Bazid Khan says Pakistan can no longer compete with Cricket’s elite

Former cricketer Bazid Khan says Pakistan cricket has fallen behind India and Australia after recent struggles.

Former Pakistan cricketer and commentator Bazid Khan has criticised the state of Pakistan cricket, stating that the team is no longer capable of competing with top-tier nations like India and Australia.

His remarks came after Pakistan’s 4-1 T20I series defeat to New Zealand, which exposed glaring weaknesses in both batting and bowling.

Bazid, who represented Pakistan in 6 international matches, questioned the long-standing belief that Pakistan remains among cricket’s elite due to its past ICC triumphs.

“We feel entitled, as if we should be winning World Cups regularly. But how many have we actually won?” Bazid asked.

He pointed out that Pakistan’s last ICC trophy came in 2017 when they won the Champions Trophy. Since then, India and Australia have each won two ICC titles, further widening the gap between them and Pakistan.

“You are not on Australia’s level, not on India’s level,” he stated. “We still cling to the notion that ‘we’ve won ICC tournaments, so we are a top team.’ But unfortunately, that’s not the reality anymore.”

Shaheen Afridi’s struggles and Pakistan’s lack of depth

Bazid also addressed Pakistan’s struggles in fast bowling, particularly Shaheen Shah Afridi’s disappointing performance in the T20I series. The left-arm pacer managed just two wickets in five matches at an average of 66.50, raising concerns over his form.

However, Bazid argued that Pakistan’s lack of player development leaves them with no real alternative to replace him.

“If Shaheen Shah Afridi isn’t delivering, who else do we have? There is no new bowler emerging from Tests or ODIs,” he said.

He further emphasised Pakistan’s stagnation compared to other teams, noting that while global cricket continues to evolve, Pakistan has struggled to produce new talent.

“Other teams have progressed, while our system has completely stalled,” he added.

“The situation has deteriorated to the extent that we’re now comparing ourselves with New Zealand—when, not too long ago, we considered them a team well behind us.”

Bazid’s comments reflect growing concerns about Pakistan’s cricketing future, particularly with the T20 World Cup approaching. The team now faces a crucial period of rebuilding if it hopes to regain its standing among the world’s best.