"Mohammad Wasim is not a chief selector, he is just a puppet" : Shoaib Akhtar

[MenInG]

Shoaib Akhtar speaking on TV:

“The Pakistan squad for T20 World Cup will be changed. Mohammad Wasim is not a chief selector, he is just a puppet"

“The Pakistan squad for T20 World Cup should include Babar Azam, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Rizwan, Shoaib Malik, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Shahnawaz Dahani, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Amir, Fakhar Zaman and Hussain Talat"

https://www.geosuper.tv/latest/9817...m-khan-a-puppet-as-he-picks-his-own-t20-squad

 

[Shoaibbtt]

What are you supposed to do follow orders, keep your job, wait for some of the potentials to fail and enforce necessary change by the 10th or don't listen to orders and have that same squad named anyways? That's a check mate.

 

[moghul]

Shoaib Akhtar speaking on TV:

“The Pakistan squad for T20 World Cup will be changed. Mohammad Wasim is not a chief selector, he is just a puppet"

“The Pakistan squad for T20 World Cup should include Babar Azam, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Rizwan, Shoaib Malik, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Shahnawaz Dahani, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Amir, Fakhar Zaman and Hussain Talat"

https://www.geosuper.tv/latest/9817...m-khan-a-puppet-as-he-picks-his-own-t20-squad

That's what it looks like. Poor guy just trying to keep his job, whatever it takes . Trying to keep men in power happy. The weakest chief selector in recent times.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Shoaib Akhtar speaking on TV:

“The Pakistan squad for T20 World Cup will be changed. Mohammad Wasim is not a chief selector, he is just a puppet"

“The Pakistan squad for T20 World Cup should include Babar Azam, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Rizwan, Shoaib Malik, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Shahnawaz Dahani, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Amir, Fakhar Zaman and Hussain Talat"

https://www.geosuper.tv/latest/9817...m-khan-a-puppet-as-he-picks-his-own-t20-squad

- Malik has a poor average in the current running CPL
- Faheem is in poor touch with both bat and ball and decision to include Wasim Jr was a good one
- Amir no need for divas in the squad
- Hussain Talat is a poor player of spin

 

[iniqbal223]

This is what I said many times; Don't make any PCB job (including PCT salary ) lucrative..


Everyone must get the similar salary, then only those who has interest to take Pakistan cricket forward will apply and take these jobs

 

[Shoaibbtt]

That's what it looks like. Poor guy just trying to keep his job, whatever it takes . Trying to keep men in power happy. The weakest chief selector in recent times.

Please tell me with regards to white ball cricket and in particular t20 in this subject who did he not try? Everyone who was selected was based on merit.

 

[Colorblind Genius]

Shoaib Akhtar speaking on TV:

“The Pakistan squad for T20 World Cup will be changed. Mohammad Wasim is not a chief selector, he is just a puppet"

“The Pakistan squad for T20 World Cup should include Babar Azam, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Rizwan, Shoaib Malik, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Shahnawaz Dahani, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Amir, Fakhar Zaman and Hussain Talat"

https://www.geosuper.tv/latest/9817...m-khan-a-puppet-as-he-picks-his-own-t20-squad

Sometimes I feel that Shoaib gets paid to act stupid cuz then it will increase the viewership due to issuing controversial and idiotic statements.

He must be having the last laugh.

 

[PakPremi]

Shoaib does not need to get paod to act stupid when he is not clever anyway. Evwn headline grabbing statements have to have some logic or based on some evidence. Just talking brave and positive without resources is like shooting blank fires.

 

[SangasCoverDrive]

Shoaib is Wasims friend and the fact that he’s saying this about him shows that he is a pathetic selector.

 

[YousafTheBeast]

- Malik has a poor average in the current running CPL
- Faheem is in poor touch with both bat and ball and decision to include Wasim Jr was a good one
- Amir no need for divas in the squad
- Hussain Talat is a poor player of spin

Bro, I know you’re against Malik’s selection but you can’t judge him on one league and not the other. Yes, he failed in the CPL but does that mean we ignore his performances in the PSL? Azam Khan averaged 17 I think in the PSL and 22 in the CPL and correct me if I’m wrong but you prefer him over Malik based on those stats? I would have Azam Khan in the reserves as a back up keeper, and not in the 15.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Shoaib is Wasims friend and the fact that he’s saying this about him shows that he is a pathetic selector.

It means nothing to be honest with Shoaib saying such things.

Shoaib was a complete mute when Waseem came on the show and didn't challenge him one bit over his selections.

Shoaib just like others say what they want about people behind their backs but go completely silent when they are in front of his face.

All those people Shoaib just mentioned do you agree that all those selections should be made?

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Bro, I know you’re against Malik’s selection but you can’t judge him on one league and not the other. Yes, he failed in the CPL but does that mean we ignore his performances in the PSL? Azam Khan averaged 17 I think in the PSL and 22 in the CPL and correct me if I’m wrong but you prefer him over Malik based on those stats? I would have Azam Khan in the reserves as a back up keeper, and not in the 15.

That's a good point about putting Azam in reserves.

Look i go by this rule, whoever you are. Wherever you are, remember you are being judged and you must perform with your fullest passion whether it be franchise/non-franchise cricket.

I don't care whether it's 1 season or 5 seasons, that fact is Malik hasn't performed and not only has he not performed he's completely flopped this season (no 20s, no 30s etc) you have to go by what's happening currently and it's a big gamble to see whether a change in conditions will bring about a positive change in the player or is it actually that the player has now lost his prime?

We can't go in with the assumption that a recently poorly performing player will uplift his form by change in conditions. I get your point he performed in the PSL but i wouldn't risk having him and an out of form Hafeez in the playing XI.

What this team needs is an anchor role player who can play a long-ish innings and i sincerely feel that this can be done by Shan Masood who not only had a decent PSL but also a good KPL along with that he's performing in list A cricket.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Shoaib likes to talk big but doesn't have the guts to say these things on the same people's faces. He's just playing a gimmick so that he regularly makes headlines and stays relevant. He's just an attention-seeker. Which is why I can't take a word he says seriously.

As for Wasim, who exactly is he a puppet of? Floating these kind of conspiracies distracts from the actual subject which is that he's just incompetent. He does not do his job well which is evident by his utter disregard for logic, common sense and actual concrete stats. And this is only worsened by the fact that he does not understand cricket very well and makes selections based on his likes and dislikes. He's a YouTube pundit who has conned his way into a job is neither competent enough, nor sharp enough to do. And in the process its Pakistan cricket that suffers...

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Shoaib likes to talk big but doesn't have the guts to say these things on the same people's faces. He's just playing a gimmick so that he regularly makes headlines and stays relevant. He's just an attention-seeker. Which is why I can't take a word he says seriously.

As for Wasim, who exactly is he a puppet of? Floating these kind of conspiracies distracts from the actual subject which is that he's just incompetent. He does not do his job well which is evident by his utter disregard for logic, common sense and actual concrete stats. And this is only worsened by the fact that he does not understand cricket very well and makes selections based on his likes and dislikes. He's a YouTube pundit who has conned his way into a job is neither competent enough, nor sharp enough to do. And in the process its Pakistan cricket that suffers...

In terms of Wasim, do you think his previous selections made for that middle order spot in t20s were incorrect or correct?

Can you or anyone seriously sit there and say that Hussain Talat, Danish Aziz, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Haider Ali etc were purchi selections? Were they all not picked on merit? Who exactly haven't we tried in that middle order? Everyone failed.

