Watch: Former Pakistan coach makes shocking statement about Babar Azam ahead of NZ vs PAK Super 8 match T20 WC 2026

Former Pakistan batting legend Mohammad Yousuf has shocked cricket fans by revealing the reason behind his resignation from the Pakistan selection committee. In a candid statement, Yousuf claimed that his decision was directly linked to star batter Babar Azam. He said that when he suggested resting Babar to manage his workload and form, it sparked controversy within the cricket board and the team management.

Yousuf explained that the backlash was swift and overwhelming. “The moment I suggested resting Babar, everyone suddenly turned against me,” he said, highlighting the pressure and challenges selectors face when making difficult team decisions. His words suggest that internal disagreements over player management played a significant role in his departure from the committee.

The revelation has stirred debates among fans and cricket experts about the balance between player workload and team strategy. Many are now discussing whether senior players should be rested in high-pressure tournaments, and how selection committee decisions can sometimes clash with popular expectations. Yousuf’s resignation sheds light on the complex dynamics behind Pakistan cricket’s selection policies.

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Babar Azam Faces Tough Time After Poor T20 World Cup Performance

Babar Azam is going through a rough patch. He failed to score big runs against India and in the entire T20 World Cup.

Yousuf Suggests Resting Babar

In a viral interview video, former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Yousuf said this is not the first time Babar has struggled. He claimed that Babar failed to score well for three years in a row. Yousuf said that during his time as selector, he suggested resting Babar and sending him to first-class cricket. “The moment I suggested resting Babar and bringing him back after performing in first-class cricket, everyone suddenly turned against me,” he said.

Former Pakistan players also criticised the Salman Ali Agha-led team after its loss to India on February 15. Pakistan lost by 61 runs, the biggest T20I defeat against India. Shahid Afridi and Mohammad Yousuf were especially critical. Afridi said selectors should drop his own son-in-law, Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam, and Shadab Khan. Yousuf agreed, saying, “Time's up for Shaheen, Babar and Shadab. Pakistan’s T20 team needs new performers, not empty wins against weaker sides.”

Pakistan Ready to Face New Zealand in Super 8

Pakistan have reached the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup. They are in a group with New Zealand, England, and Sri Lanka. Pakistan will play against New Zealand on February 21 at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium.

The Men in Green have a strong record against New Zealand in T20 World Cup history. They have won five out of seven games against the BlackCaps. Their last loss to New Zealand was in 2016. The last time they met was in Sydney in the semifinal, where Pakistan won by seven wickets.