New Delhi: Pakistan lost the T20 World Cup final against England on Sunday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The English side defeated them by a margin of 5 wickets. Star all-rounder Ben Stokes starred for England as he scored an outstanding half-century and scored the winning runs.
Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar consoled Pakistan and said, "Pakistan lost the world cup but you guys did a great job. You were standing nowhere but ultimately; you played the finals. Well done Pakistan’s bowling attack. You guys did an exceptional job throughout the tournament. Luck was indeed a factor but they played well and made it to the finals,” stated Akhtar in a video on his Twitter account.
“Koi baat nahi… Shaheen getting unfit was the turning point of the game but we need not bow down our heads. It’s okay. Ben Stokes got hit for five sixes in 2016 and lost the World Cup for England. But he found redemption in 2022 and won it for his team,” he added.
Former Pakistan paceman confidently expressed that Pakistan will make a strong comeback in the 2023 ODI World Cup that is set to take place in India.
“I’m standing with you and nothing to worry about. You guys really played well. It’s hurting, and I’m disappointed, but it’s fine. We gonna stand by you as a nation. Inshah Allah, India mein World Cup uthayenge (If almighty wills it, we shall lift the World Cup in India)," said Akhtar.
The 2023 ODI World Cup is scheduled to take place in India in October-November.