‘Sharam Karle’ – Babar Azam Roasted by Pakistan Fans for Blaming Bowlers Post USA Defeat
Pakistan suffered their first defeat of T20 World Cup 2024 against USA.
Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign got off to a nightmare start as they were stunned by co-hosts USA in a dramatic Super Over finish. After setting a target of 159 runs, Pakistan’s bowlers failed to defend the total, allowing the USA to tie the match and snatch victory in the super over.
While acknowledging that the early morning wicket offered assistance to the bowlers, Pakistan captain Babar Azam did not mince words when it came to his team’s bowling performance. He openly blamed them for the shocking defeat, particularly for their struggles in the first half of the USA’s chase.
“The pitch offered some help to the bowlers initially, especially during the powerplay,” Azam admitted.
“However, those conditions should have eased as the day progressed. The USA bowlers did well to capitalize on the early moisture, but our bowling unit as a whole was simply subpar, particularly in the first 10 overs.”
“We failed to take wickets upfront, which put immense pressure on the rest of the bowling attack. Even though we made a comeback later, the USA had already built momentum, and that proved decisive.”
While acknowledging the contribution of Shadab Khan in building a partnership and his own knock of 44 runs, Azam pointed towards the middle-order collapse as another turning point.
“We lost wickets in clusters after a good partnership,and the middle order needs to take responsibility for not delivering in such situations. Let me be clear – the USA didn’t win because they played exceptionally well; it’s because we underperformed.”
Here’s how Pakistan fans have reacted:
What’s Next for Pakistan?
This loss puts Pakistan in a tough position. Their next match against arch-rivals India on Sunday becomes a virtual knockout match.
Historically, Pakistan has struggled against India in T20 World Cups, with a dismal record of six losses in seven matches.
However, Babar Azam remains optimistic, stating that the outcome will depend on which team handles the pressure better and stays composed.
