'Wonder if they can compete in the modern day cricket': Fans after Pakistan survive Ireland scare

Pakistan restored a semblance of pride with a hard-fought three-wicket win over Ireland in their inconsequential final game of the T20 World Cup on Sunday. Babar Azam played a crucial knock with the bat, while Shaheen Shah Afridi performed well with the ball to help Pakistan win the encounter.  

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Pakistan fans slam Babar Azam & Co. after they survive against Ireland

However, the victory did little to quell the frustration of Pakistan fans as they slammed the team's performance, questioning their ability to compete in modern-day cricket.

One critical fan noted, “Remarkable that Babar Azam has played 3 T20 World Cups without hitting a six in the Powerplay (off 207 balls). Last year, Pakistan took more than 1000 balls to hit a six in the Powerplay in ODIs. Wonder if Pakistan can compete in the modern day cricket with this intent”.

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The 2009 champions, already eliminated following losses to India and the USA in earlier group matches, opted to bowl first and restricted Ireland to 106 for 9, thanks to Shaheen Shah Afridi's stellar performance (3/22). 

Despite chasing a modest target, Pakistan's fragile batting was once again exposed as they slumped to 62 for six in 11 overs, raising the specter of another collapse. But skipper Babar Azam (32 not out) and Abbas Afridi (17) shared a crucial 33-run stand to take them home at 111 for 7 in 18.5 overs. Shaheen Afridi hit the winning runs with two mighty sixes in his 5-ball 13 not out.