Is Pakistan Stuck in T20’s Past?

News Desk

Islamabad: Pakistan’s early exit from the T20 World Cup has triggered widespread criticism and renewed debate over the team’s direction in the shortest format, with former players and fans questioning strategy, selection, and leadership.

Hopes were high ahead of the tournament, especially after Pakistan swept Australia 3-0 in a pre-event series. However, the campaign ended in disappointment on Saturday as the team failed to reach the semi-finals, exposing what analysts described as deep structural flaws in their T20 approach.

Former Players Question Strategy

Former wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal said Pakistan lag behind leading sides such as India national cricket team, West Indies cricket team, South Africa national cricket team and England cricket team in adapting to modern T20 demands.

“Other teams have evolved to the demands of Twenty20 cricket, but neither our team nor our players meet those standards,” he said, describing the gap in performance as significant.

Questions were also raised over captain Salman Agha’s tactical decisions, particularly during the high-pressure clash against India. After opting to field first, Pakistan conceded 175 runs and were defeated by 61 runs. Critics pointed to the delayed use of mystery spinner Usman Tariq as a key misstep, allowing India to build early momentum.

Former player Basit Ali also questioned the decision to bowl first on a batting-friendly surface and said Pakistan’s batters failed to cope with scoreboard pressure during the chase.

Selection and Batting Concerns

Attention also turned to team selection and the role of head coach Mike Hesson, with critics arguing that reliance on part-time all-rounders weakened the side’s balance.

The form of Babar Azam became another focal point. The former captain struggled to accelerate in the middle order, disrupting momentum in key matches. 

Although he was dropped for the final group match against Sri Lanka, where Pakistan posted a 200-plus total—it proved insufficient, as New Zealand national cricket team advanced on net run rate.

Fans Demand Modernisation

Fans expressed frustration over what they see as a recurring pattern of underperformance in major tournaments. Many believe Pakistan must modernise its approach, prioritise power-hitting, sharper captaincy, and clearer selection policies to compete with elite sides.

While the tournament exit marks another setback, the debate it has ignited may shape Pakistan’s future direction in T20 cricket, as calls grow louder for structural reforms and a shift toward a more aggressive, contemporary style of play.