The path to this crucial match for Pakistan has been fraught with challenges, especially after their heart-wrenching loss to the host USA in a nail-biting Super Over showdown on June 6.
That defeat, despite being their second win in the tournament, has put Pakistan’s advancement to the Super 8s in jeopardy.
Grouped with India, USA, Canada, and Ireland in Group A, Pakistan was initially expected to comfortably move on, given the relative inexperience of the USA and Canada and the lower rank of Ireland.
However, Pakistan’s unexpected stumble has significantly heightened the tension surrounding Sunday’s clash against India. A loss to India would place Pakistan in a precarious position, potentially leaving them with only four points, while the USA could secure six points with another win in their remaining matches, ensuring their progression to the next round.
For Pakistan, facing the possibility of a first-round elimination in the T20 World Cup, a fate they’ve never encountered before, adds immense pressure to skipper Babar Azam and his team.
In sharp contrast, India, having started their campaign with a victory over Ireland, appears formidable and is widely seen as the favorite for the upcoming clash.
A win for India wouldn’t just bolster their standing in the group but also deal a severe blow to Pakistan’s aspirations of advancing to the Super 8s.
Thus, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Pakistan. A loss on Sunday could mean an unprecedented early exit from the tournament, making this match a pivotal moment in their T20 World Cup journey.
