Pakistan captain responds to unexpected defeat to USA at T20 World Cup 2024: ‘We could have protected our score better’

In a shocking turn of events, Pakistan suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of hosts USA in their opening match at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas. The Men in Green fell short by just 5 runs in a closely fought contest that went down to a Super Over.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam expressed his disappointment with the team’s bowling performance, stating that the total of 159 should have been defended given their bowling prowess. Azam criticized the bowlers for not sticking to their lines and lengths, especially in the crucial first six overs where they failed to take wickets.

Despite a shaky start with the loss of three early wickets, Pakistan managed to put up a respectable total on the board thanks to a partnership between Shadab Khan and Babar Azam. However, USA’s batters, led by skipper Monank Patel, matched Pakistan’s total and forced the match into a Super Over.

In the nail-biting Super Over, USA’s Aaron Jones outperformed Pakistan’s Mohammed Amir, scoring 18 runs compared to Pakistan’s 13 runs, securing a thrilling victory for the hosts. Babar Azam credited the US team for their performance in the crucial moments of the match.

The defeat serves as a wake-up call for Pakistan, who will now look to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming matches in the tournament. The pressure is on the Men in Green to deliver a stronger performance in their next games to redeem themselves after this unexpected setback.