During today’s match between Pakistan and Australia, Pakistan’s bowling performance reached a new low. The first wicket was taken at the 35th over, highlighting a rather lackluster display by the bowlers. It’s disheartening to witness a team that once boasted the most formidable bowling attack in the world now appearing quite ordinary and struggling.
Pakistan’s bowling trio, which used to be ranked at number one, was the driving force behind Pakistan’s rise to the top of the ODI rankings. However, it seems that their performance has taken a nosedive.
The bowlers have been struggling to handle the new ball, particularly with the pacers delivering subpar performances. To illustrate this, let’s look at Pakistan’s bowling in the first 10 overs of the World Cup matches:
- Against Netherlands: 47/1
- Against Sri Lanka: 58/1
- Against India: 79/2
- Against Australia: 82/0
From Naseem’s injury to Shaheen’s loss of form just before the World Cup, it’s evident that he’s been struggling, a slump that persisted through the Asia Cup. Hatim Rauf, once known for his speed, has also lost his rhythm. The entire trio of pace bowlers appears to be rattled, and this has significantly weakened Pakistan’s bowling attack. With these three pacers not performing at their best, the spin department also seems to lack the required strength, further exacerbating Pakistan’s bowling woes.
