Former fast bowler Mohammad Amir has come forward in defense of Pakistan’s young cricketers following the team’s defeat against India in the Asia Cup 2025. While criticism of the squad has grown louder, Amir urged fans and analysts not to single out youngsters for blame after just one bad performance.
“Don’t Target These Kids for One Defeat”
Speaking to local media, Amir stressed that Pakistan’s young talents should not be harshly judged after a single loss.
- “These boys are new to the team. Just because they lost one match, people are acting as if they don’t belong here,” Amir said.
- He reminded critics that even senior players who had been part of the national setup for five to six years failed to deliver in the past.
Past Defeats Against Other Teams
Amir pointed out that Pakistan’s struggles in international cricket are not new, citing defeats against lesser-ranked teams.
- “We’ve lost to Afghanistan, Ireland, and even the USA-when I was part of the squad,” he noted.
- According to Amir, blaming newcomers while ignoring the shortcomings of experienced players is unfair and shortsighted.
Criticism of Agenda-Driven Analysis
Amir also took aim at commentators and former players who, in his view, are pushing personal agendas instead of fair analysis.
- He questioned the criticism directed at selections like Hasan Nawaz and Mohammad Haris, asking why individuals are being targeted instead of discussing cricketing logic.
- “Talk about performance, yes. Debate whether Haris Rauf should have played; that’s fine. But don’t sit with an agenda against players,” Amir emphasized.
Looking Ahead in the Asia Cup
The former pacer reminded everyone that the tournament is far from over and Pakistan could still face India again.
- “It seems very likely Pakistan and India will meet again. The criticism has already gone too far,” Amir said.
- He insisted that the current group of players represents the future of Pakistan cricket and must be supported, not torn down.
A Call for Patience
Amir’s comments underline a growing divide between those demanding instant results and those urging patience with Pakistan’s next generation. His message was clear: allow these young cricketers the time and space to grow, rather than burying them under criticism after a single setback.
