Former Pakistan cricketers were left appalled by the team’s display after it lost the second Twenty20 by 39 runs to hand hosts New Zealand the series.
Scott Styris and Peter McGlashan were the principal contributors to a 79-run onslaught in five overs which swung the match New Zealand’s way in the second half of their innings of 185 for seven. Pakistan made a valiant start to the run chase and were 58 for one after six overs before their batting was robbed of its impetus by the twin-spin attack in the middle eight overs.
Man-of-the-match Nathan McCullum took four for 16 off his four overs while debutant Luke Woodcock took none for 20 and at the close of their innings Pakistan were 146 for nine.
Lack of planning, poor strategy
“It was a disappointing performance, the display in both matches made me laugh,” former captain and chief selector Aamir Sohail told The Express Tribune. “There was lack of planning and poor strategy that led the downfall.”
The flamboyant left-handed opener felt the team management wasted time in the conditioning camp which was reflected in the team’s performance, showing lack of proper strategy.
“Abdul Razzaq was used to open the attack in the presence of regular fast-bowlers and that seemed like a joke. The idea can work once in a blue moon but not regularly. Pakistan should return to the field with a revised strategy if they want good results in the remaining series.”
Afridi’s decision critical
Another former Test cricketer Basit Ali believed that captain Shahid Afridi committed the biggest mistake by opting to open the innings.
“He’s a sort of batsman who can fire in Asian conditions but he should’ve realised things in New Zealand are different. His decision was a big mistake. The bowling selection was also poor as teams need specialist bowlers in this format particularly when opening the attack.”
Qadir questions Younus’ selection
While criticising Younus Khan’s selection, former chief selector Abdul Qadir said the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should opt for players showing good performance rather than big names.
“Younus is not a Twenty20 player but he’s an experienced batsman and he should focus on One-Day Internationals and Tests.
“Tanvir Ahmed performed on difficult pitches in the UAE against a tough team like South Africa and the decision to exclude him in the playing eleven was illogical.”
Published in The Express Tribune, December 29th, 2010.
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