ICC T20 WC 2026: How senior cricketers react to Pakistan’s defeat against India?

2026-02-16 - 10:06

KARACHI – After Pakistan’s humiliating 61-run defeat against India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, the senior cricketers including Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar and Muhammad Yousuf have reacted and reflected on the reasons behind it. Muhammad Yousuf Former Pakistan cricket star Mohammad Yousuf has called for an end to political interference in cricket following Pakistan’s humiliating 61-run defeat against India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Expressing disappointment over the loss, Yousuf described it as the “darkest period in Pakistan’s cricket history” and said that incompetent officials should be removed from their positions and the team. He added that cricket cannot reach its former glory until political agendas and personal interests are removed from the sport. In a message on X (formerly Twitter), Yousuf also suggested that senior players like Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam and Shadab Khan have passed their prime, and Pakistan’s T20 team needs new performers. Shahid Afridi Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi also expressed anger over the defeat. Speaking to a private TV channel, he said the team made numerous mistakes against India, and the opposition deserved to win. Afridi criticized captain Salman Ali Agha’s decisions, including the late use of key bowler Usman Tariq, and said Shaheen Afridi’s performance was disappointing. He suggested removing senior players like Shaheen, Shadab, and Babar to give opportunities to younger talent, especially against teams like Namibia. Shoaib Akhtar Meanwhile, former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar admitted that India is far ahead in cricket and Pakistan has fallen behind. Speaking on an Indian TV program, Akhtar criticized PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for lacking knowledge and experience, saying poor leadership has contributed to the team’s decline. He also highlighted that overrated players cannot lead the team to victories, and stressed that Pakistan is no match for India on the field. Despite the criticism, Akhtar said he will continue to support the Pakistan cricket team and hopes they defeat Namibia in the next match to advance in the tournament. India defeated Pakistan by 61 runs in the group stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, intensifying scrutiny of Pakistan’s team and leadership from fans and former players alike. India beat Pakistan in high-voltage T20 World Cup match