen the Fitness & Discipline Culture
• Implement a strict fitness benchmark like Australia and England.
• Enforce zero tolerance for indiscipline, including penalties for players prioritizing leagues over national duty. 5. Structural Reforms in PCB
• Depoliticize PCB by removing unqualified individuals from key positions.
• Hire experienced cricket administrators with a professional vision for long-term development.
• Introduce transparency in team selection and management decisions to regain public trust. 6. Fan & Media Engagement
• Hold a public press conference, apologize to the nation, and present a roadmap for reforms.
  Establish an independent grievance redressal system where fans and former players can raise concerns about the team’s management.
• Ensure regular performance reviews of players and coaches, with clear consequences for repeated failures. 7. Invest in Grassroots & Talent Development
• Open high-performance centres across Pakistan for young cricketers.
• Improve pitches and facilities at the clubs, educational institutions, and domestic levels.
• Launch PCB-backed scholarships for talented players to train abroad.

8. Review of PSL’s Role in National Team Development

• Ensure PSL performances are not the only criteria for national team selection.
• Use PSL as a platform for grooming new talent rather than favouring established, declining players. 9. Immediate Inquiry & Public Report on the Champions Trophy Debacle
• Form a high-level independent committee to investigate the reasons for the failure.
• Publish a transparent report and take strict actions against those responsible. 10. Appoint a Strong & Respected Head Coach
• Bring in a top-level international coach with experience in winning ICC tournaments.
• Ensure that the coach has full authority over team matters, free from internal politics.

By implementing these drastic measures, the PCB chairman can begin damage control, address public outrage, and lay the foundation for long-term success in Pakistan cricket. If such actions are not taken immediately, public trust in the PCB and the national team will continue to decline.

Syed Nayyar Uddin Ahmad
Lahore.
+92 321 9402157

Pakistani cricket hit rock bottom after last year’s World Cup match loss to the weak team of the USA. However, considering that Pakistan’s name, prestige and reputation is at stake, the team’s dismal performance in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 further highlights that the core issue lies in the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) selectors and coaches. A complete overhaul of PCB’s all selectors and coaching staff is now an urgent necessity.

In this context, the chairman PCB may immediately appoint through professional and qualified persons who can infuse the culture of merit and performance based promotion of players to improve the output at the earliest.

Tomorrow is not just a match.

Tomorrow is the start of the battle to win the ICC Champions Trophy — a test of courage, grit, and unbreakable will to win first ICC tournament being held in Pakistan after almost three decades. A battle where warriors clad in green will rise—not just to compete, but to conquer.

“Champions aren’t made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them—a desire, a dream, a vision.”
— Muhammad Ali

Pakistan, the world still echoes with the roar of 2017 —the year you defied the odds, silenced the doubters, and etched your name in history. You lifted the ICC Champions Trophy, proving that Pakistan is a force like no other. And now, it’s time to do it AGAIN!

One Team. One Nation. One Heartbeat.

Victory isn’t just about wanting it—everyone wants to win. It’s about the fire in your heart, the steel in your mind, and the relentless determination to make it happen.

Are you ready to sweat, to fight, to chase every run, every ball, every moment as if your very soul is on the line? Because that’s what legends do. That’s what champions do.

When you step onto the field tomorrow, let there be FIRE IN YOUR HEARTS AND ICE IN YOUR VEINS!

It is not the size of a man but the size of his heart that matters.
— Evander Holyfield

Rise. Roar. Conquer.

For every Pakistani watching.
For every child who dreams of wearing this jersey.
For every heartbeat that races when you take the field—DO NOT HOLD BACK!

Bowl like thunder.
Bat like warriors.
Field like panthers.

There is nothing impossible to him who will try.
— Alexander the Great

Pakistani flag bearers—give your all, and you will take back what is yours!

This is your moment.
Your destiny.
Your history to rewrite.

PAKISTAN’S TIME TO RULE AGAIN!

JEE TAY GA PAKISTAN!

Syed Nayyar Uddin Ahmad

Lahore.

+92 321 9402157

The road to the CT25 semifinals appears extremely difficult for the Pakistani cricket team, especially after two disappointing losses against New Zealand as we must win our first two matches of our group against the teams of New Zealand and India respectively. While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) selectors have made some questionable choices, leaving the team’s chances hanging by a thread, there is still a glimmer of hope. However, this hope hinges on bold, immediate action from the PCB chairman. By taking direct charge and implementing the following strategic measures, Pakistan may still turn the tide and secure a place in the semifinals and even go on to win the ICC ChampionsTrophy 25:

1. Revamp the Opening Pair: The team should open with either Fakhar Zaman and Khushdil Shah or Fakhar Zaman and Tayyub Tahir The primary objective for the opening pair must be to score 80+ runs within the first 10 powerplay overs, setting a strong foundation.
2. Restructure the Batting Order:

• Babar Azam should bat at No. 3 to stabilize the innings and anchor the middle order.
• Agha Salman should follow at No. 4, bringing flexibility and momentum.
• Muhammad Rizwan should bat at No. 5 to capitalize on his finishing abilities.
• Naseem Shah should be promoted above Shaheen Shah Afridi at No. 9 to strengthen the tail-end batting.

1. Sharpen Fielding Focus: To enhance catching standards, all 10 fielders and the bowler must maintain a mindset that every delivery could bring a catch their way. This will keep players mentally and physically alert, reducing fielding lapses.
2. Improve Throwing Accuracy: Fielders should rigorously practice one-bounce throws to the stumps by repeating the exercise continuously till the time three consecutive hits at the stumps. Research has shown that one-bounce throws are more likely to hit the stumps than direct throws.
3. Consider Strategic Player Replacements: If at any stage the tournament rules allow player substitution due to injury, the PCB should introduce a specialist spinner from Sufiyan Muqeem, Noman Ali, or Sajid Khan. This adjustment could provide the team with the spin advantage they currently lack.

Additional Recommendations:

• Tactical Bowling Changes: Utilize powerplay overs with attacking field placements and consider rotating bowlers more aggressively.
  Mental Conditioning: Appoint a sports psychologist to boost team morale and help players handle pressure situations more effectively.
• Flexible Strategy: Be ready to adapt strategies based on pitch conditions and opposition strengths.

By swiftly implementing these measures, the Pakistani team can maximize their remaining chances and possibly achieve the remarkable feat of reaching the CT25 semifinals and even go on to win for the first time any ICC tournament held in Pakistan.

Syed Nayyar Uddin Ahmad
Lahore.
+92 321 9402157