Muhammad Rizwan Guides Pakistan to Crucial T20 Victory

Muhammad Rizwan steadied Pakistan with an unbeaten half-century, keeping their slim T20 World Cup Super 8s qualification hopes alive with a seven-wicket victory over Canada in New York. Aaron Johnson’s aggressive 52 off 44 balls, featuring four sixes, propelled Canada to 106-7. Pakistan’s Mohammad Amir took 2-13, while Haris Rauf claimed 2-26, reaching 101 T20 international wickets. Rizwan and Babar Azam set the stage for Pakistan’s chase with a 63-run partnership. Despite Babar’s dismissal for 33, Rizwan’s run-a-ball 53 guided Pakistan to victory with 15 balls remaining.

Pakistan must defeat Ireland in their final match in Florida to improve their net run-rate and contend for a top-two finish in Group A. Despite the loss, Canada maintains a mathematical chance of qualifying but faces a daunting task against India in their final group game. Relief washed over Pakistan as Muhammad Rizwan’s performance helped amend their lackluster World Cup campaign. The victory was a much-needed boost after a shock defeat to the United States and a missed opportunity against India. While Pakistan was expected to dominate, Canada proved resilient, with Johnson’s standout performance testing their resolve.

Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Amir, ultimately proved too strong for Canada securing a crucial win. As they prepare to face Ireland, Pakistan aims to maintain their winning momentum and remain hopeful of an unlikely Super 8s qualification.