T20 WC 2024: Former Indian cricketer backs USA over Pakistan to qualify for Super 8

Sreesanth expressed concerns about Pakistan's cricketing system, echoing sentiments shared by cricketing legends like Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis

PHOTO: AFP

Former Indian pace bowler S Sreesanth, a member of India's victorious T20 World Cup squad in 2007, has shared his views on Pakistan's performance in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024.

Pakistan faced defeats against the United States (USA) and India in their initial matches but managed a convincing victory over Canada in New York. Despite this win, their prospects of advancing to the Super 8 stage remain uncertain.

Speaking to Indian media, Sreesanth expressed concerns about Pakistan's cricketing system, echoing sentiments shared by cricketing legends like Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis.

“I don’t think Pakistan is following the needed routine. They don’t focus on their domestic leagues. All of their legends, like Wasim bhai (Akram) and even Waqar Younis, say they need to change the entire system. So that says where they are going wrong. I will only say this to Pakistan all the best for the next World Cup. If they come back from this position, it will be a miracle. I don’t think it will be easy,” Sreesanth said.

Turning his attention to the USA team, Sreesanth praised their disciplined approach over the past two years.He expressed his desire to see them qualify for the Super 8.

“One of the things about T20 World Cup is every team looks strong on paper. If we talk about planning and execution, the USA team prevailed because of their planning and execution in the past two years and they have worked hard. I want the USA team to play in the Top 8 because they deserve it. They have done more than enough justice to be a part of the Top 8,” he further added.

As Pakistan navigates the challenging road to the Super 8, specific outcomes in Group A matches will determine their fate:
- June 14: USA vs Ireland — A win for Ireland
- June 15: Canada vs India — A win for India
- June 16: Ireland vs Pakistan — A win for Pakistan

These results will play a critical role in deciding Pakistan's qualification for the next stage of the T20 World Cup 2024.