Captain Babar Azam reflects on poor T20 World Cup performance after farewell match

Shaheen Shah Afridi agrees team did not play the type of cricket country demanded

In their final match of the T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan secured a hard-fought three-wicket win against Ireland, concluding their T20 World Cup campaign with two wins and two losses.

During the post-match ceremony, Captain Babar Azam addressed the team's performance and emphasised the need for introspection. He said they finished well, but felt that after taking early wickets, his side failed to capitalise on the situation. "Even with the bat, we had to depend on the tailenders," he added.

Commenting on his position in the batting lineup, he said, "If the team needs me to open or bat at number three, I will do whatever the team needs". He added, "There have been some positives in the tournament, but overall we did not play well."

Player of the Match winner Shaheen Shah Afridi echoed these sentiments, stressing the team's responsibility to meet national expectations. "To be honest, we have not played the type of cricket our country demands. We need to improve in a few areas because big events like the Champions Trophy are coming up," Afridi emphasised.

Pakistan opted to bowl first against Ireland, limiting them to 106 runs for the loss of nine wickets. Afridi and Imad Wasim claimed three wickets each, while Mohammad Amir dismissed two Irish batsmen. In response, Pakistan chased down the target, losing seven wickets in 18.5 overs.