T20 World Cup 2024: “You think that the performances cannot be any worse for Pakistan, then they go on to lose against USA as well” – Ramiz Raja

Former Pakistan batter Ramiz Raja lashed out at the Babar Azam-led team after their Super Over loss against the USA at the Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas on Thursday. Raja said when you think Pakistan’s performances can not get any worse, they go on to lose against the USA.

Pakistan posted 159-7 after they were put into bat by America’s captain Monank Patel. The Babar Azam-led scored 30-3 in the Powerplay overs as they failed to make the most of the fielding restrictions. Babar Azam could only manage four runs off 14 balls in the first six overs.

On the other hand, Pakistan bowlers failed to take wickets at regular intervals as the USA batters brought their A-game.

“You think that the performances cannot be any worse for Pakistan, then they go on to lose against USA as well. This game should have been in Pakistan’s pocket. Granted, the ball did swing and seam around for the first couple of overs, but Pakistan are a reputed team when compared to the USA,” Ramiz Raja said on his YouTube channel.

Raja slammed the team’s selection and tactical mistakes, which led to the downfall of Pakistan against the USA.

“USA should have been the team scared of playing Pakistan, but mistakes after mistakes were made. From team selection’s point of view, from a tactical point of view, it seemed as if the think tank was sleeping. There are so many mistakes being made in the dugout and outside as well. This should end up being a blame game, and constructive criticism must be given,” Ramiz Raja added.

Meanwhile, USA captain Monank Patel scored a fine knock of 50 runs off 38 balls and Raja said he played fearlessly to reap rewards.

“Monank Patel played without any fear, he did not care who he was facing, Whether it was Shaheen, Haris or Naseem Shah with the ball, he did not care about their reputation. He did not allow for the middle order to be exposed and that put a lot of pressure on Pakistan,” Ramiz Raja said in the same video.

Pakistan will next take on arch-rivals India at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York on Sunday.