It seems like every cricket fan in Pakistan is asking the same question: What went wrong? After Pakistan’s crushing 120-run defeat to the West Indies in the second Test in Multan, Ahmed Shehzad didnโt hold back. On his YouTube channel, the outspoken opener delivered a blunt assessment of the teamโs performance, and, to be honest, he wasnโt wrong.
โA New Low for Pakistan Cricketโ
Ahmed Shehzad minced no words, calling the defeat a clear indication of deeper issues within the team. Losing to a ninth-ranked side like West Indies on home soil? That stings. โThis defeat is a clear indication of the lack of focus and preparation within the team,โ he said.
And letโs not sugarcoat itโPakistan didnโt lose because of some devilish pitch or magical bowling. According to Shehzad, it was the battersโ poor shot selection that cost the team. “The pitch didnโt tell you to play reckless shots or edge the ball to the slips,โ he pointed out. Ouch.
The Leadership Void
Another concern Shehzad raised was the lack of leadership on the field. Pakistan had three senior playersโShan Masood, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwanโbut no one stepped up when it mattered most. “Leadership is about taking responsibility when things are tough, and right now, that is lacking,โ he said.
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This isnโt the first time questions have been raised about decision-making in key moments. From defensive strategies to missed opportunities, it seems like the team is struggling to find a leader who can guide them through tough situations.
Time to Revamp the System?
One of Shehzadโs strongest points was his call for a revamp in how players are selected for the Test squad. โWe need a system that prioritizes performance and consistency, not popularity and social media following,โ he emphasized.
Heโs got a point. Too often, domestic performers are overlooked in favor of big names. If Pakistan wants to succeed in Test cricket, they need players who are battle-hardened from the domestic grind, not just flashy on social media.
To add salt to the wound, this was West Indiesโ first Test win in Pakistan since 1990. Led by Jomel Warricanโs brilliant five-wicket haul, the visitors bowled out Pakistan for just 133 runs. This was a historic moment for the Windies and a bitter one for Pakistan.
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