Rain played a cruel hand in dashing Babar Azam-led Pakistan's hopes for the T20 World Cup Super 8s. Their fate hinged on the USA versus Ireland match in Lauderhill, Florida, on Friday, June 14.
USA vs IRE washout game eliminates Pakistan
However, a wet outfield forced the game to be abandoned after just one ball, handing a crucial point and a Super 8s berth to the United States. Pakistan, with only two points from their first three matches, were desperately hoping for an Irish victory. India had already secured their spot in the next round with a perfect record, leaving the remaining teams in Group A scrambling for the final spot. The rainout proved costly for Pakistan. The USA, with two wins and one defeat in their four matches, finished the group stage with five points, securing the second spot in the Group 8 stage. This marks a historic moment for the USA team, becoming only the second team (after Ireland) to reach the Super 8s in their debut World Cup appearance.
Michael Vaughan slams Pakistan after early elimination
Meanwhile, right after Pakistan got knocked out of T20 World Cup, former England skipper Michael Vaughan took to X (previously known as Twitter) to lambast Babar Azam's side.
“USA through to the Super 8s … Cricket is going to catch on in the states … !! Pakistan are out … at the moment they are along way off being a good white ball side,” Vaughan's post on X read.
This early exit from the T20 World Cup comes as a huge blow to Pakistan, especially considering their impressive track record. They were runners-up in the 2022 edition and hold the record for most semi-final appearances in the tournament's history (champions in 2009).
Despite their upcoming match against Ireland, Pakistan can only reach a maximum of 4 points, falling short of qualification. India, with a perfect record in 3 games, became the first team from Group A to advance to the next round.
Now, the stage is set for the intense Super 8s round of the T20 World Cup! India will battle it out in Group 1, facing off against familiar foes Australia and Afghanistan. They'll also encounter either Bangladesh or the Netherlands, who are still vying for the final spot in the group.
On the other hand, Group 2 promises to be equally thrilling. The USA, a surprise qualifier, joins confirmed teams South Africa and West Indies. They'll await the winner of the remaining qualification battle between England and Scotland to complete their group.
The Super 8s kick off on June 19th, with all 12 matches spread across four beautiful Caribbean venues: Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia, and St Vincent. After a week of high-octane cricket, the excitement continues with the semifinals. The first one will be held in Trinidad on June 26th, followed by the second in Guyana on June 27th. Finally, the hotly anticipated final will take place at Bridgetown's historic Kensington Oval on June 29.
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