 

[moghul]

Please tell me with regards to white ball cricket and in particular t20 in this subject who did he not try? Everyone who was selected was based on merit.

The biggest stupidity and embarrassment is to let Azam Khan in the team, for what ? , just for being the son of gang leader of a powerful lobby ?? and what about the certified failed players at international level like Shoiab Maqsood, Harris Rauf, and Khushdil . Whats the 43 year old Hafeez's performance has been in international matches over last 6 months .

 

[Shoaibbtt]

The biggest stupidity and embarrassment is to let Azam Khan in the team, for what ? , just for being the son of gang leader of a powerful lobby ?? and what about the certified failed players at international level like Shoiab Maqsood, Harris Rauf, and Khushdil . Whats the 43 year old Hafeez's performance has been in international matches over last 6 months .

I'd advise that you go look at the stats of PSL and National T20 and then re-answer my bro.

 

[Bewal Express]

So SA wants rubbish like Shoaib Malik in the team. A guy so bad that he can't score a single run in the CPL on wickets on which he is supposedly the Don.

 

[srh]

Wasim is not a chief selector material. Look at how he changed the squad to appease his new boss Ramiz Raja! This guy should be fired ASAP.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Wasim is not a chief selector material. Look at how he changed the squad to appease his new boss Ramiz Raja! This guy should be fired ASAP.

He would have been fired had he not followed orders, no???

The squad isn't that bad it needs a max no. of 2-3 changes that's it.

 

[Major]

There might be a squad change. Shan masood might get added to the squad

 

[Savak]

This is why Pakistan is a toxic place to work in and why people stay away from working Malik in the PCB. You make unpopular independent decisions ie don't include social media, media favourites like Malik, Sarfaraz etc and the entire mafia comes down hard to pounce on you

 

[Shoaibbtt]

There might be a squad change. Shan masood might get added to the squad

I’d favour that fully, he’s much needed in my view

 

[The Yorker]

Wasim out of his depth. A squad that that no one favours. He has been set up to look like a fool and the damage has been done. He will be replaced. Squad will be amended and the toxic egotistical carnival with a narcissistic personality, Ramiz Raja will continue onto the next episode.

 

[Golden arm]

Wasim out of his depth. A squad that that no one favours. He has been set up to look like a fool and the damage has been done. He will be replaced. Squad will be amended and the toxic egotistical carnival with a narcissistic personality, Ramiz Raja will continue onto the next episode.

Spot on
His only achievement and laurels is being ordinary member of 92 World Cup!!!

 

[Greenstorm]

This is why Pakistan is a toxic place to work in and why people stay away from working Malik in the PCB. You make unpopular independent decisions ie don't include social media, media favourites like Malik, Sarfaraz etc and the entire mafia comes down hard to pounce on you

This. After early exits from the WCs and humiliating series defeats, our fans used to cry on selection of oldies. The argument used to be to go with the youth, they may get better even if they lose. Now that the CS has taken a brave call (backed by Ramiz), the same fickle fans are clamouring for return of failed seniors. Media mafias of course has used this outrage to peddle their own agenda.

I cannot understand that in this day and age, how can people think that likes of Sarfaraz and Malik will win T20 matches for them. Complaining has become a national past time and we won't let go of any opportunity to criticize be it fair or not.

 

[UzmanBeast]

Shoaib likes to talk big but doesn't have the guts to say these things on the same people's faces. He's just playing a gimmick so that he regularly makes headlines and stays relevant. He's just an attention-seeker. Which is why I can't take a word he says seriously.

As for Wasim, who exactly is he a puppet of? Floating these kind of conspiracies distracts from the actual subject which is that he's just incompetent. He does not do his job well which is evident by his utter disregard for logic, common sense and actual concrete stats. And this is only worsened by the fact that he does not understand cricket very well and makes selections based on his likes and dislikes. He's a YouTube pundit who has conned his way into a job is neither competent enough, nor sharp enough to do. And in the process its Pakistan cricket that suffers...

Shoaib needs attention from an immature fan-base that lacks cricketing knowledge and believes as though he is some sort of an expert.

I was unfortunate enough to tune into PTV Sports and listen to some of the nonsense he says. He doesn't use any logical thinking to back up what he says, and he makes absurd claims to try and cover up his own lack of cricketing IQ.

I still remember when he tried to take credit for Saqib Mahmood's success, what a joke of an ex-player Shoaib has become.

Mohammad Wasim is just incompetent. This is probably the worst squad selection in the history of T20 World Cups.

 

[UzmanBeast]

There might be a squad change. Shan masood might get added to the squad

Interesting.

This is a good change in my opinion.

Masood knows the importance of rotating strike, and he doesn't fall to spin that often. I would play him at #3 to give us a left-hander in the mix of things.

He'd add a lot of balance to the team:

Babar Azam
Mohammad Rizwan
Shan Masood
Mohammad Hafeez
Sohaib Maqsood
Khushdil Shah
Imad Wasim
Shadab Khan
Hasan Ali
Shaheen Shah Afridi
Mohammad Hasnain

All of a sudden, I can see us putting up the runs we need. The bowling attack looks extremely good with Hafeez chipping in, along with the option of Khushdil if needed.

 

[Greenstorm]

Interesting.

This is a good change in my opinion.

Masood knows the importance of rotating strike, and he doesn't fall to spin that often. I would play him at #3 to give us a left-hander in the mix of things.

He'd add a lot of balance to the team:

Babar Azam
Mohammad Rizwan
Shan Masood
Mohammad Hafeez
Sohaib Maqsood
Khushdil Shah
Imad Wasim
Shadab Khan
Hasan Ali
Shaheen Shah Afridi
Mohammad Hasnain

All of a sudden, I can see us putting up the runs we need. The bowling attack looks extremely good with Hafeez chipping in, along with the option of Khushdil if needed.

Fans are blasting M Wasim and then they come up with lineups like these.

Shan Masood has 23/121 stats in T20s. Each of the top 4 of your selected lineup has sub 130 sr. At least you had the sense to not select Malik, otherwise they won't even cross 140.

Shan and Hafeez at 3-4 are the worst type of T20 batters with low average and strike rate. Its disappointing that a sensible poster like you has joined the 'stability in the middle' bandwagon, advocating for the inclusion of mediocre low strike rate batsmen in T20Is.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

In terms of Wasim, do you think his previous selections made for that middle order spot in t20s were incorrect or correct?

Can you or anyone seriously sit there and say that Hussain Talat, Danish Aziz, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Haider Ali etc were purchi selections? Were they all not picked on merit? Who exactly haven't we tried in that middle order? Everyone failed.

I don't think that the fact that they weren't 'parchi' selections is any consolation. Many of the selections he made simply made no logical sense. What is the logical sense of selecting 36 year old Tabish Khan who averaged 37 the previous season in QeA, or selecting Haris Rauf for tests when he has a grand total of 3 FC matches under his belt. Then he used Second XI stats to justify Abdullah Shafique's selection in Tests.

Even T20s which you are talking are full of illogical selections that makes no sense such as Asif Ali constantly returning, Sharjeel who has an egregious dot ball percentage getting selected at all. Shoaib Malik being dropped for no reason eventhough his recent T20I record outmatches that of most batsmen playing for Pakistan in the middle order. And then there's chopping and changing in nearly every series so that even guys who have potential are never given a proper chance to prove themselves. Oftentimes guys get selected, don't play and then are dropped. What is the explanation behind dropping them, does anyone know?

