Shadab Khan Hits Back at Mohammad Yousuf After T20 World Cup Criticism

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has responded firmly to criticism from former captain and selector Mohammad Yousuf following Pakistan’s victory over Namibia in the ICC T20 World Cup.

Speaking after Pakistan confirmed qualification for the Super Eights, Shadab addressed backlash that intensified after the team’s heavy defeat to India earlier in the tournament. The criticism stemmed from Yousuf’s remarks in an interview with ProPakistani’s How Does It Work podcast, where he questioned the mindset, discipline, and accountability of senior players including Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi.

Yousuf argued that Pakistan’s decline began after their historic 10-wicket win over India in the ICC T20 World Cup, calling that triumph a “fluke” that allegedly led to overconfidence within the squad. He claimed players became complacent, stopped listening to then head coach Misbah-ul-Haq, and began relying more on reputation than performance.

Shadab, however, offered a pointed response.

“I can’t control criticism. Ex-cricketers are legends, no doubt. As individuals they were great, but they couldn’t do it for the team, that’s why we are here,” he said. “We beat India in 2021, something even they couldn’t achieve.”

The reference to the 2021 victory remains a sensitive topic. While that win is widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s greatest T20 moments, critics argue that some senior players continue to lean on that single success rather than delivering consistently in high-pressure matches.

The scrutiny intensified during the ongoing World Cup campaign, particularly after Pakistan’s one-sided defeat to India. Questions were raised about whether senior players were being selected regardless of form.

In the must-win clash against Namibia, Shaheen Afridi was left out of the playing XI, while Babar Azam did not bat despite being in the squad. Shadab contributed with quick runs and claimed three wickets, building on earlier performances against teams like the Netherlands and USA.

While his recent showing has eased immediate pressure, debates around consistency, accountability, and performance in marquee fixtures continue to surround Pakistan’s senior core as the tournament progresses.