Pakistan cricket could be heading toward sweeping changes after its third straight failure to reach the knockout stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. Despite ending their campaign with a win over Sri Lanka in Pallekele the team fell short of the required net run rate to progress and finished third in their Super 8 group.
According to reports Mohsin Naqvi is deeply dissatisfied with the team’s overall performance having previously been assured by selectors and team management that the squad was fully prepared for a strong tournament run. The early exit has reportedly triggered internal discussions about leadership and squad composition moving forward.
Sources suggest that Salman Ali Agha could be removed as T20I captain as part of a wider restructuring plan. Conversations are expected to take place between the PCB chairman head coach Mike Hesson and the national selectors regarding the future of several senior players. The T20I career of Babar Azam is also believed to be under serious review following inconsistent performances in recent global events.
Other experienced names including Usman Khan are reportedly being assessed while Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi have emerged as potential candidates to take over the captaincy if leadership changes are confirmed. The management is said to be considering a transition phase that would prioritise younger players and align the squad with the evolving demands of modern T20 cricket.
Pakistan’s campaign began with wins over Netherlands USA and Namibia in the group stage before progressing to the Super 8. However a defeat to India earlier in the tournament combined with a washed-out clash against New Zealand and a narrow loss to England left them needing a dominant victory in their final match. Although they defeated Sri Lanka they were unable to improve their net run rate sufficiently to advance further.
With pressure mounting from fans and stakeholders significant structural and leadership decisions are expected in the coming weeks as Pakistan looks to rebuild ahead of its next international assignments.
