“We Didn’t Apply Our Brains”: Disappointed Shoaib Akhtar Blasts Pakistan’s Approach After India Loss

June 10, 2024 0 761

Shoaib Akhtar expressed disappointment over Pakistan’s 6-run loss to India in the T20 World Cup, criticizing the team’s lack of intent and decision-making.

In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 in New York, Team India secured a narrow victory over Pakistan on Sunday. Despite a mid-innings collapse, India managed to defend a modest total of 119, thanks to a brilliant bowling display by Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya. Their combined efforts saw Pakistan losing wickets in quick succession, ultimately falling short by 6 runs.

Former pacer Shoaib Akhtar expressed disappointment over Pakistan’s loss in his latest YouTube video, criticizing the team’s decision-making and execution. Akhtar highlighted missed opportunities in Pakistan’s chase, emphasizing that they had a chance to win had they played smarter cricket.

“Very disappointing. It was a run-a-ball chance for Pakistan. Earlier, India’s middle-order messed it up. They were 80-odd in 11 overs and could have achieved around 160 but couldn’t. But for Pakistan, it was a close chance. Rizwan could have scored another 20 runs and won the game for the team. Sadly, we didn’t apply our brains,” said Akhtar.

“A lot of things are questionable, their intent, the application… it’s really sad for the team. Pakistan should have won this game. They were pretty much in the game, requiring 46 runs in 47 balls when Fakhar was there. We had 7 wickets in hand but we couldn’t do it. I’m speechless and hurt, that’s about it,” he added.

The win has taken India to the top of the Group A table with 4 points and a Net Run Rate of +1.455. Meanwhile, Pakistan finds themselves in a challenging position after suffering two consecutive defeats in the tournament.

India’s next match is scheduled for Wednesday, June 12, against the USA, whereas Pakistan will face Canada on Tuesday, June 11.