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Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has voiced concerns over the quality of Pakistan cricket following their heavy defeat in the first Test against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi. Pakistan suffered a humiliating 10-wicket loss, marking their first-ever defeat to Bangladesh at home, raising eyebrows about the state of the national team.
Questionable selection and strategy backfire
The loss was particularly jarring due to Pakistan’s strategic missteps, including the decision to field an all-pace attack, which many viewed as a critical error. After posting a solid 448/6 in their first innings, Pakistan allowed Bangladesh to amass 565 runs, largely due to a brilliant 191 from Mushfiqur Rahim. With the match seemingly headed for a draw, Pakistan’s batting collapsed in the second innings, managing only 146 runs. Bangladesh then chased down the modest target of 30 runs in just 6.3 overs, sealing a historic victory.
Also READ: Ahmad Shahzad blames PCB for Pakistan’s embarrassing 10-wicket defeat against Bangladesh in the first Test
Kevin Pietersen’s critique of Pakistan’s declining standards
Pietersen took to social media platform ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) to express his disappointment with Pakistan’s performance. He recalled his time playing in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he encountered top-quality cricket and highly motivated players. The former cricketer questioned the apparent decline in Pakistan’s cricketing standards, particularly given the PSL’s past reputation for nurturing talent. Pietersen has represented the Quetta Gladiators in the PSL from 2016 to 2018 across 27 matches.
In his post, Pietersen wrote, “What has happened to cricket in Pakistan? When I played in the PSL, the standard was outstanding, the players were dedicated, and the young talent was exceptional. I’m baffled by how things have changed,”
What happened to cricket in Pakistan? When I played the PSL, the standard of that league was tremendous, the players had a very good work ethic and the youngsters on display were magic.
What’s happening there?
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) August 26, 2024
Series decider against Bangladesh
The second and final Test of the series is scheduled to begin on August 30, again in Rawalpindi. Originally planned to be held in Karachi, the venue was shifted due to ongoing construction at the Karachi stadium in preparation for the Champions Trophy 2025. As Pakistan looks to salvage some pride, the pressure on the team and management has never been greater.
