On August 20, 2025, the Pakistan cricket team faced intensified criticism after a 2-1 ODI series defeat in the West Indies.
Which caused ranking drops in T20is and Tests.
Criticism intensifies after PCB’s controversial selection and contract calls.
Pakistan cricket team under renewed criticism from Muhammad Hafeez
West Indies sealed their first bilateral ODI series win over Pakistan since 1991, clinching the decider by 202 runs in Tarouba on August 12.
The margin and the 2-1 result deepened concerns about direction and standards.
Pakistan are now eighth in the ICC T20i team rankings and seventh in Tests, underlining a broader dip in form across formats.
The last ICC trophy remains the 2017 Champions Trophy title at The Oval.
Selection choices have sharpened debate.
On August 17, selectors named the Asia Cup T20i squad without Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, opting for a refreshed batting group under Salman Ali Agha.
The move drew mixed reactions from fans and former players.
Contract decisions added fuel. On August 19, the PCB issued 2025–26 central contracts with no Category A players.
Test captain Shan Masood was listed in Category D, while Sajid Khan, Noman Ali and Saud Shakeel were placed in Category C.
Former captain Mohammad Hafeez amplified criticism, posting on X: “No A category player in Pakistan cricket. Test captain in D category. Test match & series winners like Sajid Khan, Noman Ali & Saud Shakeel are in C category… Less importance to Test cricket & 1st class cricket is the biggest reason of recent downfall.”
For supporters, the picture is frustrating that a lost ODI series, sliding rankings, and uncertainty over senior roles.
With the Asia Cup set for September 9–28 in the UAE, growing concerns emerge for Pakistan’s cricketing future.
Read more: Asia Cup 2025: India announces squad; line-ups of other teams, full schedule inside
