In a thrilling encounter in Chennai during the ICC World Cup 2023, Pakistan found themselves on the wrong side of a cliffhanger, suffering an agonizing defeat at the hands of South Africa. As the Proteas secured a nail-biting one-wicket victory while chasing a target of 271 runs, the match left fans on the edge of their seats.
The clash between Pakistan and South Africa was a roller-coaster ride, filled with tension and drama. With the Proteas chasing 271 runs, they found themselves in deep trouble at one stage, struggling to keep up with the required run rate. But cricket, known for its unpredictability, had yet another twist in store.
When it seemed like Pakistan had a stranglehold on the South African players, it was the tailenders who displayed remarkable resilience. Scoring the all-important runs at the latter end of the match, they turned the tide in favor of South Africa. Despite having several opportunities to bundle out their opponents, the Pakistani bowlers faltered, allowing their rivals to escape.
With just five runs required in three overs, the Pakistan captain, Babar Azam, turned to Mohammad Nawaz for the elusive final wicket. His pacers had given their all for the night, and now it was Nawaz’s turn. Unfortunately, Nawaz’s bowling performance was a disappointment. In just two balls, the Proteas scored the remaining five runs needed to secure the victory.
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Following the match-winning boundary by Keshav Maharaj, Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, couldn’t hide his frustration. He vented his disappointment at his bowler, Mohammad Nawaz. The two seemed to be at odds as Babar expressed his displeasure. His words, seemingly lip-read, were sharp: “Aur kuch nahi aata, ek he ball aata hain” (You don’t know anything else apart from the same kind of delivery).
Babar Azam in 2021 T20 WC – Nobody should point out finger at one person this should not happen, not in this team…specially Nawaz.
— The Right Wing Guy (@T_R_W_G) October 27, 2023
Babar Azam today#PAKvsSA pic.twitter.com/pnnSiSjyNn
The defeat in Chennai marked a significant low for Pakistan in the World Cup. It was their fourth consecutive loss, a worrying trend for a team with a rich cricketing history. With just two victories in six matches, Pakistan now teeter on the verge of elimination from the World Cup, a scenario that once seemed unthinkable.
