Akhtar’s Scathing Assessment of Pakistan Cricket Team

Following Pakistan’s recent defeat to Bangladesh in the second T20I, former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar delivered a sharp critique, suggesting the team requires a thorough overhaul that could span two decades.

During a sports program appearance, Akhtar expressed his dissatisfaction with the national team’s condition, citing deficiencies in planning, strategy, and player development.

“This team needs a complete reset, even if it’s a 20-year project, that’s perfectly acceptable,” Akhtar stated, with a hint of irony.

Akhtar highlighted the management’s inconsistency in team selection and criticized players he deemed technically inadequate for international cricket.

“The playing XI is uncertain. The players’ skill levels are insufficient. Saim and Fakhar didn’t perform, their playing styles are ineffective on these pitches,” he commented.

Akhtar noted the team’s struggles on difficult pitches, attributing it to their reliance on power hitting over technical skill and timing.

“These wickets are challenging. These players depend on brute force rather than timing. The ball doesn’t make solid contact, the pace is inconsistent, and the bounce is unpredictable,” he explained.

He emphasized the importance of adaptability, referencing legendary cricketers who thrived in similar conditions by adjusting their approach.

“Great players adapt to challenging environments. Figures like Sachin Tendulkar, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Ijaz Ahmed, and Zaheer Abbas all scored runs under comparable circumstances,” he concluded.

Match Summary

In the second T20I, Bangladesh scored 133, led by Jaker Ali’s 55 and Mahedi Hasan’s 33.

Pakistan’s bowlers performed creditably, with Ahmed Daniyal, Salman Mirza, and Abbas Afridi each taking two wickets. Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf secured one wicket apiece.

Pakistan’s batting faltered, collapsing to 15/5 early in their innings. Faheem Ashraf’s 51 wasn’t enough, as they fell short by eight runs.

Shoriful Islam’s 3/17 helped Bangladesh clinch their first T20I series victory against Pakistan.

The series’ final match is scheduled for Thursday at the same venue.