Basit Ali, Shoaib Malik Oppose Shadab Khan Captaincy

KARACHI: (Web Desk) – Former Pakistan cricketers Basit Ali and Shoaib Malik have expressed strong opposition to the appointment of Shadab Khan as the next captain of the Pakistan cricket team.

The debate follows Pakistan’s narrow loss to England in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match on February 24. Chasing 165, England secured a two-wicket victory, thanks to Harry Brook’s explosive century.

Critics and analysts highlighted key concerns within the Pakistan camp, including Babar Azam’s sluggish batting, Shadab Khan’s underwhelming all-round performance, and the controversial omission of Abrar Ahmed from the playing XI.

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Shadab, playing as an all-rounder, was criticised for conceding crucial runs in the middle overs, a period where Pakistan needed to maintain control and apply pressure. Observers noted his leg-spin lacked consistency, particularly on turning tracks like Pallekele, allowing England to consolidate their innings.

Former cricketer Ahmed Shehzad remarked, “Shadab badly leaked runs in the middle overs when pressure was needed the most.”

Despite recent struggles, reports indicate that Shadab Khan is still being considered for a future captaincy role, a decision that has surprised many cricket experts and fans alike.