Pace legend hails Nahid Rana, praises Tigers’ rise as Pakistan slump to second straight series defeat
Asher Butt
The Sultan of Swing, Wasim Akram did not hide his disappointment. But the Pakistan legend also did not look for excuses. After Bangladesh beat Pakistan in a Test series for the second time in a row, the left arm pacer gave a clear message: Bangladesh are now a complete cricket nation, and Pakistan have fallen behind.
“Really disappointed to see Pakistan beaten for the second time by Bangladesh,” Akram said. “But full praise and marks to the winners as they played complete cricket.”
Bangladesh outplayed Pakistan in every department
Akram’s words show how much things have changed. This was not a loss due to bad luck or bad decisions. Bangladesh were better with bat, ball, in the field, and in tactics.
For years, Pakistan dominated Bangladesh in Tests. Now, the gap has not just closed — it has turned around.
Pitch revolution: From ‘slow turners’ to fast-bowler friendly
Akram pointed out a big reason for Bangladesh’s rise: their pitches.
“Bangladesh used to have low, slow and big turners,” he said. “But now they are preparing great Test pitches, helping their fast-rising pace bowlers who outpaced Pakistan.”
In the past, fast bowlers hated touring Bangladesh. The pitches were slow with no bounce. Now, Bangladesh is making wickets with pace and carry. That helps their new group of fast bowlers. In this series, they bowled better than Pakistan’s famous pace attack.
“Bangladesh are now ready to compete against the best in this format,” Akram told SportsToday.
‘What a talent’ – Akram on Nahid Rana
Akram reserved special praise for young Bangladesh pacer Nahid Rana.
“What a talent Nahid Rana is – a treat to watch,” he said.
Coming from Wasim Akram — a master of reverse swing and pace — that is a huge compliment. Rana got bounce and movement all series. He troubled Pakistan’s batters more than their own quicks could trouble Bangladesh.
Rana’s rise shows Bangladesh no longer depend only on spin to win at home.
Hard questions for Pakistan
For Pakistan, this defeat is not a one-off. It is the second straight series loss to Bangladesh.
Pakistan’s fast bowlers, despite their speed, were outbowled. The batters struggled against both pace and spin. Bangladesh’s batters showed better skill and patience.
Akram’s disappointment will be felt by millions of fans. But his decision to credit Bangladesh shows his sportsmanship.
“Congrats Bangladesh,” he said.
Pakistan now have to go back and study not just their own mistakes, but also what Bangladesh did right. The Tigers went from underdogs to real contenders.
For Pakistan, the challenge is simple: make sure congratulating the opponent does not become a habit.
