Pakistan ends T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with win over Ireland

Pakistan concluded their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign on a positive note, securing a three-wicket victory over Ireland in their final match at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Lauderhill, Florida on Sunday.

Chasing a target of 107 runs set by Ireland, Pakistan faced early challenges despite a steady start. Openers Saim Ayub and Mohammad Rizwan departed early, contributing 17 runs each within the first six overs. The middle-order faltered once again, with Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan, Shadab Khan, and Imad Wasim failing to reach double-digit scores.

However, Abbas Afridi's crucial knock of 17 runs, highlighted by a six and a four, provided momentum to Pakistan's innings. Skipper Babar Azam anchored the chase with a top-score of 32 runs, guiding his team towards victory with a composed performance.

Earlier in the match, Pakistan's bowlers showcased a dominant display, restricting Ireland to 106/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Shaheen Afridi set the tone early, striking twice in the opening over to dismiss Andrew Balbirnie and Lorcan Tucker, leaving Ireland struggling at 2-2. Mohammad Amir continued the onslaught by dismissing Irish captain Paul Stirling for just one run.

Despite facing a potential collapse, Ireland recovered through a resilient 44-run partnership between George Dockrell and Gareth Delany. Delany emerged as their top-scorer with a brisk 31 off 19 balls, including four boundaries. Joshua Little's contribution of 22 runs off 18 balls further bolstered Ireland's total.

Pakistan's bowlers maintained pressure throughout, with Shaheen Afridi and Imad Wasim claiming three wickets each, while Mohammad Amir took two crucial wickets. Haris Rauf chipped in with a single dismissal, ensuring Ireland couldn't build substantial partnerships.