Time’s Up for Shaheen, Babar, Shadab: Cricket Experts React as India Crushes Pakistan

Ishan Kishan stole the show with a blistering 77, driving India to 175-7 in a match where Pakistan’s spin attack offered only brief resistance. The co-hosts then bowled Pakistan out for 114 in 18 overs, marking India’s third consecutive win in the group stage. This India vs Pakistan clash left fans and experts debating the future of Pakistan’s T20 squad.

Calls for Changes in Pakistan Squad

Former Test cricketer Mohammad Yousuf criticized the squad, saying, "Time’s up for Shaheen, Babar, and Shadab. Pakistan’s T20 squad needs new performers, not empty wins against weaker sides." 

Former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja echoed the sentiment, questioning Pakistan’s batting growth. "Well, that was a bit of a disaster, especially batting !! India has been fielding the same bowling attack against Pakistan for the last 2/3 years and every time batsmen have been woefully ordinary…no growth."

Ex-Pakistan opener Ahmed Shehzad also weighed in, calling for immediate squad adjustments. "Pathetic cricket from Pakistan. Same old faces, same old results. Please don’t fool the nation anymore. It’s still time to bring positive changes in this WC. Fakhar, Nafay, and Salman should be playing now," he said.

International Reactions

Former England captain Michael Vaughan praised India’s mental strength: "India seem to intimidate Pakistan on the cricket field. They are so much better in all facets of the game and have such a better mentality of coping with the huge occasion." 

Former Sri Lankan captain Angelo Mathews noted the electrifying atmosphere: "Colombo was lit tonight, but India were too good for Pakistan. A convincing win by them," while cricketer Sohaib Maqsood reminded fans that Pakistan’s bowling contributed to the defeat.

Test cricketer Abid Ali added, "Reputation does not equal Selection. Pakistan T20 squad needs impact players, not passengers. Babar, Shaheen, Shadab, and others must earn their spots through performance, not past glory. Fans deserve fight, not excuses. Time to reset."