Pakistan, Sept. 5 -- In August 2016, Pakistan became the world's No. 1 Test team. It remains my favourite memory from the revival between 2009 and 2017, particularly because Pakistan reached the top while playing its home cricket abroad.

That side was not always glamorous, but it had character. Under Misbah-ul-Haq, the players understood their roles and usually looked greater than the sum of their parts. There was patience in the batting, discipline in the bowling and, above all, a sense of stability.

Pakistan cricket today feels different. Gifted players still emerge and the team can beat almost anyone on its day. But talent is being asked to rescue a system that no longer develops players consistently.

After every defeat, the same de...