In a gripping encounter at the T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan secured their first victory by defeating Canada by seven wickets. This match, while providing a much-needed win for Pakistan, highlighted several talking points that reflect both the strengths and weaknesses of the teams involved.
1. Powerplay Woes for Pakistan
Pakistan’s powerplay struggles were evident once again as they chased a modest target of 107 set by Canada. Starting their innings needing 5.35 runs per over, Pakistan’s run rate had only increased to 5.65 by the end of the powerplay. The team’s conservative approach has been a recurring issue throughout the tournament. Despite the occasional audacious shots, the overall batting strategy has leaned towards caution rather than aggression.
Captain Babar Azam’s decision to bowl first, given the overcast conditions and a fresh wicket offering variable bounce, was a smart move. It allowed Pakistan to gauge how they should pace their chase to improve their net run rate, a critical factor in their quest for a place in the Super Eights.
2. Canada’s Impressive Start
Canada, participating in their first-ever T20 World Cup, showcased remarkable bravery against Pakistan’s formidable pace attack. The Canadian batters, many of whom are non-professionals, faced the challenge head-on. Aaron Johnson’s consecutive boundaries off Shaheen Afridi set the tone, and Canada finished their powerplay with five boundaries, outpacing Pakistan’s cautious approach.
Despite the loss, Canada’s spirited performance, especially in the powerplay, was a highlight of the match. Their aggressive start provided a valuable learning experience and demonstrated their potential on the world stage.
3. Pakistan’s Stubborn Batting Approach
Criticism of Pakistan’s low scoring rates in the powerplay has been rampant, especially after losses to the USA and India. The match against Canada underscored the team’s stubbornness in sticking to their conservative batting template. Despite the need for quick runs to improve their net run rate, Pakistan’s top order remained cautious.
Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam, who should have leveraged their experience to maintain a strike rate over 100, played with undue conservatism. Rizwan’s 53 not out off 53 balls marked the slowest half-century by a Pakistani batter in T20Is, reflecting the team’s lack of urgency. Their reluctance to attack during the powerplay and subsequent overs could have cost them dearly in a more competitive match.
4. Situation as It Stands
With this win, Pakistan now has a positive net run rate and a ‘W’ next to their name. However, their qualification for the Super Eights remains uncertain. They need the USA to lose their next two matches and then must defeat Ireland on Saturday. The slow run chase against Canada might come back to haunt them if net run rate becomes the deciding factor.
While luck favored Pakistan with the toss and conditions, their conservative approach in chasing modest targets could be a critical weakness. The win against Canada has kept their hopes alive, but Pakistan needs to adopt a more aggressive strategy in their upcoming matches to secure their place in the Super Eights.
In Last, Pakistan’s victory over Canada highlighted their persistent powerplay woes and conservative batting approach, while Canada impressed with their bravery and aggressive start. As the tournament progresses, Pakistan must address these issues to keep their World Cup dreams alive.