The legendary batsman, known for his unmatched talent and illustrious career, was a clear supporter of the US team’s chances of progressing further in the tournament, but seemed to dismiss Pakistan’s chances of progressing to the next round.
Lara acknowledged that Pakistan still has a realistic chance of progressing to the later stages of the tournament. Nevertheless, he believes the United States will progress to the Super Eight round from Group A along with India.
“Obviously, mathematically they (Pakistan) have a chance. The US just need to win their last game and if they do that I think they will qualify. But we want them to win and we want them to lose. So I’m betting on the US. I think they’re full of confidence and want to get into a historic Super 8, which is huge for US cricket,” Lara told Star Sports.
Former world champions Pakistan got off to a miserable start to their 2024 T20 World Cup campaign, losing to the USA in the opening match in Dallas.
After suffering a humiliating defeat to the USA in the Super Over, Pakistan lost to arch rivals India in a big match in New York.
Team India currently leads Group A with six points, followed by the USA with four points and Pakistan sitting third in the standings, but the 2022 runners-up are struggling to find a way through to the next round and are staring at a group stage elimination.
As of now, Pakistan has an edge over the United States in terms of net run rate (NRR) despite suffering two losses and only one win.
A win against Ireland would help Pakistan maintain their NRR lead over the US. Ireland Babar and team will progress to the Super 8 phase of the T20 World Cup if they win against the United States and then beat Pakistan in the final Group A match.
Co-host USA will need to win at least one point against Ireland to advance.
If Pakistan falters and loses the points, the United States will secure a place in the Super 8 phase.
In both matches, LauderhillIf either match is canceled, the United States will automatically qualify for the Super 8 stage.
