Dubai: Pakistani cricket legend Wasim Akram has strongly criticised the national team following their six-wicket defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The loss at Dubai International Stadium has virtually ended Pakistan’s title defence, with the team struggling to keep their campaign alive. Speaking on a television programme, Akram called for urgent reforms in Pakistan’s white-ball cricket. “Enough is enough. Now it is time to take drastic steps.

We have been playing archaic cricket in white-ball for ages,” he said. Akram urged the selectors to introduce younger, more fearless players, even if it meant short-term losses.  “If you need to make five or six changes, just do it. You might keep losing for the next six months. It’s fine, but start building the team for the 2026 T20 World Cup from now.” The former pacer also criticised Pakistan’s bowling attack, citing their poor performances in recent matches.  “A lot of chances were given. You have made them the stars. In the last five ODIs, Pakistan bowlers have managed to get 24 wickets at an average of 60.  That is 60 runs per wicket,” Akram said. He further highlighted that among 14 teams that played international cricket this year, including Oman and the USA, Pakistan’s bowling average ranked second-lowest.

Akram called on Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi to seek accountability from the team’s leadership.  He also questioned captain Mohammad Rizwan’s leadership. “Even the captain is to blame. He is the leader of the ship, and if he doesn’t know what kind of match-winner he needs, then it’s embarrassing.”