T20 World Cup News March 3: Ganguly Backs Samson, Afridi Slams PCB Fine, Amir Doubles Down on India

The semi-final lineup is set, but the noise around the T20 World Cup 2026 is far from quiet. India's record chase has sparked selection debates and bold endorsements, Pakistan's exit has triggered fines and furious reactions, former players are revising predictions, and cricket's global footprint - from Canada to Afghanistan - is under scrutiny. As the knockouts approach, reputations are being reassessed in real time.

Sourav Ganguly Backs Sanju Samson for Consistent India Spot After 97

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has thrown his support behind Sanju Samson following his match-defining 97 against West Indies at Eden Gardens. Calling the knock "outstanding," Ganguly said Samson should consistently feature in India's white-ball setup. He praised not just the strokeplay but the situational awareness shown during India's record 196-run chase in a virtual quarterfinal.

Shahid Afridi Slams PCB Over PKR 50 Lakh Fine After T20 World Cup Exit

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board's decision to fine players PKR 50 lakh following their Super Eight elimination. The fines were reportedly imposed for poor performance rather than disciplinary breaches. Afridi called the move "narrow-minded," arguing that stronger structural action - including sending underperformers back to domestic cricket - would have been more meaningful.

Mohammad Amir Trolled After India Reach Semi-Finals; Doubles Down on Criticism

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir faced backlash after his earlier prediction that India would not reach the semi-finals proved incorrect. Despite India's recovery with wins over Zimbabwe and West Indies, Amir maintained that India are "not hot favourites," pointing to fielding lapses and bowling concerns beyond Jasprit Bumrah. He also questioned the dismissal of Shimron Hetmyer in the West Indies clash, suggesting it could have changed the outcome.

PM Narendra Modi Applauds Canada's Participation in T20 World Cup

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Canada's presence at the T20 World Cup during remarks at the India-Canada CEOs' Forum. Calling it a positive moment for the sport's global growth, he drew parallels between T20 cricket's dynamism and bilateral cooperation. Canada, playing their second T20 World Cup, exited at the group stage after four defeats.

Afghanistan Cricket Board Hints at Leadership Changes After Early Exit

The Afghanistan Cricket Board has indicated potential leadership changes following the team's disappointing T20 World Cup campaign. While no final decision has been made regarding captain Rashid Khan, ACB chief executive Naseeb Khan confirmed reforms are under consideration. The board has already reshuffled coaching roles, signalling a broader reset after consecutive underwhelming performances in major tournaments.

The semi-finals may define the trophy, but the aftershocks of this tournament are already reshaping careers, administrations, and narratives. In global cricket, performance never exists in isolation - it echoes.