Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has launched a scathing critique of the national team following their 61-run defeat to arch-rivals India in the ICC T20 World Cup, calling for the immediate axing of senior stars including Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Shadab Khan.
A One-Sided Affair Sparks Outrage
The high-stakes match on Sunday saw India post 175 for 7 after batting first. In reply, Pakistan collapsed to 114 all out in 18 overs, a performance that has drawn intense criticism from fans and former players alike. The loss has severely dented Pakistan’s net run rate, pushing them below the USA in the Group A points table and making their upcoming match against Namibia a must-win to advance to the Super Eight stage.
Afridi Lambasts Captaincy and Player Performance
In an interview with a private TV channel, an irate Afridi questioned the tactics of captain Salman Ali Agha and the execution of key players. “We made many mistakes in the match against India. India deserved to win. I could not understand Salman Ali Agha’s decisions at all,” Afridi stated.
He specifically highlighted the underutilization of pace bowler Usman Tariq, calling him the team’s “trump card” who was hidden for ten overs. Afridi also turned his fire on Shaheen Afridi’s bowling, criticizing the decision to give him the final over after an expensive first spell when Faheem Ashraf was available.
A Radical Call for Youth Over Experience
Afridi’s most explosive recommendation was a complete overhaul of the team’s core. “If the decision was in my hands, I would drop Shaheen, Shadab Khan, and Babar from the team and give new boys a chance,” he declared.
He argued that the senior players have consistently failed to deliver in high-pressure matches against top teams. “The senior players have been playing for a long time. Where we expect them to perform well against big teams, they don’t deliver. Therefore, new boys should be given a chance in the next match against Namibia.”
Mounting Pressure in a Critical Tournament
Afridi’s outburst echoes growing frustration with Pakistan’s campaign. The defeat marks Pakistan’s fourth loss to India in four months, raising serious questions about the team’s direction and system. With their World Cup survival now on the line, the call for drastic changes adds immense pressure on the team management and selectors ahead of the crucial Namibia fixture.
