Pakistan’s losing streak shows no signs of stopping. After a humiliating T20 series loss, the team also stumbled in the first ODI against New Zealand. Following this defeat, former cricketer and coach Basit Ali lashed out at the team’s performance.
In the Napier match, Pakistan started strong while chasing a 345-run target but collapsed due to a weak middle order, ultimately losing by 73 runs. Frustrated by the loss, Basit Ali took a dig at those who advocated for Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan as openers, even suggesting they should be reprimanded.
Basit Ali criticized the decision to place Babar at number three, recalling his underwhelming performance when he previously opened during the Champions Trophy. Expressing his anger on his YouTube channel, he asked, “Why was Babar sent at number three? He opened in the Champions Trophy but didn’t perform well. Where are those so-called cricket experts who insisted Babar and Rizwan should open? They should apologize to the nation!”
Basit Ali also pointed to inconsistencies in team selection, hinting at internal politics without naming anyone. He stated, “The person responsible for making Babar and Rizwan openers has played a major role in the downfall of Pakistan cricket. This team now operates like a franchise, driven by personal preferences rather than performance.”
His comments are likely to add fuel to the ongoing controversies in Pakistan cricket. All eyes are now on the team’s performance in the second ODI.
