Pakistan’s turbulent campaign at the T20 World Cup 2026 has triggered another wave of debate back home, with former captain Shahid Afridi openly questioning the leadership credentials of star all-rounder. As speculation grows over a possible change in captaincy following the team’s underwhelming run, Afridi’s blunt remarks have added fuel to an already intense conversation around Pakistan cricket’s direction.

Pakistan’s below-average campaign in T20 World Cup 2026

Pakistan were knocked out of the 2026 T20 World Cup at the Super Eight stage, failing to secure a semi-final berth in what turned out to be a campaign of missed chances. Although they signed off with a narrow five-run victory over Sri Lanka in their final Super 8 fixture, it wasn’t enough to keep their hopes alive.

Led by captain Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan’s journey was marked by inconsistency. A damaging group-stage defeat to India dented their momentum early, and their inability to close out crucial moments in the Super Eights ultimately proved costly. When the points were tallied, Pakistan found themselves eliminated due to an inferior net run rate compared to New Zealand.

The narrow margins reflected a broader issue — flashes of brilliance but little sustained control. For a team rich in talent, the early exit has prompted serious introspection within cricketing circles in Pakistan.

Shahid Afridi questions Pakistan’s next potential captaincy candidate

In the aftermath of the elimination, criticism has been widespread. While Agha has faced scrutiny for his leadership during the tournament, reports suggesting that Shadab Khan could be considered as the next T20 captain sparked a strong reaction from Afridi.Speaking on Samaa TV, Afridi did not hold back while criticizing Shadab.

“Looking at his performance, I wouldn’t even keep him in the team, let alone give him the captaincy,” the former all-rounder said while reacting to speculation about Shadab replacing Salman.

Afridi went further, suggesting that repeated backing from the team management has not translated into results.

“The head coach is giving Shadab chance after chance. That’s why I said Shadab can become the next Pakistan captain. But looking at his recent performances, he doesn’t even deserve a place in the playing XI,” he added.

Shadab’s numbers from the tournament make for uncomfortable reading. Featuring in seven matches, he managed just five wickets and scored 118 runs — figures that fall short of expectations from a player considered one of Pakistan’s premier all-rounders. His struggles with both bat and ball became a talking point, particularly in high-pressure games where senior players are expected to rise.

Afridi’s remarks reflect a larger frustration among fans who believe leadership should be earned through consistent performances rather than reputation.

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What’s next for Pakistan?

With their T20 World Cup campaign over, Pakistan now shift focus to rebuilding and recalibrating. The team is entering a period of transition, both competitively and structurally.

The immediate attention turns to the 50-over format as preparations begin for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Pakistan are scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on March 9 for a three-match ODI series, with all games set to be day-night fixtures at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. The series offers an opportunity to reset combinations and evaluate emerging players.

Later in the year, Pakistan will tour England for a marquee three-match Test series starting August 19 at Headingley — a challenging assignment that will test the team’s resilience in red-ball cricket.

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