Pakistan cricket, once a force to be reckoned with, now finds itself at a perplexing crossroads. Their players display immense enthusiasm for the shorter formats, eagerly signing up for franchise leagues worldwide—barring the Indian Premier League (IPL), which remains out of reach. Some might even prioritize these leagues over national duties if given the chance, much like Adnan Sami trading one identity for another. The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has become the primary focus for many, often at the cost of Test commitments. Despite their affinity for white-ball cricket, their performances against quality opposition paint a grim picture—one of a team that appears malnourished in both skill and temperament. The once-feared Pakistani bowling attack, renowned for its fire and flair, now oscillates between flashes of brilliance and prolonged mediocrity.
Pakistan’s Relevance in Contemporary Cricket
Pakistan's continued relevance in world cricket hinges on two factors: their passionate and loyal fan base and their historic rivalry with India. Without these, their decline would have rendered them an afterthought in global discussions. They are still labeled as "unpredictable," but that unpredictability now resembles the erratic success of an associate nation—a team capable of a stunning upset after a long stretch of insipid displays. The Pakistan of today is inconsistent, frustrating, and devoid of the steel that once defined its cricketing identity.
The Tactical and Mental Shortcomings
The recent match in Dubai provided a telling glimpse into Pakistan's cricketing struggles. The pitch offered more pace than the one used against Bangladesh. It wasn’t a batting paradise, but conditions improved under lights. Pakistan, however, failed to capitalize.
Batting Failures
Babar Azam’s Short Stay: The talismanic Babar Azam showcased his trademark cover drive—a fleeting moment of brilliance—before perishing cheaply.
Imam-ul-Haq’s Run Out: In an almost poetic nod to his uncle Inzamam-ul-Haq’s career-defining running mishaps, Imam found himself run out in an unnecessary manner.
Mohammad Rizwan’s Approach: Rizwan’s innings was particularly puzzling. Arriving at 47 for 2, he struck his first ball for four, suggesting intent, but then abandoned the idea of scoring altogether. At one point, he had faced 50 balls for a mere 24 runs, treating the crease as a sanctuary he dared not disturb. Meanwhile, at the other end, Saud Shakeel at least attempted to manufacture singles, ensuring he did not succumb to pressure. By the time Shakeel reached fifty, he had faced 29 dot balls; Rizwan, in contrast, had already accumulated 40. India’s strategy to deny him early spin proved a masterstroke, leaving him stuck in a limbo between caution and paralysis.
Collapsing Under Pressure: Pakistan’s innings never gained momentum. Wickets tumbled as the team succumbed to the ever-mounting pressure, as if reserving their aggressive instincts for franchise leagues rather than international cricket.
India’s Clinical Execution
India, in response, made Pakistan’s modest 242-run target appear trivial.
Virat Kohli’s Masterclass: Kohli, the ever-reliable competitor, dismantled Pakistan’s much-hyped attack with precision and composure. His century—his 51st in ODIs—was a statement, reaffirming that any perceived decline in his prowess would not define him.
Historic Milestones: Kohli surpassed 14,000 ODI runs and led India to a semifinal berth while effectively eliminating Pakistan from the 2025 Champions Trophy. The defending champions and future hosts now require external results to fall in their favor to remain relevant in the tournament—a stark embodiment of their fabled “Kudrat Ka Nizam.”
The Harsh Reality of Pakistan Cricket
The truth is sobering: this Pakistan team does not deserve better. The hunger and junoon that once made them world-beaters is conspicuously absent.
Factors Contributing to the Decline:
Lack of Leadership: The absence of a strong, tactical leader like Imran Khan or a mentor like Wasim Akram has left Pakistan rudderless.
T20-Centric Mindset: The overemphasis on T20 leagues has eroded the temperament required for longer formats.
Inconsistency: Their reputation as an unpredictable team now mirrors that of an associate nation—capable of surprises but largely unreliable.
Conclusion
In the grand theater of international cricket, Pakistan has transitioned from a dominant force to a team that evokes nostalgia more than admiration. Their unpredictability is no longer a mark of danger but a symptom of decline. Until Pakistan rekindles its past junoon and prioritizes national pride over short-term financial gains, their performances will continue to frustrate rather than inspire.
Thank You
Faisal Caesar
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