Cricket News

‘I fear that Pakistan might get knocked out in the first round itself ‘ – Shoaib Akthar makes a bold prediction on Pakistan’s 20-20 World Cup fortunes

Shoaib Akthar, once again, put emphasis on the statement that he had given prior to the start of the England vs Pakistan T20I series. The former Pakistan pacer has expressed his concerns about Pakistan’s brittle middle order.

“Pakistan middle order is not good. Plus Pakistan’s openers if they don’t perform, middle order gets into pressure. This is not the way to go into a world cup if you want to win the world cup. It is very sad,” Akthar said.

“That’s why I had criticized Saqlain Mushtaq (Pakistan’s coach) and others to get your middle order and batting order in order. Somehow, they are not listening. It’s very sad to see that Pakistan is not doing well. It’s disheartening”, added Shoaib Akthar

“It’s looking dire. It’s not going to be easy for the management from here. Hopefully they learn a thing or two, start watching my videos (smiles) and improve.

He highlighted the immense amount of pressure that Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have to score runs in every game to give Pakistan a good start. 

“Pakistan Cricket Board ne kya select kiya he team. Problem middle order ka tha but unhone kaha ki consistency ke saath hum aisa decision karenge jo aapko bara pasand ayeaga, matlab humlog aisa bura decision lenge ki middle order change hi nahi karenge (The problem was in the middle order but the selectors overlooked it and didn’t make any changes in the middle order),” Akhtar said on his YouTube channel last year.

He highlighted the importance of playing Fakhar Zaman at the top of the innings so that Pakistan would get off to a flying start and that Babar Azam is better off batting at number 3.

“I have said this a million times that give 6 overs to Fakhar Zaman as the Australian conditions will suit him and keep Babar at the top). With this team, we might get knocked out in the first round itself. I am really scared as our batting has no depth. Our captain is also not cut out for this format as he always looks for classic cover drives. He wants to look classic.” the former Pakistan speedster added.