Pakistan’s dismal performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has sparked widespread criticism, with captain Mohammad Rizwan bearing the brunt of the backlash. Former Pakistan cricket Shoaib Akhtar left no stone unturned in calling out Rizwan for team's dismal performance in such high profile tournament.
Appearing alongside Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez on a Pakistan TV show Akhtar not only expressed his disappointment but also roasted Mohammad Hafeez for commenting on Pakistan cricket having talented players.
Hafeez said," There is lot of talent but lack of planning'. Akhtar cut his ex-teammate in between and asked 'Kaunsa Talent? Kis CHeez Ka? ("Which talent? What talent are we even talking about?)
He continued "Talent bada hai yeh mai 20 saal se sun raha hu. Koi nahi hai. Hota to dikh na jaata humein 10 saal se (I have been hearing for the last 20 years that there is a lot of talent; there is none. Had it been there, we would have seen it in the last 10 years).
Akhter also questioned Rizwan’s leadership and not having ability to handle high-pressure matches. He added, “If you make abnormal people captain and make strange selections, this is what the result will be. I have previously worked with captains whose personalities would change thrice in a day."
Pakistan playing for pride against Bangladesh
After hosting an ICC event after 29 years, Pakistan's journey in Champions Trophy 2025 lasted for just five days. After losing the opening match against New Zealand, the Men In Green were handed a drubbing by Team India courtesy of Virat Kohli's century. Mohammad Rizwan led team will now play their final match against Bangladesh. Eventhough the match is an inconsequential one, the home would want to end teh touyrnament with a win and two points on the board.
