The 2009 champions seemed like a headless chicken and were eventually rolled over for 82, ending their see-saw run in the tournament. PHOTO: AFP/FILE
Pakistan crashed out of the 2014 World Twenty20 on April 1 after a tame defeat to the West Indies, marking the first time the team had failed to make it to the last-four at the mega event. After gaining control for most part of the West Indies innings, three death overs took the match away and sent Pakistan in a state of shock. The panic was visible when the batsmen came out to bat as, in pursuit of a more than competitive 167-run target, Pakistan’s wickets fell like ninepins, reminding fans of the side’s unpredictability. The 2009 champions seemed like a headless chicken and were eventually rolled over for 82, ending their see-saw run in the tournament.
Barely a few days after Pakistan had outclassed Australia and cruised past Bangladesh, the defeat against the West Indies was a classic reminder as to why fans would never be fully comfortable with the idea of placing confidence in their side. Post-defeat, there will be an analysis of the team’s performance with individuals being singled out for their shot-selection, poor form and even their attitude. Team selection will be criticised and the players’ commitment would be questioned as well. Demand for changes to the squad will be made but, honestly, there would be no logical explanation for Pakistan’s performance. Computers and gadgets would tell you what went wrong in the West Indies game and what could Pakistan have done to ensure victory.
No matter what reasons are laid out, one has to come to terms with what Pakistan cricket is. It is unpredictable in nature and bounces back when written off. Even once cards are in place and issues are in order, it would slide down to its lowest level for no apparent reason. However, if one really believed this and let nature run its course, the Pakistan Cricket Board would not have much to do. It is time seniors called time and made way for young blood that has been sidelined for too long.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 3rd, 2014.
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Hafeez apology is just like, after failure in exam a child say sorry, I will do next time. He should be resigned on this shameful performance. Win or loss is a part of game but loosing without fighting is a bit ridiculous. Time to say bye bye to Umer Gull, K Akmal & Sohaib Malik. It's strange that our real champions (Muhammad Yousaf, Abdul Razak) out from the team and so still playing. Selectors should do their job honestly or go home, if they can't do.
Game was sold. With so many players on the verge of retirement, better to pad their retirement nest than go out in blaze of glory. They would not be getting another chance at such riches.
I fail to understand how their performance is classified as mercurial. They seldom perform... period! Their win against Australia and Bangladesh mean nothing. Those two teams could not win a game against India and West Indies either. Pakistan lacks the talent to play in these big tournaments. They performed against South Africa as they were playing them relentlessly. You are bound to get one up at some point!
I don't know why it still surprises me to read these sort of analyses after each such debacle. The Pakistan cricket team truly "represents" Pakistan; talented but unstable; lacking self believe; low self esteem; mostly winning due to individual brilliance not as a team. Come on, these are the very players, everybody was going to length in praising a few days back. The team will remain a reflection of us as a nation. And would not become consistent till we do so as a nation.... Come on, back them also in defeat; they are us!