Former Australia cricketer Usman Khawaja has responded critically to remarks made by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) director of high performance Aaqib Javed regarding recent changes within Pakistan’s Test cricket team during an ongoing series. Aaqib had publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s performance, stating that “the world is laughing at us” following two lackluster Test matches.

Speaking on Geo TV, Aaqib elaborated on the PCB’s rationale behind key selection decisions and the team’s overall struggles. He highlighted his suggestions to captain Babar Azam and former coach Sarfaraz Ahmed during the tour, which included strengthening the pace attack by introducing Ubaid Shah for additional pace and variety, as well as advocating for the inclusion of uncapped wicketkeeper Ghazi Ghori over incumbent Mohammed Rizwan. Aaqib argued that such changes were necessary to improve the team’s competitiveness, emphasizing that sending some players back was intended to reinforce that performance is paramount.

“Two Test matches have come and gone, and the team has not competed in any way,” Aaqib said. He criticized the team composition, noting a lack of bowling options among the top seven batsmen and the absence of a pace all-rounder. “One fast bowler changes the composition of your attack,” he asserted, underscoring the need for Ubaid Shah, who bowls close to 140 kph, to be included. He also acknowledged that dropping batsman Salman Agha was justified due to form concerns but contested the decision to retain Rizwan as wicketkeeper rather than bringing in Ghori.

In response to these comments, Khawaja took to social media, targeting Aaqib’s earlier statement by writing, “The world is laughing harder now.” His remark reflects a sharper critique of the PCB’s handling of the team amid ongoing challenges.

Aaqib’s public commentary points to internal frustrations within the PCB regarding Pakistan’s recent Test performances and selection strategies. The team has struggled to establish momentum during the series, prompting the board to make significant squad adjustments with a focus on raising standards and competitiveness ahead of the remaining fixtures. The ongoing discourse between former players and current cricket administrators highlights the pressures facing Pakistan cricket as it seeks to rebound from disappointing results.