“It doesn’t even sound like a penalty” - Shahid Afridi demands stricter action on Pakistan players after T20 WC 2026 exit

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has expressed his disappointment over Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) not strictly punishing the Pakistan contingent after their early exit from the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

Speaking exclusively to Samaa TV, Afridi asserted that he was baffled by the media reports, not because the players were fined, but because the punishment was not strict enough. Notably, PCB is reportedly imposing a fine of INR 16 Lakh each on all Pakistan players.

“This is a decision that’s hard to understand. That’s narrow-minded thinking. This is a small amount. What will you even do with 50 lakhs? It doesn’t even sound like a penalty,” he said.

Furthermore, Afridi demanded stricter action, stating that underperforming players should be sent back to domestic cricket, suggesting that they should not be picked in the national team for at least next couple of years.

“Players who did not perform, send them to first-class cricket. There are some players, I feel, who shouldn’t be in the team for at least two years. That’s enough,” he added.

Interestingly, the same report also mentioned that the PCB has decided not to impose a fine on Fakhar Zaman, Usman Tariq, Salman Mirza, and Sahibzada Farhan. Notably, Farhan emerged as the leading run-scorer of the campaign, amassing 383 runs from six innings.

On the other hand, former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has slammed the PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi for holding players accountable for the team’s exit from the showpiece event, suggesting that everyone from selectors to administrators should also be accountable. 

"If fines are the solution, apply them to everyone - from selectors to the administration. Players weren't forced at gunpoint. Hold selectors accountable for wrong combinations. Double the fine for them. Stop scapegoating players. This isn't the real solution. Why do players have to suffer all the time?" Amir said on a talk show.

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