Pakistan national cricket team faced sharp criticism after suffering a heavy defeat against the Bangladesh national cricket team in the first ODI of their series. Pakistan were bowled out for just 114 runs in 30.4 overs after Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field. In response, Bangladesh comfortably chased the modest target, reaching 115 for the loss of two wickets in just 15.1 overs, handing Pakistan an eight-wicket defeat in their first match since their exit from the ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

Bangladesh’s victory was powered by an outstanding bowling performance from Nahid Rana, who claimed a five-wicket haul and dismantled Pakistan’s batting lineup. The collapse left Pakistan struggling throughout their innings, with none of the batters able to build a meaningful partnership. Bangladesh’s batters then capitalised on the small target and completed the chase quickly, highlighting the gulf in performance between the two sides during the match.

Following the defeat, former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir strongly criticised the team’s performance and selection decisions. Reacting on social media, Amir expressed concern over Pakistan’s decline, remarking that the team risked becoming an “associate-level team” if performances continued to deteriorate. He also questioned the strategy of dropping experienced players and relying heavily on younger cricketers without adequate guidance.

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Amir pointed out that Pakistan’s batting approach lacked discipline and adaptability, noting that several young players struggled to handle deliveries outside the off stump and relied heavily on shots toward the mid-wicket region. He also criticised the bowling effort, highlighting how Bangladesh chased the target with ease on the same pitch where Pakistan’s batters struggled. The teams are scheduled to play two more ODIs in the series, giving Pakistan an opportunity to recover from the disappointing start.

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