The Pakistan cricket team has had its fair share of forgettable performances over the years, but none quite as disappointing as their recent run in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. As the host nation, much was expected from the Men in Green, but they have now become the first team to be eliminated from the tournament following back-to-back losses against New Zealand and India.
With their early exit, Pakistan cricket has come under severe scrutiny, with fans and experts questioning the team’s form, leadership, and strategy. Among the critics is former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar, famously known as the ‘Rawalpindi Express,’ who did not hold back in expressing his thoughts about the current Pakistan team, particularly captain Mohammad Rizwan.
Shoaib Akhtar’s Harsh Criticism of Rizwan
A video has recently gone viral in which Shoaib Akhtar, during a panel discussion, brutally criticized Mohammad Rizwan, questioning his leadership skills and even his talent as a player.
“Where is the talent? I can’t see any talent in them,” said Akhtar. “Speaking about Rizwan, I have been hearing this for the past 10 years, but I haven’t seen any talent in him. If there is talent, show it on the ground, this is not a talking game.”
This harsh remark came after fellow former cricketer Mohammad Hafeez stated that the team possesses talent but lacks proper planning. However, Akhtar immediately interrupted and dismissed the notion that Rizwan or the team had any exceptional ability to showcase.
Pakistan’s Disappointing Performance in the Champions Trophy
Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been nothing short of disastrous. Their first match saw them suffer a heavy defeat against New Zealand, losing by 60 runs. This was followed by another crushing loss at the hands of arch-rivals India, who defeated them by six wickets. With these consecutive defeats, Pakistan was officially knocked out of the tournament, failing to progress beyond the group stage.
As they prepare for their final match against Bangladesh on February 27 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, there is little at stake other than salvaging some pride.
Big Changes Expected in Pakistan Cricket
Reports suggest that major changes are looming within the Pakistan cricket setup following their embarrassing exit. The coaching staff and management are reportedly facing the axe, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) looking to overhaul the team’s leadership and strategy moving forward.
This isn’t the first time Pakistan has faced criticism for its inconsistent performances, but this early elimination from a tournament they are hosting has intensified the backlash. With fans demanding accountability and former players voicing their discontent, the coming weeks will likely bring significant shifts in Pakistan cricket.
The Road Ahead
While Pakistan’s Champions Trophy campaign may have ended in disappointment, the focus now shifts to rebuilding and strategizing for the future. The criticism from figures like Shoaib Akhtar highlights the growing concerns over the team’s direction, and only time will tell if the PCB takes decisive action to address these issues.
For now, Pakistan will look to end their tournament on a positive note against Bangladesh, but the larger question remains—what’s next for Pakistan cricket?
