Wasim Akram Critiques Pakistan Cricket Team Following Team Defeat

Wasim Akram has condemned the Pakistan cricket team for its outdated playing style and poor performance after their loss to India in the ICC Champions Trophy. He criticized the team’s selection, captaincy, and the bowling unit’s statistics, describing them as the second worst in ODIs. Akram calls for drastic changes and urges the board to take action to rebuild for the future.

The Pakistan national cricket team is under intense scrutiny after suffering a humiliating loss to India in the ICC Champions Trophy. Despite significant changes in players, captaincy, coaching staff, and management following their failure at the 2024 T20 World Cup, the team’s performance has not improved. With almost no hope of reaching the semi-finals, the criticisms are mounting against captain Mohammad Rizwan and his squad.

Former cricketer Wasim Akram prominently expressed his discontent during a post-match analysis, attributing the team’s issues to outdated playing styles. He remarked, “Drastic steps needed. We are playing archaic cricket in white-ball for ages.” Akram advocated for a new approach that includes introducing fearless, young players, stating the necessity to begin preparing for the World T20 2026 now.

Akram highlighted troubling statistics regarding Pakistan’s bowling performance, criticizing their inability to secure wickets in recent matches. He stated, “In the last five ODIs, Pakistan bowlers have managed to get 24 wickets at an average of 60. That is 60 runs per wicket.” He noted that Pakistan’s bowling average is lower than even Oman and the USA, ranking as the second worst among the fourteen ODI teams.

Furthermore, Akram held the Pakistan Cricket Board and the selection committee accountable for the poor team composition. “Chairman saab please call captain, selection committee, and coach and ask them what kind of selection they have made,” he urged, emphasizing the unremarkable performances of players Khushdil Shah and Salam Agha.

Criticism towards captain Mohammad Rizwan was equally pronounced as Akram reflected on a pre-tournament meeting that did not yield any constructive changes. He stated, “Even captain (Rizwan) is to blame. He is the leader of the ship and if he does not know what kind of match-winner he needs, it is getting embarrassing now.” The reaction from disappointed fans who left the stadium early underscored the gravity of the situation.

In summary, Wasim Akram’s outspoken criticism highlights the alarming state of the Pakistan cricket team following their recent defeats. He calls for significant changes within the team and its strategy, emphasizing the need for fresh talent and re-evaluation of the current leadership and selection practices. With recent poor performances and low morale among fans, immediate action is essential for the team’s revival.

Original Source: sports.ndtv.com