NEW DELHI: In the wake of Pakistan’s crushing defeat to India in the Asia Cup 2025 final, legendary fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar held nothing back, delivering a scathing post-mortem of the team’s performance. His sharp criticism was directed squarely at the team management, captain Salman Ali Agha, coach Mike Hesson, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), highlighting what he views as profound systemic flaws that have stripped the team of its aggression and character.
Akhtar minced no words on ARY News, stating unequivocally, “We now seek docile children, who retreat to their homes by the 8 PM curfew. The cricket board desires helpless, ‘lallu-kattu’ (weak and easily manipulated) types like these. They simply do not want strong personalities. This situation is a direct reflection of the PCB’s current policies.”
The former speedster continued his critique by questioning Captain Salman Agha’s ability to inspire. “How can a team develop a winning attitude when its captain lacks inspiration? The captain’s demeanor mirrors the board’s choices,” he declared. Akhtar also faulted coach Mike Hesson for consistently opting for “half-baked allrounders” instead of nurturing proven match-winners such as Hasan Nawaz.
He further lambasted the team’s leadership, describing it as “senseless and headless-chicken management.” Akhtar added, “The team combinations were flawed, the captaincy was not incisive, and they were simply unwilling to heed our advice.”
With a touch of sardonic humor, Akhtar underscored his point about the dwindling aggressive spirit once synonymous with Pakistani fast bowling. He lamented the shift from cultivating fierce talent to preferring “obedient kids” who are easier to manage, asserting that the PCB actively discourages strong individual personalities within the squad.
Explaining his personal decision to avoid cricket administration, Akhtar revealed, “From the very first day of my retirement, I decided I would never join the PCB. Anyone who has ventured there has never emerged with their respect intact. I choose to work in television, earn my living, and observe. These people do not desire strong personalities.”
Akhtar’s detailed breakdown of the Asia Cup final loss highlighted several critical strategic errors, including the controversial decision to drop Hasan Nawaz, questionable bowling changes, and a fragile middle order. He was particularly critical of the choice to hand Haris Rauf the final over, which ultimately conceded 17 runs, calling it a “grave mistake.”
Beyond immediate criticisms, Akhtar proposed comprehensive reforms for the PCB. He strongly advocated for revitalizing grassroots development, establishing robust regional teams, and launching a reformed PSL 2.0 (Pakistan Super League) to effectively identify and nurture young talent. He sharply contrasted Pakistan’s current system with the well-structured domestic cricket pathway prevalent in India.
“Today we have Mohsin Naqvi, tomorrow another ‘saab’ (sir) will take charge. Unless you bring in a visionary, educated leader… history will ultimately judge if you dare to initiate this crucial change,” Akhtar concluded, emphasizing the urgent need for a long-term strategic vision for Pakistani cricket.
For Shoaib Akhtar, Pakistan’s defeat in the Asia Cup 2025 final was more than just a numerical loss; it was a potent symbol of a deeply flawed system that, in his view, prioritizes compliant players over genuine cricketing brilliance.