Waqar hopes for changes in Pakistan cricket after the World T20 exit

Pakistan were beaten by a strong Australian side in Mohali that ended their challenge in the ongoing World T20. Their coach Waqar Younis was understandably dejected however hoped for a better future for Pakistan cricket. He also felt that not getting an opportunity to play home series in the country post terrorist attack in 2009 had also contributed to the decline in Pakistan cricket.

“Of course, it is disappointing (to be out of the tournament). Last match (against New Zealand) was more disappointing than this one. Of course, we made bowling mistakes today, conceded a lot in the last 5-6 overs. We gave runs after taking wickets. We could have stopped them at 165-170 but the bowlers bowled off the plan,” Waqar said, after the team’s 21 run loss to the Aussies.

“Whatever we say now will sound like an excuse. There has been no cricket in Pakistan in the last six-seven years and the consequences of that are starting to show. If you look at it deeply, we had match winners like Muhammad Hafeez, who could bowl earlier and Saeed Ajmal. There is a bit of decline. It is very important to address it. We need to see where the infrastructure and domestic cricket is headed,” said the former captain.

“I think the difference in the team is clear. We are not the best of fielding side. I think the selectors need think deep about it. When you pick someone you have to look at the fielding aspect also. We need to bring in youngsters. These tournaments bring the required changes and hopefully it does the same for Pakistan cricket,” he added.

Waqar did not reveal much when asked about his future with the team. “As far as my future is concerned, I will go back home and meet the PCB chairman and other officials and then we will see,” he said. On captain Shahid Afridi s retirement plans, Waqar said, “What I have heard is going to go back and do a press conference in Pakistan and decide what his future plans are.”

He also rubbished the rumours about a rift in the team. “There is no truth in that. I am amazed that these rumours are being spread. We are not playing good cricket. Let’s put it to that.” Waqar concluded by talking about the virtual quarterfinal between India and Australia here on Sunday. “They both are very fine sides. Not just recently, they have been playing tough cricket against each other for a while. I think it will be a good game,” he said.