"There was no method" - Waqar Younis baffled by Pakistan's tactics after their defeat to Afghanistan in 2023 World Cup clash

Former Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis questioned Babar Azam and co. for their tactics against Afghanistan following a stunning defeat in the 2023 World Cup clash on Monday in Chennai. The 51-year-old felt Pakistan had no definite plan of taking wickets and that it was not the team he knew from the start.

Despite facing a stiff chase of 283, Afghanistan reached it in a canter as Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Rahmat Shah struck half-centuries. Pakistan's bowling unit, especially their spinners, had no answers to the opposition's expertise as they registered their first ODI win over the 1992 World Cup winners, leaving them on the brink of elimination.

Speaking to Star Sports after the humiliating defeat, Younis reflected that Pakistan had no attitude on the field and everything seemed disorganized.

"That's not the Pakistan team. I know you know. The attitude was totally missing zero out there. There was no method. It was just you Ball, you ball. You know, we're not going to field and we're sitting on the heels. There was so much to sort of. We can sit down here all night and criticise because they have provided us so much to talk about."

Skipper Babar Azam made his 2nd 50 of the tournament. while Abdullah Shafique also continued his excellent run in the tournament. The likes of Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed also came good in the death overs, adding 73.

"I'm very happy for Afghanistan" - Waqar Younis

Afghanistan cricket team. (Image Credits: Twitter)

At the same time, the former Pakistan great also lauded Afghanistan for handling pressure effectively in a high-octane encounter. Younis added:

"It is very hurting. But I'm very happy for Afghanistan. Also, don't forget because you know they deserve it. The way they handle the pressure, the way they played cricket. I'm happy for them. I am gutted because you know what I've seen today."

With the eight-wicket loss, Pakistan's chances of reaching the semi-finals have been effectively reduced.