"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.
"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.
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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.
"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.
"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.