Pakistan now need a miracle of sorts to still qualify for the semifinals of the Champions Trophy after their loss to West Indies and South Africa in their group matches, with the batting flopping badly on both occasions.
Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar minced no words in stating that the country's cricket structure needed a complete overhaul.
"We shouldn't be surprised by these results because we neither have quality batsmen nor bowlers and the reason for this is, we are not producing quality talents because of an inapt and mismanaged cricket structure," he said.
"I came up because of my will to achieve something and not because of this system," he said.
"Our cricket system is about compromises. Be it selection or other matters. The best don't get chance properly. What was the logic in dropping experienced players like Shahid Afridi and Abdul Razzaq for such an important event," he asked.
Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram also called for changes in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
"Someone has to be answerable for this debacle. I would like to see those faces changed who have been around in Pakistan cricket and board for years now and done nothing. The board must bear the responsibility for this debacle," he said.
"Our batsmen played without a plan. There were no singles or twos at all. No rotation of strike. Things must change now in Pakistan cricket if we are to do well at the top level consistently," said Akram.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
