The recent loss of Pakistan’s cricket team to India, despite facing a manageable target, has left fans and former players alike baffled and frustrated. Prominent ex-cricketers have attributed the defeat to internal team conflicts, highlighting a deeper issue within the squad.
Former all-rounder Shahid Afridi didn’t hold back his criticism. “A captain unites the team, whether someone is destroying or building it. Once this World Cup is over, I’ll reveal everything,” Afridi stated. He refrained from detailed commentary, citing his familial ties to player Shaheen Afridi, who is his son-in-law. “If I speak now, people will accuse me of favoritism,” he added.
Former fast bowler Wasim Akram echoed Afridi’s sentiments, pointing out a lack of communication among players. “Some players don’t even talk to each other. This is international cricket, where you play for your country. Such players should be benched,” Akram remarked. He stressed the need for significant changes within the team, particularly criticizing Mohammad Rizwan’s tactical error during the match against India.
“Rizwan made a poor decision trying to hit a big shot against Bumrah, leading to his dismissal,” Akram fumed. “These players have been playing for a decade; I can’t teach them cricket. Rizwan should have known that Bumrah would go for a wicket. He needed to play smart, but instead, he lost his wicket trying to go big.”
Similarly, former fast bowler Waqar Younis shared his disappointment, calling Rizwan’s mistake costly. “Rizwan’s error was a game-changer. He needed to be more aware of the match situation,” Younis commented.