T20 World Cup: Brian Lara backs USA to qualify ahead of Pakistan for Super 8
Legendary West Indies batter Brian Lara has backed the USA to qualify for the Super 8 stages of the T20 World Cup 2024 ahead of Pakistan from Group A.
Notably, the co-hosts of the tournament are on a roll in the ongoing event having registered their highest successful chase of 195 in the opening game of the tournament against Canada.
Later, they beat Pakistan in a super over in their second fixture to register their second consecutive win of the tournament. The co-hosts gave a tough fight to India as well in their third fixture as they had them reeling at 39/3 after 7.3 over chasing a low target of 111 but eventually lost the game by seven wickets.
Speaking about their Super 8 chances, Lara picked the USA favourites over Pakistan as a win in their last game will ensure their qualification.
“Of course mathematically they (Pakistan) have a chance. I think the USA just got to take care of a win in their last game, they do that and they qualify. But we’re hoping that they get to win plus the USA lose their game. So my money is on the USA, I think they’re full of confidence and they would want to make it to the Super 8 that will be so huge, historic for US cricket,” said Lara on Star Sports.
Pakistan’s qualification scenario
Notably, USA are ranked on the second spot on the points table with two wins from three matches having six points to their name. They face Ireland in their last fixture on Friday, June 14 at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, Lauderhill, Florida.
On the other hand, Pakistan are ranked third with just one win from three matches having two points to their name. The Babar Azam-led side needs to win their last fixture against Ireland on Sunday, June 16 in Florida to remain in contention of Super 8 qualifications. However, if USA manage to beat Ireland on June 14, they will advance to the Super 8 along with India on Group A.
With heavy rains predicted in Florida in the next few days, even a washout in the USA vs Ireland fixture will help the co-hosts qualify. However, Pakistan desperately need a win in their last fixture and can’t afford a washout. Hence, their chances are pinned on several factors which put USA ahead of them for the Super 8 qualification.