In a crucial encounter during the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan secured their first victory against Canada on Tuesday, ensuring their survival in the tournament’s Super 8 stage. Facing a do-or-die scenario, Pakistan’s triumph was a much-needed relief after consecutive losses to the United States (USA) and India in their initial matches.
The Pakistani team, led by Babar Azam, showcased a determined performance, clinching a seven-wicket win over the Canadian newcomers at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium. Despite a challenging start with no boundaries in the initial overs and the early departure of Saim Ayub for just six runs, Pakistan rallied as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan forged a crucial 63-run partnership.
Although Babar Azam fell for 33 runs, Rizwan’s resilient knock of 53 runs off 53 deliveries ensured Pakistan reached the 107-run target in 17.3 overs.
Prior to Pakistan’s batting display, their bowlers dominated the proceedings, restricting Canada to 106-7. Mohammad Amir, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf spearheaded the bowling attack, leaving the Canadian batsmen struggling for answers.
Pakistan made early inroads as Mohammad Amir dismissed Canadian opener Navneet Dhaliwal for just four runs in the third over. Subsequent breakthroughs followed swiftly, with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf making vital contributions. Despite a brief resistance from Aaron Johnson, who scored a fifty, Canada couldn’t withstand Pakistan’s bowling prowess.
With the win against Canada, Pakistan revived their hopes in the tournament, aiming to secure victories in their upcoming high-stakes group matches to advance further. The playing XIs for the match were as follows:
Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saim Ayub, Babar Azam (capt), Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan, Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Amir
Canada: Aaron Johnson, Navneet Dhaliwal, Pargat Singh, Nicholas Kirton, Shreyas Movva (wk), Ravinderpal Singh, Dilon Heyliger, Saad Bin Zafar (capt), Kaleem Sana, Junaid Siddiqui, Jeremy Gordon
