New Delhi, Sep 21 (NationPress) Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has strongly criticized the national cricket team following their lackluster performance in the Asia Cup against India. He accused both the team management and players of shifting blame rather than accepting accountability for their disappointing results.

Kaneria’s remarks came in the wake of India’s commanding performance during the tense group stage match, which led Team India to intentionally forgo the traditional post-match handshake with their Pakistani counterparts.

"The current state of Pakistan cricket is dismal. This pattern persists: when faced with a problem (the handshake incident), they refuse to take accountability and instead point fingers at others," Kaneria expressed to IANS, calling for the Pakistan cricket authorities to be held responsible. “The selectors have the responsibility of 22 crore people. What team did you choose? What coaching roles did you assign? What was your game plan, strategy, and approach?"

He acknowledged the evident gap between the two teams. “Pakistan is not performing to expectations, while India stands as a top-tier team. Based on their last match, it's clear that Pakistan's squad is not on par with India’s," the former leg-spinner noted.

Following the handshake controversy, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the current president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), called for the dismissal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup lineup, claiming that Pycroft had "advised the captains against handshakes at the toss," which is usually standard protocol.

Kaneria also denounced the various controversies surrounding the team, particularly the infamous handshake incident after the match with India. "This handshake issue has created a significant stir. If Pakistan continues down this path and neglects the game, they will inevitably face further decline," he cautioned.

The former spinner emphasized that Pakistan requires a definitive strategy, thorough planning, and effective execution to compete at the highest level. Without essential changes and accountability at the top, Kaneria fears that Pakistan cricket may continue to deteriorate.

As the Asia Cup unfolds, Pakistan faces increasing pressure both on and off the field. At this moment, all eyes are on how the players and management will address the criticism and whether they can regain their form ahead of the Super 4s match against India on Sunday.