Here, Iftikhar Ahmed, one of the names you mentioned is a prime example. How many opportunities has Iftikhar really gotten in the T20 team? Not too long ago he was Pakistan's best T20 batsman in Australia and had a T20 average of 70. Then they forgot about him, found out that he existed again, gave him a couple of chances against South Africa and then dropped him again.

When Iftikahar is among the handful of guys who has proven he can succeed on the international stage, why isn't he given a consistent run to prove himself?

The names you named are only a few. For the most part there is zero sense, logical, method behind anything that the YouTube pundit does.

 

[Shafi]

Is he out of his mind?

Shoaib Malik- A total failure in CPL against average 3rd class bowlers.
Faheem Ashraf- This guy can neither bat nor ball
Mohammad Amir- Retired plus he is unable to take wickets even in CPL
Hussain Talat- Not an international material

Only Fakhar/Sharjeel can be drafted in the squad. Fakhar is very poor against quality spin, Sharjeel is out of form to score even 20s.

 

[UzmanBeast]

Fans are blasting M Wasim and then they come up with lineups like these.

Shan Masood has 23/121 stats in T20s. Each of the top 4 of your selected lineup has sub 130 sr. At least you had the sense to not select Malik, otherwise they won't even cross 140.

Shan and Hafeez at 3-4 are the worst type of T20 batters with low average and strike rate. Its disappointing that a sensible poster like you has joined the 'stability in the middle' bandwagon, advocating for the inclusion of mediocre low strike rate batsmen in T20Is.

I am going by the current statistics.

Apart from Babar and Rizwan, we have had no stability in our opening partnership. These two have put up tremendous opening stands in high-scoring games, and compliment each other very well. They have demonstrated the cricketing capacity to dissect bowling attacks and have a very good understanding of themselves. They batted sensibly and in a methodical manner, something the rest of our team doesn't comprehend to the slightest.

Shan Masood has gracefully accepted the limited T20 opportunities that have come to him in recent times and have outperformed his contemporaries. He is a sensible batsman and has also shown the ability to bat when the chips are down. He is resilient, and I defend my choice to include him in the WC squad ahead of meaningless hacks who falter at the slightest ounce of pressure.

Mohammad Hafeez made WC selection just by virtue of his bowling which he seems to have rediscovered. A right-arm off-spinner compliments the other spinners in our bowling attack quite well and gives us a very potent option against left-handed batsmen who Imad and Shadab both struggle to dismiss. Hafeez hits a good length with the ball and understands how to bowl in certain situations. In addition to bowling in the middle overs, he gives us a few solid overs in the power-play should the pitch provide the necessary conditions. His batting has been on a lean patch in recent times, but should he bring his best for his final run in the Pakistan shirt, he could well take us to the final. I'll rest my final decision on Hafeez when the series against New Zealand is concluded.

You need sensible batsmen on a team as fragile as ours. You work with what you have instead of trying to conjure the most makeshift playing XI.

Do we have experienced players in the format? Yes, we do.

Do we have world-class hitters? No, we don't.

Do we have world-class pace-bowling all-rounders? No, we don't.

If fans continue to have unreasonable aspirations for players who are fundamentally flawed, it will only take our cricket to a worse stage than it is now.

Let me ask you, does the Pakistan team need runs or not?

Depending on your answer, can you seriously look at guys like Asif Ali and Khushdil Shah to step up when there's a collapse and give you the runs you need? The answer is no, you can't.

You're welcome to disagree with what I've said, but one cannot ignore the lack of talented, aggressive batsmen in Pakistan.

And yes, our chief selector has selected the worst squad for the T20 World Cup.

 

[YousafTheBeast]

We were cursed with a dummy captain and now we’ve been cursed with a dummy chief selector.

There’s NO way this was his WT20 squad, and instead of fighting to get the squad he wanted, he stayed silent like a dummy.

 

[Usman Chadda]

I don’t think so. For all the criticism of Wasim, he is actually making decisions on logic, no matter how flawed it is. Pretty clear from the squad that they want Babar and Rizwan to consolidate at the top and hope against hope that the tullaybaaz coming in get some quick runs to get Pakistan a decent total on the board. There is logic in this, regardless if its based on merit or not is up for discussion.

Atleast he did not go back to Shoaib Malik and Wahab Riaz, which I’m pretty sure EVERY other selector in Pakistan would have ended up doing. Inzamam’s infamous u-turn on the eve of the WC19, where he dropped four players from the preliminary squad rings a bell.

 

[mumtaz]

I don’t think so. For all the criticism of Wasim, he is actually making decisions on logic, no matter how flawed it is. Pretty clear from the squad that they want Babar and Rizwan to consolidate at the top and hope against hope that the tullaybaaz coming in get some quick runs to get Pakistan a decent total on the board. There is logic in this, regardless if its based on merit or not is up for discussion.

Atleast he did not go back to Shoaib Malik and Wahab Riaz, which I’m pretty sure EVERY other selector in Pakistan would have ended up doing. Inzamam’s infamous u-turn on the eve of the WC19, where he dropped four players from the preliminary squad rings a bell.

The window for the u-turn is still open until Oct 10.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1645619/p...ad-under-special-circumstances-chief-selector

 

[Greenstorm]

I am going by the current statistics.

Apart from Babar and Rizwan, we have had no stability in our opening partnership. These two have put up tremendous opening stands in high-scoring games, and compliment each other very well. They have demonstrated the cricketing capacity to dissect bowling attacks and have a very good understanding of themselves. They batted sensibly and in a methodical manner, something the rest of our team doesn't comprehend to the slightest.

Shan Masood has gracefully accepted the limited T20 opportunities that have come to him in recent times and have outperformed his contemporaries. He is a sensible batsman and has also shown the ability to bat when the chips are down. He is resilient, and I defend my choice to include him in the WC squad ahead of meaningless hacks who falter at the slightest ounce of pressure.

Mohammad Hafeez made WC selection just by virtue of his bowling which he seems to have rediscovered. A right-arm off-spinner compliments the other spinners in our bowling attack quite well and gives us a very potent option against left-handed batsmen who Imad and Shadab both struggle to dismiss. Hafeez hits a good length with the ball and understands how to bowl in certain situations. In addition to bowling in the middle overs, he gives us a few solid overs in the power-play should the pitch provide the necessary conditions. His batting has been on a lean patch in recent times, but should he bring his best for his final run in the Pakistan shirt, he could well take us to the final. I'll rest my final decision on Hafeez when the series against New Zealand is concluded.

You need sensible batsmen on a team as fragile as ours. You work with what you have instead of trying to conjure the most makeshift playing XI.

Do we have experienced players in the format? Yes, we do.

Do we have world-class hitters? No, we don't.

Do we have world-class pace-bowling all-rounders? No, we don't.

If fans continue to have unreasonable aspirations for players who are fundamentally flawed, it will only take our cricket to a worse stage than it is now.

Let me ask you, does the Pakistan team need runs or not?

Depending on your answer, can you seriously look at guys like Asif Ali and Khushdil Shah to step up when there's a collapse and give you the runs you need? The answer is no, you can't.

You're welcome to disagree with what I've said, but one cannot ignore the lack of talented, aggressive batsmen in Pakistan.

And yes, our chief selector has selected the worst squad for the T20 World Cup.

