Updated On: 09 June, 2024 08:00 AM IST | Mumbai | Rohan Koli
Pakistan stunned by USA; all but over for Sri Lanka

Pakistan players during the match against USA in Dallas. Pic/Getty Images
Pakistan have always been unpredictable in ICC events over the years, with them losing to Zimbabwe in the 2022 T20 World Cup and being defeated by Afghanistan in the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, a shock defeat to first-timers USA was pretty unexpected. Pakistan skipper Babar Azam was heavily criticised for his poor strike-rate after managing just 14 runs off his first 25 deliveries. He, however, made amends by scoring 44 off 43 balls to take Pakistan to 159-7 in the allotted 20 overs. USA, in reply, started off well, scoring 36 in the first five overs. The match result was eventually decided via Super Over after both teams ended up at 159. A defeat against arch-rivals India today will only make their journey difficult as USA are sitting at the top of the table with two wins in as many games.
A super Over finish followed by a tied match in T20s always excites cricket fans. But it`s rare to see those thrilling finishes. The 2012 T20 World Cup had two tied matches, while the 2014, 2016, 2021 and 2022 T20 World Cups had none. However, this T20 World Cup has witnessed two Super Overs in the first week. On the second day of the tournament, Namibia beat Oman in the Super Over after both teams were tied at 109, while USA stunned Pakistan in the last-over eliminator on Thursday.