Echoes of disappointment linger after Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Super 8 exit, prompting Shahid Afridi to eviscerate Shadab Khan’s credentials. In a no-holds-barred Sama TV interview, the ex-skipper stated flatly: ‘Based on performances, he doesn’t belong in the team—captaincy is laughable.’
Fourth consecutive ICC event semifinal drought has Agha’s job on the line, with Shadab and Shaheen tipped as replacements. Afridi, however, sees no silver lining in Shadab’s 118 runs and five wickets from seven outings.
He lambasted the support ecosystem: ‘Mike Hesson mentored him at PSL’s Islamabad United, then as national coach, showers opportunities. I foresaw captaincy potential, but World Cup exposed him—not worthy of XI spot.’ Pakistan’s journey: upbeat starts vs Netherlands, USA, Namibia; crushed by India; Super 8 woes with rain vs Netherlands, England loss, insufficient Sri Lanka win.
Instability reigns—Agha, the fourth T20 captain in a year, averaged a woeful 10 with 60 runs. Afridi urges bold moves, backing opener Fakhar Zaman for his attacking flair: ‘Current form demands aggression; Fakhar’s our man.’
Pakistan must confront these realities head-on. PCB’s upcoming reshuffles on leadership and selection could mark a turning point, with Afridi’s influential voice pushing for merit-based revival to restore the team’s global edge.