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The recent humiliating defeat of the Pakistan cricket team against Bangladesh in the first Test match at Rawalpindi has sparked widespread criticism and calls for a complete overhaul of the national team. This loss marked the first time Pakistan had suffered a defeat against Bangladesh in 14 Test matches, further highlighting the team's struggle in red-ball cricket. The Bangladesh defeat, coupled with earlier disappointments in the 2023 ODI World Cup and 2024 T20 World Cup, has put immense pressure on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to address the team's declining performance.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has acknowledged the need for significant changes, promising a major overhaul to address the issues plaguing Pakistan cricket. However, this is not the first time Naqvi has made such promises. Earlier this year, following Pakistan's exit from the World T20 Cup, Naqvi had stated the need for a “major overhaul” after initially suggesting a “minor surgery” was sufficient. Despite these pronouncements, Naqvi has failed to implement substantial changes, leading to further frustration among fans and former players alike. The continued presence of underperforming senior players in the team, despite their poor form, has fuelled criticism of Naqvi's leadership and raised questions about his commitment to change.
Former Pakistani cricketers, including Shahid Afridi, Muhammad Hafeez, and Fawad Alam, have been vocal in their criticism of the team's performance and Naqvi's leadership. Afridi, in particular, expressed his disappointment over the lack of a specialist spinner in the Pakistan team for the Rawalpindi Test, arguing that playing four fast bowlers on a pitch conducive to spin bowling was unacceptable. Hafeez, meanwhile, took a swipe at Naqvi, reminding him of his previous promises of major changes without any tangible action. The lack of tangible results despite Naqvi's repeated pronouncements has raised serious concerns about his ability to effectively turn the tide for Pakistan cricket.