Star Pakistani cricketer expected to return in playing XI vs England in Super 8 after being dropped against New Zealand

The second Super Eight match of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be played on Tuesday. It is an exciting contest between former champions Pakistan and England. Both teams are considered strong contenders for the title.

Pakistan suffered a heavy defeat against India in the group stage but still have a strong and competitive squad capable of challenging any team.

There are reports that star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has struggled with rhythm and accuracy during the tournament. Pakistan may consider including Naseem Shah or Salman Mirza to strengthen the new-ball attack and improve control in the death overs.

According to the latest report from Al Jazeera, the left-arm pacer is expected to return to the starting XI. Pakistan needs a win to stay in semifinal contention and improve its chances of qualifying for the next stage of the tournament.

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Shaheen Shah Afridi Under Spotlight

Shaheen Shah Afridi was left out of the final group match against Namibia and the Super Eight opener against New Zealand, which surprised many fans. The star bowler was expensive during the group stage, and the team used more spin bowling. The left-arm pacer has not been in good form in the tournament, taking only three wickets in three matches and giving away many runs.

After several low scores, Babar Azam has faced criticism for his slow scoring and less attacking batting style. The team management may think about replacing him with Fakhar Zaman or Khawaja Nafay to add more power hitting and improve scoring speed in the middle overs.

Pakistan may also bring in spinner Abrar Ahmed in place of seam bowling all-rounder Faheem Ashraf.

Pakistan Warns England Ahead of Super 8 Clash

Pakistan warned England’s batting lineup to expect tough spin bowling when the teams meet in the Super 8 match. Pakistan batter Sahibzada Farhan said England struggled against spin in their last game against Sri Lanka.

England were bowled out for 146-9 against Sri Lanka’s spinners, and Pakistan believe the same strategy can work for them. Farhan said the pitch may help spin bowling. He also said Pakistan have many spin bowlers.

Pakistan’s spinners have taken 26 wickets in four matches. Their fast bowlers have taken only seven wickets. Farhan said Pakistan will use spin to trouble England’s batters.

He also spoke about England pacer Jofra Archer. Farhan said facing Archer will not be difficult. He said he has played against similar fast bowlers before and has plans to face him.

Pakistan Possible Playing XI vs England

Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha (c), Usman Khan, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Tarique, and Abrar Ahmed are expected in the playing XI against England.