The fallout from India’s 61-run demolition of Pakistan has reached a fever pitch. Former captain and legendary all-rounder Shahid Afridi has led a chorus of heavy-hitting criticism, calling for a total overhaul of the team’s senior core.
Afridi’s critique cantered on the perceived lack of return on the "ample opportunities" provided to the current leadership group. His message was clear: if the superstars can’t deliver, it’s time for the bench to step up.
Drop Shaheen, drop Shadab, and drop Babar. Try fresh faces against Namibia and give the new players a chance... Whenever we expect them to perform, they don't. If these senior players aren't giving us the performances we desire, then play the juniors. What is the difference?
Shahid Afridi
Current skipper Salman Ali Agha was forced to defend a "spin-heavy" strategy that backfired spectacularly on a tacky Premadasa surface. While the pitch offered grip, the execution was missing, leaving Pakistan chasing the game from the opening over.
Spinners’ off day: Despite performing well over the last six months, the spin unit failed to stifle an aggressive Indian top order.
Powerplay paralysis: Losing 3-4 wickets in the first six overs left the middle order with too much ground to cover.
Conditions: Agha admitted the pitch played better in the second innings, but his bowlers failed to adapt their lengths to the situation.
What began as a thrilling, balanced rivalry in the inaugural 2007 World Cup has morphed into nearly two decades of Indian dominance. The "Mother of All Battles" has become distressingly one-sided, a fact punctuated by India's 8th victory over Pakistan in T20 World Cup history.
The emotional toll on Pakistan’s legends was most evident in the commentary box. After Pommie Mbangwa noted India’s 11th consecutive win in Men’s ICC T20 World Cups, a frustrated Waqar Younis interjected to end the discussion.
Alright! Enough. Leave it there. We’ve had enough of that. India have been too good in the last 15-20 years, I would say.
Waqar Younis, on-air reaction
