Karachi: Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has heavily criticized Pakistan’s poor performance after their 60-run defeat to New Zealand in the Champions Trophy opener. The hosts struggled in their 321-run chase, folding for 260, with only Khushdil Shah (69 off 49) and Salman Agha (42) showing some resistance. Babar Azam’s sluggish 64 off 90 balls further highlighted Pakistan’s lack of urgency.
Expressing his disappointment, Akhtar slammed the team for lacking “impact players” and failing to match the modern, aggressive brand of cricket played by other teams.
“Pakistan is playing completely different cricket compared to the rest of the world. There are no impact players, the strike rate is too slow, and they don’t even play run-a-ball. We also leak a lot of runs and are relying on just four bowlers, while other teams play with at least six or seven. It’s a disappointing start,” Akhtar said.
Pakistan’s Must-Win India Clash
New Zealand’s bowling attack, led by Will O’Rourke (3/47) and Mitchell Santner (3/66), brutally exposed Pakistan’s weaknesses. Now, with two crucial games ahead—including a high-stakes match against India, Pakistan finds itself in a must-win situation.
Akhtar admitted that India will be a tough challenge, but urged Pakistan to play fearless, attacking cricket.
“Pakistan is now in a do-or-die situation against India. The Indian team is very strong and looks difficult to beat. I still wish Pakistan the best of luck, but they must go on the offensive. They have no other option. However, not in this way,” Akhtar added.
With Pakistan’s campaign already on shaky ground, the pressure is mounting on Mohammad Rizwan’s men to turn things around in their next fixture.
