Pakistan’s Final Chance: Will We Finally See Some Fight?
By: Fahad Younis - March 25, 2025, 10:48 a.m.
After the humiliation in the 4th T20I, Pakistan heads into the final match of the series with nothing but pride to play for. The series is already lost, but the question is—will this team show any signs of improvement, or are we in for another disastrous night?
The spotlight is on Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan, both of whom have been dreadful throughout the series. Shadab, inexplicably made vice-captain, has been ineffective with both bat and ball. Four games, just 30 runs and one wicket for 110 runs—what exactly does he bring to the team anymore? The leadership role hasn't added any spark to his performances, and it’s hard to see why he’s still given so much responsibility. Shaheen hasn’t been any better, leaking 133 runs for just two wickets. He’s supposed to be our strike bowler, but he’s been anything but that. As I said in the last post, I won’t be surprised if these two are in the playing XI come the final match.
And why wouldn’t they be? It’s not like Pakistan’s management is known for making bold decisions. We’re stuck in a cycle of stubborn loyalty to players who haven’t delivered for years. If this was any other team, heads would have rolled by now. But no, we’ll likely see the same faces, same mistakes, and the same excuses after the match.
Meanwhile, Haris Rauf has been one of the few bright spots, consistently picking up wickets while the rest of the attack crumbles. The fact that he’s managed to succeed in these conditions, while the so-called ‘seniors’ have floundered, says a lot.
The batting? Let’s not even start. Salman Ali Agha has been consistent and the only one trying to hold things together, while the rest collapse like a deck of cards. Yes, Nawaz got a 100 in the third match, but I’ll be honest, he does not fill me with any confidence when I see him bat. That innings felt more like a fluke than a sign of genuine form. Niazi and Samad showed some signs of resilience in the last match. I’m hoping they can continue this into the final game.
To top it all off, we haven’t even tried new players like Omair Bin Yousaf and Sufiyan Maqeem. What exactly do we gain by sticking with the same failed names? The series is already lost. If now isn’t the perfect time to give the bench a chance, then when is? What are we saving them for? These guys have been waiting for an opportunity, and instead, we keep throwing the same ineffective players into the fire. At least a fresh face would give us something to look forward to.
Captain Salman Ali Agha spoke after the last game about “trying to play better in the final match.” That’s all well and good, but it’s time for action, not words. We’re tired of hearing the same empty statements. Can this team show some fight? Can they at least give us something to cheer for? Even a competitive loss would be better than another humiliating collapse.
Will it be another night of the same old story? We’ll find out by this time tomorrow.
Fahad Younis
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I'm not a cricket expert, nor am I a professional writer—I’m just a passionate fan of Pakistan cricket. From thrilling victories to heartbreaking losses, I follow the team through every high and low. Stumps and Dugout is my space to share thoughts, reactions, and analysis from a fan’s perspective. Whether it’s squad selections, match performances, or just the unpredictable nature of Pakistan cricket, I’m here to talk about it all.
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