• Sportzyverse
• T20 World Cup 2024
• 06/10/2024
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The T20 World Cup 2024 has been challenging for the Pakistan cricket team. Under the leadership of Babar Azam, Pakistan has suffered two consecutive losses—first to the USA in a shocking upset and then to their arch-rivals India by a narrow six-run margin. This series of defeats has severely dented their chances of advancing to the Super 8 stage of the competition.

Disheartening Loss to India

In their latest match against India on Sunday, Pakistan’s bowlers performed admirably, restricting India to a modest 119 runs. Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf were particularly effective, each claiming three wickets. However, a disciplined bowling performance from India, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah, thwarted Pakistan’s chase, culminating in a six-run defeat. This loss has put Pakistan’s qualification hopes in jeopardy.

After two matches, Pakistan stands at 0 points, making its path to the Super 8 stage exceedingly narrow. To keep its hopes alive, Pakistan must win its remaining group stage matches against Canada and Ireland. Additionally, it needs to rely on other results going in its favor.

Pakistan must secure victories against Canada and Ireland, which will give them 4 points from 4 matches. However, Pakistan’s chances of qualification also hinge on the performances of the USA and Canada.

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Both the USA and Canada need to lose their remaining matches; if either team wins, Pakistan’s chances of advancing diminish significantly. Even if Pakistan wins both matches and the USA loses their remaining games, qualification will come down to Net Run Rate (NRR). Pakistan must ensure that their victories are by substantial margins to boost their NRR, making it favourable compared to their competitors.

Jasprit Bumrah’s Star Performance

India’s victory was largely thanks to Jasprit Bumrah’s stellar bowling. Bumrah, named Player of the Match, took crucial wickets and delivered a spellbinding performance. Reflecting on his game, Bumrah expressed satisfaction and gratitude for the support:

“It feels really good. We felt we were a little under and the wicket got a little better after the sun came out. We were really disciplined so it feels good. Tried to hit the seam as much as I could, tried to be as clear as I could with my execution and it all came out well so I felt happy. Felt like we were playing in India, really happy with the support and that gives us energy on the field. We focus on the now. We’ve played two games and played really well. You stick to your processes and look to play well,” Bumrah said post-match.

Also read Gary Kirsten Criticizes Pakistan’s Costly Errors in T20 World Cup Loss to India

Pakistan will next face Canada on June 11 in New York, followed by their final group-stage match against Ireland on June 16 in Lauderhill. Both matches are crucial for Pakistan’s survival in the tournament. The team must not only win but also aim for decisive victories to keep their Net Run Rate competitive.