The Pakistan cricket team has faced severe criticism following a humiliating defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy. Legendary cricketer Wasim Akram condemned the team’s outdated strategies and poor performance, highlighting alarming bowling statistics. He called for drastic changes, questioning the selection committee and captain Mohammad Rizwan’s decisions while emphasizing the need for new talent. Akram’s analysis reflects the growing frustration among fans and the urgent need for reform within the team.
The Pakistan cricket team finds itself under intense scrutiny following their recent humiliating loss to India in the ICC Champions Trophy. Despite several alterations in player selection, team management, and coaching staff after their disappointing performance at the 2024 T20 World Cup, the results remain unsatisfactory for captain Mohammad Rizwan and his players, who are now largely eliminated from semi-final contention.
During a post-match analysis, legendary cricketer Wasim Akram expressed his frustration, criticizing the team for utilizing outdated playing strategies that do not align with the current fast-paced nature of the game. “Drastic steps needed. We are playing archaic cricket in white-ball for ages,” he remarked on the show “Dressing Room.” Akram urged the introduction of young and audacious talent into the squad, suggesting that making several personnel changes might be necessary.
Akram further emphasized the dire state of Pakistan’s bowling statistics, highlighting that their average wickets per game ranks second-worst among the 14 teams participating in One Day Internationals. He declared, “Our average is even poor than Oman and USA,” noting that Pakistan bowlers had only claimed 24 wickets in the last five ODIs at an alarming average of 60 runs per wicket.
Additionally, he demanded accountability within the Pakistan Cricket Board, questioning the selection of players like Khushdil Shah and Salam Agha, asserting they had not demonstrated the capability to secure wickets. Criticizing the leadership, he stated, “Chairman saab pls call captain, selection committee and coach and ask them what kind of selection they have made.” This reflects Akram’s frustration with the continued failures stemming from poor selections and inadequate strategies.
Finally, Akram placed some of the blame on captain Mohammad Rizwan, suggesting he must have a clearer vision for selecting match-winning players. He emphasized, “A day before the Champions Trophy, they did a meeting for an hour but they came out with the same squad,” indicating a lack of foresight and adaptability in the team. Akram concluded by noting the disappointment expressed by fans, some of whom left the stadium early during the match, reflecting the increasing frustration with the team’s performance.
In conclusion, Wasim Akram’s sharp criticism of the Pakistan cricket team underscores the pressing need for significant changes within the squad, particularly in strategy and player selection. The alarming performance statistics emphasize the necessity for a thorough overhaul ahead of future tournaments. As the team continues to struggle, the call for accountability within the management and leadership becomes increasingly urgent, as supporters express their discontent. Akram’s remarks serve as a somber reminder of the challenges facing Pakistan cricket and highlight the importance of adapting to the evolving dynamics of the sport.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
