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'What Happened To Cricket In Pakistan?' - Pietersen Shows No Mercy To Rizwan And Co

Kevin Pietersen has raised alarms over Pakistan cricket's downward spiral (X)Kevin Pietersen has raised alarms over Pakistan cricket's downward spiral (X)

Pakistan cricket is in a state of alarming decline, following a string of humiliating defeats that culminated in a shocking 10-wicket loss to Bangladesh at home in Rawalpindi on Sunday.

The defeat marked Pakistan's first-ever Test loss to Bangladesh, and it came in a fashion that has left fans and experts questioning the direction of cricket in the country.

Kevin Pietersen reacts to Pakistan cricket’s embarrassing defeat to Bangladesh

Pakistan's woes in this match were compounded by a first-innings declaration at 448 for six. Bangladesh responded with a formidable 565, before skittling Pakistan out for a paltry 146 in their second innings.

With just 30 runs needed for victory, Bangladesh cruised home without losing a wicket, leaving Pakistan to lick their wounds. This latest defeat is symptomatic of a deeper malaise in Pakistan cricket. Over the last 12 months, the Men in Green have suffered a series of humiliations.

An embarrassing loss to Afghanistan in the ODI World Cup 2023, a failure to reach the semi-finals of that tournament, an ignominious exit from the T20 World Cup 2024 after losing to associate nation USA, and now, a historic Test defeat to Bangladesh.

In the wake of these disasters, former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen didn’t mince words as he took to Twitter, expressing his dismay:

"What happened to cricket in Pakistan? When I played the PSL, the standard of that league was tremendous, the players had a very good work ethic and the youngsters on display were magic. What’s happening there?" wrote Pieteresen.


Pietersen’s pointed remarks highlighted the dramatic decline of a cricketing powerhouse that once boasted immense talent and potential.

The rot, as many believe, runs deep—rooted in corruption, instability, and a lack of cohesive leadership. Coaches, support staff, and board officials have been revolving doors, with captains coming and going like ships passing in the night, leading to a lack of harmony that is painfully evident in the team’s on-field performances.

Pakistan cricket now stands at a crossroads, teetering on the brink of further decline. The warning signs are flashing, and unless drastic measures are taken to restore stability and integrity, the once-great cricketing nation risks losing its place at the top table of international cricket.