"We needed this win": Babar Azam says will go into next match with same mindset
Pakistan emerged triumphant against Canada in a crucial T20 World Cup encounter at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on Tuesday. Opting to field first after winning the toss, Pakistan's strategic decision proved pivotal as they restricted Canada to a modest total of 106 runs.
During the post-match ceremony, Captain Babar Azam said, "Good for us. We needed this win. Credit to team. We started well and took wickets with the new ball. We had the net run rate on the back of the mind. The first six overs are very crucial here. You assess after 6 overs. Then we tried to take on the spinners. We are going to go with the same mindset. The conditions at Florida should be better from here as well. I got out to the same shot. So, I was angry. I still try my level best".
Led by the exceptional bowling performance of Mohammad Amir, who claimed the Player of the Match award for his remarkable figures of 2 wickets for just 13 runs in four overs, Pakistan's bowlers applied relentless pressure on the Canadian batting lineup.
Read more: T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan break losing streak with 7-wicket win against Canada
In pursuit of 107 runs for victory, Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan laid a solid foundation, providing stability and momentum to the innings. Azam, alongside Rizwan, orchestrated a composed partnership, steering Pakistan towards the target with precision and determination.
Though Canada's bowlers, led by Dillon Heyliger, posed occasional challenges, Pakistan's batsmen remained resolute, with Mohammad Rizwan's stellar half-century ensuring Pakistan's victory with seven wickets in hand.
The match witnessed several gripping moments, including crucial breakthroughs by Pakistan's pacers and Canada's spirited fightback. However, it was Pakistan's clinical performance that ultimately secured a much-needed win, revitalizing their campaign in the T20 World Cup.
With this victory, Pakistan breathes new life into their tournament aspirations as they gear up to face Ireland in their next encounter on June 16.