Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali predicts that Fakhar Zaman will return to the playing XI for Pakistan’s crucial ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Super Eight match against New Zealand. He also hinted that Khawaja Nafay could be dropped due to recent performances.
Pakistan begin their Super Eight campaign today at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Basit Ali, speaking on Har Lamha Purjosh, emphasized Fakhar Zaman’s experience and impressive record against New Zealand as key reasons for his inclusion.
Shoaib Malik supported the prediction, noting Fakhar’s consistent performances against the Kiwis in past T20 matches. “His left-handed batting has often put New Zealand under pressure,” Malik added.
Kamran Akmal also backed Basit Ali’s prediction, stressing that Pakistan must field their strongest XI in the Super Eight stage. “In the Super Eight, Pakistan need the team that can deliver under pressure,” Akmal said. “Fakhar’s past record is very impressive. At least on that basis, he deserves a chance.”
Meanwhile, concerns about Saim Ayub’s form were raised. Akmal suggested dropping the young batter, citing poor shot selection, footwork, and lack of consistency. Khawaja Nafay could also be sidelined as Pakistan aims to field its best lineup.
Basit Ali further predicts that Pakistan has a strong chance of reviving their campaign if the team balances experience and youth effectively. He highlighted the importance of starting the Super Eight with a confident performance against New Zealand.
Earlier, Basit Ali also predicted the four teams most likely to reach the later stages of the T20 World Cup 2026. He observed that one group remained unbeaten while the other teams lost at least one match, forming the basis of his forecast.
In his prediction for the final, Basit Ali claimed that India and Pakistan are likely to face each other for the championship. Fans will be eager to see if his predictions hold true as Pakistan looks to bounce back in the Super Eight stage.
The team’s strategy, combined with key inclusions like Fakhar Zaman, will be critical in turning predictions into reality during this high-stakes stage of the tournament.
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