Former Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur has emphasized the need for consistency in team selection and administration to improve Pakistan’s performance in Test cricket. He believes that the current players are highly skilled but require a stable team environment to succeed. Arthur pointed out that inconsistency in these areas impacts the morale and performance of the team.
The 56-year-old also criticized the local media for hyping players, which he thinks disrupts their mindset. Arthur added that representing Pakistan should be a player’s most cherished experience, highlighting the importance of playing for the country with pride.
Arthur shared his thoughts on X, stating, “The players are very very skilled and are the right ones. The inconsistency around selection, environment, and administration plays a role in team morale. Give the players structure and they will perform!”
Pakistan’s Recent Struggles in Test Cricket
Arthur’s comments come in the wake of Pakistan becoming the first team to lose a Test match after scoring over 500 runs in the first innings. The Shan Masood-led side lost by an innings and 47 runs, going 0-1 down in a three-match series. Pakistan’s struggles in Test cricket have been ongoing, with the team failing to win any of their last 11 matches.
These include seven losses and four draws, and Masood, in particular, has lost all six of his matches as Test captain, including series defeats to Bangladesh and Australia.
Arthur further expressed his concerns about media influence, saying, “The vile rhetoric from media and media-driven agendas do not help! The promotion of players by player agents or media makes the player sometimes think he is way more important than he is in reality, creating a false view!”
Shan Masood Criticizes Bowling Performance
Following Pakistan’s defeat to England in Multan, captain Shan Masood expressed disappointment with the bowling department. He noted that to win a Test match, the team must take 20 wickets, something Pakistan failed to do.
England had declared their first innings at a massive 823/7, with Harry Brook and Joe Root contributing a 454-run partnership. Pakistan was then bowled out for 220 in response, losing the game.
Masood commented, “We can learn from England as well. They’ve found a way to get those 20 wickets. Can’t win Test matches without picking up 20 wickets. That’s the challenge as a side going forward.”
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