Pakistan's eagerly awaited return to hosting an ICC tournament was marred by a disappointing 60-run loss to New Zealand in the opening match of the Champions Trophy. What was meant to be a historic event quickly turned sour as the home team failed to meet expectations, being dismissed for 260 while chasing a target of 321 runs in Karachi.

From the outset, Pakistan appeared to lack control. Babar Azam's laborious innings of 64 runs off 90 balls lacked the necessary urgency, and the top order faltered under pressure. Although Khushdil Shah's aggressive 69 runs off 49 balls provided a brief spark, it proved insufficient to change the course of the match. Salman Agha's contribution of 42 runs was the only other highlight in an otherwise lackluster batting display.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has voiced his criticism of the team's performance, asserting that there are "no impact players" in the lineup. He emphasized that the team is playing a style of cricket that diverges significantly from that of other nations.

"You all witnessed the match, and I am sure you share my disappointment. Pakistan is playing a completely different brand of cricket compared to the rest of the world. There are no impact players, and the strike rate is alarmingly slow. They do not even manage to play at a run-a-ball pace. We concede too many runs. Pakistan is fielding only four bowlers, while other teams typically utilize at least six or seven. This is a disheartening start," Akhtar remarked.

Akhtar on India clash

Regarding the upcoming match against India, Akhtar noted that New Zealand's disciplined bowling attack, spearheaded by Will O’Rourke (3/47) and Mitchell Santner (3/66), has exposed Pakistan's vulnerabilities. With two crucial matches ahead, including a high-pressure encounter against India, Pakistan's campaign is already in jeopardy.

"Pakistan now finds itself in a do-or-die scenario against India. The Indian team is formidable and presents a significant challenge. I still wish Pakistan the best of luck. They must adopt an aggressive approach to secure a victory. However, it cannot be done in the current manner. I wish them the best, but the situation appears quite challenging," Akhtar concluded.

Read Also: Wasim Akram Gets Real: Harsh Truth After Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Setback

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!