The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has was a nightmare for Pakistan cricket. The hosts, enjoying their first ICC event at dwelling since 1996, suffered an embarrassing group-stage exit and not using a single win. The fallout has been extreme, with followers and former gamers calling for sweeping modifications within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the crew lineup, and training workers. Among the many most vocal critics is famous quick bowler Wasim Akram, who has not held again in his scathing remarks in regards to the state of Pakistan cricket.
Pakistan’s disastrous marketing campaign on dwelling soil
Pakistan’s efficiency within the Champions Trophy was nothing wanting disastrous. Losses to New Zealand and India, adopted by a washed-out sport in opposition to Bangladesh, left the crew winless and on the backside of their group. The Mohammad Rizwan-led aspect confronted immense criticism for his or her lacklustre performances, outdated methods, and poor crew choice. This debacle has reignited debates in regards to the structural flaws in Pakistan cricket.
Wasim Akram’s scathing critique over Pakistan cricket
Akram, broadly considered one of many best bowlers in cricket historical past, has been notably vital of Pakistan’s method. Talking on the post-match present Dressing Room, Akram lambasted the crew for enjoying “archaic cricket” in an period the place white-ball cricket calls for innovation and aggression.
“Drastic steps are wanted. We’re enjoying archaic cricket in white-ball codecs for ages. This wants to alter. Carry fearless cricketers, younger blood into the crew. If you must make 5 or 6 modifications, please make them,” Akram stated
Akram additionally emphasised that short-term failures shouldn’t deter long-term planning. He urged PCB to begin constructing a crew for the T20 World Cup 2026 instantly, even when it means enduring losses over the subsequent six months.
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Akram’s brutal dig at Ramiz Raja’s quote
Akram didn’t cease at criticizing the gamers; he additionally took a swipe at former PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja. Referring to Raja’s earlier assertion that “NASA scientists put together Cristiano Ronaldo’s weight loss plan,” Akram sarcastically remarked throughout a chat present with Ajay Jadeja and Waqar Younis: “Heard that NASA makes Cristiano Ronaldo’s weight loss plan. He (Waqar) is aware of who I’m speaking about.” This pointed remark highlighted what Akram sees as misplaced priorities and rhetoric inside Pakistan cricket management.
Right here’s the video:
Former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja says NASA’s scientists set Cristiano Ronaldo’s weight loss plan plan 😱🥩pic.twitter.com/Xk5W1EnneM
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) November 22, 2023
Wasim Alram 🗣️
“Suna hai Ronaldo ka weight loss plan plan @NASA banati hai.”
Wasim Bhai & Waqar taking a dig on Ramiz Raja 😂😂😂pic.twitter.com/6FZKseakuo
— M (@anngrypakiistan) February 27, 2025
Bananas on the sphere: A logo of mismanagement?
In one other biting critique, Akram mocked Pakistan’s dietary decisions throughout matches. Recalling an incident from their sport in opposition to India, he stated: “It was the primary or second drinks break, and there was a plate filled with bananas for the gamers. Even monkeys don’t eat so many bananas! Had it been our captain Imran Khan, he would have given me a beating over it.”
This anecdote underscores Akram’s frustration with what he perceives as unprofessionalism and lack of consideration to element in Pakistan cricket.
Bowling woes: Worse than Oman and USA?
One among Akram’s most alarming revelations was about Pakistan’s bowling efficiency. He identified that of their final 5 ODIs, Pakistan bowlers managed solely 24 wickets at a median of 60 runs per wicket—a statistic worse than affiliate groups like Oman and the USA.
“Our bowling common is second-worst amongst 14 groups enjoying ODIs. Sufficient is sufficient. You could have made them stars with out benefit,” Akram added additional.
The necessity for structural reforms
Akram’s criticism extends past particular person performances to systemic points plaguing Pakistan cricket. He known as for overhauling home buildings to provide fearless cricketers able to competing on the worldwide stage.
“Please name the captain, choice committee, and coach and ask them what sort of choice they’ve made,” he concluded, questioning why gamers like Khushdil Shah and Salman Agha have been included regardless of missing wicket-taking talents.