Shoaib Akhtar, a former speedster for Pakistan, has criticized the Mohammed Rizwan-led team for their subpar showing in the ODI series against the West Indies. With a dominating victory of 202 runs in the third match at Tarouba on Tuesday, the West Indies secured their first ODI series triumph over Pakistan since 1991.
The home team bowled out Pakistan for just 92 while defending 294-6 thanks to the impressive figures of 6/18 from fast bowler Jayden Seales. On the other hand, captain Shai Hope had made a brilliant 120* to take West Indies to a good total.
Akhtar lambasted Pakistan’s batters, accusing them of not playing for the team.
“We used to have expressive and explosive talent, and we played like that. We were never dependent on one individual — everyone chipped in. No one used to look for escape routes. The environment has changed, and in the last 10–15 years, everyone has started playing for themselves. Everyone is playing for their averages. The intent should be to win matches for your country,” Akhtar said on the Game On Hai show.
“We need to change the intent, the mindset, and create that atmosphere. You need to play according to modern cricket. How hard is that to understand?” he added.
Pakistan was reduced to 23/4 with three ducks amongst the top four batters, including captain Mohammad Rizwan. Ace Pakistan batter Babar Azam scored just 9 runs, finishing the ODI series with 56 runs and a best score of 47.
“Halka sa seam hota hai toh musibat pad jaati hai (The ball moves a bit and they are in trouble). Rawalpindi pitch lekar nahi ghoom sakte (You can’t carry Pindi pitches everywhere),” Akhtar said.
