Photo Credit: Instagram Profile Photo of @saqlain_mushtaq_
Former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has issued a bold challenge to India following Pakistan’s heavy defeat to their arch-rivals in the ICC Champions Trophy. Speaking on a private TV channel, he remarked, “If the Indians are so confident that their team is better than Pakistan, they should play 10 Tests, 10 One-Day Internationals, and 10 T20 matches to prove it.”
While acknowledging India’s strong performances and talented players, Saqlain emphasized that political differences between the two nations should be set aside. He also admitted that Pakistan’s current squad has its flaws but remained optimistic about their ability to improve. “If we prepare properly, we can still defeat India and other teams,” he stated.
Despite the presence of several former cricketers in the Pakistan team’s management and board, Saqlain pointed out that no significant improvements have been made in the team’s performance.
Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC event was especially disappointing, as they hosted a major tournament on home soil for the first time in 29 years. The team was eliminated after suffering consecutive losses to New Zealand and India. Their final group match against Bangladesh was washed out due to rain, preventing them from registering a single victory.
Meanwhile, discussions regarding Pakistan’s upcoming tour of New Zealand have also gained traction. The tour, beginning on March 16, includes three T20Is and five ODIs. As per reports from Cricket Pakistan, Babar Azam is unlikely to be part of the T20 squad, following widespread criticism of his performance in the Champions Trophy, particularly his slow innings against New Zealand and poor outing against India.
Pakistan, led by Mohammad Rizwan, is already facing severe scrutiny after their early exit from the Champions Trophy 2025. With their elimination confirmed after two consecutive group-stage losses, attention has now shifted to the New Zealand series.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering a squad overhaul for the T20Is, with a focus on including younger players. While discussions are ongoing about giving senior players a break, no final decision has been made regarding Babar Azam’s participation in the ODI squad for the tour.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Stay ahead of the latest cricket industry trends by subscribing to our free cricexec “daily briefing” newsletter.
Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
