The R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo hosted more than just a Cricket match this week; it may mark the end of an era for Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi in Pakistan cricket. India won against Pakistan by 61 runs in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, but the numbers alone don’t show the depth of the defeat or the backlash that followed.
For years, people have described Pakistani cricket as “unpredictable.” However, this match showed a disturbing trend: predictability. It was Pakistan’s eighth loss in nine T20 World Cup matches against India, and this wasn’t a close encounter; it was a thorough defeat.
Voices from former players and unhappy fans are unanimous. They are not just calling for tactical changes but are demanding a complete overhaul of the leadership: Babar, Afridi, and Shadab Khan.
The Colombo Collapse: More Than Just a Scoreline
To grasp the outrage, consider how the match unfolded. India didn’t just win; they dominated. Chasing a challenging target of 176, set by Ishan Kishan’s explosive 77 off 40 balls, Pakistan lacked both composure and urgency.
The innings fell apart quickly. The top order, normally a strength, crumbled during the power play. The middle order fared little better, appearing less like a cohesive unit and more like individuals hoping someone else would bail them out. The 61-run defeat marks Pakistan’s most substantial loss to India in T20s, a bleak milestone for their campaign.
The Problem With Babar Azam
Babar Azam, once the anchor of the batting structure, finds himself amid much criticism. His dismissal for just 5 runs against Axar Patel was more than a loss of wicket; it signified a loss of confidence for the team.
While some have pointed out the team’s over-reliance on Babar as a hindrance to developing a robust middle order, the critique has now shifted to performance under pressure. In key moments against India, the team has failed to deliver.
Bowling Spearheads Or Spent Forces?
The spotlight falls on the bowlers too. Shaheen Afridi, a former leading fast bowler, had a disappointing performance, conceding 31 runs in just two overs, showing a lack of control.
Shadab Khan, the senior all-rounder, also underperformed, scoring only 14 runs and contributing little with the ball. When the senior players struggle in a World Cup match against India, a complete overhaul becomes essential.
Legends Call for Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi Axe
Former players have not held back in their criticism. Mohammad Yousaf expressed his view on social media, suggesting it’s time for Babar, Shaheen, and Shadab to step aside. He commented, “Pakistan’s T20 squad needs fresh talent, not past glories.”
Others, including Basit Ali and Shahid Afridi, have echoed this belief, arguing that Pakistan’s cricket is outdated. They criticized the reluctance to move on from well-known names, while India successfully integrates younger players like Kishan and Patel.
FAQ Section
Q: What happened in the Pakistan vs India T20 World Cup 2026 match?
A: India won by 61 runs in Colombo, with Ishan Kishan shining and Pakistan’s senior players failing to perform.
Q: Who is at the center of the controversy?
A: Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Shadab Khan are facing significant criticism from former players and fans alike.
Q: Why is this news significant?
A: It underscores Pakistan’s ongoing challenges in ICC tournaments and raises doubts about its leadership in cricket.
Q: What are the next steps?
A: Pakistan is likely to consider younger players in upcoming matches, while selectors face pressure to drop underperforming veterans.
What Comes Next For Pakistan?
The situation is dire. Qualification for the Super 8 round seems highly unlikely. The upcoming match against Namibia has shifted from a mere preparation to a critical juncture for many careers.
The PCB is under scrutiny. Should they stick with players who have repeatedly underperformed? Or should they take the risk of change? The general sentiment is clear: there is a desire for a new era—a team that aims to win, not out of fear of losing.
For Babar, Shaheen, and Shadab, the match against Namibia offers a chance to redeem themselves, but it may be too late for a turnaround. The defeat against India has cast a long shadow over their future. Without decisive action from the selectors, Pakistan risks becoming a relic in a sport that demands growth.
The 2026 loss in Colombo represented more than just a defeat; it was a turning point. The question remains: will the PCB take action?
