* Pakistan were in trouble in their chase of 107 but Babar Azam takes Pakistan home after some trouble (Match 36)
By Dwayne Ferreira
Pakistan, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Babar Azam, secured a nerve-wracking three-wicket win over Ireland, concluding their T20 World Cup campaign on a high note. Shaheen’s early breakthroughs and Babar’s steady hand in a tense chase were pivotal.
Shaheen Afridi was instrumental with the ball, taking three crucial wickets early on, which reduced Ireland to 32 for 6. His performance, complemented by Mohammad Amir and Haris Rauf, suggested an early finish. However, Gareth Delany and Mark Adair provided resistance with a 44-run partnership off 30 balls. Imad Wasim, likely playing his last game for Pakistan, polished off the lower order with figures of 3 for 8, but a late cameo from Josh Little pushed Ireland to a competitive 106.
Pakistan seemed to be cruising at 70 for 2 after eight overs, with contributions from Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, and Babar Azam. However, a middle-order collapse ensued as Curtis Campher and Barry McCarthy took four wickets for 10 runs, leaving Babar with a lengthy tail. Abbas Afridi’s spirited 17 brought the target within reach before Shaheen Afridi sealed the victory with two sixes, taking advantage of Josh Little’s injury, which forced Ireland to bowl.
Pakistan’s ability to recover from precarious positions, thanks to their star players, highlighted their resilience. Despite the win, the game underscored Pakistan’s need for a more consistent middle order. For Ireland, their spirited performance, especially in recovery and fielding, will provide some solace.
Chief Scores
Ireland 106 for 9 in 20 overs (Gareth Delany 32, Josh Little 22 not out,Shaheen Shah Afridi 3 for 22, Imad Wasim 3 for 8)
Pakistan 111 for 7 in 18.5 overs (Babar Azam 32 not out, Barry Mc Arthy 3 for 15, Curtis Campher 2 for 24)
Player of the Match – Shahin Shah Afridi
