Wasim Akram has expressed grave concerns about the Pakistan cricket team’s performance after their recent loss to India in the ICC Champions Trophy. He criticized the outdated approach of the team, called for younger players to be introduced, and blamed the captain and management for the continued failures. Akram highlighted the poor statistics of the bowling unit, urging immediate changes for future tournaments.
Wasim Akram, a legendary Pakistani cricketer, has expressed his frustration with the Pakistan cricket team following their disappointing performance in the ICC Champions Trophy against India. The defeat has raised significant concerns about the team’s management, including the captaincy and coaching staff. Despite numerous changes after a poor showing in the 2024 T20 World Cup, the team’s struggles continue. Akram emphasized that Pakistan is virtually out of the semi-finals contention and called for much-needed reform.
During a post-match analysis on the show “Dressing Room,” Akram criticized the team for playing what he termed ‘archaic cricket’ amid the dynamic nature of modern white-ball cricket. He insisted that drastic changes are essential, advocating for the introduction of younger players who could reinvigorate the team’s approach. He urged the management to start building for the 2026 World T20, even if it necessitates a rough patch over the next six months.
Akram highlighted troubling statistics, indicating that the bowling unit has failed consistently at the international level, noting that Pakistan bowlers have averaged 60 runs per wicket in their last five ODIs. Such figures place the bowling average in Pakistan among the worst in ODI cricket, even below teams like Oman and the USA. He firmly stated, “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. “
He did not hold back while addressing the Pakistan Cricket Board, the selection committee, and head coach, questioning their choice of players. Akram pointed out specific players, like Khushdil Shah and Salam Agha, who failed to demonstrate the ability to secure wickets during matches. He recounted: “Chairman saab pls call captain, selection committee and coach and ask them what kind of selection they have made.”
Additionally, Akram placed some blame on captain Mohammad Rizwan, suggesting that he should have clear strategies for selecting match-winners for the team. He noted that even with meetings before the Champions Trophy match, the squad remained unchanged. Furthermore, he stated, “Even captain (Rizwan) 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.”
The criticism culminated with Akram referencing the disappointment expressed by fans, who left the venue early due to the team’s lackluster performance. His pointed remarks serve as a call to action for Pakistani cricket to reassess its approach moving forward.
Wasim Akram’s criticisms highlight a lack of effective strategy and performance within the Pakistan cricket team following their loss to India in the ICC Champions Trophy. With the bowling unit performing poorly and decisions from the management questioned, Akram’s insistence on radical changes signifies the urgent need for the team to recalibrate and aim for future success, particularly with the 2026 World T20 in mind.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
