Cricket experts have heavily criticized Pakistan’s dismal performance in the Test match against Bangladesh, which ended in a 10-wicket defeat for the hosts. This loss, marking Bangladesh’s first-ever Test victory over Pakistan, has sparked widespread scrutiny of both the team’s approach and the management’s role in the defeat.
Despite declaring their first innings at 448-6, Pakistan was bowled out for a mere 146 in their second innings, leaving Bangladesh with only 30 runs to chase, which they comfortably achieved within seven overs. The second Test of the series, also scheduled in Rawalpindi, is set to begin on Friday.
Blame on PCB Leadership and Advisors
Former cricketer Ahmad Shahzad criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) leadership, particularly those behind the scenes, for the loss. He refrained from blaming the players directly, instead pointing the finger at the PCB’s management, including Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Shahzad accused them of prioritizing personal statistics over team success by continuing to select the same players who have consistently underperformed.
Calls for Accountability of Senior Players
Senior journalist Abdul Majid Bhatti attributed the loss to overconfidence and poor planning, calling for accountability of senior players who have failed to perform in the last 12 to 14 matches. Bhatti also criticized the selection process, highlighting the flawed approach of choosing Test players based on T20 performances and vice versa.
Focus on Personal Milestones
Sports anchor Yahya Hussaini praised Bangladesh for their outstanding cricket, particularly how their veterans, like Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan, played crucial roles in their victory. In contrast, he criticized Pakistani players for focusing too much on individual performances rather than the team’s success. Hussaini emphasized that this focus on personal milestones ultimately cost Pakistan the match.
The defeat has led to calls for a thorough reassessment of the team’s strategy and leadership, with experts urging the PCB to take responsibility and make necessary changes to prevent such losses in the future.
