He lamented Pakistan’s inability to perform under pressure
24 February, 2025
PHOTO: AFP
Former Pakistan cricketer Inzamam-ul-Haq has expressed his disappointment with the national team’s lackluster performance against India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match in Dubai. He criticized both the team and the selection committee, calling for a serious review of Pakistan’s strategy in major ICC events.
In a social media video, Inzamam did not hold back his frustration.
“We need to review the players' performances again. This is not the first tournament where we’ve struggled. I'm not just talking about bilateral series; I mean ICC events like the Asia Cup, World Cup, and T20 World Cup,” he stated.
He lamented Pakistan’s inability to perform under pressure, saying, “We are getting knocked out right at the start. The moment there’s a bit of pressure, we completely collapse.”
One key point of criticism was the team’s selection choices, particularly the absence of a backup spinner.
“Of the eight teams, seven have at least one regular spinner. You selected only one spinner for the entire squad, and that’s a mistake. How can you play without a backup in subcontinent conditions?” he questioned.
Inzamam also took issue with the batting order, highlighting the lack of a proper backup opener.
“You’re making Babar open and forcing Fakhar to do the same, even though he hasn’t opened for Pakistan in three years. Your number three batter has had his position changed. This selection deserves applause for its brilliance,” he said sarcastically.
Additionally, he pointed out the lack of improvement in the bowling attack.
“We lost this match poorly, but there has been no visible improvement in any area. The same bowlers are playing without changing their line or length,” he explained.
Inzamam noted that Pakistan conceded 70-75 runs in the first ten overs against India, similar to their performance against New Zealand.
“Even against New Zealand, our match was practically over before the end. In this match, too, the result was clear well before the final overs,” he concluded.
Virat Kohli’s 51st ODI century led India to a six-wicket win over Pakistan in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Chasing 242 runs, India reached the target with 45 balls to spare, thanks to a crucial 114-run partnership between Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, who scored 56 runs. Kohli finished unbeaten on 100 off 111 balls.
Pakistan had set the target after being bowled out for 241, with Saud Shakeel top-scoring at 62. Kuldeep Yadav was the standout bowler for India, taking three wickets.
India’s strong performance keeps them on track for the tournament title.
