T20 World Cup 2024: PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi hints at ‘major surgery’ in Pakistan team after India loss

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has put the team on notice, hinting at making changes after a disappointing six-run loss to India in their ICC T20 World Cup 2024 clash on Sunday in New York.

The PCB chief stated he was aware of the team's issues and reasons for the defeat. He mentioned that Pakistani cricket is currently at its lowest performance-wise.

“It seemed that a minor surgery would suffice for the Pakistan cricket team, but after the extremely poor performance, it has become clear that the team needs major surgery,” the PCB chairman said as quoted by the Nation.

He also spoke about the team's preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy and believes the players who are waiting outside to be given a chance to perform for the nation need to be given the opportunity.

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India register thrilling win over Pakistan

He emphasised the goal was to once again make Pakistan one of the best teams in the world, as the nation does not expect such disappointing performances from its cricket team.

The much-anticipated clash witnessed India being bundled out for 119 in their 20 overs after some brilliant bowling performances from Pakistan. Wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant top scored with 42 off 31 balls. In reply, the Men in Green were on course to win the game with relative ease but a brilliant spell from Jasprit Bumrah turned the tide as they fell short on 113/7.

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Bumrah was the hero, claiming 3/14 from his four overs including the key wickets of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Iftikhar Ahmed. His third over, conceding just two runs, proved the turning point as Pakistan crumbled under scoreboard pressure.

While Rizwan anchored the chase with 31 off 44 balls, no other Pakistani batter could provide substantial support. The defeat leaves Pakistan's hopes of reaching the Super 8 stage hanging after two straight losses. Pakistan have two more games, as they will be up against Canada and Ireland.