Ramiz Raja was not happy with Pakistan’s defeat against Ireland in their recent encounter. The men in green lost to Ireland in the first T20 of the three-match T20 series versus Ireland. Ireland chased 183 very comfortably in the second innings against a fully potent bowling attack of Pakistan.
Pakistan went in as favorites in the series but have now lost the first T20 by five wickets. Ireland cruised towards the target. Pakistan has to face Ireland in the upcoming World Cup as well. Pakistan made a staggering comeback in the 2nd T20I match but still there are a lot of issues to ponder for Babar Azam’s side.
Ramiz Raja slams Pakistan
Ramiz Raja questioned Pakistan’s performance in the match against Ireland and their preparation for the T20 World Cup, scheduled in the USA and West Indies. Ramiz Raja raised concerns over the form of the men in green. Ramiz Raja expected that Pakistan will do exceptionally well in the series which is taking place just before the World Cup and gain confidence going into the marquee event.
“How will Pakistan win the World Cup, you don’t have a combination, the opening pair is not set, the set batters lose their wickets and the middle order doesn’t function well. In the current situation, how will Pakistan go to the semi-finals,?” Ramiz Raja questioned.
The former PCB chairman also warned that co-hosts USA, who are set to play their first-ever T20 World Cup, might prove to be a difficult opposition for Pakistan due to the presence of expats from India and Pakistan in their squad.
“I think the USA might give tough time to Pakistan because they also have some expats from India and Pakistan playing for them,” he added.
Meanwhile, USA have unveiled its squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, marking a significant milestone with the inclusion of former New Zealand all-rounder Corey Anderson. Anderson, who was a key player in New Zealand’s run to the finals in the 2015 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, brings a wealth of international experience to the team.
Monank Patel, an Indian American cricketer with past Under-19 experience in India, will lead the USA squad, supported by players like Saurabh Naresh Netravalkar and Shayan Jahangir, who have represented India and Pakistan respectively at the Under-19 level. Notably, Pakistan will kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against the USA on 6 June in Dallas.