Wasim Akram criticized Pakistan’s cricket team after their defeat to India in the 2025 Champions Trophy, highlighting poor bowling averages and strategic failures. He called for significant changes within the team composition, aimed at preparing for the upcoming World T20 2026. The defeat marked a critical moment for Pakistan, now having minimal chances for semifinals, signaling a need for immediate improvement.
Former Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram sharply criticized the national team’s performance following their loss to India in the 2025 Champions Trophy on February 23. Pakistan faced mounting pressure having just lost to New Zealand and, against India, they fell apart, posting only 241 runs before India chased it down easily with six wickets remaining and in just 42.3 overs. Virat Kohli was noteworthy for his hundred in the match, underscoring India’s dominance.
During his analysis on ‘Dressing Room,’ Akram condemned the bowlers’ lack of effectiveness, stating, “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.” He emphasized that Pakistan’s bowling statistics place them second worst among the 14 teams playing ODIs.
Akram further called for significant changes within the team structure, urging the inclusion of more fearless and youthful players as the country transitions its focus towards the World T20 2026. He insisted that Pakistan must make drastic adjustments, even if it means enduring losses over the next six months in order to develop a competitive squad.
Following the loss to India, which marked Pakistan’s fourth defeat in their last five ODIs and their sixth consecutive loss to India in 50-over matches, Akram criticized the team’s preparation strategy. He expressed frustration that after a meeting, Pakistan still fielded the same squad that had just lost to New Zealand, aside from one enforced change due to injury. He remarked, “A day before the Champions Trophy, they did a meeting for an hour but they came out with the same squad.”
Akram also pointed to the captain, Rizwan, as being part of the issue, stating that a leader should recognize the necessary match-winning components needed for success. The evident frustration among fans was palpable, with many leaving the stadium early during the match against India, as Akram reflected, “You should have seen the faces of Pakistan fans… They left the venue after 15 overs when Pakistan were bowling.”
Looking ahead, Pakistan will rely on Bangladesh to defeat New Zealand to keep any hopes for the semifinals alive. Their next and final group-stage match is set against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27, making it a crucial contest for their campaign’s survival.
Wasim Akram’s critique highlights deep concerns regarding Pakistan’s current cricketing performance, particularly around their bowling averages and strategic decisions. The national team faces a pressing call for a shift in approach, aiming towards future tournaments. The outcry and frustration from fans further illustrate the urgency for improvement in the team’s performance and strategy moving forward.
Original Source: www.sportskeeda.com
