Introduction
Pakistan cricket has faced yet another setback following their dismal performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With mounting criticism from former players and analysts, ex-captain Mohammad Hafeez has called for a significant overhaul of the national team’s fast-bowling attack. His remarks have intensified discussions regarding the future of Pakistan’s pace trio: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf.
Hafeez Calls for Overhaul in Pakistan’s Pace Attack
Pakistan’s Struggling Pacers
Despite high expectations, Pakistan’s renowned fast bowlers have repeatedly failed to deliver in crucial matches. Mohammad Hafeez, speaking on PTV’s coverage of the tournament, criticized their inability to step up when needed most. According to Hafeez, Shaheen, Naseem, and Haris have been unable to live up to their potential, leading to numerous tournament failures.
Consistent Failures in Major Tournaments
Hafeez outlined a troubling pattern of underperformance by Pakistan’s pacers in recent ICC events:
- Asia Cup 2023 – Pakistan’s bowling attack crumbled under pressure, leading to an early exit.
- ICC World Cup 2023 – The team suffered multiple defeats due to ineffective bowling in middle and death overs.
- T20 World Cup 2022 Final (Melbourne) – Despite reaching the final, Pakistan’s pacers failed to restrict England’s chase.
- ICC Champions Trophy 2025 – Their struggles continued as they conceded over 200 runs against New Zealand and failed to defend a modest 242-run target against India.
Hafeez’s Harsh Words for Shaheen, Naseem, and Haris
Hafeez did not mince words while addressing the performance of Pakistan’s pacers:
“Since the Asia Cup 2023, we expected this trio to bring trophies home. But what happened? The World Cup 2023 was a disaster. The T20 final in Melbourne was a disaster. And now, the Champions Trophy—another failure.”
He emphasized that their repeated failures indicate a need for a fresh bowling attack.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Performance
Bowling Disasters Against New Zealand and India
Pakistan’s bowling lineup was expected to be their key strength, yet it became their biggest liability in the tournament. Against New Zealand, their pacers conceded over 200 runs, failing to contain the opposition’s batsmen. In the much-anticipated clash against India, their inability to defend 242 runs allowed India to chase down the target with ease, securing a six-wicket victory.
Lack of a Reliable Death-Bowling Strategy
Hafeez pointed out the absence of a solid game plan in the final overs. “Pakistan used to be known for its world-class death bowling,” he said. “Now, we’re struggling to take wickets in the final overs, and the opposition easily capitalizes on that.”
Over-Reliance on Shaheen, Naseem, and Haris
For the past few years, Pakistan has relied heavily on these three pacers without developing alternative options. Hafeez suggested that the PCB should expand their talent pool and give chances to fresh, young bowlers rather than persisting with an ineffective attack.
The Road Ahead for Pakistan’s Bowling Unit
Possible Replacements for Underperforming Pacers
Hafeez recommended introducing new talent into the squad. Some promising fast bowlers from Pakistan’s domestic circuit and PSL who could be considered include:
- Zaman Khan – Known for his lethal yorkers and ability to bowl under pressure.
- Ihsanullah – A young pacer who impressed in PSL with his pace and consistency.
- Mir Hamza – A left-arm fast bowler with experience in first-class cricket.
PCB’s Role in Fixing Pakistan’s Bowling Woes
Hafeez urged the PCB to take immediate action:
- Restructure the selection process – Pick players based on domestic performances rather than PSL stats.
- Develop a long-term strategy – Build a core group of pacers for upcoming tournaments like the 2026 T20 World Cup.
- Invest in specialized coaching – Work with former fast-bowling legends to refine the skills of emerging pacers.
Impact on Pakistan’s Cricket Future
Pakistan’s struggles in ICC tournaments have raised serious concerns about the team’s future. Hafeez warned that if these issues are not addressed soon, Pakistan cricket could face an even bigger decline in international rankings.
Conclusion
Mohammad Hafeez’s strong words reflect the growing frustration among Pakistan cricket fans. His demand for replacing Shaheen, Naseem, and Haris with fresh talent aligns with the broader sentiment that Pakistan needs a bowling revamp. With the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon, the PCB must act swiftly to ensure a competitive and reliable pace attack.
FAQs
1. Why is Mohammad Hafeez criticizing Pakistan’s pacers?
Hafeez believes that Shaheen, Naseem, and Haris have consistently underperformed in major tournaments, failing to deliver when it matters most.
2. What are the key tournaments where Pakistan’s pacers failed?
Some notable failures include the Asia Cup 2023, ICC World Cup 2023, T20 World Cup 2022 final, and ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
3. What changes does Hafeez recommend for Pakistan’s bowling attack?
Hafeez suggests replacing the current pacers with fresh talent from domestic cricket and PSL while also improving bowling strategies.
4. Who are some potential replacements for Pakistan’s current pacers?
Promising fast bowlers like Zaman Khan, Ihsanullah, and Mir Hamza could be considered for future tournaments.
5. What should the PCB do to improve Pakistan’s fast bowling?
The PCB needs to revamp its selection process, invest in specialized coaching, and develop a long-term strategy for international success.
