Shadab scored 118 runs and claimed five wickets in seven matches of T20 World Cup 2026.
Pakistan were knocked out of the T20 World Cup 2026 following the Super 8 stage, missing out on the semifinals of an ICC men's event for the fourth successive time.
The Men in Green began their campaign on a nervy note, almost suffering a loss against the Netherlands. The team then defeated the USA but were crushed by arch-rivals India.
Pakistan went on to defeat Namibia in their last Group A clash and qualify for the Super 8s. Their opening fixture against New Zealand in the Super 8s was washed out, forcing both teams to share points. Following this, they endured loss against England, which left their fate hanging as far as the contention for semifinals were concerned.
Although England’s win over New Zealand gave Pakistan hope, they failed to make it count against the tournament co-hosts Sri Lanka. The 2009 champions won the match but couldn’t overtake the Kiwis on Net Run Rate to qualify for the final-four stage.
After the debacle, Salman Ali Agha faces uncertainty over his future as Pakistan’s T20I captain. As per a PTI report, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi was “unhappy” with the team’s performance and had decided to sack Agha from the leadership role. Shadab Khan and Shaheen Afridi are reportedly being considered as potential replacements.
Meanwhile, former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has delivered a scathing verdict on Shadab’s performance amid speculation over a possible captaincy change.
"Looking at his performance, I wouldn't even keep him in the team, let alone give him the captaincy," Afridi said while speaking on Samaa TV.
Shadab failed to make a mark in the competition, scoring 118 runs and claiming five wickets in seven matches, prompting Afridi to question his selection.
"If Mike Hesson stays on as the coach - he was also there at Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League - Mike Hesson became Pakistan's coach after his stint in the PSL. From there, his association with Shadab started," Afridi said.
"The head coach is giving Shadab chance after chance. That's why I said Shadab can become the next Pakistan captain. But looking at his recent performance, he doesn't even deserve a place in the playing XI."
Shahid Afridi called for the need of more attacking approach going forward and backed Fakhar Zaman for the leadership role.
"Looking at the current situation, I would go with Fakhar Zaman. I want an aggressive captain. Right now, only one player fits the bill, and that is Fakhar," he said.