NEW DELHI: Former India batter Yuvraj Singh has criticized Pakistan team for its tactical shortcomings in a surprising defeat against T20 World Cup debutants USA. After setting a target of 160, Pakistan couldn't defend it, leading to a Super Over where they ultimately fell short.
Pakistan struggled in the Super Over, failing to chase down 19 runs and handing the USA a historic victory.
T20 World Cup Schedule | Points Table | Squads
Yuvraj took to X to question Pakistan's decision-making, specifically the exclusion of Fakhar Zaman from the strike during the crucial Super Over.
"I don't understand why dint @FakharZamanLive take strike to a lefty seamer - when it is easier for a left hander to hit through the angle that bowler is tryin to create," Yuvraj posted on X.
Yuvraj, a 2007 World Cup champion, also praised the USA's smart decisions under pressure, particularly praising captain Monank Patel's leadership. He emphasized that Pakistan's upcoming match against India is now a must-win.
"Nonetheless have to give it #TeamUSA @usacricket for making smart decisions under pressure specially the captain Monank Patel. Now, Pakistan needs a must-win against India and they surely need to bat and field better!" Yuvraj added.
Pakistan captain Babar Azam also didn't hold back in his post-match comments, expressing disappointment in his team's failure to capitalize during the powerplay and middle overs.
"First 6 overs while batting we didn't capitalise. Back to back wickets always put you on the back foot, as a batter you need to step up and build partnerships. We were not up to the mark in the first 6 overs with the ball. Our spinners also did not take wickets in the middle overs so these things cost us," Babar stated after the loss.
Pakistan's next challenge is against arch-rivals India in a high-stakes T20 World Cup Group A match on Sunday in New York.
