Indian cricket legend Ravichandran Ashwin has tipped Pakistan’s Khawaja Mohammad Nafay as a player to watch at the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, triggering a wave of reactions from fans.
Following Pakistan’s squad announcement at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Ashwin took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his assessment. “This KM [Khawaja Mohammad] Nafay is a player to keep an eye on this World Cup,” the former off-spinner wrote, immediately catching the attention of cricket enthusiasts on both sides.
This KM Nafay is a player to keep an eye on this World Cup. #T20WorldCup2026 https://t.co/jQxfC7P0lF
— Ashwin (@ashwinravi99) January 25, 2026
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) unveiled their 15-member contingent for the tournament earlier in the day, with the team set to face the Netherlands in their Group A opener on February 7 in Colombo.
PCB Director High Performance Aqib Javed, captain Salman Ali Agha, and white-ball head coach Mike Hesson made the announcement.
Ashwin’s post quickly went viral, drawing diverse reactions from the cricket community. Pakistani fans responded with everything from light-hearted humour to genuine appreciation for the cross-border recognition.
“Trolling level thoda casual hai ,” joked one Indian user.
Another Pakistani supporter noted the irony: “Indian fans hyping Nafay more than us Respect or coping?”
Several fans showed wholehearted support for Ashwin’s observation. “Ashwin Eyes on Future ♥️,” wrote one enthusiast, while an Indian supporter responded: “If you are saying then….we will keep an eye.”
Many agreed with Ashwin’s assessment, posting comments like “Exactly, he’s an exciting talent to watch” and “Yes he’s very talented player,” highlighting growing consensus about Nafay’s potential.
The exchange showcased a rare moment of camaraderie between rival fan bases, who united in their appreciation of emerging talent despite the traditional India-Pakistan rivalry.
Nafay joins five other players in receiving their maiden mega-event call-ups: captain Salman Ali Agha, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Sahibzada Farhan, and Usman Tariq.
The squad also features experienced campaigners including Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, and Naseem Shah, who have all represented Pakistan in previous T20 World Cups since 2021.
Pakistan will use their upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia which is scheduled for 29 and 31 January, and 1 February at Gaddafi Stadium.
The 23-year-old right-handed batter from Karachi has one of cricket’s most unique stories. Born on 13 February 2002, Nafay plays as a right-handed batter and wicketkeeper.
The Karachi youngster gained popularity by posting his performances on social media, which caught the attention of PSL team management. In December 2023, Quetta Gladiators picked him in the players’ draft for the 2024 Pakistan Super League.
Nafay announced his arrival on the big stage with a stunning innings against Lahore Qalandars on 19 February 2024, scoring 60 runs off just 31 balls for his maiden T20 half-century.