LAHORE/COLOMBO — The 61-run defeat to India at the R. Premadasa Stadium wasn’t just another loss in the ledger for Pakistan; it may be the final curtain call for several superstars of the current generation.
According to reliable sources within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the patience of the administration has finally run out. Reports emerging from the PCB headquarters in Lahore suggest that a massive overhaul is being planned, one that could see the unthinkable happen: the dropping of marquee players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi from the T20 setup.
The “Major Surgery” Begins The PCB Chairman, who was reportedly livid after watching the team capitulate for 125 against India, has indicated that “major surgery” is required. Insiders claim that the board feels the team has been held hostage by player power and internal groupism for too long.
“The time for backing the same faces is over,” a PCB source stated on condition of anonymity. “The performance against India showed a lack of intent and, more worryingly, a lack of unity. We are looking at a complete reset of the white-ball squad post-World Cup.”
Internal Rifts Exposed The report highlights that the team environment in Colombo has been toxic. Allegations of factionalism—specifically a divide between camps loyal to Shaheen Afridi and Babar Azam—have resurfaced. The board believes this internal friction directly contributed to the lackluster field placements and the disorganized batting collapse on Sunday.
Contracts at Risk The punishment won’t just be limited to selection. The PCB is reportedly reviewing the central contracts of these senior players. There is a strong possibility that top-tier salaries will be slashed, and some players might be demoted to lower categories or released entirely to play domestic cricket.
While Pakistan still has matches remaining in the group stage to save their tournament, the message from the top is clear: reputation no longer guarantees a spot in the XI. For Babar and Shaheen, the coming week is not just about staying in the World Cup; it is about saving their careers.
