Cricket

Pakistan's disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup has sparked a debate about the captaincy of Babar Azam. Former speedster Shoaib Akhtar believes that Azam's future as captain is in jeopardy unless he takes on a more aggressive role in the batting order and starts finishing matches for the team.Akhtar questioned the decision to appoint Azam as captain in the first place, suggesting that he lacked the necessary experience and qualifications. He emphasized that Azam must now prove his worth by coming down the order and delivering in crucial situations."He has to finish the games. He has to win the games. If he doesn't, he will not be able to keep his place in T20s. I am telling you right now. He will not be able to keep his place in ODIs because he has to finish the games," Akhtar asserted.Azam has faced criticism from fans and former players alike following Pakistan's early exit. However, he has stated that he has not considered stepping down as captain and that the decision is ultimately up to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).The PCB is reportedly set to revert to its old selection committee system after the experiment of having no chief selector proved unsuccessful. Former Test fast bowler Wahab Riaz, who was part of the selection committee for the T20 World Cup, is expected to retain his position and may be appointed as the new chief selector.

Pakistan's qualification for the 2026 T20 World Cup has been confirmed despite their disappointing performance in the ongoing edition. Former pacer Shoaib Akhtar's suggestion that Pakistan might have to play qualifiers proved incorrect.According to ICC rules, 12 teams automatically qualify for the 2026 tournament. Co-hosts India and Sri Lanka received direct entry, while the top eight teams from the Super 8 stage of the current edition also secured their berths. These teams include India, Sri Lanka, Australia, England, West Indies, Afghanistan, South Africa, and Bangladesh.The remaining three automatic slots were allocated based on the ICC Men's T20I rankings as of June 30, 2024. As a result, New Zealand, Ireland, and Pakistan qualified.Pakistan's qualification is a relief after their early exit from the ongoing tournament. They were stunned by USA in the group stage and failed to beat India, which would have guaranteed their progression.The Super 8 stage of the current edition begins on June 19, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals. The groups are as follows:* Group 1: India, Australia, Afghanistan, Bangladesh* Group 2: England, USA, West Indies, South AfricaThe remaining eight slots for the 2026 T20 World Cup will be determined through regional qualifiers.

India-Pakistan T20 World Cup Clash: Shoaib Akhtar Urges Pakistan to Play for the Team, Not Personal GloryAs the highly anticipated T20 World Cup clash between India and Pakistan approaches, former Pakistani speedster Shoaib Akhtar has issued a passionate plea to his team. Akhtar implored the Pakistani players to prioritize the team's success over individual milestones and play with unwavering determination.India holds a commanding 6-1 record against Pakistan in T20 World Cups, and Akhtar acknowledged the pressure on his team. He emphasized that the entire nation is behind them and that they must rise to the occasion as a united front against the formidable Indian side."Pakistan, play out of your skin. Play for Pakistan. Don't play for individual records," Akhtar declared in a video posted on social media.Pakistan's T20 World Cup campaign got off to a disappointing start with a shock defeat to minnows USA in their opening match. The loss sparked widespread criticism, with many labeling it a "black day" for Pakistani cricket.In contrast, India began their tournament with a comfortable victory over Ireland. They currently sit second in Group A, behind USA, while Pakistan languishes in fourth place.Akhtar's message to the Pakistani team is clear: they must put aside personal ambitions and focus on the collective goal of winning. He believes that if they play with passion and unity, they can overcome the odds and emerge victorious against their arch-rivals.The India-Pakistan clash is scheduled to take place in New York on October 23. It is expected to be one of the most watched and intense matches of the tournament, with both teams desperate to secure a victory.