"Itni kele bandar bhi nahi khaate": Wasim Akram Slams Pakistan Team's Diet After Champions Trophy Exit

Pakistan(25 February, 2025): Pakistan's disappointing performance in the Champions Trophy 2025 has led to harsh criticism from former players and experts. The team was eliminated in the group stage, losing to India and New Zealand, which shattered their hopes of reaching the semi-finals. The frustration among fans and cricket legends is evident, with Wasim Akram openly criticizing the team’s fitness and diet.

Wasim Akram Shocked by Players’ Diet

During a post-match analysis on A Sports, Akram revealed that he was stunned to see a plate full of bananas being served to players during a drinks break. Expressing his disappointment, he said,
"Itni kele bandar bhi nahi khaate! (Even monkeys don’t eat so many bananas!)."
He questioned the team’s nutritional choices, saying that under former captain Imran Khan, such habits would have been unacceptable.

Imran Khan's Strict Fitness Standards

Akram recalled how Imran Khan, who led Pakistan to World Cup victory in 1992, was extremely strict about fitness. Players had to follow a high-protein diet, strict training schedules, and regular fitness assessments. He added,
"Had Imran been our captain, he would have beaten me if I ate this much junk!"
His frustration highlights the decline in fitness culture in Pakistan cricket today.

Pakistan’s Poor Bowling Performance

Beyond diet concerns, Akram also slammed the Pakistan bowling attack, calling their performance one of the worst in international cricket. He revealed shocking statistics:

1) Pakistan’s bowlers took only 24 wickets in their last five ODIs.
2) Their bowling average (60 runs per wicket) is worse than teams like Oman and the USA.
3) Among 14 ODI teams, Pakistan ranks second-worst in bowling averages.

Calls for Accountability from PCB

Akram directly urged Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman to call the captain, coach, and selection committee for an explanation. He questioned the inclusion of players like Khushdil Shah and Salman Agha, saying they never looked capable of taking wickets.
"I have been shouting for weeks that this squad is weak, but the chairman said it is the best team. Now, look at the results!" he said.

Fans React to Pakistan’s Failure

Pakistan’s exit has led to huge disappointment among fans, with many questioning the team’s preparation, selection process, and fitness levels. Social media is flooded with memes, criticism, and debates over whether a major overhaul is needed in the squad. Wasim Akram's warning is clear – without discipline in fitness, diet, and training, Pakistan cricket will continue to disappoint its fans on the global stage.

What’s Next for Pakistan Cricket?

With no chance to redeem themselves in this tournament, the focus now shifts to the next ICC event. Will Pakistan revamp its selection policies and fitness programs? Or will the team continue to struggle? Only time will tell.