Pakistans captain Babar Azam didnt hide his disappointment with pacer Haris Rauf as he was struck for a four on the last ball of the match against the United States of America on Thursday (June 6). This moment was critical as the USA team required five runs from the last ball.
Haris Rauf attempted a yorker but missed his length, resulting in a low full throw. Batter Nitish Kumar struck the ball in the air towards mid-off, gaining enough elevation to pass the defender. The ball then sped away to the barrier, eliciting cheers from the USA contingent and their supporters.
Babar Azam was highly upset with Rauf’s performance and conveyed his displeasure with a few gestures following the final ball.
You can watch Babar Azam’s reaction in the video below:
Mohammad Amir bowled the super over for Pakistan, but faulty fielding and unfortunate extra runs, along with excellent batting, let the USA reach 18/1. Saurabh Netravalkar then brilliantly defended the 19 runs, conceding only 13, to assist the USA secure a historic victory.
“All credit to USA team, they played well in all three departments”- Pakistan captain Babar Azam
During the aftermath of the match Babar Azam meticulously dissected his teams performance. He emphasized the missed chances during the powerplay which significantly hampered their momentum. Additionally he praised the USA team for their unwavering consistency across all aspects. Contemplating the defeat Babar shared:
“First six overs, we couldn’t capitalise. After that we picked up momentum, but lost wickets in flurry which was a set back and also couldn’t put up partnerships at crucial junctures. We weren’t up to the mark in the first six overs with the ball.”
Babar Azam
Babar Azam continued:
“We tried to come back, but we couldn’t’ finish. We will try in the next matches. All credit to USA team, they played well in all three departments. Little moisture was there on the pitch at the start, the ball wasn’t coming on that easily and our batters couldn’t asses the conditions as well.”
Babar Azam
Pakistan will next face India in the 2024 T20 World Cup on Sunday (June 9), in New York.