result of PakistanHas performed tremendously in t20 world cup 2026 has shifted from the pitch to the studio, leading to a heated war of words between the stalwarts of the past and the stars of the present. after a heartbreaking defeat IndiaThe internal strife within Pakistan cricket reached its peak when all-rounder Shadab Khan He took a sharp dig at former cricketers who had questioned his place in the team.
However, the legendary Shahid AfridiNever one to mince words, he has hit back with blunt criticism of reality and reminded the current generation that winning a match against India does not make them immune from criticism.
Shadab Khan’s “sly dig” at the opinions of former Pakistani cricketers.
The tension started during the post-match press conference where Shadab addressed the sharp reaction from the former stars. Instead of focusing solely on the team’s tactical failures in 2026, Shadab chose to highlight a historic achievement to relieve the ongoing pressure. He pointedly reminded his critics that even though they were “legends”, their generation had achieved what the teams of the 90s and 2000s could not: defeat India in the World Cup.
“Criticism is not in our hands; Former cricketers have their own opinions. They were legends, but even they could not do what we have done. We have defeated India in the World CupShadab said in the press conference after the match.
Shadab was mentioned 2021 t20 world cup A victory, a victory that broke the illusion that had lasted for decades. For the all-rounder, this milestone should earn the existing core more respect and patience. He dismissed the obsession with dips in form, saying results in T20 cricket are often volatile and beyond individual control.
Shahid Afridi criticizes Shadab’s defensive performance over poor performance in T20 World Cup 2026 group stage
Afridi, appearing on Saama TV, did not take the sly sarcasm lightly. While acknowledging that the 2021 win was important, Afridi argued that the current team has failed to handle the stature and respect that came with that win.
“Shadab was absolutely right. We don’t win, they win. He got respect, but he could not handle that respect. After 2021, they couldn’t manage their internal problems – neither individually nor as a teamAfridi commented with obvious sarcasm.
Afridi also reminded Shadab of the support he has received from the experts whom he is now criticizing. He said that when Shadab’s form deteriorated and he faced elimination, it was former players on TV channels who defended him as the “backbone” of the team.
The former captain’s sharpest criticism focused on the quality of the opposition. Afridi challenged Shadab to stop living on the glory of past wins against smaller teams and perform when the stakes are biggest.
“Shadab Miyan, your performance was against Namibia; Now do the same against New Zealand. Son, perform. We stood with you in difficult times. Give us a pretentious answer so that we become silent. Once you perform, we will shut up ourselves, son.“He said.
Afridi concluded by saying that his generation had to face even harsher criticism – as is often said “Shame” (Shame on you) – But he chose to respond through match-winning performances against top-tier nations rather than in a press conference. As the dust settles on the 2026 tournament, the divide between Pakistan’s past and present looks wider than ever.
Shahid Afridi speaks on Shadab Khan’s statement regarding former cricketers
“Shadab is right, we did not win against India in the World Cup, they won in 2021. They got respect, but they could not maintain it.”
-Salman. (@TsMeSalman) 19 February 2026
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