By Alam Zeb Safi
LAHORE: Pakistan’s struggles in major ICC events continued as they failed for the fourth consecutive time to qualify for the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and India.
Although Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by five runs in their final group match of the Super Eights stage on Saturday, the victory proved insufficient to secure a last-four berth. After posting a formidable 212-8, Pakistan needed to restrict Sri Lanka to 147 or below to qualify on net run rate, a target they failed to achieve.
Skipper Agha Salman accepted responsibility for the team’s disappointing campaign.
“Yes, I take responsibility as we were also involved in selection, and I hope coach Mike Hesson will also take responsibility,” a dejected Salman said at the post-match press conference.
He admitted that Pakistan faltered in crucial moments, particularly during the death overs with both bat and ball.
“Our openers did a terrific job, but it was not easy for new batsmen to get going. Since we needed quick runs, every new batsman tried to play big shots,” Salman explained.
Pakistan raced to 176 without loss, thanks to a superb 176-run opening stand between Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman. However, a dramatic collapse saw them finish at 212-8 in 20 overs.
“Barring Farhan, we did not deliver consistently with the bat throughout the World Cup,” Salman admitted.
He also highlighted the team’s inability to handle pressure situations.
“We did not make good decisions under pressure, and that hurt us badly,” he said.
Salman was full of praise for Fakhar’s performance.
“He was simply brilliant. The way he batted today, perhaps he should have played earlier matches. But he was not in his best form before.”
Pakistan’s campaign was marked by inconsistency. They suffered crucial defeat at the hands of England earlier in the Super Eights that left them dependent on net run rate in their final match. Despite putting up competitive totals in some games, their inability to close out tight contests and execute in key moments ultimately cost them a semi-final place.
The team management maintained that selections were made according to conditions, with Salman noting that Babar Azam had a different role in this tournament.
Looking ahead, Salman hinted at opportunities for emerging players such as Abdul Samad, Hasan Nawaz and Khawaja Nafay.
“Khawaja Nafay is a good player and can serve Pakistan for a long time,” Salman said.
The captain added that any immediate major decisions would be emotional.
“We will go back, take a few days, and then discuss what went wrong,” he concluded.
Pakistan’s early exit once again raises serious questions about their temperament and planning in global tournaments, as fans are left waiting for a long-overdue turnaround on the big stage.
