Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra cleverly roasted Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif over the latter’s remark on his country’s win over Australia in the first T20I on Thursday. With the T20 World Cup 2026 fast approaching, Australia have toured Pakistan for a three-match T20I series as a preparation before the big event in India and Sri Lanka.
Batting first, Pakistan rode on knocks from Salman Ali Agha and Saim Ayub to post 168/8 in 20 overs. In reply, Australia, who have come without some of the first-team cricketers, fell 22 runs short in the chase at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Celebrating the win over Australia, Pakistan PM wrote, “Well done Team Pakistan for an electrifying performance against Australia in the first T20I.” He also praised Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi for his work as the cricket board chairman.
“I also appreciate Chairman PCB @MohsinnaqviC42 and his entire team for their tireless efforts in strengthening Pakistan cricket. Proud moment for the nation,” added the Pakistan PM further in his post.
However, Chopra, who played 10 Test matches for India, gave a reality check to Sharif, stating Pakistan’s win came over an Australia ‘B’ team. “With due respect…it’s a bilateral T20i against Australia’s B team. Many main players have given it a miss. And a 20-run win in a 170 run game can’t possibly qualify as ‘electrifying’” replied Chopra.
Pakistan prepares itself for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with all its matches set to happen in Sri Lanka. However, there is still confusion over the team’s participation, as Pakistan is mulling a withdrawal from the marquee event in solidarity with Bangladesh.
Amid the withdrawal fiasco, Pakistan has already announced its squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, sparking confusion among fans as their status for the tournament remains unclear.
In case Pakistan pulls out of the T20 World Cup, the International Cricket Council (ICC) may impose extensive sanctions that could severely affect them. While they have no reason to withdraw, it is yet to be seen what steps they would take ahead of the marquee ICC spectacle.
