Following a disappointing ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Wasim Akram criticized Pakistan’s cricket team for outdated methods and poor performance, particularly in bowling. He advocated for reforms in the PCB, including new player selections and immediate preparations for future tournaments. Akram’s comments highlight the need for a significant change in strategy to foster a more competitive team.
Pakistan’s cricket team faced severe criticism after their disappointing exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, particularly from legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram. He pointed to the team’s outdated strategies, ineffective bowling, and poor player selections, calling for significant reforms within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
In his analysis during the post-match show “Dressing Room,” Akram lamented that Pakistan’s approach to modern white-ball cricket lags behind that of other teams. He advocated for introducing “fearless cricketers” and insisted on a significant overhaul of the team, suggesting that multiple changes might be necessary.
Akram emphasized the importance of long-term planning, despite short-term failures. He called on the PCB to begin preparations for the T20 World Cup in 2026 immediately, indicating that it is crucial to start building a competitive team now, despite expected losses in the coming months.
Addressing Pakistan’s bowling performance, Akram expressed alarm at their lackluster statistics, revealing that they took only 24 wickets in the last five ODIs at an average of 60 runs per wicket. He noted that their bowling average has been worse than that of associate teams such as Oman and the USA, underscoring a serious deficiency in their bowling attack.
Furthermore, Akram scrutinized the PCB’s decision-making, targeting the selection committee and coaching staff for their choices. He questioned the rationale behind including players like Khushdil Shah and Salman Agha, suggesting they have not proven to be effective wicket-takers.
Wasim Akram’s critique of Pakistan’s cricket following their Champions Trophy exit emphasizes the need for immediate changes within the team. His call for fearless young players, alongside a definitive overhaul of strategies and selections, highlights the urgency of establishing a competitive squad for future tournaments. Addressing deficiencies in player performance, particularly in bowling, is essential for Pakistan’s future success in international cricket.
Original Source: www.sportingnews.com
