ICC T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan vs Ireland Video Highlights: Turning Points, Stats and more - Cricket Winner
Pakistan secured a 3-wicket victory over Ireland in their final league-stage match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Despite being out of Super 8s contention, standout performances from Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Amir with the ball, and a crucial innings from Babar Azam, helped Pakistan chase down Ireland’s modest total of 106.
| June 17, 2024 at 9:23 AM
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In their last league-stage match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan secured a narrow victory over Ireland by 3 wickets at the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill, Florida. Although the Babar Azam-led side was already out of contention for the Super 8s, they managed to restrict Ireland to 106 and chased down the target in 18.5 overs.
Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Amir shine with the ball
The foundation of Pakistanโs victory were laid by their bowlers. Shaheen Shah Afridi was instrumental, taking 3 wickets for 22 runs in his 4-over spell. His early strikes dismantled the Irish top order, reducing them to 28/5 within the powerplay. Shaheen’s ability to swing the ball both ways proved crucial in this early dominance.
Mohammad Amir complemented Afridiโs efforts with a stellar performance, claiming 2 wickets for just 11 runs in his 4 overs. His consistent pressure from the other end kept Irelandโs scoring in check. Imad Wasim was also sensational, returning with figures of 3 for 8 off his 4 overs, ensuring Ireland never recovered fully.
Ireland’s struggle and resilience
Irelandโs innings got off to a disastrous start due to the Pakistani left-arm speedsters’ lethal bowling. However, a resilient partnership between Gareth Delany and Mark Adair helped them reach a modest total of 106. Delany played a crucial innings, hitting three sixes, while Joshua Little added a quick 22 runs to boost the score. Despite these efforts, the early damage meant Ireland set a modest target.
Chasing 107, Pakistan aimed for a steady start but faced a dramatic middle-order collapse. They stumbled from a comfortable 52/2 to a precarious 62/6, courtesy of a disciplined bowling performance by Ireland. Barry McCarthy led the charge with 3 wickets for 15 runs in his 4 overs, while Curtis Campher chipped in with 2 wickets for 24 runs.
Babar Azam’s steadiness and Shaheen Afridi’s finishing touch
Captain Babar Azam played a pivotal role in stabilizing Pakistanโs innings. His unbeaten 32 off 34 balls was crucial in anchoring the chase amidst the collapse. Babar formed a vital partnership with Abbas Afridi, who contributed 17 off 21 balls, taking Pakistan closer to the finish line.
In the end, it was Babar and Shaheen Afridi (13* off 5 balls) who ensured Pakistan crossed the line, securing the win in 18.5 overs.
Irelandโs bowlers, particularly Barry McCarthy and Curtis Campher, gave Pakistan a run for their money. However, captain Paul Stirlingโs decision to exhaust all his seamers early meant the leg-spinners, Gareth Delany and Ben White, bowled the final overs and struggled to contain the Pakistani batters.
Shaheen Afridi: Player of the match
Shaheen Afridi was awarded the Player of the Match for his exceptional bowling performance. Reflecting on the game, he said, “The wicket was supporting for the new ball, and we just tried to hit our good areas and strike early. We didnโt play good cricket which our country demands. There are few areas we need to improve quickly, with the Champions Trophy coming up. We have to improve and grow as a team.”
Despite Pakistan’s victory, their earlier defeats to USA and India meant they were out of contention for the Super 8s. This match highlighted both their potential and areas needing improvement as they look ahead to future tournaments.
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