Former Pakistan cricketers worried with team's poor run of form

Karachi: Pakistan's run of poor form against Australia in the United Arab Emirates has prompted former greats to express concerns over the national team's chances of doing well in the 2015 World Cup.

"I watch the way our batsmen play today and I feel sad because one sees a total lack of application and cricket sense," former captain Hanif Mohammad said.

Known as the Little Master for his ability to play marathon innings, Hanif said that the influx of T20 cricket had also played its part in damaging the future generation of Pakistani batsmen.

"It is disappointing to see the way our batting is performing. They get out after good starts and that shows that T20 cricket has spoilt their habits and they are not willing to apply themselves," he added.

Hanif said that unless Pakistan found a solution to their batting instability they would struggle in the World Cup.

"In our days the passion to play for the country and do well was above everything else and we need that spirit to win the World Cup," he added.

Former captain Mohammad Yousuf also lashed out at the batting line-up.

"I just don't understand what is happening. Even after a strong opening start of 126 the rest of the batsmen failed to do anything. No matter how strong a coaching staff you have nothing will change unless the players change themselves," Yousuf stated.

The senior batsman also felt that his old fears about Waqar Younis not proving to be a successful coach seems to be coming true.

"I have always said that Waqar was a great player but never a good captain or coach because these are two different things. Bob Woolmer was not a great player but he was a very good coach and very good at management and making players realise their potential. I don't see that happening in the team today," he stated.

He claimed it was Woolmer who made Younis and Shahid Afridi regular members of the side.

Yousuf said that if Pakistan couldn't beat a weakened Australian side in conditions that they are accustomed to, than it is foolish to expect them to perform well in the World Cup.

Former national team coach and chief selector Mohsin Khan said he was disappointed at seeing the amount of pressure on skipper Misbah-ul Haq.

"The captain needs to be given more encouragement and support because if he starts scoring runs again it will have an overall good effect on the team and boost their confidence ahead of the World Cup."