Zafar Gohar Lauds England’s Fearless Cricket, Takes Swipe at Pakistan’s Mindset

Former Pakistan international Zafar Gohar, who has recently become eligible to switch his international allegiance to England, has sparked debate with candid remarks comparing England’s cricketing culture to that of Pakistan.

Speaking about what he termed as England’s so-called “arrogance,” Gohar argued that the label is often misunderstood. According to him, England’s approach is not arrogance but clarity of mindset and freedom of expression, something he feels is missing in Pakistan cricket.

“People call it arrogance and say England live in their own bubble,” Gohar said. “But look at the facts, England have won three out of their last sixteen ODIs. Still, the mindset doesn’t change.”

To underline his point, Gohar referred to England’s recent ODI against New Zealand, where the team collapsed to 26 for 6, yet Harry Brook counterattacked with a remarkable 139, turning the narrative around.

“This is the difference,” Gohar explained. “If a Pakistani player was in that situation, even our expectations would be limited to 50 or 60 runs and sometimes not even that. And if someone did manage a big score, it would take 90 or 100 balls, and the entire discussion would revolve around excuses: ‘What could he do when the team was 26 for 6?’”

Gohar’s comments highlight a broader criticism of Pakistan cricket, an environment where fear of failure, slow recovery from collapses, and excessive justification often overshadows intent and innovation.

The left-arm spinner, who last represented Pakistan in 2015, recently became eligible to play for England after fulfilling residency requirements. While no official call-up has been announced, his remarks have added fuel to conversations about why players thrive in England’s system and struggle in Pakistan’s.

As England continue to back aggressive intent regardless of results, and Pakistan grapple with questions over approach and confidence, Gohar’s words reflect a growing belief among players who have experienced both setups: mindset, not talent, is the real differentiator.