New York, USA – June 10, 2024 – Legendary Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram reacted strongly to Pakistan’s defeat against India in the T20 World Cup 2024. In a video posted to social media, Akram called for significant changes within the Pakistan team.
Demanding Change:
Akram emphasized the need for an overhaul, stating, “It was a very very sad day for Pakistan cricket team,” according to the video. “I keep saying that there is always win and loss in the game. But the way they lost the match, either me, or you have to tell the PCB what is going wrong. Why do we have to do this? Because enough is enough, we need changes now. We need to bring in new players, 6-7 of them. If we have to lose, we will lose with the new kids. We will back them and make a fighting team,” Akram said.
Leadership and Performance:
The former cricketer also addressed the recent captaincy controversy surrounding Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi. While acknowledging the situation, Akram urged the players to prioritize on-field performance. “A captain and a coach cannot teach you what situational awareness is. Who you have to see off, who you have to attack. And you cannot be spoon-feeding everything,” Akram said in the video, referring to the team’s decision-making.
Specific Criticisms:
Akram further pointed out a lack of situational awareness among Pakistani players during the match. He suggested coaches and captains cannot solely teach this crucial skill. Specific examples included Mohammad Rizwan’s decision to sweep Jasprit Bumrah, India’s leading bowler. Akram did not comment on Rizwan’s batting technique but highlighted the questionable strategy. “It was the best New York pitch we have seen. Rizwan has batted for 10-12 overs and you try and sweep their best bowler – Bumrah?,” Akram questioned in the video.
PCB Leadership Challenged:
Akram directly addressed the PCB chairman in the video, urging him to take decisive action for Pakistani cricket. He emphasized that personal agendas within the board should not hinder the team’s success. “I have a request for the chairman of PCB, take a bold step, forget about who is angry for not getting captaincy, you are working for the country, stop these things,” Akram further added.
Uncertain Qualification:
Pakistan’s qualification for the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup now hangs in the balance. Akram expressed his disappointment with the team’s performance, leaving the question of their ability to advance unanswered. “I am a really positive person but getting almost knocked out? I don’t think we deserve to qualify for the Super 8 stage,” Akram concluded his video message.