Akhtar Voices Strong Criticism of Team’s Strategy

Following Pakistan’s disappointing showing in the initial T20I against Bangladesh, former pace legend Shoaib Akhtar has voiced his strong disapproval. The match concluded in a low-scoring loss at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka on Sunday.

During a recent television appearance, Akhtar sharply criticised the team’s overall plan and mental preparation. He questioned their inability to build upon solid starts and make necessary tactical adjustments during critical game phases.

Lack of Capitalization

“Pakistan remains unable to take full advantage of promising starts. Fakhar [Zaman] was the only player to show any real resistance,” Akhtar stated.

Bowling Concerns

“We definitely missed Shaheen [Afridi] and Naseem [Shah] – they are both expert T20 bowlers and could have shifted the momentum in our favor. However, the total was simply too small this time, and Bangladesh put forth a decisive and commanding effort,” he added.

Meanwhile, Rashid Latif, a former Pakistan captain, expressed his worries on social media, suggesting that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is having a detrimental effect on the nation’s cricket framework.

“While T20 leagues globally have aided their national teams, the PSL seems to be harming the PCB,” Latif posted.

Fueled by a match-winning half-century by Parvez Hossain Emon, Bangladesh successfully chased the modest target of 111 in just 15.3 overs, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Salman Mirza, making his debut, initially gave Pakistan hope with an effective opening spell. He dismissed Tanzid Hasan in the first over and then removed Bangladesh captain Litton Das in his second, leaving the hosts at 7-2 in just 2.2 overs.

However, a vital 73-run partnership between Emon and Towhid Hridoy for the third wicket steadied the chase. Abbas Afridi eventually broke the partnership, dismissing Hridoy for 36 from 37 balls with the score at 80-3 in the 13th over.

Emon displayed composure under pressure, reaching his second T20I half-century and remaining unbeaten on 56. Jaker Ali contributed a quick 15* from 10 balls to secure the victory for Bangladesh.

For Pakistan, Salman made a strong impression on his debut with figures of 2/23 in 3.3 overs, while Abbas Afridi claimed one wicket.

Earlier, the Pakistani batting order collapsed despite a promising start. Fakhar Zaman stood out with a brave 44 off 34 balls but received little support from his teammates.

The visiting team was bowled out for just 110 in 19.5 overs, marking their lowest T20I score against Bangladesh.

Taskin Ahmed led the Bangladesh bowling attack with figures of 3/22, and Mustafizur Rahman delivered an impressive spell, conceding only six runs and taking two wickets in his three overs.

The second T20I is scheduled to take place at the same venue on Tuesday.