Sources said that the management is weighing the option of benching former captain Babar Azam and pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi for the upcoming fixture. Two to three changes are expected in the playing XI, with the management keen on testing the bench strength and giving emerging players an opportunity to prove themselves.
Pakistan’s spokesperson confirmed that preparations for the next match have already begun, although players were given a rest day following the loss. The Green Shirts are scheduled to face Namibia on Wednesday at the Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground. A win will secure Pakistan’s qualification for the Super Eight stage, while even a rain-affected result could be enough to see them through.
The speculation about changes comes after a disappointing performance against India. After winning the toss and opting to field on a spin-friendly pitch, Pakistan’s bowling attack failed to contain the opposition. A blistering half-century from Ishan Kishan powered India to 175 for five in their allotted overs.
Pakistan’s spin attack struggled throughout the innings. Abrar Ahmed conceded 38 runs in three overs without taking a wicket, while Shadab Khan was hit for 17 runs in a single over. Captain Salman Ali Agha later termed the performance an “off-day.” Shaheen Afridi was the most economical among the bowlers, finishing with figures of 1 for 31 in his two overs.
Chasing 176, Pakistan’s batting line-up collapsed under pressure. The top order faltered early, and the team was bowled out for 114 in 18 overs, handing India a comprehensive victory and intensifying scrutiny on the squad’s senior members.