Wasim Akram Critiques Pakistan’s Disastrous Performance Against India in 2025 Champions Trophy
Wasim Akram harshly criticized Pakistan’s performance after their loss to India in the 2025 Champions Trophy, emphasizing their poor bowling average. He called for substantial changes to the team to prepare for the upcoming World T20. This defeat marks Pakistan’s ongoing struggles, extending their losing streak against India and diminishing their semifinal prospects.
Former Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram openly criticized the national cricket team following their significant defeat to India in the 2025 Champions Trophy held on February 23. Under considerable pressure after losing to New Zealand by 60 runs in their opening match, Pakistan struggled as India seized control of the game from the beginning. With Pakistan scoring a mere 241 runs, India comfortably chased down the target, winning by six wickets in just 42.3 overs, thanks to Virat Kohli’s impressive 100 not out.
During the analysis on the show ‘Dressing Room,’ Akram expressed his discontent with the performance of Pakistan’s bowlers, stating, “Enough is enough. You have made them the stars. In the last five ODIs, Pakistan bowlers have managed to get 24 wickets at an average of 60. That is 60 runs per wicket. Our average is even poorer than Oman and USA.” He emphasized the dismal standing of Pakistan’s bowling average, which ranks second worst among the 14 participating teams.
Akram advocated for significant reforms in the team, urging for the introduction of courageous and youthful players. He suggested implementing five or six changes to the squad, emphasizing the importance of preparing for the next World T20 in 2026. He stated, “If you keep losing for the next six months, it is fine, but start building the team for World T20 2026 from now onwards.”
This defeat marked Pakistan’s fourth loss in their last five ODIs and extended their losing streak against India to six consecutive matches in the 50-over format. With two consecutive losses in the tournament, Pakistan’s chances of reaching the semifinals are dramatically slim.
In his critique, Akram also highlighted the team’s lack of preparation prior to the match against India, particularly after the disappointing performance against New Zealand. He pointed out that despite a lengthy meeting, the same squad was retained, with only one forced change due to an injury. Akram remarked, “A day before the Champions Trophy, they did a meeting for an hour but they came out with the same squad. Even captain (Rizwan) is to blame.”
Akram expressed concern for the Pakistan fans, many of whom left the stadium during the match due to disappointment with their team’s performance. He noted, “You should have seen the faces of Pakistan fans who were at the stadium. They left the venue after 15 overs when Pakistan were bowling. It’s unfortunate. We as a nation are very passionate. But it is frustrating.”
Looking forward, Pakistan must rely on Bangladesh to defeat New Zealand to keep alive their hopes of reaching the semifinals, with their next match scheduled against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27.
In summary, Wasim Akram’s critical commentary highlights Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the 2025 Champions Trophy, particularly their bowling inefficiencies and lack of strategic preparation. His call for drastic changes within the squad aims to rejuvenate the team ahead of future competitions. The mounting pressure and expectations from fans underscore a need for improvement as Pakistan navigates their remaining matches to secure a place in the semifinals.
Original Source: www.sportskeeda.com
