Pakistan’s narrow six-run loss to India devastated the current team. After the game, a clearly emotional and nostalgic young Naseem Shah expressed the feelings of a great number of supporters in Pakistan as well as those present at the stadium, who were all left wondering what-ifs.
Former Pakistani sprinter Shoaib Akhtar posted a 121-second video to his YouTube channel with the tagline, “Pakistan Did Their Best To Lose,” expressing his deep sadness. Replying on behalf of both sides, he said that India’s middle order collapsed in the first inning, severely restricting what could have been a drastically larger score.
With 19 victories from 38 matches in all formats versus India, Akhtar further emphasised the crucial role of wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan, who top-scored with 31 runs. If Rizwan had extended his innings and scored a few more runs, Pakistan might have won. However, Akhtar expressed disappointment with Pakistan’s seeming lack of strategic awareness throughout the game.
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Extremely dismal. Pakistan had a run-a-ball opportunity. It was already messed up by India’s middle class. They could have scored about 160 but were only 80 or so in 11 overs. It was, however, a slim opportunity for Pakistan. Rizwan had a chance to win the game for the side with another 20 runs. In a video posted to his YouTube page, Akhtar said, “Unfortunately, we didn’t use our heads.”
That’s all I can say—I’m upset and dumbfounded. Shoaib Akhtar
As he went on, Akhtar had serious concerns about the intent and application of the Pakistani team, calling it dubious at best. He expressed his regret for the team’s deep disappointment, saying that they should have had the victory well within their reach. With the necessary runs within reach in terms of deliveries and wickets left, Akhtar emphasised how comfortable Pakistan was in their situation. Finally, he admitted that the result had left him stunned and extremely upset.
“It’s incredibly terrible for the team; a lot of things are unclear, including their aim and the application. This match should have gone to Pakistan. When Fakhar returned, they were almost in the game, needing 46 runs on 47 balls. Despite having 7 wickets in hand, we were unable to win. All I can say is that I’m upset and dumbfounded,” Akhtar continued.
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