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Legendary Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram has launched a scathing critique of the Pakistan cricket team following their six-wicket defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy Group A match. Akram compared Pakistan’s bowling attack to associate nations like Oman and the USA, urging for a massive overhaul in the team’s structure and selection process.
Akram’s Harsh Assessment of Pakistan’s Bowling
Speaking on the show Dressing Room, Akram did not mince words as he highlighted the team’s poor performance.
“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. In 14 teams who are playing ODIs, Pakistan's bowling average is second worst,” he said.
Akram emphasized the need for drastic changes, calling for the inclusion of young, fearless cricketers. “Drastic steps are needed. We are playing archaic cricket in white-ball for ages. This needs to change. Bring fearless cricketers, young blood into the team. If you have to make five-six changes, please make it. You keep losing for the next six months. It’s fine, but start building the team for the T20 World Cup 2026 from now onwards.”
Criticism of Selectors and Captain Mohammad Rizwan
Akram also directed his frustration at the selectors and captain Mohammad Rizwan, questioning their decision-making.
“Mr. Chairman, please call the captain, selection committee, and coach and ask them what kind of selection they have made. Khushdil Shah and Salman Agha, did they ever look like taking wickets?”
He revealed that he had been vocal about the squad’s shortcomings for weeks, but his concerns were ignored. “I am literally shouting for weeks that this squad is not good, but the chairman said they have assembled the best squad. A day before the Champions Trophy, they did a meeting for an hour, but they came out with the same squad.”
Akram also held Rizwan accountable, stating, “Even the captain is to blame. He is the leader of the ship, and if he doesn’t know what kind of match-winner he needs, it’s getting embarrassing now.”
Fans’ Disappointment and Pakistan’s Decline
Akram expressed his dismay at the reaction of Pakistani fans, who left the stadium early during the match. “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. I have never seen anything like that in my life. It’s unfortunate. We, as a nation, are very passionate. But it’s frustrating.”
Pakistan’s batting performance was equally lackluster, as they were bowled out for 241 in 49.4 overs. India chased down the target in just 42.3 overs, thanks to an unbeaten century from Virat Kohli.
A Dark Chapter in Pakistan Cricket
The defeat to India adds to Pakistan’s recent struggles in international cricket. Earlier, during the 2024 T20 World Cup, the USA handed Pakistan a shocking defeat, marking one of the darkest chapters in the team’s history. Akram’s comments underscore the growing gap between Pakistan and emerging cricketing nations.
USA cricket is growing with the likes of Saurabh Netravalkar, Monank Patel taking centre stage while Pakistan has been a disappointment recently.
