Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim feels regret for not stepping up for the team in their narrow 6-run defeat against arch-rivals Team India in the T20 World Cup 2024 Group A clash at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on June 9.
Despite bundling Team India for a mere 119 in 19 overs, Pakistan couldn't chase down the 120-run target despite being in a winning position. The Men in Green were at 72/2 in 12 overs, but batting collapsed resulted in their loss as they restricted to 113/7 in 20 overs by India bowling attack.
Imad Wasim walked out to bat at no.5 but failed to step up for the team as he played a slow innings of 15 off 23 balls. He was dismissed in the final over when Pakistan required 18 runs to win, Naseem displayed his valiant effort but in vain as the side fell 7-run short of achieving the target.
Imad Wasim takes full responsibility for Pakistan's defeat
Speaking at the press conference ahead of his Pakistan's final group stage fixture against Ireland, Imad Wasim admitted that he let the team down as he couldn't finish off the match. The all-rounder added that he couldn't execute as per his planning.
"The wicket was tough to bat on. I let the team down because usually when I go in these situations, I stay very calm and finish the job." Imad said.
"Finishing this chase was my job which I couldn't do, and I regret it. But this is life, sometimes you make mistakes. I believe my planning was right but the execution wasn't good." he added.
Pakistan had a disappointing start to their campaign as they suffered a shocking defeat at the hands of the co-hosts USA in the Super Over. The Men in Green opened their account against Canada, following two consecutive defeats against the USA and India.
Despite win against Canada, Pakistan's qualification chances for the Super 8 stage were hanging in balance as the outcome of the match between USA and Ireland. Eventually, the Men in Green were knocked out of the tournament as USA secured Super 8 berth after their match against Ireland was washed out due to rain in Florida.
Pakistan will look to end their campaign on high after knock out
After getting knocked out of the tournament, Pakistan will look to end their disappointing campaign on a positive when Babar Azam-led side takes on Ireland in their final group stage fixture on Sunday, June 16.
The ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 is the first time Pakistan failed to go beyond the group stage of the showpiece event. The Men in Green were the champions of the 2007 edition of the tournament, defeating Sri Lanka in the final at Lord's.
Since 2009, the Men in Green never get hold of the coveted trophy despite reaching the final of the 2021 edition of the T20 World Cup, where they lost to the 2nd time champions England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
