Hafeez Questions Pakistan’s Pace Trio After Loss to India in ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Following Pakistan’s defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has criticized the performance of the team’s fast bowlers—Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf. Hafeez suggested it might be time to consider new options for Pakistan’s pace attack after their underwhelming performances in major tournaments.
Concerns Over Pakistan’s Pace Attack in Recent Major Tournaments
Hafeez pointed out that Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf have consistently failed to deliver in critical tournaments over the past two years. The trio’s lackluster performances in the 2023 Asia Cup, the 50-over World Cup, the T20 World Cup, and now the Champions Trophy 2025 have raised doubts about their ability to win big tournaments for Pakistan.
Hafeez Calls for Opportunity to New Fast Bowlers
The former cricketer believes it is time for Pakistan to move on from these pacers and provide opportunities to emerging fast bowlers like Mohammad Ali, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Akif Javed, and Mir Hamza. Hafeez emphasized that these players are waiting for a chance and deserve an opportunity to prove themselves on the big stage.
Babar Azam’s Performance Under Scrutiny
Hafeez also questioned Babar Azam’s ability to perform under pressure, especially in crucial matches against India. Despite having played for Pakistan for over a decade, Babar has not been able to secure a single win for Pakistan against their arch-rivals, India. Hafeez compared him to former legend Inzamam-ul-Haq, who was known for his ability to deliver in tough situations.
Pakistan’s Bowling Struggles in Group Stage Matches
Pakistan’s pace attack faltered during their group-stage matches against New Zealand and India. Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf all had costly spells, conceding a high number of runs while failing to take key wickets.
Shaheen Afridi’s Costly Performances Against New Zealand and India
Shaheen Afridi had a challenging time in both matches. Against New Zealand, he bowled 10 overs, conceded 68 runs, and went wicketless. Against India, he managed to take two wickets in eight overs but gave away 72 runs at a high economy rate of 9.25.
Naseem Shah’s Mixed Performances in Group Stage
Naseem Shah had an inconsistent performance. He claimed two wickets against New Zealand but gave up 63 runs in 10 overs. Against India, he failed to take any wickets, conceding 37 runs in eight overs.
Haris Rauf’s Expensive Bowling Shows
Haris Rauf had the most expensive spell among the pacers. He conceded 83 runs in 10 overs against New Zealand while taking two wickets. In the match against India, he went wicketless, giving away 52 runs in seven overs.
Pakistan’s Slim Semi-Final Hopes After Consecutive Losses
After back-to-back defeats to New Zealand and India, Pakistan’s chances of making it to the semi-finals appear slim. With only one group match remaining against Bangladesh, Pakistan’s qualification hopes depend not just on their performance but also on the results of other matches in the group.
