The Babar Azam-led team lost to India by 6 runs on Sunday, capping a dismal start to their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign for the Pakistan cricket team. After being shocked by the United States in their first group stage match, Pakistan has now lost two straight games. India was bowled out for 119 by Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf, who each claimed three wickets, but an impressive display of discipline by India’s pacers, particularly Jasprit Bumrah, condemned Pakistan to an overwhelming loss. Pakistan’s hopes of qualifying for the competition’s Super 8 stage were severely damaged by the defeat to India.
Pakistan’s chances of qualifying are now relatively poor, as they have only two matches played and zero points. In the hopes that neither Canada nor the United States wins any more games, the Babar Azam-led team must win its final two games against those nations.
The United States’ two remaining games against Pakistan must lose in order for them to advance to the Super 8 stage, even if Pakistan wins both of its matches. Pakistan will need a few outcomes to go their way, since both teams will have four points from four games.
Jasprit Bumrah, the speedster who won the player of the match following the game, genuinely loved his effort against Pakistan.
“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 sai after the match.