Pakistan's all-rounder Imad Wasim took responsibility for his performance in the crucial T20 World Cup match against India. Wasim missed the opening game against the USA due to a rib injury. Unfortunately for Pakistan, this coincided with a surprising loss to the co-hosts. With Wasim back in the lineup for the India clash, he delivered a disciplined bowling performance. He conceded a mere 17 runs in his three overs, but was unable to take any wickets.
Despite restricting India to a seemingly manageable target of 119 runs, Pakistan fell short while chasing. This disappointing outcome prompted Wasim's self-criticism, suggesting he felt he could have contributed more to secure the victory.
Pakistan seemed in control during their chase of India's 119 runs. By the end of the 12th over, they were comfortably placed at 72 for 2, needing just 48 runs in the remaining 48 balls with a full set of eight wickets in hand. However, a dramatic batting collapse ensued. Pakistan lost three wickets in quick succession, tumbling to 88 for 5. They were unable to recover from this setback and eventually finished their innings at 113 runs, falling short of the target by a mere six runs. Following the loss, Imad Wasim faced criticism for his batting approach. Playing a slow innings, he managed only 15 runs from 23 balls. His dismissal in the final over, when Pakistan still required 18 runs for victory, further amplified the criticism.
Imad Wasim blames himself for Pakistan's defeat against India
In a pre-match press conference before Pakistan's final group stage encounter against Ireland in the ongoing T20 World Cup, Imad Wasim shed light on their approach against India and his personal struggles. Wasim explained that the team opted for a measured chase, acknowledging the difficulties presented by the bowling-friendly pitch. Their strategy was to build a solid foundation and then look to accelerate later in the innings. Wasim didn't shy away from accepting responsibility. He openly admitted to letting his team down by failing to guide them to victory. The close defeat clearly weighed heavily on him, as he expressed his deep disappointment with the outcome.
"Our game plan (against India) was to take the chase deep. 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," said Imad Wasim.
"Finishing this chase was my job which I couldn't do, and I am very hurt by that. But this is life, sometimes you make mistakes. I believe my planning was right but the execution wasn't good," he added.
Pakistan seek winning farewell in final Group Stage match
Despite their early exit from the T20 World Cup, Pakistan aim to finish the tournament on a high note. They'll face Ireland in their final group stage encounter, scheduled for Sunday, June 16th, at Lauderhill. This match presents an opportunity for Pakistan to end their campaign with a victory.
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