In the aftermath of Pakistan’s six-wicket defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has launched a scathing critique of the team’s management and leadership. Akhtar described the management as “brainless and clueless,” attributing the loss to poor selection choices and a lack of clear direction.
Akhtar’s Sharp Rebuke of Team Management
Akhtar expressed his frustration, stating, “I am not disappointed at all (by the defeat to India) because I knew what would happen.” He criticized the decision to field only five bowlers, noting that contemporary cricket strategies typically involve six bowlers to provide adequate depth and flexibility. “You go with two all-rounders, but this is just brainless and clueless management,” Akhtar lamented.
He further emphasized that the players’ lack of direction mirrors the inadequacies of the management, stating, “The players are just as clueless as the team management is! They don’t know what to do.”
Leadership Under Fire
The former pacer didn’t spare the team’s leadership from criticism. He questioned the decision-making and strategic planning of the captain and coaching staff, suggesting that their approach lacks the sophistication required at the international level. Akhtar’s comments reflect a broader concern about the team’s preparedness and adaptability in high-stakes matches.
Comparisons with Indian Counterparts
Drawing a stark contrast, Akhtar highlighted the skill disparity between Pakistani players and their Indian counterparts. He pointed out that Pakistani batsmen lack the versatility and technique exhibited by players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill. “They don’t have the skillsets of Rohit, Virat, and Shubman,” Akhtar observed, underscoring the need for Pakistan to cultivate talent that can perform under pressure.
Calls for Systemic Overhaul
Akhtar’s critique extends beyond individual performances to the structural issues plaguing Pakistan cricket. He advocates for a comprehensive overhaul of the domestic cricket system to nurture and develop players capable of competing at the highest level. This sentiment aligns with calls from other cricketing legends who emphasize the importance of a robust domestic framework as the foundation for international success.
