Srinagar: Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has sent huge warning to Pakistan team ahead of their World Cup 2023 clash vs Afghanistan in Chennai.
Pakistan’s suffered their second consecutive loss, this time to Australia in a 62-run defeat in Bengaluru.
Former Pakistan fast-bowler Shoaib Akhtar expressed his disappointment with Pakistan’s performance and directed criticism towards Babar Azam, the captain, for failing to deliver when it mattered most.
“Winning the toss and electing to bowl, why? Score 320, give bowlers a chance. Maybe they could’ve bowled them out. Babar Azam, a great player but again, great players need to play great innings. You can’t make yourself a big name by not performing against big nations. You have to show you can score big runs in big games,” Akhtar said on his official YouTube channel.
“Pakistan’s strength is T20 cricket. When Australia became aggressive in last 15 overs, Pakistan bowlers dominated. But bringing Iftikhar as first-change bowler, and Usama Mir dropping that catch… I can’t understand that. Honestly, I don’t feel Pakistan has a big chance. We have games against New Zealand and South Africa. But does this Pakistan team deserve to be in semi-finals? I’m thoroughly disappointed”.
“Shaheen tried his best. But in his first spell, where was his skillset? How would you stop runs? That he has to learn. Nawaz’s selection… don’t understand that.”
Pakistan’s next match in the World Cup is against their neighbours Afghanistan at a sluggish Chennai pitch.
“Afghanistan is a strong team. If you want to save yourself from embarrassment… I’m not saying Afghanistan is a bad team, they are at par with Pakistan. Don’t take them lightly. The match is in Chennai, the ball will turn. It’s favourable conditions for Afghanistan. I’m sure Pakistan will pick their pieces up. Please go out there and play with your heart,” said the speedster.