The T20 World Cup 2024 has been nothing short of disappointing for Pakistan so far. The Babar Azam-led side has faced two tough defeats, first being stunned by the United States of America (USA) and then falling short by six runs against India.
Despite Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf’s impressive three-wicket hauls, Pakistan couldn’t chase down India’s 119, thanks to a disciplined performance from the Indian pacers, particularly Jasprit Bumrah. This loss has severely dented Pakistan’s chances of reaching the Super 8 stage.
But the burning question remains: can Pakistan still qualify for the Super 8? Let’s break it down.
The Road Ahead For Pakistan In T20 World Cup
In Group A, Pakistan is up against India, the USA, Canada, and Ireland. Currently, India and the USA lead the group with 4 points each, while Pakistan has zero points from their two matches.
With just two games left, here’s what Pakistan needs to do to keep their Super 8 hopes alive.
For Pakistan to advance, they not only need to win their remaining matches against Canada and Ireland but also hope that the USA loses to both India and Ireland by significant margins.
- June 11: Canada vs Pakistan — Pakistan must win
- June 12: USA vs India — India must win
- June 14: USA vs Ireland — Ireland must win
- June 15: Canada vs India — India must win
- June 16: Ireland vs Pakistan — Pakistan must win
Winning isn’t enough for Pakistan; they need to secure these victories with large margins to boost their net run rate (NRR). This is crucial because, even if Pakistan wins both games, their NRR must be superior to the USA’s to qualify for the Super 8.
It’s worth noting that the losses Pakistan suffered were closely contested affairs. The match against the USA was decided in a Super Over, and the game against India ended in a narrow six-run defeat, that’s why Pakistan’s net run rate is not that bad.
Final Thoughts
The path to the Super 8 is steep for Pakistan, but not impossible. They need to bring their A-game against Canada as well as Ireland and hope for favourable results in the other group matches. It’s a tense journey ahead, and every run, wicket, and over will count.
As fans, we can only hope that Pakistan finds the form and spirit needed to turn things around. Cricket is a game of uncertainties, and miracles can happen. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for a thrilling comeback.
Will Pakistan rise to the occasion and keep their T20 World Cup dream alive? Only time will tell.
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