T20 World Cup 2026: Former Pakistan cricketers take dig at Babar Azam ahead of high-voltage India clash

As anticipation builds for the blockbuster India vs Pakistan encounter in the T20 World Cup 2026, veteran batter Babar Azam has found himself at the center of sharp criticism from former Pakistan cricketers.

Ex-captain Rashid Latif, former pacer Mohammad Amir, and batter Ahmed Shehzad openly questioned Babar’s impact in the shortest format, particularly his strike rate and performances in high-pressure matches against India. The debate comes after Babar’s modest start to the tournament as he struggled in Pakistan’s opener against the Netherlands before showing signs of improvement against the USA.

While Babar’s unbeaten 68 in the 2021 T20 World Cup against India remains one of his career highlights, his returns in subsequent ICC meetings have drawn scrutiny. Since that memorable knock, he has managed scores of 10, 14, 0 and 13 against India in T20 World Cup fixtures.

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During the show, Ahmed Shehzad lightened the mood with a bold promise. He pledged to sponsor food for the entire audience if Babar delivers a match-winning performance against India. “If Babar Azam, God willing, wins the game for Pakistan, the treat is on me,” Shehzad declared.

The conversation then turned to Mohammad Amir, with the host playfully suggesting that the former fast bowler reconsider his retirement if Babar leads Pakistan to victory while scoring at a strike rate of 160 or more. Amir responded cautiously, saying he would consider it-provided Babar scores more than 30 runs in the process.

Statistically, Babar’s record against India in T20 Internationals remains modest. In five matches, he has accumulated 105 runs at an average of 26.25 and a strike rate of 128.05 - numbers that fall short of expectations placed on a player of his stature.