Colombo, Feb 16 (NationPress) Former spinner Danish Kaneria delivered a harsh assessment of Pakistan after their underwhelming performance against India in the T20 World Cup match, claiming the outcome highlighted the team’s challenges when pursuing targets. He urged the players to concentrate on their cricket instead of making off-field comments.

A strong showing with both bat and ball allowed defending champions India to dominate Pakistan, securing their Super 8 spot with a 61-run victory at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday.

"Pakistan exhibited disappointing cricket. They need to shift their focus from making statements to enhancing their on-field performance. Usman Tariq had expressed confidence in leading Pakistan to victory alone. In contrast, Indian players refrain from excessive talking; they allow their performances to do the talking," Kaneria stated in an interview with IANS.

With a rapid start from Ishan Kishan, India set a total of 175/7, marking the highest score in an India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup match in Colombo. Pakistan’s top four spinners struggled, managing only 15 runs, while the Indian spinners wrapped up the match with two overs remaining.

"Pakistan understood that the target was challenging. Did they genuinely think their bowling attack could restrict such a robust Indian batting lineup to around 100 runs and comfortably chase the total?"

"Interestingly, India hadn’t played in Sri Lanka for a while, while Pakistan had already contested multiple matches there. Didn’t the coach grasp the conditions? The lack of strategy was evident; it seemed like a complete absence of a game plan," Kaneria remarked.

He added, "The world is aware that Pakistan struggles when chasing. It’s fortunate they didn’t opt to bat first after winning the toss; otherwise, they could have been bowled out for around 100 runs. Claiming you can defeat anyone after performing well against associate nations seems unrealistic."

Pandya, who opened the bowling for India, dismissed Sahibzada Farhan for a duck in his first over. Jasprit Bumrah claimed the wickets of Saim Ayub and Salman Agha, while Axar Patel took out seasoned player Babar Azam during the powerplay.

"As a senior player, Babar Azam should have provided guidance during tough moments, similar to MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli for India. The absence of a clear game plan was evident, and the team management needed to convey a strong message to stabilize the innings after losing early wickets, indicating that batters should hold on for at least 10-12 overs," Kaneria commented.

With wickets falling consistently, wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan attempted to stabilize Pakistan's innings, scoring 44 off 34 balls. However, just as he seemed poised to shift momentum, Axar Patel dismissed him, leading to a rapid decline in Pakistan's batting.

"Usman showed promise and determination, but he couldn’t shoulder the whole responsibility when the team was faltering. Excessive chatter diverts focus from the game. If the team can’t perform better, they should at least refrain from making unnecessary statements, as performances like these disappoint the fans," the former spinner expressed.

When asked about the struggles of Babar and Shaheen Afridi and the team management's next steps after the defeat, Kaneria replied, "Playing for the national team means performance is paramount. Pakistan’s crucial issue is the lack of reliable backup players. There’s a lot of media speculation about dropping Babar, but if he’s replaced and the new player fails, they’ll likely reinstate him, leading to instability in selection."

Kaneria also pointed out that Shaheen has not been performing at his peak lately, with his rhythm and efficiency dipping. He emphasized that there are talents within the Under-19 ranks that need proper development and a clear path to the senior team.

"After Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan lacks a consistent left-arm pace option at the top level. There are promising bowlers in the Under-19 setup, but they need adequate training and a defined pathway into the senior side. Shaheen has not been at his best recently; his rhythm and effectiveness seem absent," Kaneria stated.

"Selection decisions have also sparked concern. Players like Fakhar Zaman, who have performed in crucial matches against India, deserve clarity and steadfast support. Likewise, Usman Tariq was introduced into the bowling lineup too late; he should have been utilized earlier, especially when Ishan Kishan was gaining momentum," he added.

Kaneria further emphasized that India’s batting depth overshadows Pakistan’s fragile lower order, noting that the excitement surrounding the match was fueled more by off-field controversies than by on-field quality.

"India’s strength lies in its extensive batting lineup, while Pakistan lacks depth in finishing. Much of the hype surrounding this India-Pakistan clash stemmed from their earlier decision to boycott the match rather than on-field prowess," he remarked.

Reflecting on fan expectations, Kaneria pointed out that even in Sri Lanka, where Pakistan typically enjoys support, the declining number of fans is indicative of growing dissatisfaction with the team’s performances.

"Even in Sri Lanka, where Pakistan receives substantial backing, the noticeable drop in fan attendance reflects wider concerns about the trajectory of Pakistan cricket. If performances do not improve, it is unrealistic to expect fans to keep supporting the team. Overall, this was a very disappointing display from Pakistan," Kaneria concluded.