Fans mock PCB after it first snubs, then includes Imran Khan in tribute video on Pak cricket

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) executed a surprising about-face after its video release on the micro-blogging platform X (formerly Twitter) was met with substantial backlash from Imran Khan's supporters and former cricketers. The promotional campaign video, unveiled by the PCB on Pakistan's Independence Day, August 14th, initially omitted Imran Khan. The video showcased remarkable achievements by Pakistani cricketers since the nation's independence.

Following considerable criticism for deliberately excluding Khan from the video, PCB removed the original version and replaced it with another, this time featuring Khan's images. In a statement, PCB attributed the removal of the previous video to its length and acknowledged the omission of some clips.

Commencing with tributes to the founder of Pakistan, Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the video highlighted contributions from former cricketers such as Zaheer Abbas, Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram, Misbah-ul-Haq, Shoaib Akhtar, Sarfaraz Khan, and Babar Azam.

However, the pivotal moment in Pakistan’s cricket history – its maiden victory in the 50-over World Cup – was conspicuously absent. The tribute video was met with significant criticism from citizens of Pakistan. Even former cricketer Wasim Akram expressed his astonishment at Imran Khan’s exclusion from the video.

A subdued tribute

While Imran Khan has now been included in the revised promotional video, his name is not mentioned in the background voiceover; only his images are displayed.

Amidst recognition of Inzamam-ul-Haq's remarkable performance in 1992, Imran Khan’s pivotal captaincy and leadership towards the World Cup win go unacknowledged.

The initial snub of Imran Khan

It is widely understood that PCB is an organization heavily influenced by the governing party in Pakistan. The government maintains substantial control over the cricket body, and significant decisions are made only with its consent.

PCB has long been plagued by political maneuvering in Pakistan, with several cricketers voicing their concerns. Former Pakistani bowler Shoaib Akhtar, in his autobiography 'Controversially Yours,' highlighted corruption within PCB and how the organization shapes and disrupts cricketers' careers.

Given Imran Khan's divergence from the ruling Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) coalition government, it is unsurprising that his name was initially omitted from the video released by PCB.

Former PCB Chairman Khalid Mehmood also demanded the video's removal. Speaking to Aaj Tak channel, he expressed his displeasure, stating, "Regardless of his politics, his contributions cannot be disregarded. I strongly condemn this video and am truly dismayed by how this transpired."

Imran Khan: A cricket legend

Imran Khan has stood out as one of Pakistan's preeminent all-rounders in cricket history. Following his retirement from cricket, he delved into Pakistani politics and founded the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party. After years of perseverance, he assumed the role of Pakistan's Prime Minister for a four-year tenure (2018-2022). In April 2022, he was removed from office after losing a no-confidence motion in the National Assembly.

Fans mock PCB

Upon Imran Khan's inclusion in the video, numerous supporters mocked PCB with the phrase 'Software Updated.' Here are a few reactions: