Pakistan’s defeat to India in the Asia Cup 2025 has sparked a heated debate, with former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar delivering a sharp critique of the team’s coaching decisions. His remarks were directed at coach Mike Hesson, whose selection choices came under scrutiny following the high-stakes clash. Akhtar, known for his outspoken views on cricketing matters, did not hold back in questioning the inclusion of Hussain Talat in such a crucial encounter. He argued that Talat’s innings slowed Pakistan’s momentum at a time when the team needed urgency and intent. The former pacer also outlined his vision for how Pakistan cricket could be rebuilt, stressing teamwork, logical planning, and consistent support for emerging players.

Akhtar Questions Team Selection

Following the loss, Akhtar singled out what he believed to be flawed decision-making in squad composition. He pointed directly to Hussain Talat’s selection, suggesting that his presence in the batting order lacked strategic justification against India. According to Akhtar, such choices undermined Pakistan’s ability to compete effectively in a match of this magnitude.

Concerns Over Batting Approach

In his analysis, Akhtar highlighted how Talat’s slow innings disrupted Pakistan’s rhythm during a critical phase of the game. He argued that instead of building momentum, the approach stalled progress and allowed India to tighten their grip on the contest. For Akhtar, this was symptomatic of larger issues within the team setup—issues he believes stem from unclear planning and questionable tactical calls by the coaching staff.

Criticism of Coaching Strategy

The former fast bowler described Hesson’s coaching methods as “senseless,” pointing out what he sees as a lack of coherent strategy behind player roles and responsibilities. He suggested that without clear logic guiding decisions, Pakistan risks repeating mistakes that have plagued its performances in major tournaments. His comments reflected frustration not only with individual selections but also with what he perceives as an absence of long-term vision from the management side.

Akhtar’s Vision for Improvement

Beyond criticism, Akhtar offered insight into how he would approach rebuilding Pakistan cricket. He emphasized three pillars: teamwork as a foundation for success, logical decision-making in both selection and strategy, and unwavering support for young players who need time to develop at the international level. According to him, consistent backing would allow emerging talent to grow without fear of being dropped prematurely after setbacks.

A Call for Structural Change

Akhtar’s remarks ultimately went beyond one match or one player; they reflected his broader concerns about systemic shortcomings within Pakistan cricket management. His call for structural change centered on creating an environment where players are selected with purpose, strategies are built on logic rather than impulse, and young cricketers are nurtured into long-term assets rather than short-term fixes.

The outspoken critique from Shoaib Akhtar has reignited discussions around accountability in Pakistan cricket following high-profile defeats. While his comments may stir debate among fans and analysts alike, they underscore ongoing concerns about consistency and planning within the national setup. Whether or not changes follow remains uncertain, but his words have once again placed coaching decisions under intense public scrutiny.