[EXCLUSIVE] "Dropping Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan was a wrong decision": Mudassar Nazar

[BouncerGuy]

In this exclusive interview, Pakistan legend Mudassar Nazar—the “Golden Arm” of cricket—gives his no-holds-barred views on Pakistan’s cricketing challenges. The former all-rounder, coach, and NCA director opens up on player mismanagement, flawed workload theories, the decline of first-class cricket, and Pakistan’s chances at the upcoming Asia Cup.

Key topics covered:

• PCB's Criticism Culture: He highlighted that "PCB bashing has become a great sport," indicating that some ex-players seem to want Pakistan to lose to criticize the team and the PCB further.
  
  
• Pakistan’s Underdog Spirit: He expressed satisfaction with Pakistan's "much-needed win" against Afghanistan in the tri-series, showcasing their potential as underdogs.
  
  
• UAE Cricket Boom: He noted the rapid rise of cricket in the UAE, stating that the number of clubs has increased from 12 to 65, reflecting a significant growth in the sport.
  
  
• Asia Cup Preview: He noted that the toss could play a significant role in the Asia Cup, highlighting the importance of conditions, dew, and spin in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
  
  
• India vs Pakistan - The Real Blockbuster: Remarked that the India-Pakistan rivalry generates more funds than the Ashes, highlighting its significance in cricket.
  
  
• Dropping Babar & Rizwan: Criticized the decision to drop Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, calling it a "wrong decision made on a false premise."
  
  
• Fast Bowling Workload Myth: He argued that the issue with modern fast bowlers breaking down is due to a lack of workload, not an excess, challenging common beliefs.
  
  
• Coaching Debate: Pointed out that there are "too many coaches, not enough cricket," suggesting that players are being pampered rather than developed through play.
  
  
• About Mike Hesson as a coach: Described Mike Hesson as "a first-class coach" but emphasized that he needs time to implement his strategies effectively.

Watch the full interview with Saj here:

 

[Asad T]

I agree with most of what he said, except the inclusion of Riz-Bar

Their Sr's are about 110 in the Power Play overs. Clearly a liability in modern cricket. If they prove they can play faster and more selfless cricket, they should certainly come back. But for now, I think our batting line-up looks ok

 

[cricketAXEpert]

It too late for any changes, in fact it is Show time now. Can Pakistan win against India? The batting order isn't convincing at all, beating Club level amateurs like Oman or UAE will only give a false sense of accomplishment. Bowling isn't any special as well. If we lose to India it will be back to square one. let's if Pakistan's Modern cricket is any good or just worse than it's old cricket?

 

[jnaveen1980]

Rizwan is a limited batsman. last 2 years or so T20 cricket has gone a notch above in terms of big hitting. ON the other hand Babar may come back once the current lot fails. Farhan looked like protecting his place and playing slowly today. That mentality will slowly but surely creep into this set up as well once they start losing matches more regularly against big teams and you are the culprit. That is just a human mentality. Right now Saim is saving his palce due to his bowling. THere may be a time when his bowling goes off color he will be under pressure to score runs with bat.

 

[Bewal Express]

Both are too negative and somehow tried to take on the burden of PK cricket on their shoulders and became useless with their inertia. Dropping was deserved

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Both are too negative and somehow tried to take on the burden of PK cricket on their shoulders and became useless with their inertia. Dropping was deserved

But dropping them for whom? Lord Haris Bradman and Saim Gayle Ayub?