The game of cricket is more than just a sport in India—it is a national passion. And when India faces Pakistan on the field, the stakes could not be higher. These matches are not just contests between two teams but battles that ignite the emotions of millions on both sides of the border.
Following Pakistan’s defeat against India in the Champions Trophy, intense criticism erupted across Pakistan—from fans, former players, and cricket analysts alike.
The loss has significantly dimmed Pakistan’s chances of progressing in the tournament, while India has strengthened its position at the top of Group A.
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Social Media Erupts, Experts Speak Out
After India comfortably chased down Pakistan’s target of 241 runs in just 42.3 overs, winning by six wickets, Pakistani fans expressed their disappointment in newspapers, television programs, and social media.
Former Pakistani captain Wasim Akram, speaking on Cricket Sports Central, did not hold back in his criticism:
It’s over. We must take drastic steps. For years, we have been losing with the white ball. If we want to beat top teams, we need young and fearless cricketers. Even if we have to make five or six changes, it will be fine. Preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup should start now. We gave this team plenty of time. Made them stars. But not anymore
Wasim Akram -Former Pakistani captain
Akram also slammed the team’s bowling performance:
“In Pakistan’s last five matches, our bowlers have taken only 24 wickets at an average of 60. That means 60 runs per wicket. What has happened that now the PCB chairman should step back ? Call the selection committee, captain, and coach. Ask them: who have you chosen to play? Did you really think Khushdil Shah and Salman Agha could dismiss a batsman like Virat Kohli ?”
We were shouting that this playing XI is not right. The chairman even said, if you want to make changes, do it. But they stuck with the same XI. The captain is also at fault because he is the leader. If he does not know who can win the match for him, then it is shameful.
Pakistani fans were leaving the Dubai stadium after just 20 overs. This has never happened before. Said Akram
Shoaib Akhtar: ‘Not a Matter of Intent, But of Talent’
Legendary fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar was even more scathing in his remarks:
This is nothing new. We have become used to this now. It is not about intent. I don’t think this team even has the talent. If they did, they wouldn’t play like this. The captaincy is handed out without much thought. They don’t know what to do anymore. I don’t even feel like talking about it.
Shoaib Akhtar – Former Player
“Can we compare Babar Azam with Virat Kohli? Can we compare Shreyas Iyer with Khushdil Shah? Can we compare Rohit Sharma with Fakhar Zaman or Rizwan? Talent is not something you just talk about—it is something you see. A star is not born in the dark, it shines.” Said Akhtar
Ramiz Raja: ‘Pakistan Could Not Even Challenge India’
Former Pakistan cricketer and ex-PCB chairman Ramiz Raja pointed out that Pakistan’s defeats against India have become predictable:
Losing to India always hurts more. But what is even more painful is that in India, they don’t even grow much grass on the pitch anymore. Why? Because they already know what’s going to happen
Ramiz Raja – Former Pakistan cricketer
“People have started believing that whenever Pakistan plays against India, they will lose. Even today, after India won, their reaction was balanced—because they were never really challenged.” Said Raja
He criticized Pakistan’s weak bowling attack and questionable playing XI:
“The Indian team is fearless. Pakistan has many issues. Rizwan’s captaincy could have been better. Our spin department was extremely weak. The playing XI selection was poor. Saud Shakeel played reckless shots, and Salman Agha did the same.
