England legend Michael Vaughan has heavily criticised the current Pakistan cricket team, calling it the worst he has ever seen. His harsh comments followed their embarrassing innings and 47-run defeat in the first Test against England in Multan.
Despite scoring a massive 556 in their first innings, Pakistan were outplayed by England and lost the first Test of the three-match series at home. This defeat puts Pakistan in a difficult position as they try to avoid a series loss.
Pakistan's embarrassing defeat against England in Multan Test
Pakistan's defeat was historic, as they became the first team in Test cricket to lose by an innings after scoring over 550 runs in their first innings. England's response was exceptional, declaring their first innings at 823/7 with a remarkable scoring rate of over five runs per over. This dominance highlighted the clear gap between the two teams.
Despite the initial promise of the pitch, Pakistan's second innings collapsed to 220, resulting in an innings and 47-run defeat for the hosts. England's disciplined bowling and focused approach exposed Pakistan's weaknesses, ultimately leading to their embarrassing loss.
England's sharp bowling proved the difference in the match. Despite the initial promise of the pitch, Pakistan's second innings collapsed to 220, resulting in an innings and 47-run defeat.
This embarrassing loss has raised questions about Pakistan's selection and tactics, leaving Vaughan perplexed by their performance in Multan. In contrast, England's calculated yet aggressive approach has impressed the commentator.
Michael Vaughan labels Pakistan team as 'worst side'
Vaughan praised England's players for their courage and determination in facing Pakistan. He was particularly impressed by their commitment to the task and their ability to rise to the challenge.
“This is the worst Pakistan side I can remember. But to make 823 for seven at 5.5 runs an over while taking few risks and looking in total control is very special. The most impressive thing for me was the way the bowling attacks combined," Michael Vaughan wrote in his column for The Telegraph.
"You could tell what everyone’s role was. And they stuck to their task gallantly and were right up for the challenge, which is exactly what Brendon McCullum wants to see,” he added.
The 49-year-old former England skipper further questioned the decision to select Shoaib Bashir over Jack Leach as the primary spinner in Multan. He argued that Leach's experience and proven ability should have earned him a place in the team.
Leach's impressive performance in the Multan Test, where he took eight wickets, further reinforced Vaughan's belief that he should be the preferred spinner for Pakistan.
“The one selection point I was not sure about at the start of the summer was opting for Shoaib Bashir over Leach as the front-line spinner. I can see Bashir’s potential, but Leach out-bowled him in Multan and had a very good season for Somerset. I am a bit old-school with spin bowling.
"Your finger spinner just needs to bowl, bowl, bowl. That is the way to learn, get used to conditions, and make subtle variations to your release point and angle of attack. Bashir just has not bowled that much this summer,” Vaughan concluded.
The second Test between England and Pakistan be played from October 15 to October 19 where the visitors will look to seal the series while hosts will have their sights set on bouncing back and forcing a series decider.
