"Black Day in Pakistan Cricket" - Basit Ali attacks Mohammad Rizwan after 3-0 whitewash in NZ

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali slammed the national team and captain Mohammad Rizwan following their poor showing against New Zealand. The cricketer-turned-expert called the whitewash against New Zealand in the recently concluded three-match ODI series a "black day in Pakistan cricket."

Pakistan ended their New Zealand tour with a 3-0 loss in the ODI series. After an early exit from the Champions Trophy at home, the team suffered heavy defeats in the first two games. With the series already lost, the final match was a chance to salvage some pride, but Pakistan couldn’t turn things around.

The Black Day in Pakistan Cricket - Basit Ali

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Basit Ali drew comparisons to the era of legendary pacers Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. He also criticized the decision to send Usman Khan in as a concussion substitute.

"In my eyes, today was the black day in Pakistan cricket. Even for those who left the game. When Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis used to bowl, the New Zealand batters couldn't move their foot," said Basit (Via Hindustan Times).

"Now, they're doing commentary and criticising us. They were laughing at us when Pakistan sent Usman Khan as a concussion substitute," he added.

Imam-ul-Haq Got Scared After Being Hit and Walked Off - Basit Ali

Basit Ali accused Imam-ul-Haq of walking off out of fear after being struck, adding that it was more about self-preservation than genuine injury. He went on to say that many are focused only on money and take their spots in the team for granted.

"Imam got scared after being hit and walked off. He just wanted to save himself. Does he think we can't see? All of these players want money. It's the tragedy of Pakistan cricket. There's no one to replace them. Even if you sit out in one series, you can come back in the next," Basit added.

Mohammad Rizwan’s Captaincy Was So Bad - Basit Ali

The former batter raised doubts about Mohammad Rizwan’s captaincy and his decision-making under pressure. Basit said that Rizwan was unable to manage the bowling unit effectively, comparing the performance to “school cricket.”

"Where was Rizwan (when Imam left the field)? His captaincy was so bad, he didn't even know who to bowl at what overs. It's like school cricket," said the former player.

The third ODI was reduced to 42 overs per side due to a wet outfield. New Zealand posted a competitive total of 264/8, with fifties from Rhys Mariu and Michael Bracewell. Pakistan’s chase began with a setback as Imam-ul-Haq retired hurt early after a throw struck his helmet, and he did not return to bat.

Middle-order batters Babar Azam (half-century), Abdullah Shafique (33), and Mohammad Rizwan (37) chipped in with contributions, but the team collapsed under pressure. For New Zealand, Ben Sears was the pick of the bowlers, taking 5 for 34 to seal a 43-run win for the Michael Bracewell-led side.

Also read: Glenn Maxwell shred to Bits and Pieces by Sanjay Manjrekar after Rajasthan Royals' clash