COLOMBO, Feb 21, 2026 — Pakistan will begin their ICC T20 World Cup Super Eights campaign under intense scrutiny, with senior players Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi under pressure ahead of their clash against the New Zealand national cricket team at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Saturday.
Pakistan progressed to the Super Eights stage but concerns remain over the form of key players and the balance of the side. Much of the discussion has centred on Babar’s transition to the number four position and Shaheen’s impact with the new ball following his return from injury.
Babar, once the anchor at the top of the order and former captain, has struggled to assert himself in his revised middle-order role. Apart from a steady innings against the United States, he has failed to produce a defining knock during the group phase. Head coach Mike Hesson explained that Babar has been assigned a specific role to stabilise the innings if early wickets fall, rather than being used as a late overs aggressor.
Hesson said the team values Babar’s ability to rebuild innings and accelerate once set, but acknowledged that certain match situations may demand more explosive options. In the final group match against Namibia, Pakistan promoted Khawaja Nafay to number four instead of sending Babar in during the middle overs. Although Nafay did not make a significant impact on debut, the move reflected a tactical adjustment aimed at increasing scoring momentum.
Shaheen’s form has also drawn attention. The left-arm pacer, who returned to competitive cricket after injury two months ago, has struggled for rhythm. He has conceded runs at a high economy rate during the tournament, raising questions about his effectiveness in the powerplay. In contrast, Salman Mirza impressed with his control, conceding just six runs per over in his appearances.
Hesson confirmed that Salman was brought in for Shaheen in the Namibia fixture and praised his consistency. The team management is likely to continue backing Salman as first choice with the new ball for the Super Eights opener.
Pakistan are expected to maintain a spin-heavy strategy in Colombo, where conditions traditionally favour slower bowlers. Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan have delivered tidy spells in recent outings, while Saim Ayub provides additional variation. Usman Tariq, with his unconventional action and ability to bowl at different stages of the innings, has emerged as a key option in the middle overs.
New Zealand, meanwhile, face the challenge of adapting to Sri Lankan conditions after playing their group matches in India. Middle-order batter Mark Chapman said the team understands the need to adjust to slower surfaces and is confident of handling Pakistan’s varied spin attack.
Pakistan have the advantage of having played all their previous matches in Sri Lanka, which may offer familiarity with local pitches. However, the spotlight remains firmly on Babar and Shaheen. A strong performance against New Zealand could ease pressure and restore confidence, while another below-par outing may intensify calls for further changes as the tournament enters its decisive phase.
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