I have no issues with Babar and Rizwan. They are our best options at opening specially in UAE. But when you have high averaging low strike rate openers, you need some firepower in the middle order instead of Shan. You are building your team on the notion of 'what if there is a collapse'. How are you going to create a winning unit with that mindset ? In any case, Shadab and Imad are good enough to deal with a collapse situation in T20s. They can be sent ahead of hacks in that scenario.

You have placed Maqsood at 5 ignoring the fact that his performances in T20s have come when he bats in top 3.

You are advocating for Shan on recent performances in domestic T20s while at the same time disregarding Khushdil's T20 form.

If Hafeez is in your team as a bowler than what is he doing at 4 ?

It has become a tradition in Pakistan that non performing, past it seniors are recalled on the eve of WCs. Now after a long time, the selectors have taken a brave decision that deserves our backing.

 

[shaz619]

Do we know who is rumoured to replace Wasim if that is the case ? will Akhtar take up the job ?

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Do we know who is rumoured to replace Wasim if that is the case ? will Akhtar take up the job ?

I wouldn’t have Akhtar in charge of the gents bathroom let alone become a chief selector.

 

[Usman Chadda]

I have no issues with Babar and Rizwan. They are our best options at opening specially in UAE. But when you have high averaging low strike rate openers, you need some firepower in the middle order instead of Shan. You are building your team on the notion of 'what if there is a collapse'. How are you going to create a winning unit with that mindset ? In any case, Shadab and Imad are good enough to deal with a collapse situation in T20s. They can be sent ahead of hacks in that scenario.

You have placed Maqsood at 5 ignoring the fact that his performances in T20s have come when he bats in top 3.

You are advocating for Shan on recent performances in domestic T20s while at the same time disregarding Khushdil's T20 form.

If Hafeez is in your team as a bowler than what is he doing at 4 ?

It has become a tradition in Pakistan that non performing, past it seniors are recalled on the eve of WCs. Now after a long time, the selectors have taken a brave decision that deserves our backing.

Anyone advocating for Shan in the T20 team is just arguing for the sake it.

 

[Shafi]

Isn't Shoaib good friend of M Wasim? Why he is defaming M Wasim in public.

 

[Khan_123]

Why is shoaib taking a diss at Wasim Akram/Mohd Wasim all of a sudden? He was close to Akram and the two are usually friendly and cordial on the PTV sports show whenevee I see them.

They also did quite a few ventures together recently. Whats brought the statements on Akram? Same for Mohd wasim.

At times I feel shoiab is quite insecure. Constantly telling people how awesome or famous he was. He constantly brags about us kaptaan say meri fame bardasht nai hoti. Sorry stuff

 

[UzmanBeast]

I have no issues with Babar and Rizwan. They are our best options at opening specially in UAE. But when you have high averaging low strike rate openers, you need some firepower in the middle order instead of Shan. You are building your team on the notion of 'what if there is a collapse'. How are you going to create a winning unit with that mindset ? In any case, Shadab and Imad are good enough to deal with a collapse situation in T20s. They can be sent ahead of hacks in that scenario.

You have placed Maqsood at 5 ignoring the fact that his performances in T20s have come when he bats in top 3.

You are advocating for Shan on recent performances in domestic T20s while at the same time disregarding Khushdil's T20 form.

If Hafeez is in your team as a bowler than what is he doing at 4 ?

It has become a tradition in Pakistan that non performing, past it seniors are recalled on the eve of WCs. Now after a long time, the selectors have taken a brave decision that deserves our backing.

Like I said, this series against New Zealand will answer a lot of questions.

You have made very valid points barring the fact that you think Shadab is capable of batting to the standard of cricket set by T20Is.

I agree that Imad can handle pressure, but he has had limited opportunities to bat for Pakistan.

The reason I am building a team for a collapse is that we are collapsing too much too frequently. Stocking up on 4-5 hitters on the team is asking for trouble more than it is sounding lucrative. Shan and Hafeez are in the middle order, for me, to act as a cushion in case we get pummeled in the powerplay.

With my lineup, if were are 140-0 after 15 overs, I can easily send Maqsood and Khushdil/Asif to come out and slog. If I were 40-2 having lost both openers, I know I have capable batsmen to carry the runs and two guys who can explode.

T20 cricket is about taking risks, yes, but who are we taking a risk on? Asif the bottler? Khushdil the leg-side hero? Azam the marathon runner?

 

[Greenstorm]

Like I said, this series against New Zealand will answer a lot of questions.

You have made very valid points barring the fact that you think Shadab is capable of batting to the standard of cricket set by T20Is.

I agree that Imad can handle pressure, but he has had limited opportunities to bat for Pakistan.

The reason I am building a team for a collapse is that we are collapsing too much too frequently. Stocking up on 4-5 hitters on the team is asking for trouble more than it is sounding lucrative. Shan and Hafeez are in the middle order, for me, to act as a cushion in case we get pummeled in the powerplay.

With my lineup, if were are 140-0 after 15 overs, I can easily send Maqsood and Khushdil/Asif to come out and slog. If I were 40-2 having lost both openers, I know I have capable batsmen to carry the runs and two guys who can explode.

T20 cricket is about taking risks, yes, but who are we taking a risk on? Asif the bottler? Khushdil the leg-side hero? Azam the marathon runner?

We are taking the risk with the best we have got. That is the job of selectors to choose the best available options. What you are offering is that we don't take risks at all. You have essentially lost the game before it has started with such approach.

In T20s, low strike rates are a bigger issue than collapses. In Babar and Rizwan, we have two of the most consistent openers in T20 cricket. They will ensure 70/80-0 type of starts on most occasions.

We also have the option of using Hassan Ali as a floater specially if some spinner is creating issues in the middle. He can disturb his lengths. Actually, Ramiz presented this idea in one of his YT videos so we may see it happening in next series.

Apart from Asif Ali's selection (Fakhar should replace him), I think they have ended up with the right squad. I also believe that it is highly inaccurate to call this as the worst squad ever (considering the available options). You should look at 2016 WT20 squad for comparison.

 

[YousafTheBeast]

We are taking the risk with the best we have got. That is the job of selectors to choose the best available options. What you are offering is that we don't take risks at all. You have essentially lost the game before it has started with such approach.

In T20s, low strike rates are a bigger issue than collapses. In Babar and Rizwan, we have two of the most consistent openers in T20 cricket. They will ensure 70/80-0 type of starts on most occasions.

We also have the option of using Hassan Ali as a floater specially if some spinner is creating issues in the middle. He can disturb his lengths. Actually, Ramiz presented this idea in one of his YT videos so we may see it happening in next series.

Apart from Asif Ali's selection (Fakhar should replace him), I think they have ended up with the right squad. I also believe that it is highly inaccurate to call this as the worst squad ever (considering the available options). You should look at 2016 WT20 squad for comparison.

The best we’ve got? Based on what?

Can you back up your claims with stats, how are Khushdil Shah, Azam Khan and Asif Ali the “best we’ve got”?

Show me the stats of the players that weren’t picked and compare them to the “best we’ve got”.

 

[UzmanBeast]

We are taking the risk with the best we have got. That is the job of selectors to choose the best available options. What you are offering is that we don't take risks at all. You have essentially lost the game before it has started with such approach.

In T20s, low strike rates are a bigger issue than collapses. In Babar and Rizwan, we have two of the most consistent openers in T20 cricket. They will ensure 70/80-0 type of starts on most occasions.

We also have the option of using Hassan Ali as a floater specially if some spinner is creating issues in the middle. He can disturb his lengths. Actually, Ramiz presented this idea in one of his YT videos so we may see it happening in next series.

