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The final match of the T20 World Cup 2024 group stage between Pakistan and Ireland turned out to be a nail-biter, defying expectations with a low-scoring contest. Pakistan, who had endured an inconsistent tournament, emerged victorious by a narrow margin of 3 wickets.
Pakistan’s Bowling Dominates
Pakistan’s decision to bowl first was proven by their bowling attack. Imad Wasim and Shaheen Afridi spearheaded the effort, claiming three wickets apiece. The Irish batsmen struggled against some tight bowling and disciplined fielding, restricting them to a modest total of 106 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 20 overs.
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Chasing a seemingly achievable target, Pakistan’s batting faltered early. Despite a cautious start with 40 runs in the powerplay, they lost wickets in clusters, with the middle order once again failing to capitalize. The pressure mounted as Pakistan slumped to 83/6, with their experienced campaign hanging in the balance.
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Pakistan’s Rollercoaster Ends with a Win in T20 World Cup
Babar Azam, Pakistan’s captain and one of his best batsmen came in. The man exuded great composure, fighting it out for 32 runs until he was the seventh man to be dismissed. The wickets kept streaming at the other end but he never lost hope and, in the process, found a partner in the tail-ender, Abbas Afridi. Together, they posted a 33-run partnership for the seventh wicket.
It was time for heroics—13 runs were required for victory and only three wickets remaining. Shaheen Afridi, the left-arm paceman, striding to the crease not with a bat but with a belief that he could finish the job, then delivered two booming consecutive sixes off the delivery of Gareth Delany. Pakistan camp was jubilant, and so were their fans.
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In the T20 World Cup, Pakistan’s victory, though unconvincing, provided a much-needed fillip to their campaign. While they couldn’t progress further in the tournament, the win against Ireland served as a reminder of their fighting spirit. For Ireland, the match showcased their ability to compete against top teams, and they can take heart from their spirited bowling performance.
T20 World Cup Pak vs Ire Match Highlight
Ireland: 106/9
Key Performance: Gareth Delany (31 runs in 19 balls), Barry McCarthy (3/15)
Pakistan: 111/7
Key Performance: Babar Azam (32 runs in 34 balls), Shaheen Afridi (3/22)