The electrifying India vs Pakistan Super 4s match in Dubai reignited one of cricket’s greatest rivalries, but Pakistan’s batting missteps once again drew criticism. Despite a promising start led by Fakhar Zaman and Sahibzada Farhan, Pakistan’s momentum fizzled out mid-innings, handing India full control of the game.
India’s openers, Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, dominated Pakistan’s bowling attack early on, leaving Pakistan scrambling for answers. Analysts argue this is part of a larger problem: Pakistan often relies on “hitters” rather than consistent batsmen, while India continues to develop world-class stroke players.
Fakhar Zaman set the tone with an aggressive approach but was controversially dismissed—a decision many fans saw as another example of umpiring bias. Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub carried the innings forward, pushing Pakistan to an impressive 93/0 in the first 10 overs. But a seven-over period of stagnation after the drinks break derailed Pakistan’s advantage.
Critics point to questionable tactics from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), including an overemphasis on left-right combinations and promoting Mohammad Nawaz up the order—a move that backfired. Salman Ali Agha’s overly cautious captaincy also contributed to the collapse. Without boundaries for over 40 balls, Pakistan’s innings lost the aggressive edge needed in modern T20 cricket.
Despite late fireworks from Faheem Ashraf, Pakistan ended with a par score of 171—20 runs shy of what the start promised. The decision to leave big hitters like Mohammad Haris and Shaheen Shah Afridi unused added to fan frustration.
This match highlights deeper issues in Pakistan’s white-ball strategy. To remain competitive, the PCB must rethink batting development, address weaknesses against spin, and adopt a fearless, modern T20 approach.
