In a disheartening turn of events for cricket fans, Pakistan has been whitewashed by New Zealand in the ODI series. In the third and final match, Pakistan was defeated by 43 runs, sealing the series 3-0 in favor of New Zealand. The match was delayed due to rain, reducing the number of overs to 42 per side.
New Zealand, batting first, posted a solid total of 264 runs for 8 wickets in their 42 overs. In reply, the Pakistani batting lineup collapsed and was all out for 221 runs in 40 overs, handing New Zealand a comfortable victory and a clean sweep of the series.
🇵🇰 Pakistan’s Batting Highlights
- Abdullah Shafique: 33 runs off 56 balls
- Imam-ul-Haq: Retired hurt
- Babar Azam: Scored a half-century but failed to guide the team to victory
- Usman Khan: 12 runs off 17 balls
- Mohammad Rizwan: 37 runs off 32 balls
- Agha Salman: 11 runs off 11 balls
- Tayyab Tahir: 33 runs off 31 balls
- Faheem Ashraf: 3 runs off 4 balls
- Naseem Shah: 17 runs off 13 balls
- Mohammad Wasim: 0 runs
- Aqif Javed: 1 run
- Sufiyan Muqeem: 2 runs
Additionally, Pakistan benefited from 21 extras, bringing the team’s total to 221.
🎯 New Zealand's Impressive Bowling Performance
New Zealand bowlers maintained tight control throughout the innings and took key wickets at regular intervals. Their disciplined line and length kept Pakistan’s batters under constant pressure and ensured a dominating performance.
🗣️ Sikandar Bakht’s Harsh Criticism on Pakistan’s Performance
Former Test cricketer Sikandar Bakht didn’t hold back in his post-match analysis. He sharply criticized the team’s poor performance and the lack of finishing abilities by senior players:
“The pitch was good for batting. There were no dangerous deliveries. Babar Azam, Rizwan—they were all on the crease, but no one finished the game. These are our so-called superstars who are failing to deliver.”
He emphasized that the Pakistan Cricket Board must bring these high-profile players back to reality:
“The board must realize that no one is indispensable. Players should earn their place through performance, not names or reputation.”
🔥 Top Players Under Pressure
Bakht further commented that big names in the team often crumble under pressure. He proposed that the central contracts should be revised and rewards must be based on performance, not legacy:
“Performance-based grading should be introduced. Granting privileges without results is harmful to Pakistan cricket.”
🏢 PCB Also Needs to be Held Accountable
Sikandar Bakht didn’t limit his criticism to players. He also pointed fingers at the selectors and advisors within the Pakistan Cricket Board:
“There must be a complete overhaul of the selection committee and those behind poor decision-making. Until the PCB’s internal system is held accountable, improvement is not possible.”
🔄 What’s Next for Pakistan Cricket?
According to Bakht, the road to improvement requires a complete strategic overhaul, including bold changes in the team, strict accountability in the board, and providing opportunities to talented newcomers who can take Pakistan cricket forward.
Pakistan's recent whitewash at the hands of New Zealand is a loud wake-up call. The fans' frustration is understandable, and it's now time for real actions—not just press statements. Without structural reforms and a focus on merit, Pakistan cricket risks deeper decline.
