Former Pakistan cricket captain Mohammad Hafeez has voiced concerns about the current state of the Pakistan cricket team, suggesting that they may struggle in upcoming T20 World Cup 2024.
Speaking on a local news channel, Hafeez shared his loyalty to the national team but highlighted significant issues that might impede their performance.
“Look, as a Pakistani, my heart will always remain in the favour of Pakistan regardless of their performance. But, considering the facts, I think the Pakistan team will struggle,” Hafeez said.
He attributed the potential struggles to a lack of proper team formation and mindset, emphasizing that the roles within the team are not clearly defined.
“The only reason behind that is they are not ready in terms of the right formation and the mindset. Also, their roles are not defined yet like a controlled team,” he further added.
While Hafeez’s heart remains with Pakistan, his analysis points to other teams as potential front-runners in the West Indies.
“Look, I would say the same thing again, if I were to say what my heart wants, I would pick Pakistan first. If I consider tactics and right formation then I think India can perform better in the West Indies,” he stated.
Hafeez also highlighted the potential for strong performances from the West Indies and England in their home conditions.
“West Indies themselves could perform better there and alongside them, England could perform really well," he further added.
Reflecting on recent performances, Hafeez was critical of Pakistan's results against New Zealand and Ireland.
“Look, the lead-up wasn’t good, like 2-2 against New Zealand at home wasn’t in Pakistan’s favour. It is by no means justifiable. You just can’t do that because it was Pakistan’s full-strength side. Unfortunately, the results we were hoping for, as fans, did not come," Hafeez said.
However, he acknowledged the team's resilience in Ireland, noting their ability to recover after a poor start.
“Pakistan then went to Ireland. There as well, Pakistan fielded a full-fledged side. But, after losing the first game, their recovery was very good. Like, the attitude they showed to win that series. At a certain stage, it seemed as if Pakistan would not be able to win this series. But their comeback was strong," he futher added.
Hafeez concluded by pointing out the discrepancy between the potential of the players and their current performance.
“They have every player in their arsenal but unfortunately, as of now, such mindset, body language and dominance, which we think Pakistan should have achieved, were not attained,” he concluded.