Iftikhar Ahmed accuses Pakistani media of 'overhyping' players

Pakistan's all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed has accused the country's media of overhyping players.

He made the remarks while addressing a press conference after UMT Markhor failed to clinch a victory against the Panthers in the Champions One-Day Cup final.

Iftikhar, who was leading the Markhors as captain in the tournament, expressed his frustration towards the media.

“Cricket has been ruined because of you people,” said Iftikhar while referring to the reporters.

"You guys hype anyone, and then if they fail to perform for Pakistan, you start questioning his selection.

“Our whole cricket environment has been spoilt because of you, please avoid hyping players after their good innings and let them prove their worth with their consistent performances.”

Iftikhar believed that the players should be praised after their long-term performances in all three formats.

“Premature hype leads to unfair scrutiny, and players falter on the international stage,” the spinner noted.

In a disappointing inning, the Makhors posted 123 in 33.4 overs. Panthers chased the target in 18 overs after losing five wickets.

The Panthers’ bowling attack with Mohammad Hasnain, Arafat Minhas, and Sajid Khan dismantled Markhors, each securing three wickets.

However, despite the 46-run of Fakhar Zaman, the Markhors could not set a competitive target for opponents, as Shadab Khan’s panthers achieved the total with ease.