Kamran Akmal, a former cricket player for Pakistan, advocated for younger players to be given an opportunity to shine in Twenty20 matches while experienced players should be benched.

Referencing the existing squad’s dependence on expectation and prayers, Kamran Akmal stated that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) needs to establish a high-quality team.

“This is possible only by providing chances to new players in cricket for T20 matches and preparing backup players,” Kamran Akmal stated, adding that “we need to generate a group of (35-40) players, not just depend on (20-25) players.”

Seniors Should Be Rest At Least 8 To 10 months

Additionally, he recommended that fresh players be given an opportunity to establish themselves in T20 cricket while older players take an (8–10) month break to concentrate on Test and ODI cricket. Citing the lack of advancement during the previous (6-7) years, he highlighted the importance of creating an effective backup system.

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Furthermore, Kamran Akmal mentioned India’s commanding performance against New Zealand—which saw them limited to less than 250 runs—as a perfect example of a strong squad. He highlighted that the PCB must take a more professional position on promoting the development of a greater number of players and merit-based squad selection.

Following their heartbreaking defeat to India, experienced bowler Shoaib Akhtar had earlier criticized the Pakistani cricket squad, claiming that they lacked the necessary qualities to compete on the greatest stage.

Shoaib Akhtar stated, “We always talk about intent, but I believe they also have no skills,” throughout an ongoing cricket event. They wouldn’t have played that way if they were talented.

During the International Cricket Council Champions Trophy 2025, he also voiced his frustration with the team’s captaincy and management, calling them “brainless” and “clueless.” “To be honest, clueless leadership and captaincy… extremely weak group that tested its abilities there “I have nothing to say about it,” he said. The team’s “successful” failures over the last few years have been criticized by Shoaib Akhtar.