Pakistan would prefer to forget about the last few days. After going winless in their games, the hosts of the current Champions Trophy went out of the group stage of the prestigious ODI competition. They were soundly thrashed by New Zealand (60 runs) and India (six wickets), effectively ending their chances of winning, even if their last match against Bangladesh ended in a washout.
While the team was going through a difficult time, former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar advised former Pakistani cricket players not to be too critical of their team and its players.
The truth is, I don’t actually know much about what goes on in Pakistan.
However, I’ve noticed that whenever Pakistan performs poorly, those who ought to be supporting them instead launch a torrent of criticism. I can appreciate the disappointment of the average spectator, but those who have played the game before and are aware that victory isn’t always feasible will understand. There will be losses. Even some average teams will defeat you,” Gavaskar said, as India Today reported.
Praise them rather than pass judgement on them: Sunil Gavaskar
The seasoned cricket player added that although criticising errors made was common, former Pakistani players should avoid being overly strict in their censure.
“Batters don’t always score a hundred runs when they go. A bowler does not always receive a five when bowling. In my opinion, the present Pakistani team needs that backing if it exists. When fragments of other previous Pakistani cricket players taking aim at the present squad are transmitted, you may occasionally look at them and ask, “Hello, did you win every match that you played in for Pakistan?” You never did. As a result, even this team is having some difficulty. Encourage them rather than criticise them. If it’s your responsibility to discuss it, then by all means do so if there is some trivial, regular cricket. But then return and cheer on the squad,” Sunil Gavaskar continued.
The fact that Pakistan was hosting their first ICC event in 29 years was noteworthy. Although the white-ball team had a successful 2024 in the ODI format, the Champions Trophy 2025 was a very disappointing year for them. The way they entered the tournament contrasted with their drab efforts.
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