After India Defeat, Shadab Khan Pushes Back at Afridi, Yousuf Criticism: ‘We Beat India, They Couldn’t’

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has responded to sharp criticism from former national stars Shahid Afridi and Mohammad Yousuf following Pakistan’s heavy defeat to India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, saying former greats “could not do what we have done” — beating India in a World Cup.

Pakistan suffered a 61-run loss to India on February 15, their heaviest defeat against their arch-rivals in T20 Internationals, prompting an outpouring of criticism from ex-players. Afridi and Yousuf were among the most vocal, questioning the current team’s direction and calling for sweeping changes.

Afridi suggested that selectors should consider dropping Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam and Shadab Khan from the T20I setup. Yousuf echoed the call, writing on social media: “Time’s up for Shaheen, Babar and Shadab. Pakistan’s T20 squad needs new performers, not empty wins against weaker sides.”

Shadab: Criticism Is Part of the Game

Speaking to Pakistani media after the loss, Shadab said criticism was inevitable in high-pressure tournaments but insisted he remains focused on controllables.
“As for criticism, you can’t control it. Everyone has their own opinions,” he said. “Since I came back, there was just one over where things didn’t go well, and because of that I faced a lot of criticism. But I don’t need to justify that. In T20 cricket, a bad day or a bad over can happen.”

He added that the team would not be distracted by external noise as they look to regroup in the remainder of the tournament.

‘We Beat India in a World Cup’

In a pointed remark that has drawn attention across social media, Shadab referenced Pakistan’s historic victory over India at the 2021 T20 World Cup, the only time Pakistan have beaten India in a World Cup match. Shadab was part of that squad.

“Former cricketers have their own opinions. They were legends, but even they could not do what we have done. We have beaten India in a World Cup,” Shadab said. “Criticism is part of cricket’s history.”

The comment appeared aimed at contextualising the current team’s achievements, even as Pakistan struggle to find consistency in the ongoing tournament.

Pressure Mounts on Pakistan Camp

Pakistan’s loss to India has intensified scrutiny of team selection, leadership and tactical approach, particularly in marquee fixtures. With qualification scenarios tightening in their group, the team faces mounting pressure to respond on the field, even as internal and external debates over the squad’s direction continue to swirl.