Former Pakistan pace bowler Shoaib Akhtar has claimed that New Zealand never looked like a team that could defeat Australia in the final of the T20 World Cup 2021. He also mentioned that Australia “ruthlessly” outclassed the Kiwis where they won eight wickets in Dubai.
Shoaib Akhtar, who was present in the stands during the match, has shared a video on his YouTube channel reviewing the clash also. He even stated that Australia never allowed New Zealand to make a comeback in the game. In his video review, he said:
“New Zealand seemed like a team who can beat Australia. Australia played ruthlessly and toppled New Zealand. Australia never allowed the Kiwi side to make a comeback in the match. One thing I did not understand was, what was Glenn Phillips doing? Neither does he bat well nor does he bowl. I did not understand his selection.”
“New Zealand lacks pacers who can take out the whole line up. They need to add an X-factor in their side. Felt sad for the team. They lost the 92’ semi-final to us and then again in 99’. Then in 2015, 2019 and now in 2021. But one thing that is nice is that New Zealand qualifies for all the tournaments but they are just unable to reach the finish line,” Akhtar continued.Â
Spirit of cricket & "nice guys" is all good & appreciated, but here onwards, if New Zealand has to cross the final hurdle & be champions,they'll have to bring some ruthlessness in their game. That extra craziness which wins you trophies.
Full video: https://t.co/ysWogOYHGn pic.twitter.com/tdgjmiE4rb
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) November 14, 2021
Shoaib Akhtar also said that New Zealand was required to add an element of ruthlessness to win the match as well.
“Kiwi Team has a bright future but they have to toughen up a bit, become more ruthless and pick themselves up,” Akhtar added.
“It could have been better if the final was between Ind and Pak” – Shoaib Akhtar
However, Shoaib Akhtar also shared his desire to witness an India-Pakistan final. While Pakistan reached the semi-final being the unbeaten team in the group stage, Team India failed to make it to the knockout stage a swell.
“The tournament was a lot of fun but it could have been better if the final was between Ind and Pak. Whatever happens in the world, the match that happens between India and Pakistan that cannot happen elsewhere. That kind of fun and atmosphere cannot be anywhere. But I used to think that this World Cup belonged to Pakistan,” Shoaib Akhtar concluded.
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