Ilyas stirs debate with claims Pakistan 'lucky' to face weakened New Zealand
Asher Butt
Former Test cricketer Mohammad Ilyas has sparked
debate with remarks addressed to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman,
suggesting Pakistan's possible upcoming victory against New Zealand would be
diminished due to the absence of key Kiwi players.
In a statement that has questioned Pakistan's cricket vulnerability,
Ilyas claimed that New Zealand's cricket system remains fundamentally stronger
than Pakistan's, despite the upcoming tour offering a potential victory for the
home side.
"Still NZ will win. Their cricket system is stronger
than Pakistan's," Ilyas stated in his communication to the PCB Chairman.
"NZ's five main match-winning players are not with the team, so we are
lucky, facing a weaker opponent now."
The former cricketer further emphasized what he perceives
as Pakistan's good fortune, noting: "Our team is lucky to be facing the B
team of NZ during the ensuing NZ tour and hope to return triumphant."
Ilyas' comments come as Pakistan prepares to take on New Zealand in what cricket analysts have
identified as a crucial series for both nations with focus on the T20 World Cup.
The Black Caps, reportedly missing several frontline players due to injuries
and scheduling conflicts, will be fielding a less experienced squad.
Cricket commentators have been quick to respond to Ilyas'
assessment, with some supporting his candid evaluation of Pakistan cricket's
structural challenges, while others have criticized his comments as potentially
demoralizing for the national team.
The PCB has not yet issued an official response to Ilyas'
remarks, which come at a time when Pakistan cricket is working to rebuild
confidence after poor performances in recent series and the Champions Trophy.
Pakistan's tour of New Zealand is scheduled to begin next
week, featuring T20I and ODI matches across formats that will test both sides'
depth and resilience.
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