Apart from Asif Ali's selection (Fakhar should replace him), I think they have ended up with the right squad. I also believe that it is highly inaccurate to call this as the worst squad ever (considering the available options). You should look at 2016 WT20 squad for comparison.

The word "best" should be reserved for players who have actually put up credible performances.

Asif has done nothing of note in his international career apart from dropping that catch against Australia in the 2019 WC. He is a poor fielder and hardly contributes with the bat if even at all.

Khushdil himself is a horrible fielder and his bowling looks more threatening than his so-called explosive hitting.

Azam Khan as a back-up keeper is a joke of a selection; a guy who can't run across the pitch is expected to dive left, right, and center and take screamers. Not to mention, he is severely lacking in his ability to play pace, being dismissed in the CPL almost every single time by pacers. He is a guy who bashes poor spinners, not a hard-hitter.

The idea of Hasan Ali as a floater isn't bad given that he averages higher and strikes higher than our so-called hitters, but he is unreliable in that role as of now. If he is tried in that role in the NZ series and succeeds, then it could be good.

Your point about low strike rate would make sense if Pakistan were consistently lacking the ability to finish the game off. We collapse before even reaching the target, so it is quite evident that we need a few more batsmen who can bat sensibly before we stock up on sloggers in the middle order.

Hafeez, Sohaib, Khushdil, Imad, Hasan, and Shadab are more than capable of swinging their bats around for runs, so I don't think we need to sacrifice runs for a paltry "specialist" hitter who only specializes in either dropping catches or being an inexcusable waste of space on the cricket field.

 

[MenInG]

While speaking to Cricket Pakistan in an exclusive interview, Wasim said that he respects everyone’s opinion but that doesn’t mean that they are right.

“Shoaib [Akhtar] is a very good friend and we spend a lot of time together. Earlier, we used to do shows together but now we don’t interact in the same manner. Cricketers and analysts have their own point of view and I respect that but that doesn’t mean that they are right all the time,” said Wasim.

He also brushed aside the notion that he was under pressure after the appointment of Ramiz Raja as the next chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

“The role of chief selector is always a pressure job, no matter who is the chairman. I have not felt any pressure since his [Ramiz Raja] appointment,” he said. “Every new chairman brings a new direction with him and Ramiz bhai also gave us a clear message, to the team and us, in this regard. Following that direction and policies is part of our job. As far as the future is concerned, that is something we both can’t predict,” he said.

Wasim was also satisfied with the squad he had selected for the upcoming home series, against New Zealand and England, and the mega event.

“We have selected the best possible squad and I’m very hopeful that this team will put up a good show in the upcoming series as well as the T20 World Cup,” he said. “Obviously, we won’t select the squad after listening to media or social media. My job is such that I can’t make everyone happy.”

https://cricketpakistan.com.pk/en/n...-shoaib-akhtars-puppet-chief-selector-comment

 

[Greenstorm]

The word "best" should be reserved for players who have actually put up credible performances.

Asif has done nothing of note in his international career apart from dropping that catch against Australia in the 2019 WC. He is a poor fielder and hardly contributes with the bat if even at all.

Khushdil himself is a horrible fielder and his bowling looks more threatening than his so-called explosive hitting.

Azam Khan as a back-up keeper is a joke of a selection; a guy who can't run across the pitch is expected to dive left, right, and center and take screamers. Not to mention, he is severely lacking in his ability to play pace, being dismissed in the CPL almost every single time by pacers. He is a guy who bashes poor spinners, not a hard-hitter.

The idea of Hasan Ali as a floater isn't bad given that he averages higher and strikes higher than our so-called hitters, but he is unreliable in that role as of now. If he is tried in that role in the NZ series and succeeds, then it could be good.

Your point about low strike rate would make sense if Pakistan were consistently lacking the ability to finish the game off. We collapse before even reaching the target, so it is quite evident that we need a few more batsmen who can bat sensibly before we stock up on sloggers in the middle order.

Hafeez, Sohaib, Khushdil, Imad, Hasan, and Shadab are more than capable of swinging their bats around for runs, so I don't think we need to sacrifice runs for a paltry "specialist" hitter who only specializes in either dropping catches or being an inexcusable waste of space on the cricket field.

I have said before that Asif Ali should not have been selected. Fakhar should replace him.

Khushdil is the only genuine middle/lower order power hitter and finisher in Pakistan. He has shown this repeatedly in domestic LO cricket specially in list A matches. I don't think he has been given enough chances at international level to be discarded.

Azam Khan's fitness is a non issue if he keeps stumps which he should if he plays. If I am not wrong, he was awarded as the the best wk in the last list A tournament.

 

[Greenstorm]

The best we’ve got? Based on what?

Can you back up your claims with stats, how are Khushdil Shah, Azam Khan and Asif Ali the “best we’ve got”?

Show me the stats of the players that weren’t picked and compare them to the “best we’ve got”.

Azam, Khushdil and Asif will be fighting out for that no 5 position (5-6 if we go in with five bowlers). Name me better options for that 5-6 position in T20s. And please don't say Malik or that guy in your signature.

 

[YousafTheBeast]

Azam, Khushdil and Asif will be fighting out for that no 5 position (5-6 if we go in with five bowlers). Name me better options for that 5-6 position in T20s. And please don't say Malik or that guy in your signature.

Haider Ali (out of form but at least he’s won Pakistan games unlike the other 3)

Ifthikar Ali (unfairly dropped - and he can bowl)

Fakhar Zaman (briefly used in the middle order and wasn’t given enough time to adapt)

Zeeshan Ashraf (should’ve been ahead of Azam Khan as back up keeper but Zeeshan isn’t a big fat parchi)

Basically, you can’t make an argument against these players because the 3 you mentioned haven’t done better than the players I mentioned.

 

[Canistani Hero]

Shoaib is Wasims friend and the fact that he’s saying this about him shows that he is a pathetic selector.

Better to have enemies instead of friends like this.

 

[UzmanBeast]

I have said before that Asif Ali should not have been selected. Fakhar should replace him.

Khushdil is the only genuine middle/lower order power hitter and finisher in Pakistan. He has shown this repeatedly in domestic LO cricket specially in list A matches. I don't think he has been given enough chances at international level to be discarded.

Azam Khan's fitness is a non issue if he keeps stumps which he should if he plays. If I am not wrong, he was awarded as the the best wk in the last list A tournament.

Khushdil has gotten about 10 games. His recent T20 form is also horrific. Unless bowlers bowl in his arc and on the pads, he cannot negotiate them. This is a proven deficiency he is yet to fix.

If you seriously think Azam Khan's fitness isn't a problem, I don't really know what to say. When he is unable to bash the ball, he gets run-out. A player who can't rotate strike is not worth the trouble.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

I don't think that the fact that they weren't 'parchi' selections is any consolation. Many of the selections he made simply made no logical sense. What is the logical sense of selecting 36 year old Tabish Khan who averaged 37 the previous season in QeA, or selecting Haris Rauf for tests when he has a grand total of 3 FC matches under his belt. Then he used Second XI stats to justify Abdullah Shafique's selection in Tests.

Even T20s which you are talking are full of illogical selections that makes no sense such as Asif Ali constantly returning, Sharjeel who has an egregious dot ball percentage getting selected at all. Shoaib Malik being dropped for no reason eventhough his recent T20I record outmatches that of most batsmen playing for Pakistan in the middle order. And then there's chopping and changing in nearly every series so that even guys who have potential are never given a proper chance to prove themselves. Oftentimes guys get selected, don't play and then are dropped. What is the explanation behind dropping them, does anyone know?

