Super 8 spot on the line, Pakistan drop Shaheen Afridi for must-win game; here's why

Times of India

Feb 17, 2026

Super 8 spot on the line, Pakistan drop Shaheen Afridi for must-win game; here's why

Image Source : Asian Chronicle

Pakistan's bowler Shaheen Afridi during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 match between Bangladesh and Pakistan, at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. (PTI Photo)

In a match Pakistan had to win to stay in contention for the Super 8s of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the Pakistan men's cricket team left fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi out of the playing XI.

Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat against Namibia in their group match at the Sinhalese Sports Club on Wednesday.

The side led by Salman Ali Agha made two changes from the team that lost to India on Sunday. Shaheen and leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed were left out, with Salman Mirza and Khawaja Nafay coming into the XI.

Pakistan need a win in their final league match to secure qualification for the Super 8s. Pressure on the team increased after a 61-run loss to India, adding to defeats in the Asia Cup and recent editions of the tournament.

Senior players Babar Azam and Shaheen have faced criticism for their performances. Shaheen has struggled for control, while Babar has continued to find spin challenging. Pakistan entered the match needing a win to avoid elimination.

Namibia, already out of contention, aim to finish their campaign on a positive note. Their tournament has been affected by inconsistent bowling, including a dip in form from Ruben Trumpelmann, and modest batting returns from captain Gerhard Erasmus.

Pakistan confirmed two changes, with Salman Mirza and Khawaja Nafay replacing Shaheen and Abrar. Namibia also made two changes, bringing in Alexander Busing-Volschenk for Dylan Leicher and Jack Brassell for Max Heingo.

Against India, Shaheen bowled two overs and conceded 31 runs, taking the wicket of Axar Patel with the final ball of the innings. Across three matches in the tournament, the 25-year-old has bowled nine overs, given away 101 runs and taken three wickets at an economy rate of 11.22. He has also appeared to lose pace, now bowling mostly around 85 mph.