Pune, 18th October 2023: Fast bowling legend Wasim Akram did not mince words when he criticized Pakistan’s lackluster bowling, especially targeting pacer Haris Rauf, following their seven-wicket defeat to arch-rivals India in the ICC World Cup. Pakistan, batting first, appeared to be in a strong position at 155/2 but could only manage to score 191 runs, suffering a dramatic collapse in the process, losing eight wickets for a mere 36 runs. India’s victory marked their eighth consecutive win against Pakistan in ODI World Cups.
Haris Rauf’s Bowling Under Scrutiny
Akram specifically singled out Haris Rauf for his underwhelming performance. He mentioned that Rauf tends to pick up wickets when batsmen aggressively attack him but criticized his inability to swing the ball like India’s Jasprit Bumrah. In the match, Rauf bowled six overs, conceding 43 runs at an economy rate of 7.20. Three of Rohit Sharma’s sixes in the innings came off Rauf’s bowling.
Akram Praises Jasprit Bumrah’s Brilliance
In contrast to his criticism of the Pakistan bowling, Akram had high praise for India’s star pacer, Jasprit Bumrah. He referred to Bumrah as a “clever bowler” and one of the best in the world. Bumrah proved his prowess by taking two wickets while giving away just 19 runs in his seven overs. For his outstanding performance, Bumrah was awarded the ‘Player of the Match’ title.
Upcoming Matches for India and Pakistan
India’s next match is against Bangladesh, scheduled for October 19 at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. On the other hand, Pakistan is set to face Australia on October 20 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
In Shorts:
- Wasim Akram criticized Pakistan’s bowling, especially Haris Rauf, after their seven-wicket defeat against India in the ICC World Cup.
- Pakistan managed to score only 191 runs and suffered a dramatic collapse, losing eight wickets for just 36 runs.
- India’s victory marked their eighth consecutive win against Pakistan in ODI World Cups.
- Akram praised Jasprit Bumrah’s performance, labeling him a “clever bowler” and one of the best in the world.
- India will face Bangladesh, while Pakistan is scheduled to take on Australia in their upcoming matches.
