NEW DELHI: Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar did not hold back his frustration following Pakistan’s six-wicket defeat to India in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. The loss virtually ended hosts and defending champions Pakistan’s campaign, and Akhtar’s emotional reaction quickly went viral on social media.
Speaking candidly, Akhtar admitted he was no longer interested in discussing Pakistan cricket. “I would not even talk about Pakistan cricket if I was not getting paid. Honestly, I have nothing to do with them anymore. I am requested to come here (on the show), so I come. I have no agenda to talk ill about them. Why should I waste my time?” Akhtar said in a video that has sparked debate online.
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The legendary pacer was particularly harsh on the Pakistan team management, calling them “brainless and clueless.” He criticised their tactical decisions, especially their selection of only five bowlers, when most teams now play six. “You go with two all-rounders, but this is just brainless and clueless management. I am really disappointed,” he added.
Akhtar also expressed sympathy for the Pakistan players, blaming their struggles on a lack of clear direction from the management. “We can’t blame the kids. The players are just as the team management is! They don’t know what to do. They don’t have the skillsets of Rohit, Virat and Shubman. Neither they know anything, nor the management.”
Despite his disappointment with Pakistan, Akhtar heaped praise on Virat Kohli, who scored an unbeaten 100 off 111 balls to guide India to victory. “Hats off to him, he’s a superstar, a modern-day great. I really hope he reaches 100 international centuries.”
