After scoring a pitiful total, Pakistan was defeated by England in the T20 World Cup 2022 final on Sunday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The losing side captain terms Shaheen’s injury for the Pakistan’s defeat against England.
With five wickets in hand and six balls remaining, England successfully overcame Pakistan’s 137-8 total.
Many Pakistanis who were hoping for a rematch of the 1992 final are devastated by the loss.
Babar Azam:
Pakistani Skipper Babar Azam offered congratulations to the English side in the post- match ceremony. “Congratulations to the England team, we felt like everyone came here to support us, thank you so much,” said Azam, addressing fans.
“The way the team has gone in the last four matches [was] incredible. I told the boys to play their natural game, with freedom.
“We were 20 runs short [in the final] but to fight to the last over was unbelievable. Our bowling is one of the best but unfortunately Shaheen’s injury cost us a different result, but that’s part of the game,” he concluded.
Imran Khan:
Imran, the former captain who guided Pakistan to their first World Cup victory in 1992, noted that winning and losing were inherent parts of the game while commenting on the team’s performance today.
“I used to tell my team to fight till the last bowl. Try your best. But when the result comes and you have given your best, then it is God’s will.”
He further said that Pakistan gave it it all and fought till the last ball. “But what is not in your hands […] the way Shaheen Afridi was injured, no one can do anything about that.
“And unfortunately it happened at a time when the match was at a very important stage and Shaheen could have made a difference. I am not saying that we could have won but it was at a time when the game could have been changed,” he added.
He also urged the whole nation to congratulate the team.
“I especially want to say that our fast-bowling attack […] from what I saw today […] is the best fast-bowling attack in the world,” Imran remarked and then prayed for the speedy recovery of Shaheen.
Shadab Khan:
Shadab Khan, a spin bowler (leg spinner) for Pakistan, apologised to Pakistanis on Twittter shortly after the game.
“I want to thank all the Pakistani fans for their unwavering support. Despite our best efforts, we were unable to secure the award for you. Sorry to disappoint you. We’ll work to strengthen our team dynamic and return even more powerful. Never give up on your faith; it strength.
