Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has expressed his disappointment over the team’s performance in the ongoing Multan Test against England. Pakistan’s batters failed to capitalize on their strong start, allowing England to take control of the match.
On the fourth day, Pakistan faced a daunting task in the second innings, trailing by 267 runs. However, their top six batters failed to deliver, with Babar Azam dismissed for just 5 runs. This continued Azam’s poor form in Test cricket, leading Ali to suggest that the 29-year-old may need a break.
“Babar Azam needs rest,” Ali said on his YouTube channel. “He should say that I need to rest. It has been 18 innings since he has performed. If some other player was playing, then he would be out of the squad after three games, like Fawad Alam.”
Ali also criticized Azam’s technique, saying that he needs to reduce his stance. “The whole world is laughing,” Ali said. “Is this how to play?”
Ali also questioned the captaincy of Shan Masood, who opened the batting in the second innings. “I have been saying that Shan is an opener, he should open,” Ali said. “But he played at number three. Now, what will happen? Who will you drop? He should play at his number. He doesn’t even know captaincy. What has happened to this cricket team? It is shameful.”
England’s dominance was highlighted by the record-breaking partnership between Harry Brook and Joe Root, who put on 454 runs for the fourth wicket. Pakistan’s bowlers were unable to contain the English duo, and their confidence took a hit.
England eventually declared on 823 for 7, setting Pakistan a target of 579 runs to win. Pakistan ended the day on 152/6, still trailing by 115 runs.
