Former Pakistan cricketer labels two players as 'burden' on squad

Former Pakistan cricketer Sikandar Bakht has expressed concerns about Pakistan’s performance in the ongoing ODI series against Australia, criticising the form of both senior and younger players.

In a recent interview, Bakht singled out young batsmen Abdullah Shafique and Saim Ayub as “burdens” on the squad, sparking debate on Pakistan’s team selection and strategy.

Bakht went on to say that despite their seniority, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have not consistently stepped up in challenging situations, raising questions about their leadership on the field.

"Babar and Rizwan are the team’s most experienced players, yet they don’t anchor the team during tough times,” Bakht stated, adding that he believes Pakistan’s only true match-winner in ODIs, Fakhar Zaman, was unjustly dropped.

Bakht also praised Naseem Shah for his resilience, noting that the young fast bowler demonstrated bravery at the crease in the first ODI, where Pakistan struggled to build partnerships and posted a modest total of 203 runs.

Mohammad Rizwan was Pakistan’s top scorer with 44 off 71 balls, while Naseem added a valuable 40 runs off 39 balls to bring Pakistan closer to a competitive score.

Australia chased down the 204-run target in 33.3 overs, winning by two wickets. Pat Cummins’ composed batting guided Australia to victory, despite solid bowling performances from Haris Rauf (3 wickets) and Shaheen Afridi (2 wickets).

Pakistan’s fielding and discipline with the ball, however, came under scrutiny, as 21 runs were conceded in extras, including 17 wides.

As Australia leads the series 1-0, Pakistan will look to bounce back in the second ODI on November 8 in Adelaide.