Following Pakistan’s 18-run loss to Afghanistan in the ongoing tri-nation T20 series in Sharjah, former cricketer Basit Ali launched a scathing attack on wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris. The ex-cricketer accused Haris of playing “brainless cricket” and failing to learn from repeated mistakes.
“Same Mistakes, No Learning” – Basit Ali
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Basit Ali highlighted Haris’s dismissal against veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi. According to Basit, Haris threw his wicket away with yet another irresponsible shot.
“Haris got out to Nabi, who was brought into the attack specifically to target left-handed batters. Instead of respecting the situation, he gifted his wicket. This shows he has no cricketing sense. You can’t just dance down the track like a hero looking for a six every time,” Basit remarked.
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Coaches Losing Confidence
Basit Ali further claimed that Haris’s declining batting position in the lineup is a clear sign that the team management and coaches no longer trust him.
“Heroes are not made overnight; they are built through hard work. Haris was given everything on a silver platter. When the pitch is tough, openers step up. But look at Haris-he’s sliding down to number six or seven. Against Bangladesh, he batted low, and the same happened here. When a player is pushed down the order, it clearly means the coach doesn’t believe in him anymore,” Basit explained.
Match Recap: Pakistan Fall Short in Chase
In the match against Afghanistan, Pakistan failed to chase down a modest target of 170 runs, managing only 151/9 in their allotted overs. Despite a spirited late cameo from Haris Rauf, who smashed an unbeaten 34 off 16 balls, the rest of the batting lineup struggled.
- Fakhar Zaman: 25 runs
- Captain Agha Salman: 20 runs
- Sahibzada Farhan: 18 runs
- Faheem Ashraf: 14 runs
- Mohammad Nawaz: 12 runs
- Haris Rauf: 34* (16 balls)
- Mohammad Haris: 1 run
- Saima Ayub & Shaheen Afridi: 0 runs
Afghanistan’s bowlers, led by Mohammad Nabi, kept Pakistan under pressure throughout the innings. The loss added further concerns about Pakistan’s batting depth and strategy ahead of upcoming tournaments.
What’s Next for Haris?
Basit Ali’s sharp criticism raises serious questions about Mohammad Haris’s place in the team. Once considered a rising star, his inconsistent performances and poor shot selection are now under the spotlight. Whether the coaching staff continues to back him or looks for alternatives remains to be seen.
