With the conclusion of the 2024 Test series against Bangladesh, it is evident that Pakistan’s cricket is facing one of its darkest periods, not just in Test cricket but across all formats. For a country with such a rich cricketing history, this loss has not only shaken fans but has also prompted deeper questions about the current state of the Test team. What went wrong? More importantly, how does Pakistan’s Test cricket recover from this setback?
Pakistan was once a powerhouse in Test cricket, and Bangladesh was seen as a weaker opponent. However, the 2024 series showed a complete role reversal. Bangladesh played like a dominant team, outclassing Pakistan in every department. From batting to bowling, their professionalism and superior tactics made Pakistan look like the weaker side on their own home soil.
Bangladesh’s Comprehensive Victory
Bangladesh’s victory was comprehensive. They outplayed Pakistan with a calm, calculated approach, while Pakistan seemed to panic throughout the series. Poor shot selection, mismanagement of field placements, and questionable captaincy decisions led to this crushing defeat. Bangladesh’s players, such as Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, and young talents like Hasan Mahmud, performed outstandingly, proving their worth.
Shan Masood’s Captaincy Under Scrutiny
One of the key questions that emerges is the role of Shan Masood as captain. His appointment before the Australian series raised eyebrows, given his poor batting average and lack of consistency. Under his leadership, Pakistan has lost five consecutive Test matches. His decisions during the Bangladesh series, such as field placements and early declarations, were widely criticized. Adding to this, his personal performance with the bat has been underwhelming, averaging just 26 in the series.
Performance Issues Across the Team
Pakistan’s problems extend beyond leadership. Shaheen Shah Afridi, the team’s star pacer, failed to make an impact in the series, and the other pacers struggled to maintain pace and accuracy. The spin department, once a stronghold for Pakistan, also failed miserably, with Abrar Ahmed proving ineffective. The batting lineup, with the exception of Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel, crumbled. Star players like Babar Azam and Abdullah Shafique failed to deliver, leaving the team vulnerable and lacking direction.
Bleak Future for Pakistan Cricket
As Pakistan faces upcoming series against strong teams like England and Australia, the future looks bleak. Their inability to win a home Test series for years, a whitewash by Australia, and a shocking group-stage exit in the 2024 T20 World Cup all point to a major crisis in the team.
Rebuilding Pakistani Cricket
Pakistan’s upcoming Test series will be critical in determining whether the lessons from this defeat have been learned. Facing tougher teams, they will need to demonstrate mental toughness and technical precision. The PCB, coaching staff, and players must recognize that this loss to Bangladesh is not merely an anomaly—it is a wake-up call. Change is needed across all levels, from domestic structures to international strategy. If these changes are implemented effectively, Pakistan can regain its stature in Test cricket and once again become a force to be reckoned with in the longer format.
The writer can be reached at hinamehreen99@gmail.com
