Basit Ali tears into Pakistan after New Zealand dominates again in fourth T20I

Former cricketer Basit Ali has strongly criticized Pakistan after their crushing 115-run defeat against New Zealand in the fourth T20I at Mount Maunganui.  

Pakistan, who had won the third match, struggled badly in both batting and bowling. New Zealand’s pace attack, led by Zakary Foulkes and Jacob Duffy, proved too strong for Pakistan’s batters. Meanwhile, bowlers like Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Shadab Khan failed to stop New Zealand from posting another big total.  

The Kiwis once again crossed the 200-run mark, exposing Pakistan’s weaknesses. Chasing 222, Pakistan needed a solid innings like Hassan Nawaz’s unbeaten 105 in the previous match, but their batters collapsed. Foulkes and Duffy dominated, securing an easy series win for New Zealand.

Basit Ali did not hold back in his criticism after the loss. He questioned Pakistan’s team selection and suggested they should play against weaker opponents if they continue with the same squad.  

"Kids are not playing against us. If you want to keep this team, do it against Nepal or Ireland. You are wasting time. Just like the domestic T20 tournament is a waste of time and money, this tour is just like that. It is better to play against Bangladesh," Basit said.  

Ali, who represented Pakistan in 19 Tests and 30 ODIs from 1993 to 1996, compared the ongoing National T20 Cup to the New Zealand tour, calling both a waste of time.  

Pakistan’s batters found it difficult to handle New Zealand’s bowling attack, as Foulkes and Duffy used their height to generate bounce and swing.  

With New Zealand now leading the series 3-1, the final T20I in Wellington on Wednesday holds little importance in deciding the winner.