National selector Inzamam-ul-Haq slams Pakistan after ODI humilation

The Pakistan team has had a disappointing campaign in their ongoing tour of New Zealand. The Green-shirts have already relinquished the five-match ODI series after losing the first three games, the last of which was a massive 183-run loss in Dunedin on Saturday when they were bowled out for just 74.

Pakistan at one point was threatening the record books as they were reduced to 32-8. The previous low score in an ODI was a feeble 35 posted by Zimbabwe in 2004. Luckily, the team from subcontinent avoided that humiliation as they stumbled on to a measly score of 74. But their capitulation and 183-run defeat saw them 3-0 down in a forgettable series for the visitors.

Following the humiliation, Pakistan’s chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq has slammed the team for their performances, stating that the manner of the defeats is most concerning. He also opined the team is not playing to their true potential.

Speaking to reporters in Karachi, Inzamam said, “Obviously we are all disappointed at the manner in which the team capitulated on Saturday. Selectors had picked the best available squad of players and the core of them won the ICC Champions Trophy only six months ago.”

He added, No doubt the pitches in New Zealand are tough for most touring teams because it takes time to adjust to the conditions there. I always maintain it is no disgrace when you lose a game but to be not playing with potential is something that is unacceptable.”

“What has disturbed us the most is that the experienced lot has not been able to perform so far and that’s not a good sign.”

Inzamam confident of a change of fortunes

The Pakistan legend is confident though that they can turn things around in the remaining two ODI games and in the three-match T20I series that will follow. The teams will lock horns tomorrow in the 4^th ODI at Hamilton. And Pakistan will aim to win the dead-rubber fixture to gain some momentum for the upcoming T20 leg of the series.

The final two ODI matches will be played on Tuesday and Friday while the T20I series starts on 22 January.