Pakistan's cricket team (PCT) was eliminated from the first round of the T20 World Cup 2024, and the team's former opener, Ahmed Shahzad, has now blamed the PCT's captain, Babar Azam, and wicketkeeper-batsman Muhammad Rizwan for the early exit.
Speaking to a local TV channel, Shahzad criticized Azam and Rizwan, saying, "Babar Azam and Muhammad Rizwan are responsible for Pakistan's elimination from the first round of the T20 World Cup."
Shahzad accused the two senior players of being more focused on their individual performances and records rather than the team's success.
"They were busy making their own records and have destroyed the team," he said.
The opener further criticized Azam's captaincy, stating, "Appointing Babar Azam as the captain again was the biggest mistake. After every defeat, he gives the same statement that we are learning, but these cricketers are not capable of playing international cricket."
Shahzad had previously criticized Azam for not giving opportunities to domestic players and instead including his friends in the team.
"[Babar Azam]He included his friends; whoever performed well, he made them a bowler, and whenever they didn't perform, he made them a fielder and included them in the playing XI," he alleged.
The opener also expressed his disappointment with Azam's performance in the World Cup, saying, "Babar Azam's statistics in the World Cup are even worse than mine, but you [supporters] call him the 'king'!"
Pakistan's early exit from the T20 World Cup has sparked criticism and debate among cricket fans and experts, with many calling for changes in the team's leadership and selection policies.
Pakistan's cricket team was eliminated from the T20 World Cup 2024 after a washout in the match between the United States and Ireland at Lauderhill, Florida.
The game was called off due to a wet outfield last night, resulting in both teams receiving a point each.
This meant that the USA, with five points, advanced to the Super Eight knockout stage, while Pakistan, with only two points, was unable to qualify.
The team's early exit from the tournament was a result of their poor performance in the first two matches against the USA and India, which they lost.
Despite managing to win against Canada, Pakistan's chances of qualifying were ultimately dependent on the weather conditions, which did not favour them.
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