Colombo, February 20: Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has criticised Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson following the team’s defeat to India in the T20 World Cup 2026, questioning tactical decisions taken during the match in Colombo.
Pakistan, led by Salman Ali Agha, lost to Suryakumar Yadav’s India by 61 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium while chasing a target of 176. Although the team progressed to the Super 8 stage, the defeat has drawn scrutiny over on-field strategy and team management decisions.
Kaif said the captain’s judgement could be excused given it was his first World Cup in charge, but argued that responsibility also lay with the coaching staff, considering Hesson’s extensive experience in international leagues and the IPL.
He pointed to decisions such as introducing mystery spinner Usman Tariq after the 10th over and not utilising the captain’s full quota of overs despite an early wicket. The use of spinner Abrar Ahmed during the powerplay was also questioned, with Kaif suggesting it disrupted the bowling plan on a slow pitch.
The former batter added that matches between India and Pakistan involve intense pressure, making the role of coaches crucial in guiding tactical choices and maintaining clarity in execution.
Pakistan have since moved into the Super 8s and are placed in Group B alongside Sri Lanka, New Zealand and England. They are scheduled to face New Zealand on February 21 at the same venue.
