Pakistan’s Defeat Sparks Criticism
Pakistan’s 55-run defeat to South Africa in the opening T20 of the three-match series has ignited a storm of criticism from former cricketers. The loss, which came after Pakistan failed to chase a target of 195 and were bowled out for 139 in the 19th over, has raised fresh questions about team selection, captaincy, and overall strategy.
Former wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal was particularly outspoken, targeting the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), team management, and selectors for what he called poor decision-making and favoritism.
A Player Who Doesn’t Deserve a Spot Has Been Made Captain
Speaking on a private TV channel, Akmal lashed out at the decision to appoint Agha Salman as T20 captain. A player who doesn’t even deserve a place in the T20 squad has been made captain, he said. From the very first day, I said this was an injustice.
Akmal argued that leadership in modern cricket requires both performance and strategic thinking — qualities he believes are currently missing. When the captain himself is unsure of his place, it affects the confidence of the entire team, he added.
Calls for Leadership and Selection Overhaul
The former cricketer insisted that Pakistan still had the potential to bounce back if the right captain and team balance were restored. He held PCB Chairman, the selection committee, head coach, and the captain equally responsible for the defeat.
The problem isn’t just one match, Akmal said. It’s a reflection of how cricket is being managed. There’s no consistency or accountability in selection. Until these issues are fixed, results will remain the same.
Pakistan’s inconsistent performance in white-ball formats has been a recurring concern. The team has won only two of its last seven T20 internationals, struggling with unstable leadership and frequent lineup changes.
Yasir Hameed: The Team’s Mindset Is Still Stuck in the Past
Adding to the chorus of criticism, former opener Yasir Hameed also questioned the team’s mentality. Our mindset is still stuck in the past, he said. Once you become captain, two things matter most — your personal performance and the team’s results. Unfortunately, Agha Salman is failing in both areas.
Hameed suggested that Pakistan’s leadership needed a modern approach and greater clarity of roles to compete with aggressive teams like South Africa.
Looking Ahead
Pakistan will face South Africa again in the second T20, with mounting pressure to respond positively. Cricket analysts believe that a change in leadership style, improved batting strategy, and selection consistency could help the team regain its footing.
Whether the management takes the criticism seriously or continues with the current setup will determine how Pakistan shapes its T20 future. For now, discontent among former players — and fans — continues to grow.
