Akram calls for major changes in Pakistan cricket

LAHORE: Former Pakistan pace legend Wasim Akram has called for major changes in Pakistan cricket following the team’s six-wicket loss to India in the Champions Trophy 2025 clash on Sunday.

Akram criticised the team, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and the selectors, urging them to drop underperforming senior players and invest in young, fearless cricketers. During a television appearance, Akram expressed his frustration over the current squad’s inability to meet expectations. “Enough is enough. We are losing in white-ball with these players for some couple of years. The time is to take a bold step. What is the bold step?” Akram questioned. “Even if you have to make 5-6 big changes, do that, lose for the next six months, support those players. Start making the 2026 T20 World Cup team from now,” he added.

“We have seen everything, we have given chances, created superstars. In the last five games, all Pakistani bowlers together have taken 24 wickets at an average of 60. The shocking stat is that among 14 teams including Oman and USA who have played ODI cricket this year, Pakistan’s blowing average is second worst,” he said.

The 58-year-old also revealed that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had advised selectors to reassess the squad before the Champions Trophy, but they chose to persist with the same underperforming players. “PCB chairman has to call up the selection committee, call the captain, coach and our five legends and ask them what this selection is. Khushdil Shah and Salman Agha, did it look like they will get out someone, Virat Kohli types,” he said.