Former cricketing legends were unanimous in their opinion about the ‘lack of game plan’ in the forgettable encounter against South Africa. PHOTO: REUTERS
Former Pakistan cricketers rued the 125-run loss of a ‘talented Pakistan side’ against South Africa and cited lack of game plan, determination and responsibility as the main reasons for Sunday’s defeat in Bloemfontein.
Misbahul Haq’s side was bowled out for just 190 inside 37 overs as they failed to chase the massive 316-run target in the opening match of the five-match One-Day International (ODI) series against South Africa with none of the batsmen managing to complete a half-century.
Former coach Mohsin Khan felt it was inconceivable for Pakistan to succumb to defeat in such an embarrassing manner.
“It’s very hurting to see the team lose in such a way,” Khan told The Express Tribune. “We have a very talented side that can beat any opposition in the world.
“Everybody knows the South Africa tour is a difficult task but losing so heavily is a huge cause for concern. So far, we haven’t seen any game plan while the players also lack motivation.
“The determination has been missing on the tour which so far is proving to be a disastrous one for the team. It’s the responsibility of the coach and captain to lift the teams’ morale but unfortunately they have failed in it.”
Decision to bowl first right: Mohsin
While many believe Misbah’s decision to bowl first cost the team dearly, the former Test opener thought otherwise.
“It was a good decision to field first. The early hours were difficult to bat because of moisture and dampness.
“What we lacked was a proper plan to curb the home team’s batsmen who played very professionally in difficult conditions early on.
“They mainly relied on picking singles and doubles in the beginning but we showed no strive in bowling to stop them rotating the strike.
“After saving their wickets in the first 20 to 22 overs, South Africa took charge and managed to impose a difficult target.
“Then in Pakistan’s innings, our players failed to take advantage of the pitch that turned batting-friendly in the second-innings. The batsmen showed lacked of responsibility and lost their wickets due to silly mistakes.
“It was embarrassing to see the team dismissed without even surpassing the 200-mark.”
Team needs better planning, says Moin
Meanwhile, former captain Moin Khan was also disappointed with the loss.
“The margin of defeat is not ordinary and it’s very disheartening,” he said.
He added that the team suffered a complete flop in the opening match.
“Our bowlers are not living up to their potential while our batting also looks beyond achieving tough targets.”
However, unlike Mohsin, the former captain slammed Misbah for opting to field first.
“There are still matches remaining in the series. In order to make a comeback, Pakistan will have to make significant improvements and should come forth with proper planning.”
Published in The Express Tribune, March 12th, 2013.
COMMENTS (3)
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No doubt the performance of the team is miserable and can not be justified at all. Yet, why the opinion of the people should be given any importance who failed as captain during their period?
A Peshawary
It is the behavior which plays important role. They simply do not take each game seriously.
Second, Playing Boys should not be allowed to think independently. Like Football players (I mean International players), they should trained and restricted vigorously.
May The God give them understanding of importance of our tax money which spend in their fail tours
No place for Misbah, Younas, Kamran & Shoaib Malik. Bring in Umar Akmal, Ahmed Shehzad and young blood.