When India was down by two wickets while chasing a modest total of 110 against the USA, there must have been a moment of apprehension for the Pakistan cricket team. If the USA had managed to defend that small total, it would have meant Pakistan’s exit from the T20 World Cup 2024 group stage.
For a brief period, it looked plausible as the USA had managed to trouble the Indian batsmen in the initial 12 overs. Pakistan should indeed be grateful to India for their aggressive and spectacular batting performance, as a loss for India would have secured the top position in the group table for the USA, ending Pakistan’s chances of advancing to the Super 8s.
Pakistan’s performance in this World Cup has been disappointing, with their fans already experiencing bouts of despair. The team lost to both the USA and India. In the first match, they failed to defend their score, and in the second, they couldn’t chase down 120 runs. Expectations were low for Pakistan, with top players like Mohammad Rizwan scoring the slowest fifty of the tournament.
The team’s batting has been underwhelming, with neither Babar Azam in form nor Rizwan playing impactful innings. Pakistan’s key players seemed more suited for Test matches than the fast-paced T20 format.
USA has been a better team than Pakistan, deserving qualification
Despite Pakistan getting another chance, the USA remains a strong contender for qualification. They have performed well, appearing well-prepared and balanced in both batting and bowling. Their victory over Pakistan was the tournament’s biggest upset, showcasing their potential to compete at higher levels. If they win their remaining match against Ireland and maintain a good net run rate, the USA has strong chances to reach the Super 8s of this World Cup.
On the other hand, Pakistan must introspect whether they truly deserve to progress to the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup 2024. They conceded 18 runs in a super over against the USA and then failed to chase down 120 against India. With such performances, where their middle-order batsmen have not scored fifties and bowlers like Shadab Khan haven’t delivered, Pakistan faces significant challenges.
Their inconsistencies and lack of impactful performances raise questions about their preparedness and strategy in this tournament.
Ultimately, while India’s win has kept Pakistan’s hopes alive, the latter needs to address their shortcomings and step up their game to stand a chance in the T20 World Cup 2024. Meanwhile, the USA will look to capitalize on their strong performance and aim for a historic qualification to the Super 8s.
