{"id":414039,"date":"2026-02-08T04:38:13","date_gmt":"2026-02-08T04:38:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/414039\/"},"modified":"2026-02-08T04:38:13","modified_gmt":"2026-02-08T04:38:13","slug":"ex-pak-star-worried-about-pakistans-qualification-at-t20-world-cup-if-india-lose-cricket-news","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/414039\/","title":{"rendered":"Ex-PAK Star Worried About Pakistan’s Qualification At T20 World Cup: ‘If India Lose…’ | Cricket News"},"content":{"rendered":"

Last Updated:February 07, 2026, 19:53 IST<\/p>\n

Rashid Latif looks at Pakistan’s T20 World Cup hopes after their win over Netherlands, highlighting India’s result against USA as key to Pakistan’s qualification chances.\"font\"\"new\"new<\/a>\"T20<\/p>\n

T20 World Cup: Pakistan managed a narrow win over the Netherlands (AP)<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has commented on the ongoing T20 World Cup permutations following Pakistan\u2019s narrow victory over the Netherlands in their tournament opener. Latif noted that India\u2019s result against the USA could significantly impact Pakistan\u2019s qualification scenario.<\/p>\n

As things stand \u2014 Pakistan will not face India in their scheduled T20 World Cup match in Colombo on February 15, as their government approved participation in the World Cup on the condition that they will not play against India.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have seen how conditions have affected two or three teams already. If India lose their next match, it could make things difficult for Pakistan in terms of qualification. However, if Pakistan win their next three matches, there is a strong chance they will qualify,” Rashid Latif was quoted as saying to IANS.<\/p>\n

\"article<\/p>\n

Pakistan\u2019s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign started on a tense note<\/a> as they overcame a scare to secure a three-wicket victory against the Netherlands at the Sinhalese Sports Club.<\/p>\n

While praising the bowling attack, especially the spinners, Latif expressed concerns about the batting roles, team balance, and Babar Azam\u2019s form, calling for clarity and improvement.<\/p>\n

\u201cPakistan has won the match, but there were some difficulties. The way the Netherlands bowled was very impressive. They exposed some of Pakistan\u2019s shortcomings, especially in the middle order,” Rashid Latif said.<\/p>\n

Pakistan restricted the Netherlands to 147 all out in 19.5 overs, with Salman Mirza taking three wickets, supported by Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, and Saim Ayub.<\/p>\n

Latif highlighted concerns about Pakistan\u2019s batting structure.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere are two players who have performed well in the past, but their batting positions have changed. Babar Azam is now batting at number four, Fakhar Zaman didn\u2019t play today and was earlier used at number five. On top of that, there are three wicketkeepers in the squad who don\u2019t even keep wickets regularly for their franchises,” he explained.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe positives are our spin bowling and the top three batters, who are performing reasonably well. But if Pakistan continues to play like this against USA and Namibia, they could face serious difficulties,” he added.<\/p>\n

Is Babar Azam Struggling?<\/p>\n

Commenting on Babar Azam\u2019s form, Latif said, \u201cBabar was struggling at number three, which is why he was dropped down the order. Now he is batting at number four, which is actually an ideal position for him. The situation suited him, and he should have taken the innings deep.”<\/p>\n

\u201cInstead, he played an unnecessary shot. He usually plays low-risk cricket, but this time he put himself and the team under pressure. He is struggling at the moment, and we\u2019ll have to see how much he can contribute going forward,” he added.<\/p>\n

Will Pakistan Play India?<\/p>\n

On the possibility of an India-Pakistan clash, Latif mentioned: \u201cThat decision is not in the players\u2019 hands. Both governments will decide. As of now, I don\u2019t see any chance. The Pakistani Prime Minister has clearly stated that we are not playing. What happens in the future remains to be seen.”<\/p>\n

(With inputs from Agencies)<\/p>\n

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First Published:<\/p>\n

February 07, 2026, 19:53 IST<\/p>\n

News<\/a> cricket<\/a> Ex-PAK Star Worried About Pakistan’s Qualification At T20 World Cup: ‘If India Lose…’Disclaimer: Comments reflect users\u2019 views, not News18\u2019s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use<\/a> and Privacy Policy<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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