Match Recap: Pakistan vs Ireland, T20 World Cup 2024
Pakistan vs Ireland In a nearly inconsequential match for the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, Lauderhill, both Pakistan and Ireland were already out of contention for the Super 8 stage. However, the encounter still promised exciting cricket, and it delivered on several fronts.
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Pakistan vs Ireland Match highlights
Pakistan won the toss and chose to field first, a decision that paid immediate dividends thanks to their potent bowling attack. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Amir spearheaded Pakistan’s bowling unit, quickly putting Ireland on the back foot.
Ireland’s Batting Collapse
Ireland’s innings got off to a disastrous start. Shaheen Afridi struck early, dismissing Andy Balbirnie for a duck and then following it up by removing Lorcan Tucker for 2 runs and Harry Tector for 0. Mohammad Amir joined the action, sending captain Paul Stirling back for just 1 run. By the end of the seventh over, Ireland found themselves reeling at 33 for 6.
Gareth Delany provided some resistance, scoring 33 runs, while Josh Little chipped in with 22. Despite their efforts, Ireland’s batting lineup couldn’t withstand the disciplined Pakistani bowling. Imad Wasim’s economical spell was crucial, as he took 3 wickets for just 8 runs. Shaheen Afridi ended with figures of 3 for 22, restricting Ireland to a modest total of 106 for 9 in their 20 overs.
Pakistan’s Chasing Woes
Chasing 107, Pakistan’s batting lineup also faced significant challenges. Openers Saim Ayub and Mohammad Rizwan both scored 17 runs but were dismissed early, leaving Pakistan at 40 for 2 after six overs. Rizwan’s dismissal triggered a collapse, as Pakistan lost six wickets for just 62 runs by the 11th over. Fakhar Zaman managed only 5 runs, Usman Khan was out for 2, Shadab Khan went for a duck, and Imad Wasim added just 4 runs.
Barry McCarthy was the star for Ireland with the ball, decimating Pakistan’s middle order. The pressure was on Pakistan as they struggled at 62 for 6.
Babar Azam and Abbas Afridi’s Crucial Stand
In the face of adversity, Babar Azam displayed his experience and composure. Along with Abbas Afridi, he began to rebuild the innings, adding a vital 33-run partnership. However, Ben White broke this stand, dismissing Abbas Afridi. With the match hanging in the balance, Shaheen Afridi stepped up once more, this time with the bat. He hit two crucial sixes, steering Pakistan to victory with three overs to spare.
Pakistan vs Ireland Man of the Match
Shaheen Afridi’s all-round performance earned him the Man of the Match award. His pivotal role with both bat and ball underscored his value to the Pakistani team, especially in a match that highlighted Pakistan’s depth and resilience despite their earlier exit from the tournament.
Conclusion
While this match had no bearing on the progression to the Super 8, it showcased the fierce competitive spirit of both teams. Pakistan’s victory, driven by Shaheen Afridi’s brilliance, was a testament to their determination to end their T20 World Cup campaign on a high note. Ireland, despite their struggles, displayed moments of brilliance and will look to build on these experiences for future tournaments.
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