Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali has openly criticised the decision to sideline spinner Sufiyan Muqeem, questioning the rationale behind team selections amid Pakistan’s recent struggles.
Speaking on ARY’s Har Lamha Purjosh, Basit pointed out what he described as inconsistency in public reaction. He noted that when Shadab Khan scored 30 off 12 balls, there was no debate about his place in the squad. “Now that the team is struggling, everyone is talking. Why weren’t these concerns raised before?” he asked.
Basit argued that Pakistan had a promising spin option in Sufiyan Muqeem but chose to move away from him without clear justification.
Babar’s batting position debate
Basit also reiterated his long-standing view that Babar Azam is not suited to bat at number four. He said pushing Babar into that role is unfair and claimed he had voiced this concern even before the squad was finalised.
Referring to Pakistan’s recent match against Namibia, Basit suggested that Babar’s position in the order reflected uncertainty within team management. He speculated that Babar could return to opening in future matches, with Saim Ayub potentially shifting down the order.
‘Parachute selections’ criticism
Basit criticised what he termed “parachute selections,” implying that certain individuals were included without a clear pathway or domestic build-up. He specifically mentioned Mike Hesson, questioning how late-stage inclusions impact team balance if Pakistan advances and struggles to accommodate all players.
On Shaheen’s form
Concluding his remarks, Basit admitted that criticism of Shaheen Afridi is justified, stating that the fast bowler’s recent performances have not met expectations. He stressed that such analysis should be based on current form rather than hindsight.
The comments have added fuel to the ongoing debate around Pakistan’s team combinations, selection strategy, and batting order adjustments during a crucial phase of competition.
