PkRevenue.com – In a must-win Group A clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Pakistan triumphed over Canada, keeping their hopes alive for a spot in the Super 8 stage. After two consecutive losses, Pakistan’s win by seven wickets was essential to remain in contention.
Chasing a target of 107, Pakistan reached 107/3 in 17.5 overs. Their strong fielding and disciplined bowling played a key role in securing this much-needed victory, placing them third in the group standings behind India and the USA.
Canada’s innings concluded at 106/7 after 20 overs, largely thanks to Aaron Johnson’s impressive half-century. Pakistan won the toss and opted to field, knowing a significant margin of victory was crucial.
Mohammad Amir set the tone early, clean bowling Navneet Dhaliwal, and leaving Canada at 20/1 in the third over. Shaheen Shah Afridi, after a costly start, struck with his first ball from a new end, dismissing Pargat Singh to make it 29/2.
Imad Wasim’s swift run-out of Nicholas Kirton and Haris Rauf’s consecutive dismissals, including his 100th T20 wicket, left Canada reeling at 55/5 by the tenth over.
Johnson’s 52 off 44 balls provided some resistance before Naseem Shah bowled him. Amir’s second wicket saw captain Saad bin Zafar edge behind to Rizwan. Contributions from Kaleem Sana and Dilon Heyliger pushed Canada past the 100-mark, setting Pakistan a target of 107.
Pakistan’s chase began cautiously, losing Saim Ayub for 6 in the fifth over. However, a steady partnership between Babar Azam (33) and Mohammad Rizwan (53*) added 63 runs, putting Pakistan in a strong position.
Heyliger dismissed Babar, but Rizwan ensured the win, finishing unbeaten and guiding Pakistan to victory despite a late scare with Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal.
With this win, Pakistan has revived their Super 8 ambitions but will need to win convincingly against Ireland in their final group match to secure their place.
Key Moments:
Early Breakthroughs: Amir and Afridi’s early wickets set the tone.
Haris Rauf’s Milestone: Achieved his 100th T20 international wicket.
Rizwan’s Steadiness: His unbeaten 53 ensured Pakistan’s win.
Next Steps: Pakistan faces Ireland in a crucial final group match to cement their place in the Super 8 stage.
