In the ever-boiling cauldron of Pakistan cricket, there’s never a quiet day — and former pacer Tanvir Ahmed just added more fire to the pot. In a recent interview, he called out Pakistan’s T20I captain, Salman Ali Agha, and head coach Mike Hesson.
His message was was loud and clear: “It’s not enough to play fearless cricket against Bangladesh. Do it against the big boys — then we’ll talk about a new era.”
Tanvir was quick to dismiss the notion that he’s against the rise of young blood in Pakistan cricket just because he supports veterans like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.
“People say I don’t back youngsters because of Babar and Rizwan. That’s not true at all,” he clarified. “I just want these young players to show the same spirit and skill against teams like England, India, and South Africa — not just Bangladesh.”
The Real Test Isn’t Bangladesh
While Pakistan’s recent show against Bangladesh offered glimpses of hope, Tanvir believes that real validation only comes against top-tier opponents.
He challenged the new leadership vision of Salman Ali Agha: “You’re saying this is the new brand of cricket we’re going to play? Great. Now show us that same brand against the likes of New Zealand, England, South Africa, or India — and in ICC tournaments.”
In a surprising show of flexibility, Tanvir Ahmed made one thing crystal clear: he’s not stuck in the past.
“If this new group truly performs against strong teams, then yes, I’ll say it myself — Pakistan no longer needs Babar and Rizwan in the T20 side,” he stated. “But don’t bench your best players on the back of one good series against Bangladesh.”
It’s a valid point. Great teams are built on consistency, not just one-off flashes of brilliance.
Upcoming Series: The Real Litmus Test
Tanvir also put the spotlight on the crucial upcoming series against West Indies and Afghanistan, warning that these matches won’t be as easy as some might assume.
“These are not weak sides. If we flop here, right before the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, then it’s only fair that Babar and Rizwan return — no questions asked,” he warned.
According to him, these games will determine whether the new-look Pakistan team is actually ready for the big leagues, or if it’s all just talk.
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