Following a crushing 3-0 ODI defeat and 4-1 T20I series loss in New Zealand, former cricketer Basit Ali lashes out at Pakistan team’s performance, leadership, and priorities.
April 6, 2025: Pakistan’s dismal tour of New Zealand has triggered a fiery reaction from former cricketer Basit Ali, who called the team’s 3-0 ODI series loss a “black day” in Pakistan cricket history. The whitewash followed a 4-1 defeat in the T20I series, leaving the Men in Green reeling — and Basit, enraged.
“In my eyes, today was the black day in Pakistan cricket. Even for those who left the game,” Basit declared on his YouTube channel. “Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis used to dominate these conditions. Now they’re doing commentary and laughing at us.”
📉 Leadership Under Fire
Basit directed strong criticism at Mohammad Rizwan’s captaincy, calling it clueless and akin to “school cricket.”
“Where was Rizwan when Imam-ul-Haq left the field? He doesn’t even know how to rotate bowlers or control the match flow.”
He also questioned Imam’s injury, hinting it was a deliberate move to avoid facing tough conditions. “He got scared and walked off to save himself. Does he think we can’t see it?” Basit added, accusing players of playing for money rather than pride.
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💬 Basit on Pakistan Cricket’s Decline
“All these players want is money. It’s the tragedy of Pakistan cricket — there’s no fear of losing your place. Miss one series, and you’re back the next,” Basit raged.
He also ridiculed the team’s decision to use Usman Khan as a concussion substitute, claiming it drew laughter from former greats and commentators alike.
🗣️ Rizwan Reacts After the Loss
After Pakistan’s 43-run defeat in Mount Maunganui, captain Mohammad Rizwan admitted the series was disappointing.
“We need to improve. Babar was in good touch. Naseem Shah’s batting was a positive. Sufiyan Muqeem bowled well. Credit to New Zealand — they played better than us in every department.”
Rizwan remained hopeful about the upcoming PSL 2025, calling it an opportunity to bounce back and bring joy to Pakistani fans.
⚠️ What’s Next for Pakistan?
With criticism mounting and performance hitting a new low, the team is under pressure to reassess its direction. As PSL 2025 approaches, fans and former players alike are demanding accountability — and change.
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Pakistan cricket, Basit Ali, Pakistan vs New Zealand, Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, ODI series whitewash, T20I series loss, Rizwan captaincy, Usman Khan, PSL 2025, cricket controversy, Pakistan cricket crisis, Babar Azam, Sufiyan Muqeem, Naseem Shah