Shaheen Afridi, a central figure in Pakistan’s national cricket team and a proven leader with the Lahore Qalandars, is now aiming to instill a culture of unity and mutual support within the country’s cricketing ecosystem.

Following Lahore Qalandars’ triumphant run to their third PSL title, Shaheen called for an end to the divisive rhetoric often seen in Pakistan cricket and urged former players to play a more constructive role in supporting the national side.

“Improving Pakistan cricket begins with backing one another,” said Shaheen. “Foreign teams are strong because their ex-players stand behind them. They don’t blame others in the media; they build up the team.”

His comments come amid growing concerns over internal criticism and public commentary from former cricketers, which many believe undermines team morale. Unlike other major cricketing nations like Australia or England, where ex-players are often integrated into the system as advisors or analysts, Pakistan has struggled to cultivate a supportive post-retirement environment for its former stars.

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Shaheen has been on the receiving end of such criticism but chose to lead by example. As captain, he not only lifted the PSL trophy but also emerged as the tournament’s top wicket-taker, silencing detractors through performance rather than rebuttal.

With a packed international schedule and key ICC events ahead, Shaheen’s message is timely. He advocates for a shift in cricketing culture—from blame and fragmentation to unity and support.

The 24-year-old pacer’s words reflect the maturity of a leader who understands that sustainable success comes not just from talent and tactics, but from a unified, forward-looking cricketing community.