Fast bowler Naseem Shah talks about the emotional toll that the team’s close six-run loss to India in the 2024 T20 World Cup put on him.
Remembering the event, Shah feels dissatisfied. Shah bowled excelled during the match with 3-21, which included taking out Virat Kohli.
When Shah came to bat, Pakistan’s chances of making 16 runs off the next three deliveries seemed remote. He has hit two boundaries as tail-ender. The Pakistan-11, however, had then lost the complete control on the match.
He explained the psychological fallout from such high-stakes games in an interview with Cricbuzz.
“Emotions are always high during such such matches. I had not anticipated [the outcome to transpire as it did].” Certain things you like to keep private. At that moment, a lot of things that had been pent-up came to light in front of me, said Shah.
“I have not seen many times such things in my life. These moments remind me I need someone to talk to positively.”
“When the team struggles, it is difficult for me to find contentment in my own performance because of my desire to win.”
“We cannot please ourself during these moments. Saying I did my bit when your team loses is not enough.” He says media and supporters had not singled out him only.”
“I’m a competitive person. Even when I lose when playing on my street or at home, I still feel let down. I play to win, and I was quite hurt by our World Cup departure,” he remarked.
The fast bowler revealed that he has been asked about the defeat by supporters and even family members, expressing the widespread displeasure.
“People ask me why we lost when they approach me at restaurants. My family have inquired about it as well. I know social media is what motivates their opinions, and as a player, all I can do is listen to them,” he continued.