Pakistan team’s morale low ahead of Canada clash, admits Azhar Mahmood

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Pakistan's assistant coach, Azhar Mahmood, discussed the team's low morale following their T20 World Cup loss to India in New York.

The Men in Green fell short of a 120-run target, scoring only 113/7 against India. This marked their second defeat in the tournament.

While speaking in press conference on Monday, Mahmood noted the team is particularly disheartened by the loss to India, but stressed the need to boost morale, emphasizing they still have a chance to rebound.

"After two defeats, everyone is quite disheartened. Losing against India is more disappointing than a defeat against the USA," he said.

"At the moment, everyone's morale in the team is down, it's necessary to lift it as we can still bounce back and we won't lose hope until it's over," he added.

Mahmood attributed the defeat to poor shot selection, noting the team's run rate dropped significantly after the 15th over. He stressed that the loss was a collective failure, with both players and management sharing responsibility.

"Our shot selection wasn't right, which led to a run rate of 10. We were playing well until the 15th over. We lost as a team and can't blame individuals," he maintained.

"The responsibility of failure lies with the entire management, we all have made mistakes," he added.

Mahmood highlighted the importance of confidence, stating that doubting one's abilities can be detrimental.

"If a player starts doubting their ability, it becomes very difficult. If we play with confidence in ourselves, it will prove everyone wrong,” he said.

He also warned against underestimating Canada, stating anyone who does has no place in international cricket.

"Now there's no room for misunderstandings. If someone considers any opponent easy, they don't have a place in international cricket," he stated.

"There are players in Canada who can perform against us. We have to win this match at all costs now," he concluded.

To qualify for the Super 8, Pakistan must win their next matches against Canada on June 11 and Ireland on June 16, and hope USA loses to India and Ireland.