The loss sparked widespread criticism from former cricketers, who condemned the team’s poor performance. Basit Ali joined the chorus, questioning Babar Azam’s team selection and accusing him of favoritism. Previously, Pakistan batter Ahmed Shahzad had also accused Babar of favoring his friends in team selections.

“He has been consistently selecting players who are close to him and that has put paid to Pakistan’s chances,” Basit Ali told AFP.

During the USA vs. Pakistan match, Pakistan, batting first, had a disastrous start, losing three wickets for just 26 runs in 4.4 overs. Mohammad Rizwan (9 off 8), Usman Khan (3 off 3), and Fakhar Zaman (11 off 7) were dismissed cheaply, putting the team under pressure.

Babar Azam (44 off 43) and Shadab Khan (40 off 25) then steadied the innings with a 72-run partnership off 48 balls. After their dismissals, contributions from Iftikhar Ahmed (18* off 14) and Shaheen Afridi (23* off 16) helped Pakistan reach a total of 159/7 in their 20 overs.

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