Shoaib Akhtar Criticises Pakistan Batting After Humiliating ODI Defeat vs West Indies
Pakistan cricket is facing a moment of serious reflection after a disastrous performance in the ODI series decider against West Indies. The Caribbean side claimed their first ODI series win over Pakistan since 1991, and they did it in dominant style. In the final match at Tarouba, Pakistan suffered a 202-run defeat, collapsing to just 92 all out while chasing 295. Shoaib Akhtar criticises Pakistan batting
Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar criticises Pakistan batting for what he described as a lack of intent, poor mindset, and outdated approach to modern cricket. His words have sparked debate across the cricket community, as Pakistan prepares for upcoming series against Afghanistan and the Asia Cup.
A Night to Forget for Pakistan
The third ODI was a nightmare for the visitors. West Indies captain Shai Hope scored an unbeaten century, guiding his team to a total of 294/6. Fast bowler Jayden Seales then produced a stunning spell, taking 6 wickets for just 18 runs, destroying Pakistan’s batting lineup. Shoaib Akhtar criticises Pakistan batting
Three of Pakistan’s top four batters – including captain Mohammad Rizwan – were dismissed without scoring. Rizwan was bowled for a golden duck by Seales, opener Saim Ayub fell early, and Babar Azam managed just nine runs before being trapped lbw. Abdullah Shafique also failed to make an impact.
The result was a complete collapse, with Pakistan losing by a massive 202-run margin.
Shoaib Akhtar’s Strong Words
On the cricket talk show Game On Hai, Shoaib Akhtar criticised Pakistan batting and called for an urgent change in mindset. He pointed out that in the past, Pakistan had explosive batting talent that played for the team’s success rather than personal records.
“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 looked for escape routes. The environment has changed, and in the last 10–15 years, everyone has started playing for themselves,” Akhtar said.
He accused the current side of playing for personal batting averages rather than match-winning contributions.
The ‘Rawalpindi Pitch’ Remark
One of the most talked-about comments from Shoaib Akhtar was his criticism of Pakistan’s reliance on flat, batting-friendly home pitches. Shoaib Akhtar criticises Pakistan batting
“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),” he said.
This remark pointed to the technical weaknesses of Pakistan’s batting lineup, especially when playing overseas in more challenging conditions. Shoaib Akhtar criticises Pakistan batting
A Call for Modern Cricket Approach
Shoaib Akhtar emphasised that Pakistan cricket must adapt to modern-day demands.
“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 asked.
He stressed that the team needs a culture shift where winning for the country is the priority, not personal milestones. Shoaib Akhtar criticises Pakistan batting
Pakistan’s Upcoming Challenges
Pakistan will now regroup before facing Afghanistan on August 29 in a tri-series that also features the United Arab Emirates. This will be a crucial preparation stage before the Asia Cup next month.
The West Indies, on the other hand, will take their confidence forward into a T20I series against Nepal before travelling to India for two Test matches in October. Shoaib Akhtar criticises Pakistan batting
Why Shoaib Akhtar’s Words Matter
Shoaib Akhtar is one of Pakistan’s most respected and feared fast bowlers in history. Known as the “Rawalpindi Express,” his opinions carry weight, especially when discussing mindset and competitiveness. His criticism reflects broader concerns within the Pakistan cricket community about player mentality, preparation, and adaptability.
Cricket experts believe that unless Pakistan addresses these issues, similar collapses could happen in future important tournaments. With the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup on the horizon, the team cannot afford another high-profile failure. Shoaib Akhtar criticises Pakistan batting
Fans React to the Criticism
Social media erupted after Shoaib Akhtar criticised Pakistan batting. Many fans agreed with his view, saying the team has lost its fighting spirit. Others defended the players, arguing that the conditions in Tarouba were difficult and that the West Indies played exceptionally well.
Hashtags like #ShoaibAkhtar, #PakistanCricket, and #WIvPAK trended on X (formerly Twitter) following the match.
Looking Ahead
Pakistan’s coaching staff will need to address both technical flaws and mental approach. The batting order must be more adaptable to different pitch conditions, and players must be encouraged to put the team ahead of personal statistics.
The road to redemption begins with small steps, but as Shoaib Akhtar said, the intent must be clear — to win matches for Pakistan, no matter the situation.
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