Hafeez Calls for Pakistan Cricket Shake-Up After Champions Trophy Disappointment
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Karachi, Pakistan – Former Pakistan men’s cricket team captain Mohammad Hafeez is advocating for notable changes within the national squad following their disappointing performance in the Champions Trophy 2025.Hafeez, a member of the Sarfaraz Ahmed-led team that clinched the Champions Trophy title in 2017, believes the Pakistan cricket Board (PCB) should consider moving on from key pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf. His comments come after the team’s failure to defend a target of 242 runs against India in Dubai on Sunday. The call for change underscores the pressure on Pakistan to perform consistently in major tournaments.
Hafeez’s critique centers on the perceived inability of the star trio to deliver in crucial moments. Shaheen, Haris, and Naseem have been the preferred pace attack in white-ball cricket for Pakistan, but their recent performances have fallen short of expectations, particularly in high-stakes matches. This has led to a broader discussion about the team’s strategy and player selection.
Champions Trophy Performance Under scrutiny
The Champions trophy 2025 has been a source of frustration for Pakistani cricket fans. In the opener against new Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi on February 19, the Pakistani bowlers conceded over 200 runs. The subsequent match against India in Dubai on Sunday further amplified concerns, as the team failed to defend a target of 242 runs.This performance has raised questions about the team’s readiness for major tournaments.
Hafeez, speaking on Pakistan channel PTV’s Champions Trophy coverage, expressed his disappointment with the performance of the pace trio.He highlighted their struggles in recent major tournaments,stating:
2023 mein Asia Cup shuru hua,hamari expectation thi ki ye trio—Shaheen,naseem aur Haris—ye ready hai ki hume bade events jitwa ke de,failure. 2023 50-over World Cup, failure. 2022 T20 tournament in Melbourne,failure. Ye wala ICC Champions Trophy, failure.
Mohammad Hafeez, PTV
He further elaborated on his concerns, suggesting that it’s time for a change in personnel:
it is indeed time to realize that these guys, according to many people they have skills, lekin vo skills bada tournament jitwane k kabil nahi hume najar aa rahe hai, vo sabit nahi kar rahe hai. Let’s move on from them. let’s bring other people.Let’s go with Mohammad Ali, Khurram Shahzad, mohammad Wasim Jr., Akif Javed, Mir Hamza. These guys are waiting for their chances. Inko khila k dekh lete hai. They are also Pakistani; they also have a Pakistani passport.
Mohammad Hafeez,PTV
Babar Azam’s Performance Also Questioned
Hafeez didn’t limit his criticism to the bowlers. He also addressed the performance of Babar Azam, a star batter for Pakistan. Hafeez acknowledged Azam’s talent but compared him unfavorably to Inzamam-ul-Haq, emphasizing Azam’s lack of match-winning performances against India and in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) countries. This comparison highlights the high expectations placed on azam as a key player.
Hafeez stated:
Similarly, Babar azam. Babar Azam Pakistan ke liye sabse acha player kaha jaata hai. Maine maan liya. vo Inzamam-ul-Haq nahi hai. Inzamam bhai used to win matches in all arduous conditions.Babar Azam has not won a match against India till date. He has been playing cricket for 10 years. He has never won a Man of the Series in SENA countries. Forget about Pakistan haar jaye. You should be the man of the Series. Never. Kabhi Australia mein jaa ke one-day jitwaya hai unhone? he has never won a Man of the Series in England.
Mohammad hafeez, PTV
Hafeez reiterated his call for change, emphasizing the need to give opportunities to other players who are waiting in the wings and performing well. This call for fresh talent underscores the desire for a new approach to team selection.
Hume realize karna padega ki jinke upar hume lagta hai ki ye hume jitwaenge, they are not bringing that performance. Let’s move on from them. It’s time; give equal opportunity to other people who were waiting in the system. They are performing well.
Mohammad Hafeez, PTV
He concluded by expressing hope that the upcoming Pakistan Super league (PSL) will not simply revive the same “heroes” but instead identify players capable of winning international tournaments. This highlights the need for the PSL to serve as a platform for discovering new talent.
Abhi PSL aayega, saare dobara hero zinda ho jayenge.Hume international stars chahiye, PSL ke ishtihari superstar humne bade dekh liye, hume international tournament jitwane wale players chahiye, let’s try some different people.
Mohammad Hafeez, PTV
Looking Ahead
Mohammad Hafeez’s comments highlight the growing pressure on the Pakistan cricket team to deliver consistent performances in major international tournaments. his call for a shake-up within the squad reflects a desire for fresh talent and a new approach to achieving success on the global stage. The PCB’s response to these concerns remains to be seen, but the debate surrounding the team’s future is sure to intensify in the coming weeks. The performance in upcoming tournaments will be crucial in determining the direction of Pakistan cricket.
