Pakistan batsman Iftikhar Ahmed expressed his frustration with the local media for excessively praising players after just a few successful performances. Iftikhar criticized the tendency of the media to label players as the “next big thing” in Pakistan cricket after a couple of good innings, only to turn on them when they fail. He urged journalists to wait for players to prove themselves in domestic cricket before hyping them up.
While attending the post-match press conference of the Champions One-Day Cup final between Markhors and Panthers, Iftikhar lashed out at the media, accusing them of damaging the atmosphere in Pakistan cricket. He stated, “I want to tell you media guys that please don’t hype players after one good innings. Let them prove their worth in domestic cricket… You hype someone after one innings, and then when he fails for Pakistan, you start questioning his selection.”
Iftikhar made it clear that he isn’t against any player, but emphasized that consistent domestic performers should be given attention rather than players who shine in a single game. “I am not against anyone… Once a player performs well across the three formats in domestic cricket, you, me, everyone will speak about him. Aap log ki wajah se saara cricket ka mahaul kharab ho gaya hai (You guys have spoilt the atmosphere),” he added.
Who hurt him? pic.twitter.com/G486PQH8ul
— Mazher Arshad (@MazherArshad) September 29, 2024
In the final, Markhors struggled under Iftikhar’s leadership, as they were bowled out for just 122 runs in 33.4 overs. Panthers easily chased the target, winning by five wickets. Iftikhar was captaining in place of Mohammad Rizwan but couldn’t secure victory for his side.
