- AFP
- 6 Hours ago

Heartbreaking exit: Pakistan’s T20 World Cup performance begs urgent reform
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- Rehan Ahmed
- Jun 18, 2024

As the group stage of the T20 World Cup draws to a close, the fallout from Pakistan’s shocking performance is far from closed. Ranked 11th out of 20 teams, Pakistan’s campaign has ended in the first round, making it all the more urgent to take remedial measures. Once champions and thrice finalists, Pakistan’s failure to advance even to the Super Eight represents an unprecedented low. Pakistan has already qualified for the next World Cup 2026, and it is beyond crucial to ensure that 2024’s history does not repeat itself.
Despite the presence of cricketing powerhouses like India, two teams – the United States, and the West Indies – are in the Super Eight but what is even louder is Pakistan’s absence. This year, teams like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and even Scotland outperformed Pakistan.
Scotland, with five points, edged out Pakistan, who managed just four. New Zealand, with the same points as Pakistan, progressed thanks to a superior run rate.
The loss against the United States and India exposed the vulnerability of Pakistan’s batting lineup. Star batsmen Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan collectively scored a paltry 100 runs in four matches, setting a disheartening tone for the team. Beyond these two, no player managed even fifty runs throughout the tournament. In a twist of irony, Shaheen Shah Afridi’s prowess with the bat, traditionally overshadowed by his bowling, became a stark indicator of the team’s woes.
Responsibility for this abject failure does not rest solely with the players. The team management and coaching staff must bear their share of the blame. Questionable selection decisions, flawed strategic planning, and poor on-field tactics all contributed to Pakistan’s early exit.
For the millions of fans who have steadfastly supported the team, this World Cup exit is a bitter pill to swallow. The passion and dedication of Pakistani cricket fans deserve a team that reflects their fervour and commitment. The talent pool is undoubtedly deep, but without a clear strategic vision and effective management, the team will continue to fall short on the world stage.
Read more: Pakistan’s disappointing T20 World Cup performance
