PAK vs SL: Ramiz Raja Believes The Massive Defeat Against India Has Given A Psychological Dent To Pakistan

Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja expressed concerns over Babar Azam’s captaincy following their recent loss against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023. Ramiz Raja highlighted Pakistan top-order batters’ an overly cautious approach in must win clash.

The Babar Azam-led team suffered a narrow 2-wicket defeat in their last Super Four match at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Thursday, September 14. They managed to score 252 runs in 42 overs. In response, Sri Lanka chased down the target on the last ball of the match.

They Looked Timid And Scared – Ramiz Raja

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Ramiz Raja emphasized that Pakistan’s significant loss to India in a previous match had a psychological impact on them.

“The massive defeat against India has given a psychological dent to Pakistan. They seemed to carry that loss in this match as well,” Ramiz said.

They looked timid and scared and failed to close out the game. Babar Azam and top order looked over-cautious. They lacked authority.”

The Men in Green lost five wickets for just 130 runs in 27.2 before the rain interruption. Abdullah Shafique scored 52 runs off 69 balls, including three fours and two sixes. Fakhar Zaman (4), Mohammad Haris (3) and Mohammad Nawaz (12) were dismissed for low scores.

Fakhar Zaman Is A Walking Wicket Nowadays – Ramiz Raja

The former Pakistan skipper criticized captain Babar Azam for including Fakhar Zaman in the playing XI, highlighting the left-handed batter’s concerning body language.

“Fakhar Zaman is a walking wicket nowadays. His body language is looking shocking. I think Fakhar should himself refuse to play,” he further added.

“On a slower track, Babar has struggled, barring one or two innings. He needs to step up as captain as well. He should take authoritative decisions.”

Fakhar was not included in Pakistan’s initial playing XI, which was announced on Wednesday. However, the southpaw got an opportunity in the lineup as Imam-ul-Haq was ruled out of the game due to back spasms. He continued his horrendous form, scoring four runs off 11 balls.

Also read: PAK vs SL: “Babar Azam Should Not Just Follow A Straight Line And Decide Against Making Changes In The Line-Up” – Ramiz Raja