Pakistan’s Strategy Under Fire After Loss to New Zealand
Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has voiced strong criticism against the team’s strategy in the recently concluded tri-nation series, particularly questioning the decision to open with Babar Azam. His remarks followed Pakistan’s five-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the final at Karachi’s National Stadium on Friday.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Basit expressed deep disappointment over the team management’s tactical decisions, emphasizing that Pakistan had the potential to secure the title had they made better strategic choices.
Basit Ali Questions Babar Azam’s Batting Position
Basit Ali took issue with the decision to promote Babar Azam to the opening slot, a move he believes disrupted the team’s balance. He argued that Babar was thriving at number three, consistently scoring 50-70 runs against South Africa, and shifting his position in the lineup adversely impacted his form.
“Who advised Babar Azam to open the innings? I am surprised by this decision. He was performing well at number three, but they changed his position. Now, just 62 runs in three matches in the tri-series. This is the approach and mindset of the management,” he lamented.
Basit Ali further compared this decision to India’s handling of Sachin Tendulkar, pointing out that while Tendulkar succeeded as an opener, Pakistan’s management failed to consider Babar’s strengths before making such a significant change.
Mohammad Rizwan’s Concerns Over Squad Selection
In addition to criticizing Babar’s batting position, Basit Ali highlighted Mohammad Rizwan’s dissatisfaction with the squad selection. He specifically pointed out that Rizwan did not appear confident in including Faheem Ashraf in the playing XI.
“Rizwan clearly showed he was not happy with Faheem Ashraf being included in the team. He did not give him the ball after just two overs and only used him again when the match was already lost,” Basit remarked.
This statement underscores a possible disconnect between the captain and the selection committee, which could have played a role in Pakistan’s underwhelming performance in the tournament.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Preparations: Focus Must Shift to Immediate Challenges
With the 2025 Champions Trophy set to commence in Karachi on February 19, Basit Ali emphasized the importance of focusing on immediate challenges, rather than fixating on the anticipated India clash.
“We keep talking about the India match, but we should have been thinking about New Zealand first. Will this team play against them? Will the pitch be like this? Will Salman Agha bowl 10 overs? Will you play Khushdil Shah?” he questioned.
The former cricketer stressed that excessive focus on high-profile matches often leads to neglecting the importance of upcoming fixtures, which could hurt Pakistan’s campaign in the tournament.
Pakistan Shaheens Shine in Warm-Up Matches Ahead of Champions Trophy
Before heading into the Champions Trophy, the Pakistan Shaheens played a warm-up match against Afghanistan, securing a dominant 144-run victory. The team posted a formidable total of 314/8, thanks to strong batting performances.
Shadab Khan, leading the side, impressed with an exceptional bowling spell, claiming three wickets as Afghanistan crumbled to 170 all out.
Upcoming Fixtures for Pakistan Shaheens
Pakistan Shaheens will now face South Africa at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on February 17, while another squad will compete against Bangladesh on the same day at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Shaheens’ Squad for South Africa Match:
- Mohammad Huraira (c)
- Amad Butt
- Faisal Akram
- Hassan Nawaz
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Khurram Shahzad
- Maaz Sadaqat
- Mehran Mumtaz
- Muhammad Ghazi Ghori
- Niaz Khan
- Qasim Akram
- Saad Khan
Shaheens’ Squad for Bangladesh Match:
- Mohammad Haris (c)
- Aamir Jamal
- Abdul Samad
- Ali Raza
- Azan Awais
- Mohammad Wasim Jnr
- Mubasir Khan
- Musa Khan
- Omair Bin Yousuf
- Sahibzada Farhan
- Sufiyan Moqim
- Usama Mir
Champions Trophy 2025 Warm-Up Matches Schedule
- 16 February – New Zealand vs Afghanistan at National Bank Stadium, Karachi
- 17 February – Shaheens vs South Africa at National Bank Stadium, Karachi
- 17 February – Shaheens vs Bangladesh at ICC Cricket Academy, Dubai
Final Thoughts: Pakistan Must Regain Confidence Before Champions Trophy
Basit Ali concluded his critique by stressing the importance of confidence heading into a major tournament. He emphasized that winning the tri-nation series would have boosted the team’s morale, but the loss to New Zealand has left serious doubts about Pakistan’s preparedness.
“Winning this tri-nation series could have boosted morale. Now, what will be your confidence level? Cricket is a game of confidence, and if that is shaken, you are left behind,” he warned.
As Pakistan prepares for the Champions Trophy, the management must take these criticisms into account, ensuring that tactical decisions align with the team’s strengths rather than disrupting the existing momentum.