Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has lashed out in frustration over the negative reactions from Pakistan fans following India's defeat to Australia in the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 final on Sunday.
Expressing his disappointment with the negative reactions from some quarters, particularly from Pakistan, Pathan condemned the unsportsmanlike behavior, emphasizing that such attitudes reflect poorly on the mindset of those individuals.
"Despite their U19 team not making it to the final, keyboard warriors from across the border find pleasure in our youngsters’ defeat. This negative attitude reflects poorly on their nation’s mindset." Irfan wrote on social media platform, X.
Australia dominated in all three departments of the field to defeat India by 79 runs in the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 final in Benoni.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Australian captain Hugh Weibgen's decision proved fruitful as his team posted a total of 253/7, marking the highest-ever total in an U19 World Cup final.
Harjas Singh's fifty and valuable contributions from Weibgen, Harry Dixon, and Ollie Peak propelled Australia's innings, with Raj Limbani being the standout bowler for India with figures of 3/38.
In response, India's chase got off to a shaky start, losing key wickets early on and struggling to build momentum against a disciplined Australian bowling attack. Despite a late surge from Abhishek Murugan, who fought bravely with the bat, the target proved insurmountable as Australia wrapped up the victory in the 44th over.