Pakistan were bowled out for just 133 in their first innings of the third Test at Edgbaston, falling 268 runs behind England’s imposing total of 453. At the close of play on day two, Pakistan were 52/2 in their second innings and still 216 runs behind.
Akhtar’s comments came amid a turbulent period for Pakistan cricket. Following their defeat at Lord’s, the Pakistan Cricket Board removed seven players from the touring squad, with five replacements having no previous Test experience. The board also made changes to the coaching staff, replacing Test coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul with white-ball coaches Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke.
Babar later confirmed that he had not been consulted before the changes were announced, prompting Akhtar to question the leadership and decision-making within the team.
“If he isn’t able to do it, it’s because that is his own personality. His own personality is visible in his game; it’s visible in his decisions, it’s visible in everything. So, you cannot ask too much from this team, including the captain and the rest of the pack,” Akhtar said on PTV Sports.
Akhtar Questions Pakistan’s Decision-Making
Akhtar was asked whether Babar could have handled the squad overhaul differently. While reflecting on how he might have responded in a similar situation, the former pacer suggested that the current setup lacks the authority to make firm decisions.
“As of now, the failure belongs to the system. And the bet that we had placed, the investment we had made, that investment is in front of you. But you cannot expect a strong decision, or a very firm decision, from people like them,” Akhtar said.
Pakistan Facing Tough Task at Edgbaston
Pakistan’s position in the third Test remains precarious. England’s 453 gave them a substantial first-innings advantage before Ollie Robinson struck twice early in Pakistan’s second innings.
Pakistan ended day two on 52/2, leaving them 216 runs short of making England bat again. With England already winning the first Test at Headingley by an innings and 103 runs and the second at Lord’s by 194 runs, Pakistan must produce a remarkable turnaround to avoid a 3-0 series defeat.
Robinson has been one of England’s standout performers throughout the series, while Pakistan’s batting struggles have continued despite the changes to their squad.
A defeat at Edgbaston would complete a series whitewash and add further pressure on Pakistan’s leadership and cricketing setup.
