Wasim Akram calls for big changes after Pakistan's defeat to India

Legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram has called for major changes as Pakistan's white-ball struggles hit a new low with their six-wicket loss to India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group A match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on February 23.

Speaking on Sports Central, Akram criticised Pakistan's outdated strategies and poor performances, urging bold decisions to rebuild the team ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.

"Enough is enough. We have been playing old-fashioned cricket for too long. Now it's time for bold steps. Bring in fearless young players into white-ball cricket. If we need to make five or six changes, do it. Even if we lose for six months, it's fine, but we must start preparing for the future," he said.

Akram also slammed the PCB and selectors for persisting with underperforming players instead of giving new talent a chance. He highlighted that in Pakistan's last five ODIs, the bowlers have taken just 24 wickets at an average of 60 runs per wicket—one of the worst records among 14 international teams, including Oman and the USA.

He urged PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to question head coach Aaqib Javed, captain Mohammad Rizwan, and the selectors over their squad choices for the Champions Trophy.

The former captain also criticised Rizwan's leadership, holding him responsible for the team's struggles. He questioned why players like Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha were included despite not contributing with the ball.

"I've been saying for weeks that this squad isn't good enough, but the chairman insisted it was the best. Even Rizwan is responsible—he is the captain, and if he doesn't know what kind of match-winners he needs, the team will keep facing embarrassment," he said.

Akram did not hold back in his criticism of Pakistan's fast bowlers, highlighting their alarming form with hard-hitting stats.

He pointed out that Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan's lead pacer, has struggled in recent matches.

"Shaheen Shah Afridi, our main bowler, has bowled 47 overs in the last five matches, conceding 341 runs and taking just eight wickets at an average of 43. This is not batting; I am talking about bowling."

The former captain then turned his attention to Haris Rauf, who has also been underwhelming in recent games.

"Haris Rauf, in his last three matches, has taken just three wickets at an average of 52."

Adding to Pakistan's woes, Naseem Shah's numbers were no better, further exposing the team's weak bowling attack.

"Naseem Shah has taken five wickets in 46 overs across five ODIs, with an average of 56."

Summing up the harsh reality of Pakistan's bowling performance, Wasim Akram did not mince his words.

"Your three premier bowlers are averaging over 50 per wicket. You are not going to win any game, unfortunately. That statistic is horrifying. 60 percent of your bowling attack is averaging 50," he highlighted.

Pakistan lost their first match of the tournament to New Zealand by 60 runs, whereas India defeated Greenshirts by six wickets in the second match on Sunday.