In a high-stakes showdown at Colombo’s SSC Ground, Pakistan confronts Namibia on Wednesday in what could be their T20 World Cup 2026 knockout punch. Sitting third in Group A with four points from three games, the Men in Green are desperate for a Super 8 berth after India’s dominance.
USA and Netherlands lurk close behind, making every run and wicket count. Practice sessions revealed captain Salman Agha deep in strategy talks with coach Mike Hesson, focusing on potential axing of stalwarts Shaheen Afridi and Babar Azam.
Afridi’s woes are mounting: 101 runs leaked in 9 overs, with fitness niggles evident—knee issues against India and limping drills. Sources suggest resting him entirely. Babar’s role is also under scanner; shifting him to opener might unlock his potential after middling at number four.
The ghosts of the India thrashing linger—bowled out for 114 in 18 overs after restricting the rivals to 175/7. PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi stormed out mid-collapse and demanded heads roll for poor showings, echoing his post-Bangladesh stance amid media storms.
Naqvi met coach Hesson and manager Naveed Cheema post-loss, urging a fighting unit. Namibia, no pushovers, present a golden chance to reset. A victory here isn’t just points—it’s redemption. Pakistan’s revamped XI could turn the tide, but execution is key in this pressure cooker.