The team management is considering giving two to three players from the bench an opportunity in the upcoming matches
Digital Desk: Pakistan’s crushing defeat to India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday could trigger major changes within the squad, with senior players Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi reportedly facing the possibility of being dropped.
According to sources, the current Pakistan team management, led by head coach Mike Hesson, is unhappy with the performances of the two senior pros. There is speculation that both Babar and Shaheen could be left out of the playing XI for the must-win clash against Namibia on Wednesday, 18th February , as the management looks to test its bench strength.
In the high-voltage India vs Pakistan encounter, Babar managed just five runs before losing his wicket to Axar Patel, playing an ill-advised slog that left Pakistan struggling early in the innings. Shaheen, meanwhile, endured a tough outing with the ball, conceding 31 runs in just two overs, allowing India to surge past the 175-run mark.
Reports suggest the team management is considering giving two to three players from the bench an opportunity in the upcoming matches, as Pakistan aims to revive its campaign in the 20-team tournament.
Following the defeat, the Pakistan camp observed a rest day on Monday and is scheduled to resume training next day ahead of the crucial game against Namibia.
The loss to India reportedly left the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi visibly disappointed, with reports claiming he left the match midway. The blockbuster clash was attended by Jay Shah, along with BCCI President and Vice-President Mithun Manhas and Rajeev Shukla.
So far in the tournament, both Babar and Shaheen have struggled to deliver match-winning performances, raising serious questions about Pakistan’s strategy and leadership as the team fights to stay alive in the World Cup.
Continue Reading
