In a thrilling encounter at the T20 World Cup 2024 in New York, Pakistan succumbed to a narrow defeat against arch-rivals India, dashing their hopes of an easy passage to the Super 8 stage. With a target of 120 set by India, Pakistan’s chase stumbled, leaving their qualification prospects hanging by a thread.
As the tournament narrative unfolds, Pakistan finds themselves in a precarious position, with their fate dependent on a series of outcomes in upcoming matches:
- June 11: A crucial clash awaits as Pakistan must triumph over Canada.
- June 12: Pakistan’s hopes hinge on India overcoming the USA.
- June 14: Ireland’s victory over the USA becomes pivotal for Pakistan’s chances.
- June 15: India’s triumph against Canada is essential for Pakistan’s advancement.
- June 16: Pakistan must seal a convincing win against Ireland to keep their hopes alive.
Should these scenarios materialize, Pakistan would accumulate four points from four matches. Meanwhile, India would lead the group with eight points, leaving Pakistan and the USA tied with four points each. The decider then shifts to Net Run Rate (NRR), where Pakistan needs emphatic wins against Canada and Ireland while hoping for substantial defeats for the USA.
Reflecting on the match against India, Pakistan’s promising start lost steam with the dismissal of captain Babar Azam early on. Despite Mohammad Rizwan’s resilient efforts, Pakistan’s middle-order faltered, unable to build substantial partnerships. The turning point arrived with Rizwan’s departure, halting Pakistan’s momentum as they concluded their innings at 113-7 in 20 overs.
Pakistan’s bowlers had earlier shone, containing India’s batsmen in a highly anticipated showdown. However, their batting frailties proved costly, leaving them with a daunting task ahead to salvage their T20 World Cup campaign.