Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has criticised Pakistan’s cricket team after their defeat in the Asia Cup 2025 final. He believes the side has deep problems in management, batting, and mindset.
According to Shoaib Akhtar, Pakistan cricket suffers from a lack of aggression. He said the board prefers “obedient players” instead of bold match-winners. This, he argued, has weakened the culture of the team and affected performance at the highest level.
The Asia Cup final exposed Pakistan’s weaknesses. After starting well at 113 for one, the team collapsed to 146 all out. Shoaib Akhtar said this shows the middle order has no stability and cannot handle pressure. He also blamed poor selection choices for leaving out talented players who could have made a difference.
He strongly criticised the coaching staff. He called their approach “senseless” and claimed the team looked unprepared. For him, Pakistan cricket needs clear strategies and strong planning, not confusion. Akhtar also argued that management seems clueless during big games.
Another major issue, according to him, is team composition. He pointed out that Pakistan relies too much on all-rounders and does not field enough specialist bowlers. Modern cricket, he said, requires balance, with five or six proper bowling options. Pakistan, in his view, is far behind in this area.
Shoaib Akhtar also raised concerns about the mindset of players. He said they appear without intent during crucial moments and often give up too early. He believes many players lack the skill sets needed to win against top sides.
In his closing remarks, he demanded reform. He said Pakistan must pick fearless cricketers, build a strong middle order, and bring leadership that can take tough decisions. Without such changes, Akhtar warned, Pakistan will continue to struggle on the big stage.
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