Shoaib Akhtar Suggests New Batting Order
The batting order and team management have become a topic of discussion among former cricketers, with some suggesting a change in approach to improve Pakistan's performance in international cricket, highlighting the need for a new strategy to utilize the skills of players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan effectively.
Shoaib Akhtar recommends a change in Pakistan's batting order, suggesting that Babar Azam should bat at number 6, where his skills can be better utilized, following the team's disappointing performance in the Champions Trophy campaign.
The former fast bowler believes that Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are better suited to batting at 5 or 6, as their skills are being wasted at the top of the order. This suggestion comes after Pakistan's early exit from the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025, where Babar struggled to make an impact while opening the batting.
Meanwhile, former wicketkeeper-batter Rashid Latif has expressed his concerns about the involvement of 90s cricketers in Pakistan cricket, stating that they have held back the team for too long and it's time for them to step aside. Latif has also criticized former captain Mohammad Rizwan's decision-making skills, saying that they have become "unusual." Former pacer Mohammad Amir has shared similar concerns about Rizwan's captaincy, stating that he has drifted away from the cricketing mindset.
The suggestions and criticisms from former cricketers come as Pakistan looks to regroup and rebuild after a disappointing Champions Trophy campaign. The team's performance has sparked a debate about the role of former players in the team's management and the need for a change in strategy to improve their chances in future tournaments.
