Following Pakistan’s defeat to Bangladesh in Rawalpindi, PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi is facing criticism from all sides. Mohammad Hafeez has joined in the criticism, adding to the scrutiny.
This loss has dropped Pakistan to ninth place in the WTC standings and highlighted ongoing issues with their Test cricket. The decision to field an all-pace attack without a spinner, despite the pitch offering some spin in the second innings, was a major misstep. Bangladesh capitalized on this, taking seven wickets in Pakistan’s second innings and chasing down the 30 runs needed to win without losing a wicket.
Former cricketers have pointed fingers at Mohsin Naqvi for the poor state of Pakistani Test cricket. His earlier remark about Pakistan needing “surgery” after a T20 World Cup loss to India has fueled discontent, especially since no significant changes followed, aggravating fans and experts alike.
Former cricketers have blamed him for not taking pertinent and strict action against certain players in the team who have been playing for a long time without performing at their best.
Naqvi after Pakistan’s loss to Bangladesh sent out a tweet congratulating Bangladesh on their victory while saying that he is baking the Men in Green to make a comeback in the next Test match.
“Bangladesh Cricket Team has played wonderfully, and have held their ground throughout the match. It is a historic win for they have won against Pakistan for the first time. Heartiest Congratulations to them!
Unfortunately, the Pakistan Cricket Team could not perform as well as it should have. InshaAllah, the men in green will make a comeback in the upcoming match!” Mohsin Naqvi wrote on his X handle.
Mohammad Hafeez Attacks Mohsin Naqvi
Hafeez while responding to his tweet brought about the old reference to his “surgery comment” that he made after the T20 World Cup loss. “Surgery is On till death….” he said on his X handle.
Pakistan cricket and its administration appear to lack clear direction, with current efforts concentrated on preparing for the ICC Champions Trophy and readying the venues for the event.
While Pakistan remains the host of the Champions Trophy, their preparations for the tournament are notably behind schedule. Major venues are expected to be renovated on time, but the slow progress has raised concerns.
Amidst this focus on the Champions Trophy, Pakistan’s recent defeat to Bangladesh has sparked frustration among fans and former cricketers. There is widespread criticism directed at the PCB Chief for failing to elevate the standards of cricket in the country.
The second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh begins on August 30, and Pakistan must win to level the series.
