Shahid Afridi Backs Fakhar Zaman for Pakistan T20 Captaincy, Slams Shadab Khan’s Form
KARACHI: The fallout from Pakistan’s premature exit from the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup continues, with former captain Shahid Afridi calling for a decisive leadership overhaul. Afridi has publicly endorsed aggressive opener Fakhar Zaman to take over the reins, citing the need for a fearless approach in the shortest format.
Following a disappointing campaign where Pakistan failed to progress beyond the Group Stage—suffering shock defeats to the USA and India—scrutiny has intensified regarding the tenure of the current leadership group.
Afridi Advocates for Aggressive Leadership
Speaking to local media, Afridi expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s defensive mindset during crucial moments. He emphasized that the modern T20 landscape requires a captain who leads by example with intent.
“Looking at the current situation, I would go with Fakhar Zaman,” Afridi stated. “I want an aggressive captain. Right now, only one player fits the bill, and that is Fakhar. His body language and intent are what Pakistan needs to change the dressing room culture.”
Criticism of Shadab Khan’s Role
The former all-rounder also delivered a harsh assessment of vice-captain Shadab Khan, whose recent form has been a subject of debate. Shadab struggled significantly during the World Cup, failing to take a single wicket in four matches.
Addressing the selection consistency, Afridi drew a distinction between franchise cricket and international duty. He referenced Mike Hesson, Shadab’s coach at Islamabad United in the PSL, noting that while franchise coaches might back their captain through lean patches, the national team demands immediate performance.
“The head coach [in PSL] might give Shadab chance after chance because of their association. But looking at his recent performance for Pakistan, he struggles to justify a place in the playing XI, let alone a leadership role,” Afridi remarked.
Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2024 Struggle
Pakistan’s campaign was marred by inconsistency and tactical errors. Below is a snapshot of the team’s performance in the group stage:
| Opponent | Result | Key Stat |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Lost (Super Over) | Failed to defend 159 |
| India | Lost by 6 runs | Failed to chase 120 |
| Canada | Won by 7 wickets | Chased 107 in 17.3 overs |
| Ireland | Won by 3 wickets | Reduced to 111/7 in chase |
Leadership Vacuum
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faces a difficult decision regarding the white-ball captaincy. While Babar Azam was reinstated earlier this year, replacing Shaheen Shah Afridi, the World Cup result has reignited the debate over long-term stability.
Afridi dismissed reports linking other potential candidates to the role, insisting that Fakhar Zaman remains the only viable option to instill a fearless brand of cricket. “If you want to change the system, you need a leader who doesn’t fear failure,” he added.
The PCB is expected to review reports from head coach Gary Kirsten before announcing any changes ahead of the upcoming international season.