Wasim Akram has publicly criticized the Pakistan cricket team following their defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy, labeling their play as outdated and calling for significant changes, especially to the bowling unit. He also questioned the selections made by the management and expressed concern over captain Mohammad Rizwan’s leadership role amid the team’s underperformance.
The Pakistan cricket team is facing intense scrutiny following their disheartening defeat against India in the ICC Champions Trophy. Despite numerous changes in players, captaincy, coaching staff, and management since their failure at the 2024 T20 World Cup, the results have not improved for Mohammad Rizwan’s squad, which is nearly eliminated from semi-final contention after this latest loss.
In his post-match remarks, cricket legend Wasim Akram expressed his frustration, describing the team’s style of play as outdated. “Drastic steps needed. We are playing archaic cricket in white-ball for ages,” he stated during the show “Dressing Room.” He urged the need to inject new talent into the team, encouraging significant changes to prepare for the World T20 in 2026.
Akram criticized Pakistan’s bowling performance, noting alarming statistics that reflect repeated failures on the international stage. “In the last five ODIs, Pakistan bowlers have managed to get 24 wickets at an average of 60. Our average is even poorer than Oman and USA,” he highlighted, revealing that Pakistan has the second-worst bowling average among the 14 teams participating in ODIs.
He did not hold back on the Pakistan Cricket Board and the selection committee, questioning their choices. “Chairman saab please call captain, selection committee, and coach and ask them what kind of selection they have made,” Akram remarked, citing players like Khushdil Shah and Salam Agha as underperformers.
Furthermore, Akram placed partial blame on captain Mohammad Rizwan, emphasizing his responsibility as the team leader. “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,” he asserted, noting fans’ disappointment when they left early during the match.
In summary, Wasim Akram’s critiques highlight significant concerns regarding the Pakistan cricket team’s performances and strategic decisions. With a call for drastic changes and a renewed focus on cultivating fresh talent, Akram underscores the urgency for reform as Pakistan looks toward future competitions. The criticisms of management and selection choices further emphasize a need for accountability in the team’s leadership.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
