Former Pakistan cricketer claims Rizwan seems unhappy with Faheem Ashraf's inclusion in team

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali expressed concerns about captain Mohammad Rizwan’s confidence in the squad selection, specifically regarding the inclusion of Faheem Ashraf. He pointed out that Rizwan seemed unhappy with the selection, as Faheem was used sparingly in the final overs of the match.

"Rizwan clearly showed he was not happy with Faheem Ashraf being included in the team. He didn’t give him the ball after just two overs and only used him again when the match was already lost,” Basit remarked.

Basit Ali also criticized the team’s strategy in the recent tri-nation series, particularly the decision to open with star batter Babar Azam. His remarks followed Pakistan's five-wicket loss to New Zealand in the final at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium on Friday.

In a video on his YouTube channel, Basit expressed his disappointment with the tactical decisions made by the team management. He questioned why Babar was moved from his successful position at number three to open the innings.

“If Pakistan had won the tri-nation series, the confidence of every player would have been high,” Basit said. 

“But who advised Babar Azam to open the innings? I’m surprised by this decision. What kind of thinking is this? He was performing well at number three, scoring 50-70 runs against South Africa, but they changed his position. Now, he’s scored just 62 runs in three matches in the tri-series. This shows the approach and mindset of the management,” he added. 

With Pakistan preparing to face New Zealand in their opening match of the 2025 Champions Trophy on February 19, Basit emphasized that the team should focus on the immediate task at hand instead of overemphasizing the upcoming high-profile clash with India. 

"We keep talking about the India match, but we should have been thinking about New Zealand first. Will this team play against them? Will the pitch be like this? Will Salman Agha bowl 10 overs? Will you play Khushdil Shah?” he questioned.

Drawing a comparison with Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, Basit criticized Pakistan's handling of Babar Azam. 

He said, “They say even Sachin opened the innings and scored a century in his first match in Sri Lanka, but you removed Babar from No. 3, where he was excelling, and now you’ve destroyed his rhythm.”

Basit concluded by stressing the importance of confidence, especially heading into a major tournament. 

"Winning this tri-nation series could have boosted morale. Now, what will be your confidence level? Cricket is a game of confidence, and if that is shaken, you are left behind,” he warned.

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is set to begin in Karachi on February 19, with the host nation, Pakistan, taking on New Zealand in the opening match.