In the wake of a crushing 61-run defeat to India, the floodgates of criticism have opened in Pakistan. Leading the charge is batting legend Mohammad Yousuf, who has labelled the current state of Pakistan cricket the "darkest period" in its history.
His explosive comments on social media, echoed by a panel of former stars including Shoaib Malik, Basit Ali, and Kamran Akmal, have called for a total purge of "incompetent" personnel from both the administrative offices and the playing XI.
Mohammad Yousuf, who briefly served as the team’s batting coach in early 2025, expressed heartbreak over the side’s direction. His critique was personal and structural:
Political influence: Yousuf urged the removal of "political influence and personal agendas," claiming they are the primary roadblocks to Pakistan returning to its former glory.
Stalwarts: In a blunt assessment, Yousuf declared that the T20 era of Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Shadab Khan is over. "Pakistan’s T20 squad needs new performers, not empty wins against weaker sides," he wrote.
While the Pakistan Cricket Board often laments the lack of bilateral series against India, Kamran Akmal offered a stinging reality check, suggesting the absence of such games is actually a "relief."
It’s a relief that we don’t have a series against India... otherwise their B or C team would beat us. Our team is nowhere near the level of the top five teams.Kamran Akmal, Former Wicketkeeper-Batter
The autopsy of the Colombo defeat focused heavily on the misuse of Pakistan's "mystery" weapon, Usman Tariq.
Late introduction: Basit Ali questioned why Tariq was held back until the 11th over. By the time the spinner was introduced, Ishan Kishan had already provided India with a match-winning platform, allowing the middle order to play him with minimal risk.
Lack of grit: Critics pointed to Babar Azam’s dismissal; playing across the line to Axar Patel, as a failure to take the percentage option on a surface that demanded straight-bat accumulation.
Ambition gap: The panel accused current players of being satisfied with "empty wins" against Associates like the USA or Netherlands while crumbling when faced with a "top five" challenge.
| Aspect | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Current Rank | 3rd in Group A |
| Record | 2 Wins, 1 Loss |
| Net Run Rate | -0.403 (Behind USA's +0.787) |
| The Requirement | Must Win vs Namibia (Feb 18) |
| The Consequence | A loss or washout could see the USA qualify over Pakistan. |