Former Pakistan cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has expressed his disappointment over the national team’s recent underwhelming performances, suggesting that the players should watch the iconic Bollywood film Lagaan for inspiration.
In an interview with local media, Shehzad emphasized that the Pakistani team must regain their fighting spirit and resilience, traits that he believes are sorely lacking in their current approach.
“It’s not just about the technique or the game plans; it’s about the heart and the will to fight,” said Shehzad, referencing the 2001 film Lagaan, which portrays a group of villagers defying all odds to win a cricket match against the British colonial rulers. “The way the characters in that film kept pushing despite all the difficulties is something our cricketers could take a lesson from.”
The Pakistan team’s recent performances have raised serious concerns, especially after their loss in the ongoing ICC events and a series of disappointing performances in the bilateral series. While the team has some world-class talent, consistency has been a major issue.
Shehzad, who represented Pakistan in numerous international matches, pointed out that cricket is not just a game of skills but also one of mental fortitude. “When the chips are down, it’s important to believe in yourself and your teammates. Sometimes, it’s not about the conditions or the opposition—it’s about the attitude you bring to the field,” he added.
In recent months, Pakistan’s batting line-up has struggled, with star players failing to deliver consistently. Meanwhile, the bowling attack has also been under scrutiny for lacking the potency needed to secure victories against top-ranked teams.
Shehzad called on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to focus on creating a more mentally resilient squad that is capable of handling pressure situations. “Lagaan teaches you that sometimes the greatest challenges come when you least expect them, but the determination to win is what separates the good from the great.”
Despite the heavy criticism, Shehzad remains optimistic about the future of Pakistan cricket, urging both players and fans to rally behind the team.
“There’s always hope. If the team can find that fighting spirit—like the villagers in Lagaan—they can turn things around. Pakistan cricket has faced challenges before and come out stronger. It can happen again,” he concluded.
