Former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja, a prominent voice in Pakistani cricket, has voiced his disappointment over the national team's dismal performance throughout the tournament
The Asia Cup 2023 campaign for Pakistan concluded on Thursday (September 14) with a narrow two-wicket defeat against Sri Lanka in the Super-4 clash at R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, leaving the Pakistan cricket community deeply disheartened.
Former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja, a prominent voice in Pakistani cricket, has voiced his disappointment over the national team's dismal performance throughout the tournament, citing a significant psychological setback stemming from their crushing defeat against India.
Ramiz Raja commented, "The massive defeat against India has inflicted a psychological dent on Pakistan. They seemed to carry that loss into this match as well. They appeared timid and apprehensive, failing to assert themselves. Babar Azam and the top order displayed excessive caution and lacked assertiveness."
He further questioned some key aspects of the team's performance, including the selection of opener Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam's captaincy. "Fakhar Zaman's current form is concerning, and his body language is disheartening. Perhaps Fakhar should consider stepping back voluntarily."
Ramiz also pointed out concerns regarding Babar Azam's performance as captain, particularly on slower pitches. "Barring a couple of innings, Babar has struggled on slower tracks. As a captain, he needs to take more authoritative decisions."
In a turn of events, Pakistan had announced their playing XI ahead of the match against Sri Lanka, with Imam-ul-Haq and Saud Shakeel included. However, on the day of the match, both players were ruled out due to back spasm and fever, respectively.
Ramiz Raja shared a memorable anecdote from the 1992 World Cup, emphasizing the importance of players taking risks for the team's sake. "In the morning of the match, Inzi (Inzamam-ul-Haq) refused to play in the semifinals due to stomach issues and lack of sleep. He was compelled to play and responded with a brilliant performance. Half-fit players should be willing to take risks if they aspire to become great players."
With Pakistan's exit from the tournament, Sri Lanka and India are set to face off in the Asia Cup 2023 final, scheduled to take place in Colombo on September 17th.
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 "Asia Cup 2023: Ramiz Raja asserts India's decisive victory delivers psychological blow to Pakistan")
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