Former Pak great Sadiq questions selection policy after T20I series defeat

In the absence of experienced players, Pakistan's performance in the T20I series against New Zealand resembled that of a club-level team, resulting in a 4-1 series loss.

Former Test opener Sadiq Mohammad has criticized the selection approach, blaming authorities for introducing too many young players simultaneously, calling it a ‘non-sense’ strategy.

"I believe it's unreasonable to test so many youngsters at once," Sadiq said in an interview with Nukta, following Pakistan’s crushing defeat in fifth T20I against New Zealand.

"To build a strong backup, promising young players must be integrated gradually. Ideally, one talented batsman and one bowler should be included at a time, allowing them to gain international exposure without disrupting the team’s balance. This method helps in securing a solid cricketing future," he added.

He also stressed the need for experienced players in the squad.

"Selectors must ensure that seasoned players remain part of the team to secure series wins and tournament victories," Sadiq said.

Reflecting on Pakistan’s poor performance, he compared their gameplay to casual street cricket.

"If you analyze the final match, you'll see how poorly we batted, which is simply unacceptable. Even aggressive stroke play requires a strong foundation in basic techniques," he pointed out.

He highlighted New Zealand's superior technique, noting how their batters covered their stumps, used straight bats, and executed proper strokes towards mid-wicket and extra cover with the full face of the bat.

"This is what proper application of batting fundamentals looks like," Sadiq explained.

He questioned the decision to expose inexperienced players to fast and bouncy pitches.

"People must understand that cricket is an incredibly challenging sport. A batsman has less than a second to react to deliveries clocking 85-90 mph. To succeed, their reflexes must be perfectly timed. Young players need to be taught the fundamental techniques before stepping onto the international stage," he advised.

After Pakistan's disappointing Champions Trophy campaign, cricketing authorities decided to test several young players in New Zealand conditions. However, apart from a few individual performances, the overall impact was minimal and did not significantly contribute to Pakistan’s cricketing future.

To thrive in international cricket, players must first gain extensive experience in domestic tournaments.

Agha Salman serves as a prime example. His long domestic career helped him mature, and when he finally got the chance to play for Pakistan, his experience allowed him to establish himself in the national team.

New Zealand set the tone for the five-match series with a dominant nine-wicket win in the opening game in Christchurch.

They extended their lead with a five-wicket victory in Dunedin. However, Pakistan staged a surprise comeback in Auckland, securing a nine-wicket win thanks to a blistering, unbeaten century from Hasan Nawaz.

This unexpected success did not disrupt New Zealand’s momentum, as they responded with a crushing 115-run victory in Mount Maunganui, securing a 3-1 series lead.

In the final match in Wellington, New Zealand showed no mercy, chasing down Pakistan’s 129-run target in just 10 overs to complete an 8-wicket win and wrap up the series 4-1.