Former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram criticized the national team’s performance following a loss to India in the 2025 Champions Trophy, stressing the poor bowling averages. He called for significant changes to the squad, citing a lack of strategic adjustments after previous defeats. The team’s future in the tournament appears bleak as they approach their crucial match against Bangladesh.
In a pointed critique following Pakistan’s heavy defeat to India in the 2025 Champions Trophy, former cricketer Wasim Akram expressed his discontent with the team’s current performance. Entering the match after a loss to New Zealand, Pakistan struggled against India, managing only 241 runs and losing by six wickets. Virat Kohli’s century showcased India’s batting dominance in their victory.
On the show ‘Dressing Room,’ Akram voiced concerns over the bowling department’s failures. He remarked on the alarming statistic that Pakistan bowlers had taken merely 24 wickets in the last five ODIs at an average of 60 runs per wicket, a figure worse than Oman and the USA. He emphasized the need for sweeping changes within the team, suggesting bringing in younger players and adopting a more aggressive style of play.
Akram further scrutinized the team’s lack of strategic planning or readiness against India after their initial loss. He was particularly critical of the unchanged lineup despite the previous defeat, citing a failure in leadership from captain Rizwan. “A day before the Champions Trophy, they did a meeting for an hour but they came out with the same squad,” he stated,
The former player lamented the reaction of fans who left the stadium early, indicating a profound disappointment in the team’s performances. 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.”
Looking ahead, Pakistan’s hopes for the semifinals hinge on Bangladesh defeating New Zealand. Their next match against Bangladesh is scheduled for February 27 in Rawalpindi, as the team seeks to recover from its current struggles in the tournament.
Wasim Akram’s candid assessment of Pakistan’s performance highlights critical issues within the team’s strategy and execution. With low bowling averages and a lack of effective leadership, questions about the team’s direction arise. As Pakistan faces crucial matches ahead, the call for significant changes resonates strongly within the cricketing community amidst growing fan frustration.
Original Source: www.sportskeeda.com