Here, Iftikhar Ahmed, one of the names you mentioned is a prime example. How many opportunities has Iftikhar really gotten in the T20 team? Not too long ago he was Pakistan's best T20 batsman in Australia and had a T20 average of 70. Then they forgot about him, found out that he existed again, gave him a couple of chances against South Africa and then dropped him again.

When Iftikahar is among the handful of guys who has proven he can succeed on the international stage, why isn't he given a consistent run to prove himself?

The names you named are only a few. For the most part there is zero sense, logical, method behind anything that the YouTube pundit does.

Shoaib Malik is the worst guy you can pick right now given his poor form. There are guys that break down the doors for selection and Malik has hardly even knocked on that door. Straight to the point view on Malik he would be a poor selection and is rightfully being ignored by CS.

T20 wise he's given everyone chances like i said and all have failed, who else are we to pick?

Abdullah Shafique is untested territory if someone feels there is some class about him or see something positive fine, i'm ok with having one prospect in the team.

Asif Ali i'd say join the queue of people being angered by his selection, it's an illogical selection but i think Pak are going in with the blueprint that Rizwan/Babar will take us deep when batting i.e. bat till the 14th/15th over then we have the pinch hitters.

A lot will be answered i think come this ODI/T20 series.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Shoaib Malik is the worst guy you can pick right now given his poor form. There are guys that break down the doors for selection and Malik has hardly even knocked on that door. Straight to the point view on Malik he would be a poor selection and is rightfully being ignored by CS.

T20 wise he's given everyone chances like i said and all have failed, who else are we to pick?

Abdullah Shafique is untested territory if someone feels there is some class about him or see something positive fine, i'm ok with having one prospect in the team.

Asif Ali i'd say join the queue of people being angered by his selection, it's an illogical selection but i think Pak are going in with the blueprint that Rizwan/Babar will take us deep when batting i.e. bat till the 14th/15th over then we have the pinch hitters.

A lot will be answered i think come this ODI/T20 series.

Your opinion is not exactly supported by facts. Look at Malik's numbers for Pakistan in T20Is 2017 onwards. Look at his numbers in the last PSL. So his selection very much would have made logical sense. Especially considering he is one of the best players of spin on the planet too.

Unfortunately Mohammad Wasim is not guided by logic or any kind of rational thinking. Which is why he thinks that Asif Ali will somehow, out of some great miracle, suddenly become Jos Buttler at the World Cup. Eventhough he has done nothing in a Pakistan shirt in the last 3 years to give that idea.

So I don't understand how you can defend a selection you yourself are calling illogical, and in the same breath say Malik does not deserve to be there for reasons that are not entirely factual.

And Asif Ali is not a pinch hitter. To be a pinch hitter you actually have to do some pinch hitting.

 

[cric_4life]

Actually I think its a very smart move by Mohammed Wasim. He will get weak players exposed against NZ and then will change them with deserving players last minute.

 

[shamaan]

Your opinion is not exactly supported by facts. Look at Malik's numbers for Pakistan in T20Is 2017 onwards. Look at his numbers in the last PSL. So his selection very much would have made logical sense. Especially considering he is one of the best players of spin on the planet too.

Unfortunately Mohammad Wasim is not guided by logic or any kind of rational thinking. Which is why he thinks that Asif Ali will somehow, out of some great miracle, suddenly become Jos Buttler at the World Cup. Eventhough he has done nothing in a Pakistan shirt in the last 3 years to give that idea.

So I don't understand how you can defend a selection you yourself are calling illogical, and in the same breath say Malik does not deserve to be there for reasons that are not entirely factual.

And Asif Ali is not a pinch hitter. To be a pinch hitter you actually have to do some pinch hitting.

Also malik is the best player of spin and proberly one of the best fielders in the team

 

[shamaan]

I have said before that Asif Ali should not have been selected. Fakhar should replace him.

Khushdil is the only genuine middle/lower order power hitter and finisher in Pakistan. He has shown this repeatedly in domestic LO cricket specially in list A matches. I don't think he has been given enough chances at international level to be discarded.

Azam Khan's fitness is a non issue if he keeps stumps which he should if he plays. If I am not wrong, he was awarded as the the best wk in the last list A tournament.

Azam khan won't be keeping he will either bat at 6 or won't play at all

 

[Savak]

Your opinion is not exactly supported by facts. Look at Malik's numbers for Pakistan in T20Is 2017 onwards. Look at his numbers in the last PSL. So his selection very much would have made logical sense. Especially considering he is one of the best players of spin on the planet too.

Unfortunately Mohammad Wasim is not guided by logic or any kind of rational thinking. Which is why he thinks that Asif Ali will somehow, out of some great miracle, suddenly become Jos Buttler at the World Cup. Eventhough he has done nothing in a Pakistan shirt in the last 3 years to give that idea.

So I don't understand how you can defend a selection you yourself are calling illogical, and in the same breath say Malik does not deserve to be there for reasons that are not entirely factual.

And Asif Ali is not a pinch hitter. To be a pinch hitter you actually have to do some pinch hitting.

Malik has had a poor CPL, he has flopped in all WC's and is also now 40 years old, someone who could not do anything in WC's in his 20's and 30's is not going to do anything at 40. He has conned his way into WC squads on the basis of so called experience his entire life.

 

[iniqbal223]

Shoaib Akhtar first learn some organizational skills
He is so desperate to get a job in PCB that every now and then he is blasting any cricketer to just be in news
I am telling you, this way he will never get even a post of Chaprasi in PCB

 

[Savak]

Shoaib Akhtar first learn some organizational skills
He is so desperate to get a job in PCB that every now and then he is blasting any cricketer to just be in news
I am telling you, this way he will never get even a post of Chaprasi in PCB

He is not desperate for any job in the PCB. The PCB Cannot pay him enough to compensate him for his earnings outside the PCB.

 

[Snowflake]

He is not desperate for any job in the PCB. The PCB Cannot pay him enough to compensate him for his earnings outside the PCB.

Oh he's desperate for sure... Though completely unsuitable for the job, but certainly very desperate

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Malik has had a poor CPL, he has flopped in all WC's and is also now 40 years old, someone who could not do anything in WC's in his 20's and 30's is not going to do anything at 40. He has conned his way into WC squads on the basis of so called experience his entire life.

CPL is meaningless. As are his performance in tournaments that took place 7, 10, 12 years ago. The World Cup will not played on the horrible, sluggish Windies wickets. It will be played in UAE.

Malik's T20I record 2017 onwards speaks for itself. As does his performance in the recent PSL. And how can you seriously talk about Malik conning his way into the side when in the past year guys like Sharjeel, Asif Ali and Azam Khan have regularly played for Pakistan.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Also malik is the best player of spin and proberly one of the best fielders in the team

Unquestionably one of the best players of spin in the world. And super fit too

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Unquestionably one of the best players of spin in the world. And super fit too

Dude you can’t bank on a player who’s recent form shows he’s struggling, we’ve already got Hafeez who ain’t in great along with a shaky middle order. We must look past Malik and look at someone else reliable like dare I say it Iftikhar and Shan Masood.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Your opinion is not exactly supported by facts. Look at Malik's numbers for Pakistan in T20Is 2017 onwards. Look at his numbers in the last PSL. So his selection very much would have made logical sense. Especially considering he is one of the best players of spin on the planet too.

