Akash Chopra Slams Mohammad Yousuf’s “Top 4 Dream” Remark After Australia’s Defeat

New Delhi, Feb 17: Australia’s shocking downfall in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 has triggered intense discussions across the cricketing world. After suffering a heavy 8-wicket defeat against Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Australia’s chances of reaching the Super 8 stage have almost vanished.

However, what grabbed headlines was not just Australia’s loss, but a controversial statement made by former Pakistan batting great Mohammad Yousuf, which invited a sharp response from Indian ex-cricketer and commentator Akash Chopra.

Mohammad Yousuf Sees Pakistan’s “Top 4 Chance” After Australia’s Exit

Soon after Australia’s defeat, Mohammad Yousuf took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and expressed disappointment over Australia’s possible early elimination. He wrote that Australia’s exit would leave a “bitter taste” in the tournament.

Yousuf further claimed that Australia’s elimination could open the door for Pakistan, saying Pakistan now had a better chance of reaching the Top 4. He also urged the Pakistan team to learn from their recent mistakes and move forward with a positive mindset and the right team combination.

Akash Chopra Gives a Strong Reply

Mohammad Yousuf’s remark did not go unnoticed. Akash Chopra, known for his straightforward opinions, responded strongly and questioned the logic behind linking Australia’s exit with Pakistan’s chances.

Chopra pointed out that Australia was never placed in Pakistan’s group, and therefore their elimination would not directly impact Pakistan’s path. He also highlighted that if Zimbabwe qualify instead of Australia, they would likely move into India’s Super 8 group, not Pakistan’s.

Chopra’s response clearly dismissed Yousuf’s statement as misplaced and irrelevant to Pakistan’s qualification scenario.

Super 8 Equation: Australia’s Exit Helps India’s Group, Not Pakistan

Cricket analysts believe that if Australia fail to qualify for Super 8, Zimbabwe are expected to take their place. In that case, Zimbabwe would enter India’s Super 8 group, while Pakistan’s group would still likely feature strong sides such as Sri Lanka.

This makes it clear that Australia’s early exit does not automatically boost Pakistan’s chances, as suggested by Yousuf.

Pakistan Under Pressure After Heavy Defeat to India

Meanwhile, Pakistan themselves are in deep trouble after a humiliating defeat against India at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Team India outclassed Pakistan completely and registered a dominant 61-run victory, pushing Pakistan closer to an early exit.

Pakistan must now win their upcoming match against Namibia to stay alive in the race for the Super 8 stage.