T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan Overcomes Canada Amid New York Pitch Challenges

Babar Azam expressed relief after securing Pakistan's first win in the T20 World Cup 2024, though he was slightly disappointed that the victory against Canada did not come quickly enough to significantly boost their net run rate (NRR).

After suffering consecutive defeats against the USA and India in their initial Group A matches, the game against Canada became a must-win for Pakistan. Babar's team registered a 7-wicket win to stay in contention for the Super 8 stage.

Chasing a modest target of 107 at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on Tuesday (June 11), Pakistan relied on Mohammad Rizwan's unbeaten 53 and Babar's 33 to achieve the target in 17.3 overs.

While Babar was pleased to secure their first win of the tournament, he noted that the team could not complete their chase of 107 in fewer overs due to a challenging pitch.

"Good for us, we need this win. We started well with the bowling, in the first six overs we know we had to be up to the mark. It was in our mind (to get over USA's net run rate), to win before 14 overs but the pitch made it difficult," Babar said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

After scoring a run-a-ball 33, Babar was caught in the slips while attempting to guide a delivery to third man, which left him frustrated.

"Because I got out with the same shot twice (against India)! This is my shot but sometimes you need success. I'll try my best," Babar added regarding his repeated dismissals.

With this victory, Pakistan moved from the bottom of the table to within reach of the top two spots and improved their NRR despite winning in the 18th over. However, they still need to win their remaining match and hope other results favour them.

Babar and his team will be hoping that arch-rivals India defeat the USA and that Ireland also secure a win in their next match, keeping Pakistan's hopes alive for a Super 8 spot.

India currently lead Group A with two wins from two matches, followed by the USA with an equal number of victories. Pakistan have climbed to third place with two points from three games, ahead of Canada and Ireland.

Pakistan will face Ireland in their final Group A match on Sunday (June 16) at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill, Florida. The USA will play against India on June 12 and Ireland on June 14.