Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has launched a scathing attack on the team following their defeat in the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh. Pakistan, led by pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi, suffered an 11-run loss in the series decider in Dhaka on Sunday, handing Bangladesh a 2–1 series victory.
The defeat sparked frustration, with Akmal launching a sharp critique of Pakistan’s approach and performance. Expressing his disappointment over the team’s inability to perform under pressure, Akmal stated that if things continue the way they are, Pakistan cricket will not be in good condition.
Notably, for the Bangladesh tour, Pakistan’s management opted to rest several experienced players, including star batter Babar Azam and aggressive opener Fakhar Zaman. Their absence opened the door for younger players to stake their claim. However, the inexperienced lineup struggled to deliver consistent performances throughout the series.
"The condition is such that now even Netherlands would want to play a series against us, then beat us and get Test status. This is the condition of Pakistan cricket now," Akmal said on the ‘Game Plan’ show.
"They (Bangladesh) could have easily scored 350 today, but scored only 290. Litton Das played slowly. Even then we lost. If you don’t beat teams in matches, will you now steal ICC trophies and bring them home?" Akmal said.
In the third ODI, despite the overall disappointment, middle-order batter Salman Ali Agha produced a standout performance in the series by scoring a remarkable century. However, his century could not help Pakistan pull off a win. Agha’s dismissal proved to be the turning point of the match. Once he departed, Pakistan’s chances of chasing down the target took a negative turn. For Bangladesh, Tanzid Hasan delieverd a tremendous performance, firing a 107-run knock to set the foundation for a big total of 290/5 in 50 overs.