Same old story,” Ahmed Shehzad slams Pakistan team after first ODI defeat

Test cricketer Ahmed Shehzad expressed strong criticism of Pakistan’s performance after their narrow loss to Australia in the first ODI on Monday.

Chasing a modest target of 204 runs, Australia faced a challenging moment when Pakistan’s pace-heavy bowling attack reduced them to 155/7. However, a composed knock by Australian captain Pat Cummins turned the tide. Cummins, under pressure, remained unbeaten on 32 from 31 balls, hitting four boundaries and guiding Australia to victory in 33.3 overs, with just two wickets in hand. This win prevented Pakistan from achieving their first ODI victory on Australian soil since 2017.

In response to the close defeat, Shehzad took to social media, insisting Pakistan should have sealed the game given the favorable position they held. “Can’t believe it. Pakistan should not have lost from here. We might not get a chance like this again in the series,” he wrote.

He pointed to poor tactics as a key factor, suggesting that Pakistan’s bowlers were bowling short to Australia’s tail-enders instead of focusing on fuller, straighter deliveries. “Very disappointing—same old story. Australia held their nerves and went all the way for victory,” Shehzad remarked.

On his YouTube channel, Shehzad went on to say that it felt like Australia almost handed the game to Pakistan, but Pakistan failed to capitalize. “It seemed like Australia was doing everything possible to give Pakistan the win, but Pakistan refused to accept it. They didn’t want the victory being offered and instead let it slip away,” he commented.

Following their hard-fought win, Australia leads the three-match ODI series 1-0. The teams will meet again for the second ODI on Friday (November 8) in Adelaide.