Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has responded to criticism from former captain and selector Mohammad Yousuf following Pakistan’s victory over Namibia in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
After Pakistan secured a spot in the Super Eights, Shadab spoke to reporters about the backlash stemming from the heavy defeat to India. The scrutiny originated from Yousuf’s recent interview on the How Does It Work podcast with ProPakistani, where he questioned the mindset and accountability of senior players, including Shadab, Babar Azam, and Shaheen Afridi. Yousuf claimed that Pakistan cricket’s decline began after their historic 10-wicket win against India in the 2021 T20 World Cup, labeling the victory a “fluke” that led to overconfidence, arrogance, and a reliance on reputation over performance.
Shadab addressed the criticism candidly, acknowledging the respect for former players but highlighting their inability to deliver consistent results for the team. “I can’t control criticism. Ex-cricketers are legends, no doubt. As individuals they were great, but they couldn’t do it for the team, that’s why we are here,” he said, adding, “We beat India in 2021, something even they couldn’t achieve.”
Despite the historic nature of the 2021 win, critics argue that players like Shadab, Babar, and Shaheen still rely on past achievements rather than accountability in high-pressure situations. This criticism resurfaced after Pakistan’s one-sided loss to India in the ongoing T20 World Cup, raising questions about consistency and senior players’ selection.
In the match against Namibia, changes were made: Shaheen Afridi was rested, Babar Azam remained in the squad but didn’t bat, while Shadab contributed with quick runs and three wickets, continuing his form from earlier matches against the Netherlands and USA. His performance eased immediate pressure on his spot, but broader concerns about consistency and responsibility in key games remain.
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