T20 World Cup 2024: Shahid Afridi Suggests Changes In Pakistan Playing XI

In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, the Babar Azam-led Pakistan team has encountered a turbulent start, marking a forgettable campaign thus far. After playing two intense matches, Pakistan finds themselves on the wrong side of victory in both encounters. Their opening clash against the USA culminated in a heart-wrenching defeat in a super over, followed by a nail-biting loss to India in a low-scoring thriller. Critics and former players, including the illustrious Shahid Afridi, have stepped up to offer insights into Pakistan's performances. Afridi, known for his astute cricketing acumen, has proposed a strategic overhaul for Pakistan's batting order. He advocates for the dynamic Fakhar Zaman to take up the pivotal opening slot, a position that holds immense responsibility in setting the tone for the innings. This move would see the esteemed captain, Babar Azam, gracefully transition to the third position, ensuring stability and firepower in the middle order.

Afridi's proposition underscores the significance of adaptability and strategic fluidity in the high-stakes arena of T20 cricket. With Pakistan seeking to bounce back from their early setbacks, such strategic adjustments could inject a renewed vigor into their campaign, potentially altering the trajectory of their journey in the tournament. As the cricketing world watches with bated breath, the implementation of Afridi's suggested changes could hold the key to Pakistan's resurgence in the T20 World Cup.

“I think now is the time for Gary Kirsten and Babar Azam to make some changes. I would like to see Salman Ali Agha come into the side in place of Usman Khan and Abrar Ahmed to come in for Shadab Khan,” former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi told the ICC.

"Most of all, I believe Fakhar Zaman should be promoted to open the innings alongside Mohammad Rizwan, with Babar dropping down to number three,” he added.

Additionally, Shahid Afridi emphasized the impending tough decisions that the management of the Pakistan cricket team will confront in the forthcoming matches. Despite the setbacks, Afridi remains optimistic, asserting that Pakistan's journey in the tournament is far from over.

Reflecting on Pakistan's recent clash with the Indian team, Afridi shared his insights into the team's performance. In a crucial encounter, Pakistan stumbled in their pursuit of a modest target of 120 runs in the second innings. Afridi's analysis sheds light on the pivotal moments that shaped the outcome of the match.

“The key difference between the two teams was India’s consistency, self-belief, discipline and attitude on the field. The Pakistan batting line-up simply isn’t clicking and what we saw was a weak display of power hitting,” concluded Afridi.