Ahmed Shehzad points fingers at two key players after T20 World Cup exit

Former cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has pointed fingers at two key players for Pakistan's disappointing performance and early exit from the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, currently being co-hosted by the USA and West Indies.

During a recent appearance on a local TV show, Shehzad criticized Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam, alleging that they prioritize individual achievements over the team's success.

“Rizwan and Babar were so busy making their own (personal) records that they destroyed the team. It was the biggest mistake to re-appoint Babar Azam as a captain," Shehzad said.

“After losing the match, they’re just left saying that we’ll be learning from our mistakes; when is that going to happen?” he added.

Addressing rumors of internal factions within the team, the opening batter highlighted the detrimental impact of such divisions.

"If the selectors consider me as a great fit for the team, then I’m available. These cricketers are not capable of playing for the international cricket,” he said.

Echoing Shehzad's sentiments, former cricketer Imran Nazir and opening batter Imam ul Haq also weighed in on Pakistan's disappointing performance.

“The USA were promoted to the Super Eight because they deserved this. Pakistan team played under so much pressure that they were not capable of being promoted to the Super Eight,” Nazir said.

“The Men in Green didn’t play well, there’s a lot of problem with our spinners and middle-order. The domestic cricketers should be motivated instead,” Imam said.  

Due to heavy rain at Lauderhill in Florida, no cricket match occurred, leading to the USA and Ireland receiving one point each. This result propelled the USA to the Super Eight stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup from Group A, marking a significant milestone as it is their first World Cup appearance. They join India as the top two teams from their group.

With this outcome, all qualification scenarios in Group A were settled: Ireland’s chances of progressing to the Super Eight ended, while Pakistan also exited the tournament at the group stage.