In our latest exclusive interview, Yasir Hameed, former Pakistan Test cricketer and a veteran of the domestic circuit, shares his honest and thought-provoking insights into Pakistan cricket’s current challenges, selection issues, and areas of improvement. With years of experience at the highest level, Yasir provides a deep dive into the problems plaguing the national team.

By Saj Sadiq (February 19, 2025)

Key topics include:

Why Pakistan has lost its legacy of reverse swing and how it can be regained:

Pakistan was once renowned for its ability to reverse swing the ball, a skill that has diminished in recent years. During Pakistan's prime, the entire team would work on the ball to induce reverse swing, but now we hardly see such flair from Pakistan bowlers. So what exactly has led to this decline and how can Pakistan address the decline in pace and reinvest in training and coaching to re-establish the mastery of reverse swing.

The poor team selection that cost Pakistan against New Zealand:

Pakistan's recent defeats against New Zealand in the Tri-Nation Series 2025 have exposed worrying cracks in the team’s performance. The team needs a specialist opener to partner with Fakhar Zaman for a solid opening stand, with Imam-ul-Haq being a dependable choice. Additionally, the team requires a specialist spinner to add depth to the bowling attack. Poor bowling changes and defensive field placements also contributed to New Zealand dictating terms

How Babar Azam was put under unnecessary pressure by being made to open:

Babar Azam has struggled at the top, leading to questions about whether he should continue opening or revert to his usual No. 3 position. Many former greats believe that Babar Azam should bat at No. 3 or 4 to regain his lost form

Pakistan’s failure to utilize its resources effectively in major tournaments

Babar Azam admitted that Pakistan's execution was not up to the mark in a recent tournament. Despite good preparation, the team failed to execute their plans in the match, leading to a loss.

The struggles of Pakistan’s death bowling despite having world-class pacers:

Pakistan’s bowling attack, particularly at the death, has been a concern. In their first match against New Zealand, they allowed 98 runs in the last six overs. Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah must find ways to execute their yorkers better, and Pakistan may consider using spin late in the innings to disrupt the opponent's rhythm.

Why Fakhar Zaman is crucial to Pakistan’s batting success:

Fakhar Zaman has been Pakistan’s most aggressive top-order batter, providing strong start. However, he needs support, and the team needs a solid powerplay to put pressure on the opponent's bowlers early.

The upcoming high-pressure clash against India—can Pakistan turn things around?

With a chance to claim silverware before the Champions Trophy, Mohammad Rizwan’s side must address key concerns and build on their strengths

https://youtu.be/OjsBDKxSsDo