In a crucial ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 encounter, Pakistan finds themselves in a must-win situation against Canada at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in Long Island, New York. With Canada setting a modest target of 107, the pressure is on Pakistan to deliver a strong batting performance and secure victory to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Canada’s Batting Performance

Despite being asked to bat first, Canada struggled to build a substantial total. Aaron Johnson emerged as the lone warrior, scoring a resilient 52 runs off 44 balls. However, lack of support from the other end resulted in a subdued batting effort from Canada, leaving them with a below-par total of 106 runs.

See Also: Andrew Flintoff’s son joins England U19 squad for youth ODI series against Sri Lanka

Pakistan’s Bowling Display

Pakistan’s bowlers put up a disciplined performance, restricting the flow of runs and taking crucial wickets at regular intervals. Mohammad Amir and Haris Rauf stood out with two wickets each, while the rest of the pace attack also contributed effectively. Their collective effort ensured that Canada never gained momentum during their innings.

Haris Rauf’s Milestone

The highlight of Pakistan’s bowling effort was Haris Rauf’s achievement of becoming the third-fastest bowler to reach 100 T20I wickets. Rauf achieved this milestone during the match against Canada, further solidifying his status as a key player in Pakistan’s bowling lineup.

Fastest to 100 T20I wickets (by matches)
53 – Rashid Khan
63 – W Hasaranaga
71 – Haris Rauf*
72 – Mark Adair
72 – Bilal Khan

Haris Rauf is the second Pakistan bowler to complete 100 T20I wickets after Shadab Khan (107).

Pakistan’s Dominance

With Canada struggling at 106 for 7, Pakistan firmly holds the upper hand in the match. The early wickets taken by Pakistani bowlers, coupled with their tight bowling, have put Canada under immense pressure. Pakistan’s dominant display with the ball has set the stage for a comfortable chase.

Canada’s Struggles

Canada’s batting lineup faced numerous challenges against Pakistan’s bowling attack. Apart from Aaron Johnson’s fifty, the rest of the batting order failed to make significant contributions. Pakistan’s bowlers maintained a tight grip on the game, preventing Canada from building partnerships and accelerating the run rate.

Most 50+ scores for Canada in T20Is
8 – Aaron Johnson*
7 – Navneet Dhaliwal
4 – Rayyan Pathan

Highest scores batting 1st in New York
52 – Aaron Johnson vs PAK*
49 – Nicholas Kirton vs IRE
46 – Heinrich Klaasen vs BAN

Lowest totals against PAK in T20 WCs
91/9 by NED, Perth, 2022
93 by NED, Lord’s, 2009
99 by NZ, The Oval, 2009
106/7 by CAN, New York, 2024*

Lowest 1st innings total for Canada (T20I)
80 vs NEP, AL Amerat, 2022
91 vs KEN, Belfast, 2008
106/8 vs IRE, Dubai, 2012
106/7 vs PAK, New York, 2024*