Pakistan's cricket team is facing scrutiny for its subpar fielding performances, with recent statistics painting a concerning picture. A noticeable decline in fielding standards has positioned them as potentially the "worst" among 41 teams analyzed.

Since the beginning of 2024, Pakistan's fielding statistics reveal a troubling trend. The team has dropped 48 catches, and missed 98 run-out opportunities. Furthermore, they have misfielded 89 times, placing them among the lowest-ranked teams in these critical areas. Only West Indies has misfielded more with 90 misfields. These numbers highlight a significant need for improvement in the team's fielding efforts.

The impact of these fielding lapses was evident in their recent defeat against Afghanistan in the ongoing tri-series in Sharjah. Pakistan fell short by 18 runs, a loss partly attributed to a "sloppy show in the outfield". This defeat underscored the importance of efficient fielding, especially in tight matches where every run saved can be crucial. Afghanistan's strong spin attack put pressure on Pakistan, exposing their weaknesses in the field.

Despite possessing a batting lineup and some good bowlers, the team's overall performance has been affected by these fielding issues. In May 2025, Pakistan's ICC rankings reflected these struggles, with the team dropping to 8th position in T20I rankings. This decline was attributed to inconsistent performances, unstable team selections and notably, poor fielding.

While Pakistan's catching efficiency stands at a mediocre 81.4%, which isn't far behind other teams, the lack of intensity and focus in the field has long frustrated fans. This suggests that while the team is capable of taking catches, a lack of sharpness and proactive fielding is costing them valuable runs.

To improve, Pakistan needs to address several key areas. First, consistent team selection could help build a more cohesive and confident fielding unit. Second, targeted training and drills aimed at improving catching techniques, ground fielding, and run-out execution are essential. Finally, instilling a greater sense of urgency and commitment in the field could transform the team's fielding from a weakness into a strength.

The upcoming Asia Cup 2025 and other international fixtures present opportunities for Pakistan to demonstrate improved fielding skills. Fans and analysts will be closely watching to see if the team can translate focused training and renewed commitment into better performances on the field.