NEW DELHI: In a surprising turn of events, Pakistan found themselves struggling against the USA during the
T20 World Cup
match, recording one of the worst
powerplay
totals in the tournament's history. In their Group A match in Dallas, Pakistan managed to score just 30 runs in the first six overs with the loss of three wickets.
USA's decision to bowl first vindicated with
Saurabh Netravalkar
, Nosthush Kenjige and
Ali Khan
picking up wicket apiece to trigger Pakistan's collapse.
The most shocking instance for Pakistan came in Mirpur, 2014, against the West Indies when they were reeling at 13 runs by the end of the powerplay. The Caribbean bowlers, with their pace and precision, dismantled Pakistan's top order, leaving fans stunned and setting an unfortunate record.
Lowest powerplay totals for Pakistan in T20 World Cups
- 13 vs WI, Mirpur, 2014
- 28 vs ZIM, Perth, 2022
- 29 vs NAM, Abu Dhabi, 2021
- 30 vs NZ, Sharjah, 2021
- 30 vs USA, Dallas, 2024
In Perth, 2022, against Zimbabwe, Pakistan's batsmen again faced a formidable bowling attack. The bounce and pace of the Perth pitch, combined with disciplined Zimbabwean bowling, restricted Pakistan to a mere 28 runs in the first six overs.
In 2021, Abu Dhabi saw Pakistan up against Namibia. Despite facing a less intimidating opponent, Pakistan managed only 29 runs in the powerplay, as Namibia's bowlers displayed commendable control and skill.
Similarly, in Sharjah 2021, against New Zealand, Pakistan's batsmen struggled to adapt to the slow and low conditions, scoring just 30 runs in the powerplay. This match underscored the importance of adaptability and resilience in varying conditions.