Pakistan produced a comeback to remember as they reached the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 World Cup after finding themselves on the brink of elimination after losing their first two games in the tournament to India and Zimbabwe.
The Babar Azam-led outfit did not have much hope coming into the Group 2 triple-header on Sunday in which all six teams were in action. However, Netherlands produced one of the greatest upsets in cricket history to beat South Africa and knock the Proteas out of the competition. This ensured India were through to the semi-finals and made the game against Pakistan and Bangladesh a virtual knockout.
The 2009 champions made no errors as they sealed a five-wicket victory over Bangladesh at the Adelaide Oval to seal their place in the semi-finals for the second edition in a row. Shaheen Afridi was the star of the game with a four-wicket haul which saw him take the Player of the Match (POTM) award home
Following the game, Shaheen won the hearts of the Pakistan cricket fanbase with a cheeky comment in the post-match presentation. On being asked if he is looking forward to the semi-finals, Shaheen replied ‘Now, we are looking forward to the final,’ said Shaheen with a chuckle.
Talking about his return from injury, Shaheen said it has not been easy to get back into the groove. “I have improved. Not easy to come back from injury and bowl 140ks but I’m trying my best. As a team, we are very happy. We’ve played great cricket. Bowling in the right areas and fast was the plan,” said Shaheen.
Pakistan’s fate is still dependent on the India-Zimbabwe result. If Rohit & Co. win the game, the Men in Green will face New Zealand at Sydney Cricket Ground. If they lose, Babar’s men will stay in Adelaide for a face-off against England.
