Former cricketer Basit Ali has voiced strong criticism of Pakistan national cricket team selectors ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 set to begin on February 19. Ali suggested that skipper Mohammad Rizwan seemed unhappy with the inclusion of all-rounder Faheem Ashraf in the squad for the prestigious tournament.

mohammad-rizwan-unhappy-with-faheem-ashrafs-selection

His comments come in the wake of Pakistan’s recent defeat to New Zealand cricket team in the tri-series final where Faheem’s performance raised questions.

Basit speaking on his YouTube channel expressed concern over the tactical decisions taken by the team management and how they have impacted the squad's confidence. “If Pakistan had won the tri-nation series, the confidence level of every player would have been high,” Basit remarked.

One of the former cricketer's primary criticisms was the decision to move former Babar Azam to the opening slot. He questioned this shift stating, "Who advised Babar Azam to open the innings? I am surprised by this decision. He was performing well at number three, scoring 50-70 runs against South Africa, but they changed his position. Now, just 62 runs in three matches in the tri-series. This is the approach and mindset of the management."

Ali also claimed that captain Rizwan’s lack of confidence in Faheem Ashraf was evident during the final match against New Zealand national cricket team. Ashraf struggled in the final match scoring only 21 runs and conceding 16 runs in 2.2 overs.

According to Basit Rizwan's discontent was clear in his reluctance to give Ashraf more responsibility during the match. “Rizwan clearly showed he was not happy with Faheem Ashraf being included in the team. He did not give him the ball after just two overs and only used him again when the match was already lost,” Basit pointed out.