Shaheen Afridi’s Veiled Dig at Babar Azam as Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Hopes Hang by a Thread
Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup suffered a major blow after a narrow two-wicket defeat to England in their Super 8 clash in Pallekele on February 24.
The loss leaves the Men in Green relying heavily on permutations in Group 2, which also includes New Zealand and Sri Lanka. With just one game remaining, Pakistan’s semi-final fate is no longer in their own hands.
Babar’s Knock Divides Opinion
After losing Saim Ayub and Salman Ali Agha early, Pakistan needed stability. Babar Azam attempted to provide that anchor role.
- Babar Azam – 25 (24)
- 46-run stand with Sahibzada Farhan in 38 balls
- Strike rate: 104
While some fans defended Babar’s approach as necessary consolidation, critics argued the tempo was insufficient on a batting-friendly Pallekele surface.
He was eventually dismissed by Jamie Overton in the 11th over while attempting to accelerate.
Meanwhile, Sahibzada Farhan carried the momentum with a well-crafted 63 off 45 balls. Cameos from Fakhar Zaman (25 off 16) and Shadab Khan (23 off 11) lifted Pakistan to 164/9 — competitive, but arguably 15–20 runs short.
Shaheen’s Subtle Message
In the post-match press conference, Shaheen Afridi was asked about Babar’s approach in the middle overs.
His response was measured — but pointed.
“A partnership means you have to have somebody in the crease who can go for singles and twos. Throughout a T20 innings, you need those eight or nine runs an over, if you want to build a partnership.”
He further compared Pakistan’s approach with England’s.
“When England batted, Harry Brook stayed at the crease, rotated the strike and built partnerships. I think we missed this opportunity.”
The remarks were widely interpreted as a veiled critique of Babar’s slow tempo during a crucial phase.
Harry Brook’s Masterclass
England’s chase revolved around captain Harry Brook, who produced one of the finest knocks of the tournament.
- 100 off 51 balls
- 10 fours
- 4 sixes
Brook paced the innings perfectly, absorbing pressure early and then accelerating. His ability to rotate strike and punish loose deliveries stood in stark contrast to Pakistan’s middle-over stagnation.
England chased down the target with five balls to spare, becoming the first team to secure a semi-final berth.
Shaheen’s Lone Fight
Shaheen Afridi bowled with fire and purpose:
- 4 wickets
- Key breakthroughs at crucial moments
However, his effort wasn’t enough as England’s middle order held its nerve in the final overs.
Rift in the Pakistan Camp?
This isn’t the first time strike-rate concerns around Babar Azam have surfaced. Head coach Mike Hesson had earlier highlighted the need for better tempo in modern T20 cricket.
Shaheen’s comments now raise questions:
- Is there tactical disagreement within the squad?
- Is Pakistan’s leadership under pressure?
- Are internal cracks emerging at the worst possible time?
Given Pakistan’s inconsistent performances across formats recently, such public remarks add fuel to speculation about dressing-room harmony.
Qualification Scenario
Pakistan now face Sri Lanka national cricket team in their final Super 8 match on February 28 in Pallekele.
To qualify, they must:
- Defeat Sri Lanka convincingly
- Hope for favorable results involving New Zealand
Net run rate could also play a decisive role.
