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Pakistan to Drop Shaheen, Babar? Major Changes Likely After India Loss

Pakistan is considering major team changes for their crucial T20 World Cup match against Namibia following a heavy defeat to India. Captain Salman Agha and coach Mike Hesson held lengthy discussions, with star players Shaheen Shah Afridi and Babar Azam reportedly facing the axe. Shaheen's potential omission is linked to fitness concerns, while Babar's role is under review despite a recent score of 46. The changes come after PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed anger over the loss and directed the management to drop underperforming players.

Key Points: Pakistan T20 WC Changes: Shaheen, Babar Dropped vs Namibia?

  • Shaheen Afridi likely dropped over fitness
  • Babar Azam may be dropped or promoted
  • PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi angry after India loss
  • Coach Mike Hesson directed to make changes
2 min read

T20 WC: Pakistan to ring in changes for Namibia game after India defeat, says report

Pakistan may drop Shaheen Afridi & Babar Azam for must-win T20 WC game vs Namibia after India defeat. Coach Hesson, PCB chief Naqvi demand changes.

"The apparent discussion surrounds the possible changes with two main and experienced players - Shaheen Shah Afridi and Babar Azam - most likely to be dropped - sources"

New Delhi, Feb 17

Pakistan are likely to shuffle the eleven in their must-win game against Namibia in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Colombo on Wednesday, three days after suffering a morale-sapping defeat at the hands of India, a report said on Tuesday.

Pakistan captain Salman Agha and head coach Mike Hesson were involved in a long discussion during team's practice at the SSC ground on Tuesday, said the report by Telecom Asia Sport.

"The apparent discussion surrounds at the possible changes with two main and experienced players - Shaheen Shah Afridi and Babar Azam - most likely to be dropped," sources told www.telecomasia.net.

Shaheen has been struggling with fitness and form, having conceded 101 runs in just nine overs in the three matches, worst of which was against India when he gave away 31 in just two overs.

"The best way out is to leave Shaheen on the basis of fitness as he was constantly adjusting his left knee cap during the india match and was seen limping during practice," sources told www.telecomasia.net.

"As for Babar, who scored a brisk 46 against USA, management considering him promote to open the innings rather than batting at four," said sources.

Sources said Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi was also angry at team's big 61-run defeat and left the Premadasa Stadium after the fall of sixth wicket.

"Naqvi took a strong stance on boycotting the match on protest over Bangladesh's expulsion and received big flak from the Indian media and was upset at the manner of defeat," said the report quoting sources.

"Naqvi met Hesson and team manager Naveed Cheema after the India match and directed them to drop any player who had under performed and wanted the team to play better and with a fighting spirit," the report added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
The chairman leaving the stadium early says it all. The pressure is really on them after that loss. As an Indian fan, I'm happy with our win, but I also want to see good, competitive cricket. Hope they put up a better show against Namibia.
R
Rohit P
Honestly, the talk about boycotting over Bangladesh was unnecessary and took focus away from cricket. The PCB chairman should let the team management do their job. Knee-jerk reactions after one big loss rarely help. They have the talent, need better planning.
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Sarah B
It's sad to see a champion bowler like Shaheen struggling. Injuries are a cricketer's worst enemy. Hope he recovers fully, for his sake and for the sake of the game. The India-Pakistan match had some brilliant moments despite the one-sided scoreline.
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Vikram M
They are panicking. Changing the core after one loss? Babar at 4 wasn't working, so opening makes sense. But dropping your strike bowler, even if he's unfit, sends a harsh message. Namibia match is a must-win, they can't afford another slip-up. The group is tight!
K
Karthik V
Mike Hesson is a good coach. This long discussion shows they are at least trying to fix things. Our Indian team played exceptionally well, but every team has an off day. The real test for Pakistan is how they bounce back now. On paper, they should beat Namibia comfortably.

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