The Pakistan dressing was jolted to the core on Monday night when their unbeaten streak against Afghanistan in the ODIs was shattered in Chennai. The 1992 World Champions were put on the mat by Afghanistan in what was their second victory in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023.
It was a historic night for the Afghans who have suffered numerous strikes on and off the field. They showcased their best game so far in the tournament to record their highest successful chase in the 50-over format, bettering their 9-year-old tally – 274 vs UAE in 2014. On the other hand, Pakistan never exhibited a fighting spirit while defending their 283-run total. The bowlers were ineffective, the fielders were sloppy and most importantly, they lost the intent midway.
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Afghanistan made the most of every little mistake committed by the Pakistan players which helped them cross the finish line with 8 wickets in hand.
Pakistan spin legend Saqlain Mushtaq has extended his support to the dejected team of Babar Azam. In a video shared on micro-blogging site X, the former cricketer asked the team to bounce back for the pride of the nation.
“I know you all must be down after losing to Afghanistan. But we believe in you that you will bounce back. Aur aapko karna hoga, Pakistan ki izzat ke liye, pride ke liye. Just believe in yourselves and the almighty. Put your heart and soul, and you will change the results,” Mushtaq said in the video.
“You guys must have been through several hardships. So, think about that. Where you started from and where you are now. You all are self-made and have found your destination yourself. You are street-smart and no one is braver than you.
“You all have fought the odds to be here. Pakistan ki izzat ke liye tum logo ko bounce back karna hoga (You need to bounce back for the pride of Pakistan). We all love you,” he concluded.
‘We aren’t playing good cricket’
Pakistan captain Babar Azam was disappointed over his team’s performance against Afghanistan on Monday. He said the men in green haven’t been playing good cricket lately.
“We aren’t up to the mark because we are not taking wickets in the middle overs. In the World Cup, if you are not good in even one department, then you’ll lose the match. In the field, we didn’t stop boundaries and gave away runs, that cost us,” he said.
“All credit to Afghanistan the way they played in all three departments. That’s why they won. We are not playing good cricket in bowling and fielding. We’ll try our best in the next match,” he added.
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