Ex-Cricketer Atiq-uz-Zaman Slams PCB Over Corruption Allegations, Poor-Quality Kits in Asia Cup 2025

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is facing fresh criticism after former cricketer and coach Atiq-uz-Zaman accused it of corruption and negligence in supplying the national team with substandard kits during the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE.

The issue came to light after Pakistan’s victory over the UAE on September 17, when players were seen struggling in sweat-soaked jerseys that clung to their bodies throughout the match. In stark contrast, other teams in the tournament were seen wearing high-quality dry-fit kits.

Taking to social media platform X, Atiq-uz-Zaman did not hold back in his criticism. “Pakistan players sweating through low-quality kits while others wear proper dry-fits. This is what happens when tenders go to friends, not professionals. Corruption dripping more than the sweat,” he wrote.

Fans were quick to echo Zaman’s concerns, many claiming they had also noticed the visibly poor quality of Pakistan’s jerseys. Notably, the PCB’s official website does not list a kit sponsor for the national team, though other commercial partners such as Pepsi, TCL, and Parkview City are prominently mentioned. By comparison, India has secured a deal with German sportswear giant Adidas.

The kit controversy comes amid a turbulent week for Pakistan cricket. Following their match against India, the PCB demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft for the UAE fixture, citing miscommunication issues. The standoff delayed the match by over an hour, with players held back at the hotel until an apology was issued.

Despite the off-field drama, Pakistan managed to secure a win over the UAE, booking their place in the Super 4 stage of the tournament, where they will once again face arch-rivals India.