Concerns Over Pakistan Crickets Future Expressed by Former Pacer Amir

Pakistan is struggling to cope with the blow of a one-sided defeat in Mirpur. After being bundled out for just 114 runs under the relentless pace attack of Bangladesh, losing the match by eight wickets, former pacer Mohammad Amir expressed deep concern over the future of cricket in his country. He strongly criticized everything from the technical weaknesses of young batters to team selection strategies.

Following the match, Amir shared his reaction on social media, expressing worry about the current state of Pakistan cricket. He highlighted the fear of consistent losses to Bangladesh and the potential long-term consequences. Expressing his concern, Amir wrote, “We have now started losing to Bangladesh. I am worried that we may even turn into an Associate-level team.”

For the Bangladesh tour, Pakistan selected a squad that included six uncapped players. Four of them made their debut in the first match. Amir considered it a mistake to rely solely on young players while leaving out experienced cricketers. According to him, a team needs a proper balance of experience and youth. He explained,

“Your team needs to be balanced with a combination of seniors and youngsters. Without proper guidance, you cannot suddenly drop senior players by relying only on the youngsters. This is harmful to the team’s progress.”

Amir also questioned the batting techniques of Pakistan’s young batters. He specifically pointed out concerns regarding emerging players Maaz Sadaqat and Shamil Hossain. Highlighting their limitations, Amir said, “There are major gaps in their technique. Today’s youngsters only want to play through the mid-wicket. They don’t know how to handle the ball when it is outside off-stump.”

He further cited Shamil Hossain’s dismissal as an example. Explaining the limitations in shot selection among young players, Amir commented, “Shamil offered a catch while trying a shot through mid-wicket. Youngsters should understand that runs can also be scored through the off-side and mid-off.”

Amir was equally impressed with Bangladesh’s bowling performance. He particularly praised Nahid Rana for taking five wickets and dismantling Pakistan’s top-order. He also commended Bangladesh captain Mehedi Hasan Miraz. In his words, “Pakistan scored only 114 runs. Nahid bowled brilliantly. Captain Mehedi Hasan Miraz was also outstanding.”

In the match, Nahid Rana was named player of the match with five wickets for 24 runs, while captain Miraz took three wickets for 29 runs.

Not limiting his critique to batting, Amir also expressed disappointment in Pakistan’s bowling. According to him, on the very same pitch where Pakistan struggled, Bangladesh chased down the target very quickly. Explaining the situation, he said, “Our bowling was disappointing. On the pitch where we struggled, Bangladesh batters chased the target in just 15.1 overs.”