Square Drive
Pakistan’s defeat due to batting failure

I wanted another India-Pakistan match in this World Cup. The world could have witnessed another India-Pakistan battle in the semi-final. But Pakistan’s failure has ruined the hope. I did not think that Australia-Pakistan match will be a one-sided one. Actually, Pakistan are really unpredictable. Sometimes they perform very well, sometimes they lose match without any fight.
Australia have secured semi-final berth as a strong team. Pakistan lost the match due to batting failure. They could not set a ‘fighting target’ before Australia as their batsmen offered their wickets.
Most of the Pakistani batsmen gave up their wickets carelessly. Some good partnerships are needed for a handsome total in a match. Pakistani batsmen failed in that case.
Pakistan could have sent Australia under pressure if they had scored more than 250 runs. It is difficult for the bowlers of any team to defend a small total.
Pakistan created pressure on Australia taking 3 wickets for 59 runs. The scenario could have been different, if Pakistan did not miss two catches. Poor fielding after batting failure destroyed the hope of the 1992 champions to reach the semi-final.
Favourite New Zealand will take on West Indies in the last quarter-final on Saturday. I want to keep the World Cup co-host ahead as they are performing well consistently.
But West Indies may win if Gayle shines. He is such a batsman who can change the game single-handedly.