Australia’s Tour Squad Snub of Cummins and Maxwell Sparks Pakistan Criticism

Australia, Jan 31 : Cricket Australia’s decision to send a depleted squad for the three-match T20 series against Pakistan has drawn sharp criticism from former players and analysts. The series, intended as preparation for the T20 World Cup 2026, will see Australia missing five key players: Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, and Glenn Maxwell. Maxwell has been rested to regain form after a challenging Big Bash League season, while the others are recovering from injuries.

Despite these explanations, Pakistan cricket figures view the move as disrespectful. Former Test captain Moin Khan condemned Australia, along with other SENA nations like New Zealand and South Africa, for regularly sending weakened sides to Pakistan. “It seems they are merely fulfilling a formality rather than genuinely competing,” Khan said.

Analyst Omair Alavi described the decision as an insult to Pakistani cricket fans, depriving them of the opportunity to watch Australia’s top players on home soil. Former Test batter and chief selector Haroon Rasheed added, “It’s perplexing to field a weakened side so close to the World Cup when conditions in Pakistan mirror those in the tournament.”

The move has sparked broader debate on the commitment of top cricketing nations to tours in Pakistan, raising concerns about competitiveness and respect for local audiences.