Wasim Akram lashes out at Pakistan cricket team after loss against India

Legendary Wasim Akram has heavily criticized the Pakistan cricket team after the crushing defeat against arch-rivals India in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2024.

The six-wicket loss on Sunday has left the hosts in a precarious position, leaving their title defence hanging by a thread.

While batting first, Pakistan managed a modest 241 before getting bowled out in the final over. In reply, India cruised to victory with 45 balls to spare, thanks to a masterclass from Virat Kohli, who notched up a brilliant century.

While talking to a TV show, Wasim Akram slammed the Greenshirts for their below-par performance in the field, stating that there’s a need to take ‘drastic steps’ for improvement.

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“Enough is enough. Now it is time to take drastic steps. We have been playing archaic cricket in white-ball for ages,” Akram said.

“What would that be? Bring young cricketers, fearless cricketers in white-ball format. If you need to make 5-6 changes to the team, just do it. You might keep losing for the next six months. It’s fine but start building the team for the 2026 T20 World Cup from now.”

Wasim Akram also launched a scathing attack against the bowling attack of Pakistan for their disastrous performance in the last few matches.

“A lot of chances were given. You have made them the stars. In the last five ODIs, Pakistan bowlers have managed to get 24 wickets at an average of 60. That is 60 runs per wicket,” he stated.

“Of 14 teams including Oman and USA who played international cricket this year, Pakistan has the second-lowest bowling average in the list.”

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The legendary pacer also urged the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, Mohsin Naqvi, to seek answers from the team’s coach, captain, and selection team about their decisions.

“Chairman sir, please call the captain, selection committee and coach and ask them what kind of selection they have made,” he urged.

“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, then it’s embarrassing.

“I have never seen anything like that in my life. It’s unfortunate. We as a nation are very passionate. But it’s frustrating.”

READ: Can Pakistan still qualify for Champions Trophy semi-final after India defeat?