Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif observed that Pakistan fans and former players are not supporting their national team at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Kaif conceded that this lack of support stems from the team’s disappointing performances.

In the ongoing T20 World Cup, Pakistan suffered losses against the USA and India in their first two Group A matches. However, they rebounded with a win over Canada in their third game. Now, Pakistan’s hopes of advancing to the Super 8 round hinge on two key results – Ireland defeating the USA in Florida on June 14, followed by Pakistan overcoming Paul Stirling’s Ireland squad at the same venue two days later.

“Due to their recent poor performance, the team seems to have lost the support of their fans, former players, and the general public. There is a sense of turmoil and unrest surrounding the team, as no one appears to be supporting them at the moment. It’s clear that the team is facing widespread criticism and a lack of backing from their usual supporters,” claimed Kaif on Star Sports.

“In the first match Mohammad Amir’s erratic bowling, including multiple wides in the Super Over, resulted in extremely poor performance that cost the team the match. In the next game, they failed to chase a modest target of 119, batting poorly and dropping crucial catches. While they defeated Canada, there was nothing praiseworthy about their effort in that match,” he continued.

Kaif emphasized that Pakistan lost the match against India as a result of Babar Azam and Muhammad Rizwan’s inability to capitalize on their starts.

“Despite Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan being well-set at the crease, Pakistan ultimately lost the match due to their inability to capitalize on the strong batting positions. Both players appeared poised to lead their team to victory, but they ultimately crumbled under the pressure, and failing when it mattered most,” he explained.

Pakistan will face Ireland on Sunday, June 16 in Florida.