The highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan ended in heartbreak for the Men in Green, and the fallout has been immediate. Legendary Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar did not hold back, openly criticizing the team’s head coach after the crushing defeat.
Akhtar Targets Pakistan’s Tactics
Taking to social media shortly after the final, Akhtar lashed out at what he described as “senseless” strategies employed by the Pakistan think tank. Without naming directly, he accused the coach of poor planning, questionable batting orders, and defensive field settings at crucial stages of the game.
He wrote, “Finals are not won with fear. You need aggression, not confusion. The coaching staff looked clueless, and the result shows it.”
India’s Dominance And Pakistan’s Missed Chances
While India delivered a clinical all-round performance to seal the trophy, Pakistan failed to capitalize on key moments. Dropped catches, slow batting in the middle overs, and inconsistent bowling proved costly. Akhtar argued that better tactical calls could have kept the contest alive.
Divided Reactions From Fans
Akhtar’s blunt comments have triggered a storm online. Some fans backed him, agreeing that Pakistan’s timid approach cost them the title. Others, however, felt that singling out the coach was unfair, given the players’ lapses on the field.
Pressure Mounts On Team Management
This is not the first time Pakistan’s coaching staff has come under scrutiny. With another ICC event around the corner, calls for accountability are growing louder. Cricket analysts believe the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will now be under pressure to review its coaching setup.
The Asia Cup final may have ended on the field, but the war of words off it has just begun. Shoaib Akhtar’s explosive remarks have reignited the debate over Pakistan’s team management. Whether the PCB takes action or stands firm will be closely watched in the coming weeks.