Time’s up for Shaheen, Babar, and Shadab, Pakistan’s T20 squad needs...'

The fallout from Pakistan’s heavy 61-run loss to India in the T20 World Cup 2026 has ignited a fierce debate regarding the future of the team’s core leadership. 

Following a dominant performance by Suryakumar Yadav’s side, which saw Ishan Kishan smash a blistering 77 to propel India to 175/7, Pakistan’s batting order crumbled, resulting in a meager total of 114.

Former Pakistan batting legend Mohammad Yousuf has led the charge in calling for a complete overhaul of the national setup.

Taking to social media to express his dismay, Yousuf labeled the current era as the 'darkest period' in the nation's cricketing history. 

His critique was direct and uncompromising, suggesting that the veteran trio of Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Shadab Khan have exhausted their opportunities at the highest level of the shortest format.

The latest defeat further solidifies India’s dominance in World Cup encounters.

Pakistan’s inability to chase down targets or provide a competitive fight against their rivals has shifted the conversation from tactical errors to a fundamental lack of competence within the squad.

Yousuf’s frustration stems from what he perceives as 'empty wins against weaker sides' masking deep-rooted systemic issues. 

The former cricketer argued that the team has become stagnant under the current leadership and that political influence and personal agendas must be purged to restore Pakistan's former glory.

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The Call for Fresh Blood!

The central theme of the outcry is the need for 'new performers'. The lackluster performances of senior players during high-stakes moments, such as Babar Azam being dismissed for just 5 runs by Axar Patel, have led experts to believe that the current core is no longer capable of leading the team to international success.

Yousuf’s stinging assessment reflects a broader sentiment among fans and former players, that the Pakistani team needs a 'Shatru Hanta' spirit, the ability to overcome obstacles and defeat competitors through discipline rather than reputation.