Sport · Monday, September 7, 2026
Pakistan: the 2021 victory against India, a problematic turning point
Pakistan's historic triumph over India at the 2021 World Cup allegedly altered the team's mentality, according to former player Yousuf.
By Editorial team
Pakistan had achieved a major success in 2021 against India, thanks to the performances of Babar Azam (68*) and Mohammad Rizwan (79*). This first World Cup victory over their historic rival had captured people's imagination. However, Yousuf believes that this victory profoundly changed the players' psychological approach, contributing to the decline that followed. For the 2026 World Cup, Pakistan will need to regain lasting mental stability.