Former cricketers slam strategy as Pakistan stumble against England
Cricket
The loss has sparked strong reactions from former players and cricket analysts.
(Web Desk) - Pakistan’s performance in the Super Eight stage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup has come under intense criticism following their defeat to England.
The loss has sparked strong reactions from former players and cricket analysts, who questioned the team’s strategy and execution throughout the tournament.
Former captain Mohammad Hafeez wrote on social media platform X that Pakistan’s failure was not limited to a single match but stemmed from strategic errors throughout the competition.
Tactical errors caused team Pakistan not in this match but whole tournament.. #PakvsEng #ICCMensT20WorldCup2026
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) February 24, 2026
Ex-Test cricketer Mohammad Yousuf praised England’s captain Harry Brook for leading from the front and guiding his side into the semi-finals, adding that Pakistan’s inconsistent “roller-coaster” journey continues.
Former skipper Shoaib Malik said claims of playing modern cricket hold little value unless basic skills, game awareness and discipline are improved. He remarked that adopting an advanced style without strengthening fundamentals is like attempting a tenth-grade exam without completing nursery.
Aiming to play modern day cricket without getting the basics right is like sitting in a 10th grade exam without going to nursery class.#T20WorldCup
— Shoaib Malik (@realshoaibmalik) February 24, 2026
Former Indian fast bowler Munaf Patel also lauded Brook’s innings, noting that Pakistan suffered due to the lack of a complete bowling attack and poor fielding.
Meanwhile, former England captain Michael Vaughan commented on the tournament conditions, suggesting that under the current circumstances, it is possible that no subcontinent team may reach the semi-finals.
A great chance that not 1 sub continent team will make the Semi finals in these conditions … #Justsaying #ICCT20WorldCup
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 24, 2026
Pakistan Test cricketer Ahmed Shehzad strongly criticised the team’s strategy and playing XI. He said England were not in their best form and Pakistan had a golden opportunity, but poor planning, questionable shot selection and a confused team combination cost them the match.
England weren’t even at their best. A very beatable side. Yet Pakistan missed a golden opportunity due to poor planning, poor shot selection & a confused Playing XI.
— Ahmad Shahzad (@iamAhmadshahzad) February 24, 2026
25 off 24 from Babar stalled the innings, then a reckless slog to finish it. Shadab badly leaked runs in the…
Shehzad also questioned individual performances, pointing out that Babar Azam’s 25 off 24 balls slowed the momentum, Shadab Khan was expensive in the middle overs, Saim Ayub failed to deliver as expected, and Abrar Ahmed was once again overlooked.
Following the defeat, Pakistan’s chances of reaching the semi-finals have become increasingly difficult, while criticism over the team’s performance continues to intensify.
