(Credit X)
In a shocking upset against the USA, leaving cricket enthusiasts worldwide stunned, Pakistan commenced their T20 World Cup 2024 journey on a dismal note, necessitating a swift recovery as they brace themselves to confront perennial rivals India this Sunday.
Amidst the anticipation surrounding the upcoming showdown, cricket icon Chris Gayle stressed the urgency for Pakistan to swiftly bounce back from their setback, asserting that they cannot afford any delays ahead of facing the formidable Indian squad.
With the weight of expectations bearing down heavily, particularly following their dramatic defeat to the USA via a nerve-wracking Super Over in the tournament opener at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, Pakistan finds themselves under intense scrutiny.
This unforeseen outcome has only intensified the anticipation surrounding the impending clash between India and Pakistan, reminiscent of their iconic encounter in 2009, according to Gayle.
“As for Pakistan, they have no time to waste. They have to re-group for the biggest game of the tournament against India in New York City – that’s just got even bigger. Their backs are up against the wall and coming off a loss like that straight into playing a team like India, who traditionally have the upper hand in these games, is a huge challenge,” stated Gayle in his column for the ICC.
“India are in the driver’s seat, definitely a more relaxed seat, but this is India versus Pakistan at a World Cup, so you can take nothing for granted.”
However, the seasoned veteran didn’t shy away from acknowledging the host nation USA for their remarkable triumph over Pakistan, describing it as a significant moment for the sport of cricket.
“Like the rest of the cricketing world, I was gripped by the USA’s victory over Pakistan. It is a huge result which is not only incredible for them but massive for cricket as a whole.”
“The USA team appears impressively structured, and their resilience against the formidable Pakistani bowling lineup, one of the strongest in the World Cup, deserves immense praise. With this victory under their belt, they are poised to capitalize on this momentum and have a real shot at advancing to the Super 8s – a narrative that would truly be remarkable.”
