Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has launched a scathing attack on the national team following their crushing ODI series defeat to the West Indies.

 

Speaking on state television after Pakistan’s loss in the third and deciding ODI, Akhtar questioned the role of white-ball head coach, Mike Hesson. “The New Zealand coach is good as a T20 coach but his approach in the ODI format is beyond understanding,” he said.

 

Akhtar stressed that success in ODIs requires experienced players in every department. “You have to play tested players in batting, bowling and spin. If you do not include quality all-rounders and performers, you will not be able to complete 50 overs. You cannot just get by in this format,” he said.

 

Placing the blame on policies rather than players, Akhtar remarked, “This result is the outcome of wrong decisions, not the fault of the players. On seaming pitches this will always happen. Now this rebuilding has been given a new name that we are making combinations.”

 

In a sarcastic swipe at the team’s performance, he said, “Be thankful Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc were not here. Wherever such conditions exist, our players will be exposed.”

 

West Indies claimed their first ODI series win over Pakistan in 34 years, breaking a streak of 10 consecutive series losses. Their last victory had come in November 1991 in Pakistan.

 

In the decider, West Indies posted 294 for six in 50 overs, with captain Shai Hope scoring a brilliant 120. Justin Greaves made 43, Evin Lewis 37, and Roston Chase 36.

 

Pakistan’s batting line collapsed in reply, with the entire team bundled out for just 92 runs in 29.2 overs. Captain Salman Ali Agha top-scored with 30, Mohammad Nawaz was unbeaten on 23, and Hasan Nawaz made 13. Opener Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Rizwan, Hasan Ali and Abrar Ahmed all went for ducks.