The T20 World Cup 2024 campaign has been disappointing for the Pakistan cricket team so far. Led by Babar Azam, the team suffered a narrow 6-run defeat against India on Sunday.

This marked Pakistan’s second loss in two matches, following an unexpected defeat to the United States in their opening group stage encounter. Despite strong performances from Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf, who each took three wickets to bowl India out for 119, a disciplined bowling display from India’s pacers, particularly Jasprit Bumrah, sealed a crushing defeat for Pakistan. This loss significantly impacted Pakistan’s chances of reaching the Super 8 stage of the tournament.

With 0 points from 2 matches, Pakistan’s qualification prospects look bleak. To advance, the Babar Azam-led side must win their remaining matches against Canada and Ireland and hope that both the United States and Canada do not win any more games.

Even if Pakistan secures victories in their last two matches and the United States loses their remaining games, the qualification to the Super 8 stage will depend on Net Run Rate (NRR). Both teams would have 4 points from 4 matches, leaving Pakistan needing several favorable results.

Jasprit Bumrah, who was named player of the match, expressed his delight with his performance against Pakistan.

“It feels really good. We felt we were a little under and the wicket got a little better after the sun came out. We were really disciplined, so it feels good. I tried to hit the seam as much as I could, tried to be as clear as I could with my execution, and it all came out well, so I felt happy. It felt like we were playing in India, really happy with the support, and that gives us energy on the field. We focus on the now. We’ve played two games and played really well. You stick to your processes and look to play well,” Bumrah said after the match.