Unfortunately Mohammad Wasim is not guided by logic or any kind of rational thinking. Which is why he thinks that Asif Ali will somehow, out of some great miracle, suddenly become Jos Buttler at the World Cup. Eventhough he has done nothing in a Pakistan shirt in the last 3 years to give that idea.

So I don't understand how you can defend a selection you yourself are calling illogical, and in the same breath say Malik does not deserve to be there for reasons that are not entirely factual.

And Asif Ali is not a pinch hitter. To be a pinch hitter you actually have to do some pinch hitting.

So wait Malik’s bad form in CPL isn’t fact? Stop supporting him dude far better players that can play spin other than him.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

So wait Malik’s bad form in CPL isn’t fact? Stop supporting him dude far better players that can play spin other than him.

CPL is utterly meaningless. His form in the PSL and his form for Pakistan is what matters more.

And there is no one who is better or more experienced at playing spin than him.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Dude you can’t bank on a player who’s recent form shows he’s struggling, we’ve already got Hafeez who ain’t in great along with a shaky middle order. We must look past Malik and look at someone else reliable like dare I say it Iftikhar and Shan Masood.

Oh really? Than why is Asif Ali in the squad? Why is Khushdil in the squad?

Shan Masood is worth a shot, I guess. Iftikhar never did anything to get dropped in the first place. Shoaib Malik is the missing link. And the logical inclusion over the obese parchi

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Oh really? Than why is Asif Ali in the squad? Why is Khushdil in the squad?

Shan Masood is worth a shot, I guess. Iftikhar never did anything to get dropped in the first place. Shoaib Malik is the missing link. And the logical inclusion over the obese parchi

Asif Ali i agree shouldn't be part of it.

Khushdil i'm willing to see again and see what he's done to improve his off side game, we must show patience as well with players. Khushdil whether you like him or not according to AskCricinfo has a phenomenal SR of +190 at the death so he can prove useful.

You say obese purchi but how many shots has he had? This is the problem with fans we must be patient at times, let a person have a fair chance.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

CPL is utterly meaningless. His form in the PSL and his form for Pakistan is what matters more.

And there is no one who is better or more experienced at playing spin than him.

Shan Masood or Ifti are much better choices than Malik.

Hold the phone PSL matters? Weren't you the one that said previously it didn't matter and shouldn't be taken seriously? Talk about contradiction.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Shan Masood or Ifti are much better choices than Malik.

Hold the phone PSL matters? Weren't you the one that said previously it didn't matter and shouldn't be taken seriously? Talk about contradiction.

Iftikhar maybe. Shan no.

However all three are infinitely better choices than Azam Khan, Khushdil Shah and Asif Ali.

Comparing Khushdil the domestic cricketer to Khushdil the international cricketer is like comparing a lion to a housecat. Maybe he will get better one day and become an international-level cricketer but that day is not here yet.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Shan Masood or Ifti are much better choices than Malik.

Hold the phone PSL matters? Weren't you the one that said previously it didn't matter and shouldn't be taken seriously? Talk about contradiction.

PSL matters to an extent. If someone has done overwhelmingly well in it you can't say that player doesn't deserve to be selected. But history has show that just because you have done well in the PSL does not mean you will do well for Pakistan. And PSL performances prove to be misleading at times.

This however does not apply to Malik as he's a veteran and a proven performer who has already delivered on numerous occasions for Pakistan in just the last 4 years. And thus has shown that he has what it takes to perform on the top level. Not something that can be said for the likes of Khushdil and Asif Ali. Azam Khan on the other hand didn't even do well in the PSL.

I urge you to try and understand my views next time, before making half-baked assertions that misrepresent them.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Asif Ali i agree shouldn't be part of it.

Khushdil i'm willing to see again and see what he's done to improve his off side game, we must show patience as well with players. Khushdil whether you like him or not according to AskCricinfo has a phenomenal SR of +190 at the death so he can prove useful.

You say obese purchi but how many shots has he had? This is the problem with fans we must be patient at times, let a person have a fair chance.

What has Azam Khan done to ever earn that shot in the first place? His T20 average is 22. He averaged 17 in the PSL, consistently struggling for runs. He looked like a fish out of water while playing for Pakistan, and his fitness levels are an embarrassment to anyone calling himself a professional sportsman. They are an embarrassment to the team since he's out there wearing a Pakistan jersey and representing Pakistan while looking like he does.

His selection is not just a damning indictment of the system, but also a slap on the face to every cricketer who has performed better than him.

And quoting these kind of misleading stats is a very intellectually dishonest thing to do. Without context these kind of stats mean nothing. How many innings has he played at the death? How many runs has he even scored? He could have scored a paltry amount of runs but if he got out early chances are he had a big strike rate.

And since you mentioned this stat I went back and took a deeper look at his numbers in the last PSL. In 7 innings which he has played in the death overs, he has a SR of 125 and an average of 8. Sounds like more of a tailender than a 'finisher' to me.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

PSL matters to an extent. If someone has done overwhelmingly well in it you can't say that player doesn't deserve to be selected. But history has show that just because you have done well in the PSL does not mean you will do well for Pakistan. And PSL performances prove to be misleading at times.

This however does not apply to Malik as he's a veteran and a proven performer who has already delivered on numerous occasions for Pakistan in just the last 4 years. And thus has shown that he has what it takes to perform on the top level. Not something that can be said for the likes of Khushdil and Asif Ali. Azam Khan on the other hand didn't even do well in the PSL.

I urge you to try and understand my views next time, before making half-baked assertions that misrepresent them.

The only person making half baked statements is yourself, Malik has done nothing for us in T20 WCs, he's a has been and should not be selected. I urge you to stop being biased and accept when a player is in bad touch he's in bad touch.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

What has Azam Khan done to ever earn that shot in the first place? His T20 average is 22. He averaged 17 in the PSL, consistently struggling for runs. He looked like a fish out of water while playing for Pakistan, and his fitness levels are an embarrassment to anyone calling himself a professional sportsman. They are an embarrassment to the team since he's out there wearing a Pakistan jersey and representing Pakistan while looking like he does.

His selection is not just a damning indictment of the system, but also a slap on the face to every cricketer who has performed better than him.

And quoting these kind of misleading stats is a very intellectually dishonest thing to do. Without context these kind of stats mean nothing. How many innings has he played at the death? How many runs has he even scored? He could have scored a paltry amount of runs but if he got out early chances are he had a big strike rate.

And since you mentioned this stat I went back and took a deeper look at his numbers in the last PSL. In 7 innings which he has played in the death overs, he has a SR of 125 and an average of 8. Sounds like more of a tailender than a 'finisher' to me.

In terms of Azam Khan yes i would still opt for Sarfraz but you are barking mad if you think given Malik's rubbish form i'd say "yes, pick him he deserves it".

Don't care what you say, whoever you are, wherever you are you must make runs which is something Malik has failed to do.

Although I'm not a fan of Shan I'm picking him as he's got a decent SR according to KPL and PSL (around 140), he can bat at 3 if needed then I've got Ifti as my finisher. I will reserve judgement on Khushdil until i see what he's done to improve his off side game come the ODIs (provided he gets a shot).

 

[Saj]

Whatever Akhtar's views are of Wasim, I think the comment about him being a puppet is harsh and below the belt.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

In terms of Azam Khan yes i would still opt for Sarfraz but you are barking mad if you think given Malik's rubbish form i'd say "yes, pick him he deserves it".

