Shoaib Malik, the seasoned cricketer, openly criticized Pakistan’s team management after their lackluster performance against England in the second T20I on Saturday, May 25, in Birmingham. Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, faced a 23-run defeat, thereby trailing 0-1 in the 4-match series after the initial game was washed out.
Calls for strategic changes
Malik analyzed Pakistan’s gameplay and proposed strategic adjustments to the batting order. He highlighted the difference between international matches and domestic leagues such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Malik gave his views on the batting order and suggested that Fakhar Zaman should open with Mohammad Rizwan, followed by Babar, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, and Shadab Khan.
“This is not PSL this is international cricket that too, just before T20 World Cup. IMO, the batting order should be… Fakhar Rizwan Babar Azam Iftkar Imad Shadab. Captain needs to utilise the options on bench wisely,” wrote Malik on X.
The former Pakistan captain also emphasized the need to give finishers like Azam Khan and Iftikhar more time to settle at the crease.
“Moving forward, the captain should give time & enough overs to Azam & Iftikhar to settle first, expecting them to score 12-14 right away is unfair. All the best for the remaining matches!!!,” he added.
Also WATCH: Jos Buttler hits a spectacular reverse sweep six against Shadab Khan in ENG vs PAK 2nd T20I
– This is not PSL this is international cricket that too, just before T20 World Cup. IMO, the batting order should be…
Fakhar
Rizwan
Babar
Azam
Iftkar
Imad
ShadabCaptain needs to utilise the options on bench wisely. Moving forward, the captain should give time & enough…
— Shoaib Malik 🇵🇰 (@realshoaibmalik) May 25, 2024
Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer lead England to victory
In the match, Babar opted to bowl first, a decision that didn’t go in Pakistan’s favour. England set a strong target with 183/7 in their 20 overs, thanks to a commanding 84 off 51 balls by captain Jos Buttler. Will Jacks supported with a solid 37 runs. On Pakistan’s bowling front, Shaheen Afridi (3/36), Imad Wasim (2/19), and Haris Rauf (2/34) were the standout bowlers.
Chasing 184, Pakistan’s innings concluded at 160 in 19.2 overs, resulting in a 23-run loss. Fakhar played a notable innings with 45 runs but couldn’t secure a victory. Jofra Archer, making his international return, delivered an impressive spell of 4-0-28-2.
