The Pakistani cricket team’s recent performance in the Champions Trophy has left fans disappointed and former Pak cricketer Kamran Akmal has not held back in his criticism of the team. He believes that Pakistan’s reputation in world cricket is on a steep decline due to their inability to win crucial matches and play selfless cricket.
Despite playing one game on home soil, Pakistan failed to secure a single victory in the tournament. Their group-stage campaign ended with two losses and a washed-out match against Bangladesh, leading to an early exit. Kamral Akmal expressed frustration over the team’s approach, emphasising that winning and playing with purpose is the only way to restore respect on the international stage.
Kamran Akmal questioned why Pakistan continues to suffer humiliating defeats, including being whitewashed by teams like Bangladesh. He further said that the Pakistani team should at least reach the semi-finals of the ICC events. He urged accountability from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the captain and the selection committee, stating that without proper oversight, the team’s struggles will persist.
Pakistan’s woes extended beyond their performance on the field. Controversy erupted when no PCB official was invited on stage for the closing ceremony of the Champions Trophy. Reports suggest that the PCB’s chief executive officer Sumair Ahmed who played a key role in organising the event was present at the venue but was not acknowledged. This omission did not sit well with Pakistan, especially considering that the nation hosted an ICC event after nearly three decades.
Kamran Akmal also criticised Pakistan’s priorities, suggesting that while financial gains and stadium upgrades were achieved, there was little focus on improving the team’s quality of cricket or safeguarding the country’s cricketing reputation. According to him, Pakistan’s failure to progress beyond the early rounds of the ICC events is a clear indication of deep-rooted problems that require urgent attention.
As Pakistan cricket faces growing scrutiny, questions linger over whether the team and its management will take the necessary steps to address these concerns or continue down a path of mediocrity.
