KARACHI, Pakistan, Oct 30 (Reuters) - Pakistan captain Waqar Younis has hit back at critics of the national side’s recent poor form, saying some of the flack was unwarranted given that so many senior players had been injured or unavailable.

“This sort of criticism is nothing new in Pakistan cricket. You win 10 matches and lose one and they take shots at the team, management and Board. But this sort of attitude must change,” Younis said Wednesday.

“This is a crucial time for the team. We are trying to strike a right balance for the World Cup. Things have not been easy for us with so many senior players either injured or not playing.”

“At least we had the courage to face one of the best teams in the world (Australia) with such an inexperienced and young team on neutral ground.”

The Pakistan team and board have come in for daily scathing criticism in the national press and from former players and administrators after the recent 3-0 defeat by Australia and earlier poor performances in one-day competitions before that.

“Everyday I get up and read statements from former players,” Younis complained. “I don’t want to take names but some of the criticism is a shame. It is criticism for criticism’s sake. It is not helping anyone.

“This is the time for everyone including the media, former players and the people to support us and keep faith in the team. Or else we will never do well in the World Cup.”—Reuters