Canada lost over Pakistan by seven wickets.
Pakistan faced an inexperienced Canadian team at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York for their 22nd match, coming off two losses in their previous meetings. Ultimately, the Men in Green defeated Saad Bin Zafar and company to win their opening match of the T20 World Cup 2024, maintaining their aspirations of making it to the Super Eight.
Babar won a crucial toss in a game that was a must-win and decided to field first, which turned out to be crucial on a challenging New York pitch. They took two wickets off of Pargat Singh (2 off 6) and Navneet Dhaliwal (4 off 7) during the powerplay, proving that their decision was correct.
Canada was on the verge of a middle-order collapse, with no batter able to reach double digits. Aaron Johnson, their lone batter, was only attempting to extend an inning in order to guarantee that his team reached a manageable total. At the end of the innings, Canada was 106/7, with 52 runs scored by Johnson. He hit four boundaries and four sixes in his 44-ball stay. With the ball, Mohammad Amir was the main wrecker, concluding his period with 2/13.
Pakistan responded by resolving to chase down the low total and avoid making the same error they did against India at the same location a few days prior. Despite their early success in eliminating Saim Ayub, Canada’s pivotal 63-run partnership between captain Babar and Mohammad Rizwan sealed the victory for them.
- Pakistan is saved by Babar-Rizwan
Without the vital relationship that Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan forged, Pakistan would not have triumphed. Nonetheless, Pakistan has a history of rising from defeat to become a formidable opponent. Babar, who was getting close to reaching his half-century, was removed after 33 runs, while Rizwan scored 53 runs to record his 29th T20I half-century.
- Canada makes it difficult for themselves to go to the Super Eight
Canada needs to defeat India handily in their upcoming game in order to stand a hope of making it to the Super Eight stage after two losses. They will not have it easy since, following their victory over Pakistan, their opponent is riding high. The group will aim to work harder, pay closer attention to details, and put up a better fight.
This is what Saad Bin Zafar, the losing captain, said:
was a little underwhelming. It was a challenging pitch to bat on. Bowlers from Pakistan bowled beautifully. We were in the range of 25–30. We have to secure some wickets early on. We don’t get to face very good teams. Johnson had a strong performance. Kirton was a critical run-out. There are many advantages to this game.
The victorious skipper, Babar Azam, stated as follows:
Fortunately for us. This victory was required. Team deserves credit. We had a good start. if you use the fresh ball to take wickets. NRR was something we were considering. Here, the opening six overs are really important. Six overs later, you evaluate. Next, we attempted to challenge the spinners. We’re going to approach things similarly. From here, the weather in Florida ought to be better as well. I exited at the same point. That’s why I was upset. I continue to give it my all.
POTM Mohammad Amir stated as follows: As a bowler, you have to adjust to any situation. I was just trying to hit the correct spots because the going was tough. Professionals need to understand their roles clearly. I know I have to bowl with the new ball, and I’m prepared for everything that comes up. After bowling the awayswinger for three or four deliveries, I made the decision to swing it back in (after Dhaliwal was dismissed). Much-needed victory; beyond that, who knows? We just need to win the next game.
