Yousuf Criticizes Political Agendas in Pakistan Cricket After World Cup Defeat

Former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Yousuf blames political interference for the national team's decline in cricket, following a loss to India in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Yousuf emphasizes eliminating personal agendas to restore past glory, amid concerns over failing to reach the Super 8 stage.

Former Pakistan cricket captain Mohammad Yousuf has voiced his concerns about the national team's governance, attributing political influence and personal agendas as primary factors for the team's downfall. He referred to this period as the darkest in Pakistan's cricket history, following a significant 61-run defeat to India in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 group-stage match.

Yousuf stated in a post on X that to recover Pakistan cricket's past prowess, the elimination of political interference and personal motives is essential. Pakistan now faces the risk of failing to progress to the Super 8 stage unless they secure a win against Namibia, with their Net Run Rate trailing even behind the United States.

Historically, Pakistan has struggled recently, also facing early exits in the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy. In Sunday's match, after electing to field first, Pakistan faced a formidable inning closure by Indian batsmen, ending at 175/7. Despite a resilient 44-run effort by Usman Khan, Pakistan collapsed for 114, marking their third consecutive loss to India in group matches.