Pakistan told to end Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi’s careers after T20 World Cup 2026 debacle against India

By Samira Vishwas On Feb 16, 2026

Former Pakistan batter Mohammad Yousuf hit out at Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi following the team’s 61-run defeat against India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 match at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday. Both the senior players failed to contribute, and India had no problem qualifying for the Super 8 stage.

Shaheen conceded 31 runs from his two overs as India posted 175/7 in their 20 overs. Shaheen was the only pacer used in the match, but he was ordinary with the ball and was hit for boundaries by Ishan Kishan and Rinku Singh.

Babar Azam played a reckless shot with Pakistan already in trouble in the chase of 176. He scored 5 runs in 7 balls and was dismissed by Axar Patel. Shadab Khan also disappointed, leaking 17 runs from the only over he bowled. Following the below-par display by three seasoned campaigners, Yousuf suggested that the decision-makers back young players.

“Time’s up for Shaheen, Babar, and Shadab, Pakistan’s T20 squad needs new performers, not empty wins against weaker sides,” Yousuf wrote on X.

Time’s up for Shaheen, Babar, and Shadab, Pakistan’s T20 squad needs new performers, not empty wins against weaker sides #T20worldcup
— Mohammad Yousaf (@yousaf1788) February 15, 2026

Shahid Afridi also urged the team management to test the bench strength in their last Group stage match against Namibia.

“I would drop Babar, Shahee and Shadab. Give new players a chance against Namibia. We have been seeing this that the senior players are not consistent against good teams and if they can’t perform, give others an opportunity,” he said.

Ishan Kishan’s 77 runs took India to 175/7. Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy and Axar picked up two wickets each as Pakistan were dismissed for 114 in 18 overs. Pakistan now need a win against Namibia as defeat would eliminate them from the T20 World Cup. If Namibia secures a victory over Salman Ali Agha’s team, the USA would qualify for the next round.

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