ISLAMABAD: Cricket fans in Pakistan expressed disappointment with the performance of the national squad ahead of a crucial Twenty20 World Cup contest with arch-rival India today, Sunday, but held onto hope for the team’s “best shot.”
Pakistan’s cricket performance has faced challenges since last year’s Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup in India. The team have remained inconsistent, struggling with issues such as a weak middle order and ineffective bowling in the death overs, which have affected their results in significant tournaments.
Pakistan lost their first World Cup match against the USA in Dallas, which was viewed as a major upset in the tournament’s history, generating a lot of criticism against the players and the management.
“Looking at their past performance, it is difficult to pin hopes on them,” Ahmed Mansoor, a corporate professional, told Arab News, criticizing the team. “Still, we are praying [for them].”
Pakistani all-rounder Imad Wasim, who had to sit out the opening game due to rib injury, will play today’s match, giving a much-needed boost to his team.
Gary Kirsten, the new coach from South Africa, said during a news conference in the US a day earlier the players were “trying their best,” adding it was not pleasant for anyone to lose.
He said he did not need to motivate the players for today match was against the team Pakistan had always fought against.
“I think the important thing for us is that we operate genuinely as a team,” he said. “Yes, we need individuals to make good performances, but playing games like this, I think is a real team effort.”
“It’s a big game, so we’re going to treat it as any other game,” he added. “But certainly, give it our best shot.”
Speaking to Arab News, Saba Abbasi, a marketing professional, explained why it was so important for people to see Pakistan win.
“The situation of the country is ... quite worrisome,” she said. “The weather is awful, and so are politics, inflation and other things. People feel relaxed when cricket matches are held.”
“We want Pakistan to win, and since the match is with India, there will be some additional stress,” he added. “But if they win, it will be huge occasion filled with happiness for us. So, we are praying.”
Taimur Khan, a grocery store worker, anticipated an “interesting match.”
“It is my appeal to you all to support the Pakistan team as much as possible,” he said.
Mohammad Ayub, a tea boy, agreed with him.
“God willing, Pakistan will win,” he said with conviction. “There is Mohammad Iftikhar, Babar Azam and [Mohammad] Rizwan. With India, we play as if there is a war.”
With input from AFP.
