Mohammad Hafeez criticized Pakistan for choosing Mohammad Amir, who had been out of international cricket for four years, over more trusted bowlers Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi in the Super Over.
Former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez criticized the Pakistan team management and leadership for assigning Mohammad Amir the crucial task of bowling the Super Over against the USA in their T20 World Cup match on June 6. Amir, who had returned to international cricket after a four-year hiatus, conceded 18 runs in the Super Over, leading to Pakistan’s defeat.
Hafeez pointed out that the team should have shown faith in more established bowlers like Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi, who have been integral to Pakistan’s setup for a long time. He also expressed his confusion over the decision not to let Fakhar Zaman take strike in the Super Over.
“Who was the best bowler? For me, it would be Naseem Shah and then Shaheen Shah Afridi. Amir was away from Pakistan cricket for four years. Don’t try to compare international T20 leagues to international cricket. You didn’t trust your main player and trusted someone who is making a comeback after four years,” Hafeez said.
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Hafeez further criticized Pakistan’s players for their poor body language and performance during both the 20-over game and the Super Over, suggesting that the team effectively lost twice in one day. He slammed the team’s inability to remain calm under pressure, citing Amir’s three wides and the team’s sloppy fielding, which allowed the USA to score extra runs.
“How did Pakistan lose not one, but two matches in a day. First we lost the 20-over game and then the super over. We understand you were nervous. It was a nervous batting innings, it was nervous bowling and fielding. I understand it in the 20-over game. But you couldn’t control your nerves in a Super Over?” Hafeez questioned.
Chasing 19 in the Super Over, Pakistan only managed 13, resulting in a shocking defeat. This loss has put Pakistan in a challenging position as they prepare to face arch-rivals India on June 9.
Last Updated on June 7, 2024
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