Cricket Critique: Basit Ali Blasts Pakistan’s Performance in Bangladesh Test

Former cricketer Basit Ali criticizes Pakistan's team and Abdullah Shafique's reckless play after a 10-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the first Test. Pakistan's errors in tactics and player decisions are highlighted as reasons for their downfall.

Former Pakistan cricket star Basit Ali has lashed out at Abdullah Shafique following the latter's underwhelming performance in the first Test against Bangladesh. Pakistan's decision to declare at 448/6 in the first innings backfired spectacularly as Bangladesh dominated every aspect of the game.

Under Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh made history by securing a convincing 10-wicket victory in Rawalpindi, marking their first-ever Test win against Pakistan. The turning point came when Bangladesh obtained a 117-run lead, leading to Pakistan's dramatic collapse despite Shafique's efforts on Day 5.

With Mohammad Rizwan at the crease, Pakistan seemed poised for a respectable total. However, Shafique's reckless attempt to pull off a big shot against Shakib Al Hasan led to his downfall. Basit Ali was unforgiving in his criticism, blaming Shafique's rash decision for the loss and questioning the team's overall strategy.

Basit asserted, "If I was in the dressing room, I would have told Abdullah Shafique to pack his bags and leave. His shot was the reason Pakistan lost the match. Shan Masood should punish Shafique. This is Pakistan's team, not your local team. They played the wrong combination."

Adding to the criticism, Naseem Shah's similar ill-fated approach was also highlighted as a critical error. Basit noted that Pakistan's inability to properly read the pitch and opting for an all-out pace attack were significant factors in their defeat. The spin duo of Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz exploited the conditions well, combining to take nine wickets.

Basit pointed out that Pakistan's Test head coach, Jason Gillespie, misjudged the pitch, drawing parallels to other tactical errors seen recently. He commented, "Both Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie lost their opening matches. They both made mistakes. Kirsten made a mistake in the Super Over against the US, and Jason made a mistake in reading the pitch." Pakistan aims to rebound and level the series in the second Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on August 30. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)