T20 WC 2024: From selection to performance- Pakistan team and the chaos within - Cricket Winner

The T20 World Cup 2024 has been a tumultuous journey for Pakistan, who, despite their runner-up finish in 2022, faced an agonizing exit in the group stage this year. The final blow came after rain washed out the crucial Group A match between the USA and Ireland in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, sealing Pakistan’s fate. Known for their dramatic performances in ICC tournaments, Pakistan’s luck seemed to have deserted them this time, leaving fans and critics alike questioning the team’s preparation and strategy.

Key Matches in the Group stage

Loss to the USA: Pakistan’s campaign began on a shocking note with a loss to the USA, a team making its T20 World Cup debut. This unexpected defeat set the tone for a challenging group stage.

See Also: “No one knows which shot to play,” Gary Kirsten on Pakistan’s team failure after T20 World Cup debacle

Defeat against India: The high-profile clash against India in New York ended in disappointment for Pakistan. Despite a commendable effort by their bowlers, Pakistan’s batsmen faltered in chasing a modest target of 119 runs, marking another low point in their campaign.

Other Significant Games: Throughout the group stage, Pakistan’s performances were marked by inconsistency and missed opportunities, which ultimately contributed to their early exit. The rain-induced washout of the USA vs. Ireland match symbolized this shift in luck, leaving Pakistan to reflect on what could have been.

Criticism of Team and Management

The disappointing campaign triggered a wave of criticism from fans and former players. Babar Azam, despite being reinstated as captain, faced intense scrutiny for his leadership and batting performance. The team’s overall approach and the PCB’s decision-making processes were also heavily criticized, with many pointing out the lack of a coherent strategy.

Performance analysis

Batting Failures: Pakistan’s batting lineup struggled throughout the tournament. The reliance on Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan at the top did not yield the desired results, and the middle-order inconsistencies further compounded their woes.

Bowling Highlights: While the batting faltered, Pakistan’s bowling unit had its moments. The pace attack, led by Shaheen Afridi, delivered some commendable performances, but it was not enough to compensate for the batting failures.

Fielding and Overall Team Performance: Fielding lapses and lack of coordination were evident, indicating deeper issues within the team’s preparation and mindset.

Pakistan Cricket Board’s role

The PCB’s decisions leading up to the tournament played a significant role in Pakistan’s campaign. Frequent changes in leadership and management disrupted the team’s stability. The sacking of Babar Azam and subsequent reinstatement, along with changes in the coaching staff, highlighted a lack of clear direction and consistency from the board.

Tour of Australia and New Zealand

The tours of Australia and New Zealand before the World Cup exposed several weaknesses in the team. Under new captain Shan Masood for Tests and Shaheen Afridi for ODIs and T20Is, Pakistan suffered heavy defeats. These losses impacted team morale and highlighted the need for a stable leadership structure.

Despite repeated failures, Pakistan’s approach remained unchanged. The persistence with Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan at the top, despite their inconsistent performances in crucial matches, reflected a reluctance to adapt and innovate. Young talents like Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris were not given enough backing, pointing to a flawed selection strategy.

Ideally speaking, a team would like to give stability to their players just 3 months away from the T20 World Cup. However, Naqvi decided that the best course of action was to sack Shaheen as the captain and get back Babar, under whom Pakistan looked at a loss for ideas in ODI World Cup 2023.

Calls for structural changes

Critics, including former players like Shoaib Malik, have emphasized the need for a structural overhaul in Pakistan cricket. The domestic cricket system requires reforms to ensure that players are selected based on merit and performance rather than personal relationships. Developing match awareness and strategic thinking from the grassroots level is essential for long-term success.

Future prospects for Pakistan cricket

Looking ahead, Pakistan cricket needs a clear and consistent strategy. Identifying and nurturing young talent, ensuring stability in leadership, and addressing the structural issues within the PCB are crucial steps. Players like Saim Ayub, Azam Khan, and Mohammad Haris have the potential to become mainstays if given the right opportunities and support.