Pakistan cricket’s crossroads: A Necessary Shake-Up or Reckless Gamble?
Is Pakistan cricket at a critical juncture, facing a potential crisis of talent and leadership? The recent Champions Trophy disappointment has sparked a fiery debate, with legendary player Mohammad Hafeez calling for a dramatic overhaul of the national team.
Interviewer (Senior Editor, world-today-news.com): Dr. Asif Khan, renowned sports analyst and former cricket coach, welcome. Hafeez’s outspoken critique of Pakistan’s pace attack and even Babar Azam’s performance has ignited a national conversation. What’s your assessment of the current state of Pakistan cricket?
Dr. Khan: The situation is certainly complex. Mohammad Hafeez’s comments, while blunt, highlight a critical need for introspection within Pakistan cricket. The recent underperformance in high-stakes matches, particularly against strong cricketing nations like India, reveals systemic issues that go beyond individual player shortcomings. We must consider the broader context: team dynamics, coaching strategies, player development pathways, and the overall cricketing ecosystem.Hafeez raises valid concerns about the underachievement of some star players in crucial moments. However, solving this will require a multifaceted strategy instead of simply chopping and changing the lineup.
The Pace Bowling Conundrum: A Systemic Issue?
Interviewer: Hafeez specifically called for the replacement of the pace trio: Shaheen Shah afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf. Is this a drastic overreaction, or is there genuine cause for concern regarding thier performance?
Dr. Khan: One must unpack this carefully. These three are undeniably talented fast bowlers. However, their consistency in high-pressure situations has been a subject of debate. Their raw talent is not in question, but their tactical submission and ability to adapt their bowling strategies to differing conditions, particularly in SENA countries, need to be reviewed. Hafeez suggests a need to evaluate whether this pace attack’s skillset consistently translates into match-winning performances. This is not about discarding them entirely, but about fostering a more thorough player development approach and evaluating their strategic roles within the team. Pakistan needs bowlers who can consistently perform at the peak of their capacity under intense pressure, whether it is in T20, One Day or Test matches. This requires holistic coaching, tailored fitness regimens and importantly, robust mental conditioning programs. There are many excellent young bowlers in Pakistan, and it may be necessary to integrate them strategically, to ensure consistency at the highest level.
Babar Azam: Meeting Unrealistic Expectations?
Interviewer: Hafeez also questioned Babar Azam’s performance, comparing him unfavorably with legends like Inzamam-ul-Haq. Is this a fair comparison, and how can Babar navigate the pressure of such high expectations?
Dr. Khan: Comparing any player directly to a legend like Inzamam-ul-Haq is inherently unfair.Inzamam played in a distinct cricketing era,facing different challenges and expectations. Babar Azam is a supremely talented batsman, but carrying the weight of an entire nation’s hopes can be immense. He needs support, not criticism. He needs a supportive strategic habitat to grow, rather then constant comparisons that can undermine confidence.The focus should be on identifying and addressing areas where he can improve further.The call for advancement should not solely focus on results against India, but on consistent high-level performances across various conditions and formats. The criticism should be constructive, aiming at strengthening his game further rather than demoralizing him. His recent form might suggest potential areas where improvement is needed,but he should be given the chance to adapt and to improve his match-winning abilities.
Rebuilding pakistan Cricket: A Step-by-Step Approach
Interviewer: What concrete steps can the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) take to address these issues and revitalize the national team?
Dr.Khan: The PCB needs a multi-pronged strategy:
Comprehensive Player Development Programs: invest in robust youth academies,focusing on technical skills,tactical understanding,and mental fortitude.
Strategic Coaching Appointments: Hire experienced coaches with a proven track record of success at the international level. These coaches should have a holistic approach to coaching,not just focusing on technical skills,but also supporting the team in mental resilience,and fostering a healthy and supportive team culture.
Data-Driven Decision-Making: Utilize advanced analytics to identify player strengths and weaknesses, optimize team strategies, and make data-driven selections.
building Team Culture: Create a supportive and encouraging environment for players. Foster a strong team spirit and a culture of accountability.
* clarity and Accountability: Ensure transparent selection processes and build a culture of accountability at all levels.
Interviewer: Dr. Khan, thank you for your insightful analysis.what message would you leave for Pakistani cricket fans?
Dr. Khan: this is a challenging time for Pakistan cricket, but it’s also an opportunity for renewal. It’s crucial to support the players, demand accountability from the PCB, and remain optimistic that with a strategic approach, Pakistan can once again reach the pinnacle of international cricket. The passion of the fans is vital. Engage with the articles, have constructive and thoughtful dialogues, and let’s work together to support the rebuilding of our national cricket team. Share your thoughts on social media using #pakcricketrevival.