Former Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram did not hold back in criticizing the Men in Green after their heavy defeat to India in the Champions Trophy 2025 on Sunday, February 23. Pakistan entered the game under pressure after losing their opening match to New Zealand by 60 runs.
However, the match followed a familiar pattern in recent India-Pakistan encounters, with India dominating from the start. Pakistan managed only 241 runs, and India comfortably chased the target with six wickets in hand in just 42.3 overs. India’s star batter Virat Kohli led the way with an unbeaten 100 in Dubai.
‘Our average is even poorer than Oman and USA’ – Wasim Akram Mocks Pakistan’s bowlers
Speaking on the show Dressing Room (via Indian Express), Akram was particularly unhappy with Pakistan’s bowling performance.
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Akram said, “Enough is enough. You have made them the stars. In the last five ODIs, Pakistan bowlers have managed to get 24 wickets at an average of 60. That is 60 runs per wicket. Our average is even poorer than Oman and USA. In 14 teams who are playing ODIs, Pakistan’s bowling average is second worst.”
Akram called for big changes in the team and urged Pakistan to bring in young, fearless players. He added:
“Drastic steps needed. We are playing archaic cricket in white-ball for ages. This needs to change. Bring fearless cricketers, young blood into the team. If you have to make five-six changes, please make it. You keep losing for the next six months. It’s fine, but start building the team for World T20 2026 from now onwards.”
‘Even Captain Rizwan Is to Blame’ – Wasim Akram
Notably, the loss was Pakistan’s fourth in their last five ODIs and their sixth consecutive defeat against India in the 50-over format. With two losses in two games, their chances of reaching the semifinals are almost over.
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Akram also questioned Pakistan’s team selection and lack of preparation, especially after their heavy defeat to New Zealand. Despite that loss, Pakistan made no major changes in their squad except for Fakhar Zaman, who was injured. He further expressed disappointment at the reaction of Pakistan fans.
“A day before the Champions Trophy, they did a meeting for an hour, but they came out with the same squad. Even captain (Rizwan) is to blame. He is the leader of the ship, and if he doesn’t know what kind of match-winner he needs, its getting embarrassing now. You should have seen the faces of Pakistan fans who were at the stadium. They left the venue after 15 overs when Pakistan was bowling. I have never seen anything like that in my life. It’s unfortunate. We as a nation are very passionate, but it’s frustrating”, Akram added.
Pakistan will now hope for Bangladesh to defeat New Zealand to keep their slim semifinal hopes alive. Their final group-stage match will be against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on Thursday, February 27.
