![Shoaib Malik hits back at Mohammad Yousuf [Source: @khelshel, @OneCricketApp/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1771572494543_ShoaibMalikhitsbackatMohammadYousuf.jpg?type=hq)
Shoaib Malik hits back at Mohammad Yousuf [Source: @khelshel, @OneCricketApp/X.com]
Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Yousuf, two respected figures in Pakistan cricketing history, appear to be on opposite sides of a growing narrative. What began as a critical assessment of the current team has now snowballed into a public disagreement, with Malik openly rejecting Yousuf’s claims and calling him out.
Pakistan cricket is full of surprises. But this time, the past and present generations have locked horns after the men in green’s 61-run loss against India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Mohammad Yousuf levelled accusations against the Pakistan players
The storm began when Mohammad Yousuf, speaking on a podcast, claimed that arrogance seeped into the Pakistan dressing room after their historic 10-wicket win over India at the T20 World Cup 2021.
According to Yousuf, players began believing they were unbeatable. He alleged that some cricketers would look at their mobile phones during team meetings and ignore the head coach’s instructions.
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Yousuf described the change as a moment where discipline and humility gave way to overconfidence. He stressed that such behaviour was unacceptable and hinted that it contributed to Pakistan’s subsequent struggles against India and other major teams.
His words quickly went viral, and people began debating on television and social media. Many questioned whether the former batting great was exposing uncomfortable truths or merely airing internal grievances in public.
Shoaib Malik hits back at Mohammad Yousuf
Meanwhile, Shoaib Malik, who was part of the 2021 World Cup squad, wasted little time responding. In a firm rebuttal, Malik dismissed Yousuf’s version of events and labelled the allegations as baseless.
He stated that as someone present in the dressing room, he never witnessed players disrespecting coaches or using phones during serious team discussions.
Shoaib Malik added that Saqlain Mushtaq was the head coach at the time and maintained strict discipline within the group.
"I was part of the team and I'm the eye witness. Saqlain Bhai was our coach and I never saw anyone using a cellphone in the meeting during the T20 World Cup," Malik said.
Shoaib Malik insisted that the squad remained focused and professional throughout the tournament. Calling himself an “eyewitness,” Malik implied that Yousuf’s claims were either exaggerated or entirely untrue.
Shadab Khan reprimanded by PCB
Amid this, the PCB has pulled up Shadab Khan for his pointed remarks about former Pakistan cricketers during the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
His comments came after a strong all-round display against Namibia, days after ex-players like Mohammad Yousuf and Shahid Afridi criticised the team following the loss to India.
While Shadab defended the current squad’s achievements, the board reportedly warned him to show restraint and respect toward senior figures.
With tensions rising, the PCB has urged players to remain measured in public statements as Pakistan prepare for the Super Eight stage of the tournament.
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