Former Pakistan off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has triggered fresh debate ahead of the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, raising concerns about possible external influence on pitch preparation at Colombo's R Premadasa Stadium.
Pakistan have made an impressive start to their campaign under the hybrid tournament model, where they are playing all their matches in Sri Lanka. The team has secured victories in both of their opening Group A fixtures at the SSC Stadium and now stands just one win away from confirming qualification for the next stage. However, attention has quickly shifted to the marquee contest against India, scheduled for Sunday.
Speaking on the Pakistani television show Game on Hai after Pakistan's
win over the United States, Saqlain was asked whether he expected similar pitch conditions for the upcoming India fixture. His response sparked immediate controversy. "With the kind of technology available today and the modern-day groundsmen, the pitch can change; you never know. We know under whose influence the ICC works," Mushtaq, who made the doosra form of bowling popular, said.
Saqlain's remarks suggested that pitch conditions could potentially be altered ahead of the high-profile encounter, drawing widespread attention given the importance of the fixture and Pakistan's strong form in the tournament.
The discussion during the show also shifted towards Pakistan's team composition, particularly the absence of bowling contributions from pace-bowling all-rounder Faheem Ashraf. Despite being the squad's only seam-bowling all-rounder, Faheem has not been used with the ball in either of Pakistan's first two matches. Saqlain questioned the team's tactical planning, especially with the India clash approaching.
"You've given Usman Tariq a game, which gives him confidence ahead of India. But if you need two fast bowlers and an all-rounder going forward, the entire equation changes. Look at Jimmy Neesham, he's like our Faheem Ashraf. Some days he bowls one over, some days he bowls the 20th. Who bowls the 20th over for Pakistan? Tariq? Nawaz? Shadab? Abrar? When have they last done it? Faheem has, whether good or bad," he argued.
Former Pakistan pacer Umar Gul and ex-captain Mohammad Hafeez supported similar views during the discussion. They questioned captain Salman Agha's tactical choices and suggested Faheem should have been given opportunities earlier to gain confidence ahead of the high-pressure contest.
With tensions already running high, Saqlain's comments have further intensified anticipation surrounding one of cricket's most fiercely followed rivalries.
