Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria launched a scathing attack on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after Babar Azam and Co. were dumped out of the ICC T20 World Cup. Runners-up in the 2022 edition of the T20 World Cup, Babar’s Pakistan kicked off its campaign with an embarrassing defeat at the hands of co-hosts the United States of America (USA) in Group A. Pakistan were then outclassed by arch-rivals India in the low-scoring encounter. With India extending its unbeaten run in Group A, USA eclipsed Pakistan in the Super 8 race by sealing the second spot. While India and the USA advanced to the business end of the ICC event from Group A, Babar’s Pakistan bowed out of the T20 World Cup after defeating Ireland in its final fixture on Sunday.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s disastrous campaign at the grandest stage, former spinner Kaneria lashed out at the PCB for relying heavily on Babar and selecting a ‘useless team’ for the ICC event. Kaneria also mentioned critics comparing Babar with batting icon Virat Kohli in his explosive criticism of the beleaguered Pakistan side.
According to Kaneria, the team’s reliance on Babar and Rizwan in major tournaments has proven to be a failure, with a lack of impact when facing higher-caliber opponents. He criticized the team for only performing well against weaker teams like Zimbabwe and Ireland, highlighting the need for a more competitive approach at the international level.
Moreover, Kaneria also criticized the lack of unity within the team, echoing similar sentiments expressed by head coach Gary Kirsten. Kirsten, known for guiding India to a World Cup title in 2011, emphasized the importance of time and understanding the complexities of Pakistan cricket’s political landscape. Kaneria pointed out the challenges faced by Kirsten in a system driven by politics and highlighted the need for a more cohesive team effort.
Despite the team’s early exit from the T20 World Cup, Kaneria urged for introspection and corrective measures to address the shortcomings in Pakistan’s cricketing setup. As the cricketing world watches the aftermath of Pakistan’s disappointing campaign, the spotlight remains on the future of the team and the necessary reforms to ensure better performances in future international tournaments.
