'Pakistan deserves ranking with Kenya & Uganda, not India!': Former Pak WC winner Ahmed Shehzad blasts Mohsin Naqvi-led PCB
ET Online March 09, 2026 05:57 PM
Synopsis

Ahmed Shehzad's 'brutal' comment: India clinched the 2026 T20 World Cup title with a massive 96-run victory over New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Following the win, veteran Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad launched a scathing viral rant, contrasting India’s robust talent-producing system—which saw Sanju Samson named Player of the Tournament—with Pakistan’s tendency to celebrate victories against lower-ranked teams like Kenya and Uganda.

India cemented its status as the global superpower of cricket on Sunday, crushing New Zealand by 96 runs to lift the 2026 T20 World Cup trophy in front of a capacity crowd at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The final was a showcase of clinical dominance as the Indian batting lineup dismantled the New Zealand attack to post a daunting 255-run total, the highest ever in a T20 World Cup final. While the victory sparked nationwide celebrations across India, it triggered a massive sporting crisis in Pakistan, where former international Ahmed Shehzad delivered an unfiltered critique of his country's cricketing stagnation compared to India's relentless production of world-class match-winners.

IND vs NZ Final: India Posts Record 255 at Ahmedabad

The final in Ahmedabad was a one-sided affair from the start, with India’s aggressive intent pushing the score to a staggering 255 runs. New Zealand, unable to handle the scoreboard pressure, collapsed for just 159 runs under the lights. Ahmed Shehzad pointed out that while Pakistan teams often settle for 180 and rely on bowlers, this Indian side was determined to cross 250 to put the game beyond reach early on.

Player of the Series Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishana

Shehzad focused his rant on the depth of the Indian "system," highlighting players like Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan. He noted that Samson, who often struggled for consistent opportunities in the past, emerged as the Player of the Tournament in this World Cup. Similarly, he praised Ishan Kishan for maintaining discipline and performing in domestic cricket to earn his spot, proving that India’s structure rewards merit and produces ready-made champions.


Abhishek Sharma Shines Under Final Pressure

The Pakistani veteran was particularly impressed by youngster Abhishek Sharma, who silenced critics with a high-octane 52 runs off just 21 deliveries in the final. Shehzad argued that the ability of such young talent to perform on the biggest stage is a testament to India's superior preparation, contrasting it with Pakistan's lack of big-match temperament.

Watch Ahmed Shehzad's meltdown against PCB:


"Rank Us with Kenya and Uganda": Shehzad’s Meltdown

In a viral moment of frustration, Shehzad ridiculed Pakistan for celebrating wins against "B-tier" nations. He suggested that the ICC should create a separate ranking for Pakistan alongside Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, rather than comparing them to top-tier giants like India, Australia, or England. He concluded that while Pakistan has the talent, the lack of a proper system means they will continue to lag behind India’s world-class standards.
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