In a crucial match of the T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan showcased their dominance with a convincing seven-wicket victory over Canada. Mohammad Rizwan’s exceptional fifty propelled Pakistan to a much-needed win, keeping their hopes alive for a Super Eights spot in the tournament.

Mohammad Rizwan’s Heroics

Mohammad Rizwan emerged as the hero for Pakistan, playing a remarkable innings to guide his team to victory. His fantastic fifty not only anchored the chase but also ensured that Pakistan achieved their target comfortably. Rizwan’s performance was instrumental in Pakistan’s campaign-saving win after consecutive losses to the USA and India.

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Pakistan’s Bowling Excellence

Pakistan’s bowlers displayed excellent discipline and skill to restrict Canada to a modest total of 106-7. Despite a resilient innings from Canadian opener Aaron Johnson, Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Mohammad Amir and Haris Rauf, effectively choked the flow of runs and picked up crucial wickets to keep Canada under pressure.

Canada’s Batting Effort

Canada’s batting effort revolved around Aaron Johnson’s impressive fifty, but lacked support from the rest of the lineup. The 33-year-old Jamaican-born batsman played a pivotal role, amassing 52 runs off 44 balls, including four boundaries and four sixes. Johnson’s innings came to an end in the 14th over with the score at 73-6, when he was clean-bowled by Naseem Shah.

Despite Johnson’s valiant effort, Canada struggled to build partnerships and accelerate the scoring rate. Pakistan’s bowlers capitalized on this vulnerability, ensuring that Canada finished with a below-par total.

Pakistan’s Strategic Position

With this win, Pakistan has opened their account in the tournament, securing two points on the board. Their net run rate (NRR) has also received a boost, enhancing their chances of progressing further in the tournament. As Pakistan prepares for their remaining matches against Ireland, they will look to build on this momentum and continue their winning streak.

Player of the Match

Mohammad Amir | Player of the Match – As a bowler, you have to adapt to any conditions. I was just trying to hit the right areas, the conditions were demanding. As a professional you’ve to be clear in your role, I know I have to bowl with the new ball and at the death, I’m ready for anything. I bowled the awayswinger for 3-4 deliveries, I then decided to swing it back in (on the dismissal of Dhaliwal). Much needed win, we’ve to win the next match and then who knows?

107 runs chased by Pakistan is the highest successful chase at New York ground.

Most 50+ scores as an opener in T20Is
30 – Mohammad Rizwan (71 inns)*
30 – Rohit Sharma (118 inns)
28 – Babar Azam (84 inns)
27 – David Warner (98 inns)

Most 50+ scores for PAK in T20 WCs
5 – Babar Azam
5 – Mohammad Rizwan*
3 – Shoaib Malik
3 – Kamran Akmal
3 – Umar Akmal

Slowest fifty in T20 World Cup (by balls faced)
52 – Mohammad Rizwan vs CAN, New York, 2024*
50 – David Miller vs NED, New York, 2024
49 – Devon Smith vs BAN, Jo’burg, 2007
49 – David Hussey vs ENG, Barbados, 2010