Shoaib Akhtar criticizes Pakistan's performance in Champions Trophy opener
What's the story
Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar expressed disappointment over Pakistan's lackluster performance in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener against New Zealand. Pakistan suffered a 60-run defeat in Karachi, managing only 260 runs while chasing a 321-run target. The loss was attributed to a shaky start from openers Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel (6 off 19), who struggled against New Zealand's bowling attack. Here's what Akhtar had to say about the hosts' performance.
Performance analysis
Early dismissals and slow batting pace
The early dismissals of Shakeel and skipper Mohammad Rizwan (3 off 14) left Pakistan in a precarious position at 22/2 after the first 10 overs. Despite these setbacks, Babar stuck to his cautious approach, reaching his half-century off 81 balls. Akhtar slammed the team and stated according to India Today, "You all saw the match, you would be disappointed just like me. Strike rate is very slow. They don't even play run-a-ball."
Strategy assessment
Akhtar's critique of Pakistan's cricket strategy
Akhtar expressed his worries over the team's approach, citing a dearth of impact players and a sluggish strike rate. "Pakistan is playing completely different cricket compared to what the rest of the world is doing. There are no impact players. We leak a lot of runs," he noted. This criticism came after Pakistan's abysmal display in their opening game of the Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand.
Future prospects
Akhtar urges aggressive play in upcoming match
Despite his criticisms, Akhtar wished the team luck for their crucial match against India. He stressed the need for a more aggressive approach, stating, "Pakistan is now in a do-or-die situation against India." Additionally, the defeat to New Zealand has severely affected Pakistan's net run rate, which currently is -1.200, putting pressure on them to win their next match to keep their title defense alive.
Historic event
Champions Trophy marks significant moment for Pakistan cricket
The Champions Trophy, making a comeback after a seven-year-long hiatus, was a historic moment for Pakistan as they hosted New Zealand in Karachi. Notably, this is Pakistan's first major ICC tournament in 29 years due to past security concerns. However, New Zealand held the upper hand in their fierce past encounters. The match was broadcast on JioStar, Star Sports, and Sports18, with live streaming on JioHotstar.
Match recap
New Zealand tame Pakistan in ICC Champions Trophy opener
An all-round New Zealand side beat defending champions Pakistan in the first match of the ICC Champions Trophy in Karachi on Wednesday. Centurions Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118*) were brilliant, while Glenn Phillips scored a whirlwind knock (61) as New Zealand posted 320/5 in 50 overs. In response, Azam (64) and Khushdil Shah's (69) fifties weren't enough as Pakistan (260/10) suffered a big defeat.