Don't care what you say, whoever you are, wherever you are you must make runs which is something Malik has failed to do.

Although I'm not a fan of Shan I'm picking him as he's got a decent SR according to KPL and PSL (around 140), he can bat at 3 if needed then I've got Ifti as my finisher. I will reserve judgement on Khushdil until i see what he's done to improve his off side game come the ODIs (provided he gets a shot).

Nice way to change the topic. I thought we were talking about Azam Khan, who Malik has outperformed in every way except in the CPL (which was hardly ever a criteria for selection to begin with) and who you thought deserved a fair chance, eventhough he never earned it.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Nice way to change the topic. I thought we were talking about Azam Khan, who Malik has outperformed in every way except in the CPL (which was hardly ever a criteria for selection to begin with) and who you thought deserved a fair chance, eventhough he never earned it.

I think given everyone who performed in domestic i.e. Talat, Khushdil, Asif Ali, Danish Aziz etc failed to make an impact in the middle order at intl level then looking to Azam is probably their sign of saying ok might as well go to him seeing as everyone else has failed.

Pakistan have a clear blueprint in the t20s, bat deep with their top 2 and say they both get out around the 13-15th over mark then it leaves for hitters to do the job on the back end. If Azam hits 20-odd runs i'll be happy with that, however you need give a guy a chance if he's selected regardless of whether you think he's good or not. He's been in good six hitting form in the CPL which is nice to see.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

The only person making half baked statements is yourself, Malik has done nothing for us in T20 WCs, he's a has been and should not be selected. I urge you to stop being biased and accept when a player is in bad touch he's in bad touch.

Here are Malik's numbers for Pakistan since 2016 in T20Is:

2016 - M: 15, Avg: 52, SR 131
2017 - M: 10, Avg: 45.5, SR 144.4
2018 - M: 16, Avg: 41, SR 164
2019 - M: 3, Avg: 24.3, SR 143.1
2020 - M: 5, Avg: 72, SR 128.7


Since 2016, his T20I numbers read like this: Matches: 49, Avg: 44.5, SR 144.1

Since 2017 his T20I numbers read like this: Matches 34, Avg: 41.4, SR 151.


The facts speak for themselves. I don't need to float any biases. The difference between your argument and my argument is that you are basing your entire opinion of Malik on his performances for Pakistan from years ago, when he was a completely different player...and a meaningless T20 league that isn't even taking place in the country the T20 WC is supposed be.

I on the other hand, am looking at his performances since his comeback, after which he established himself as a mainstay in the limited-overs team.

The stats you are mentioning have little (CPL) to no relevance (T20 World Cups from 7, 12, 14 years ago...). Whereas, the stats I'm quoting are relevant; not just to the UAE where the World Cup is being held and where Malik did exceedingly well in the recent PSL, but also to Pakistan for whom he has performed outstandingly well in recent years. And would have continued to, had he not been dropped without any reason.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

I think given everyone who performed in domestic i.e. Talat, Khushdil, Asif Ali, Danish Aziz etc failed to make an impact in the middle order at intl level then looking to Azam is probably their sign of saying ok might as well go to him seeing as everyone else has failed.

Pakistan have a clear blueprint in the t20s, bat deep with their top 2 and say they both get out around the 13-15th over mark then it leaves for hitters to do the job on the back end. If Azam hits 20-odd runs i'll be happy with that, however you need give a guy a chance if he's selected regardless of whether you think he's good or not. He's been in good six hitting form in the CPL which is nice to see.

Its sad to see you clutching at straws trying to justify Azam Khan's selection when I have definitively proven without a shadow of a doubt that Azam Khan is a parchi and an embarrassment to the Pakistan jersey. The fact that you expect so less from him is also telling of how you really feel about him as a player.

And yet somehow Malik is still the target of your criticism. Not a guy who has made a mockery of the system and essentially laughed his way to the national team while everyone who has performed better than him stares blankly. But rather someone who is unquestionably one of the best players of spin in the world, who is super-fit despite being 16 years older Azam Khan and who has won matches for Pakistan on numerous occasions.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Here are Malik's numbers for Pakistan since 2016 in T20Is:

2016 - M: 15, Avg: 52, SR 131
2017 - M: 10, Avg: 45.5, SR 144.4
2018 - M: 16, Avg: 41, SR 164
2019 - M: 3, Avg: 24.3, SR 143.1
2020 - M: 5, Avg: 72, SR 128.7


Since 2016, his T20I numbers read like this: Matches: 49, Avg: 44.5, SR 144.1

Since 2017 his T20I numbers read like this: Matches 34, Avg: 41.4, SR 151.


The facts speak for themselves. I don't need to float any biases. The difference between your argument and my argument is that you are basing your entire opinion of Malik on his performances for Pakistan from years ago, when he was a completely different player...and a meaningless T20 league that isn't even taking place in the country the T20 WC is supposed be.

I on the other hand, am looking at his performances since his comeback, after which he established himself as a mainstay in the limited-overs team.

The stats you are mentioning have little (CPL) to no relevance (T20 World Cups from 7, 12, 14 years ago...). Whereas, the stats I'm quoting are relevant; not just to the UAE where the World Cup is being held and where Malik did exceedingly well in the recent PSL, but also to Pakistan for whom he has performed outstandingly well in recent years. And would have continued to, had he not been dropped without any reason.

Look at the SR it's dipped over the years from the stats you've put up, you really want him batting in the back end of an innings with that SR (128)? Here's a collection of what i found from the last few years:


2018 - M: 16, Avg: 41, SR 164 (over inflated by bashing minnows like Scotland and Zimbabwe)
2019 - M: 3, Avg: 24.3, SR 143.1 (1 +40 score against SA and then really hardly anything to talk about)
2020 - M: 5, Avg: 72, SR 128.7 (1 fifty and that to against Bangladesh and then hardly anything to talk about)

Hafeez was in good touch years ago as well and he's fell flat as well, dude we can't risk an out of form player in Malik and Hafeez to be batting. Adding Malik on is a huge gamble and one i wouldn't risk to take.

 

[Savak]

Youngsters in T-20 is the way to go. This format is Mickey Mouse Cricket and is for youngsters. Malik has let us down repeatedly in WC events conning the selectors and fans that he will deliver on the big stage because of his experience, we already saw what he did in the previous WC's. Time to move on.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Look at the SR it's dipped over the years from the stats you've put up, you really want him batting in the back end of an innings with that SR (128)? Here's a collection of what i found from the last few years:


2018 - M: 16, Avg: 41, SR 164 (over inflated by bashing minnows like Scotland and Zimbabwe)
2019 - M: 3, Avg: 24.3, SR 143.1 (1 +40 score against SA and then really hardly anything to talk about)
2020 - M: 5, Avg: 72, SR 128.7 (1 fifty and that to against Bangladesh and then hardly anything to talk about)

Hafeez was in good touch years ago as well and he's fell flat as well, dude we can't risk an out of form player in Malik and Hafeez to be batting. Adding Malik on is a huge gamble and one i wouldn't risk to take.

How convenient for you to ignore everything else and focus on the one thing you can nitpick. Funny how you mentioned that because in those 5 matches from 2020 he only batted in 2 innings, which isn't nearly a big enough sample size to judge his performance for the entire year or his ability to play quickly. But ofcourse why would you know that? Why would, you yourself bother to look up Malik's stats before making biased assertions about him?