Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah has finally opened up about the disappointment he felt following his team’s 2024 T20 World Cup defeat at the hands of India. Naseem spoke his heart out ahead of Pakistan’s first Test match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan lost a low-scoring encounter in which they were in a dominant position for most of the match. Chasing 120 runs to win on a tricky batting surface, Pakistan were 57-1 up. But the Men in Green lost momentum as they lost wickets in groups.
The middle order failed miserably against the excellent Indian bowling led by Jasprit Bumrah, who was adjudged Man of the Match for his 3-14. Pakistan were reduced to just 113-7 in 20 overs, thus losing the match by 6 runs. The defeat proved costly as Pakistan was eliminated from the group stage of the tournament.
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Naseem Shah finally breaks silence on loss to India in 2024 T20 World Cup
In an interview with Cricbuzz ahead of Pakistan’s Test series against Bangladesh, Naseem Shah spoke about the moment when Pakistan lost the 2024 T20 World Cup match against India. The 21-year-old fast bowler revealed how disappointed he was after Pakistan was eliminated from the tournament.
“Though I was not targeted by fans or the media, I cannot sit back and say that I did my part after my team’s defeats. I am a person who wants to win. I get disappointed even when I lose at home or on the road. I play to win and the World Cup elimination hurt me a lot,” Naseem said.
“People come up to me in restaurants and ask me why we lost. Even my family members have asked me that. I understand that their feelings are fueled by social media and as a player, all I can do is listen to them,” he added.
Pakistan’s campaign in the 2024 T20 World Cup
After losing to India, Pakistan won the next two matches against Canada and Ireland. However, it was not enough as they were eliminated from the tournament after being edged out by the United States in Group A.
Pakistan had also suffered a shock defeat to the United States in the Super Over before losing the match against India. India and the United States were the teams that qualified from Group A.
Naseem Shah confident of his comeback
However, Naseem Shah is hopeful of turning things around and winning back the hearts of Pakistani fans. He wants to take the defeat in a positive light and is keen to make a strong comeback.
“There are times when you feel like you can’t go on any longer, but there’s also a burning desire to get back. People had a lot of questions and there was a lot of frustration, which is understandable. Now we have the chance to win hearts again by playing good cricket,” said the young quick.
Naseem Shah will be in action in Pakistan’s upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh. The first Test will begin on August 21 in Rawalpindi. The second Test of the series will also be played at the same ground and will begin on August 30.
