T20 World Cup 2021: "I request the whole nation to stay behind the team," Akhtar's message for Pakistan fans after semi-final loss

Australia won the semi-final against Pakistan by 5 wickets and will face New Zealand in the final.

Pakistan cricket team | GETTY

Australia are through to the T20 World Cup 2021 final after beating Pakistan by five wickets in a thrilling encounter. Pakistan's total of 176/4 looked like a tough ask, but Australian lower-order batters, Matthew Wade and Marcus Stoinis did the job for them.

After David Warner made 49, Wade smashed a 17-ball unbeaten 41 and Stoinis was not out on 40 off 31 deliveries as Australia chased the target in 19 overs. For Pakistan, Shadab Khan bagged 4/26 and gave them a good chance of sealing the match before a quickfire knock by Wade.

Ex-cricketer Shoaib Akhtar urged Pakistan fans to support their team after the loss in the semi-final which ended their memorable T20 World Cup campaign. Pakistan were unbeaten in the Super 12 stage and they also defeated India by 10 wickets. 

ALSO READ: Shoaib Akhtar refuses to accept apology of PTV host Nauman Niaz after on-air tiff

"There is a lot to learn from this game. I am thoroughly disappointed and heartbroken. This World Cup should have been ours," he said on his Youtube channel.

"It is terrible, my feelings are with you but we can't be bad losers. We are going to accept this defeat with open arms and broken hearts. We have done well. Pakistan team I am with you, it's ok."

"I request the whole nation to stay behind the team and support them. They have done wonderfully well. I would've loved to see this World Cup in our soil but unfortunately, it's out of our hands," he added.

Wade was dropped by Hassan Ali after which the Aussie batter smashed three consecutive sixes off Shaheen Afridi in the 19th over and completed the chase. 

"Hassan Ali, bring your confidence back, we have a lot to play with. He messed it up but it's fine. Maybe that catch would have made a difference," Akhtar said.

 
 

By - 12 Nov, 2021

    Share Via