Also Read: T20 World Cup: Mitchell's unbeaten fifty takes New Zealand to final
In the first semi-finals of the current T20 World Cup 2021 in Abu Dhabi, Kane Williamson's team defeated England by five wickets. It was all thanks to a team effort from the New Zealand bowlers and some magnificent batting performances from Daryl Mitchell and Jimmy Neesham. On Sunday, the Black Caps clinched their place in the competition's finals.
Also Read: T20 World Cup: Moeen Ali's unbeaten half-century steers England to 166/4 vs New Zealand
Shoaib Akhtar shared a video on his official YouTube page while reflecting on the high-octane fight. He stated that he would want to see New Zealand play Pakistan in the finals. Today, Pakistan will face a formidable Australian team in the second semi-final (November 11).
New Zealand, according to Akhtar, is under psychological pressure due to the Men in Green. He mentioned this since New Zealand's visit to Pakistan was cancelled earlier this year. All Pakistani cricket fans and the PCB were left with a sour taste in their mouths as a result of this. In order to reach the finals, Pakistan must first cross the River of Fire in Australia, according to the former sprinter.
Eoin Morgan's choices against the Kiwis on Wednesday were also criticised by the former cricketer-turned-expert. England batted in the wrong order, according to Akhtar, and either Morgan, the captain, or Liam Livingston should have batted higher up the order.
Shoaib Akhtar was also disappointed with Kane Williamson and Eoin Morgan's batting performances in the match. The Kiwi skipper, according to Akhtar, should have anchored the innings and stayed at the crease for longer.
Fans are particularly anxious about the Pakistan vs Australia match, believing that the national team would easily defeat Australia in the semi-finals since they are in excellent form and have been unable to defeat in this World Cup.
Azhar Khan, a senior sports journalist, expressed his thoughts on the final between Pakistan and New Zealand.
He wrote in a tweet, "We, Pakistanis, are looking forward to assure you the best security once again in the T20 World Cup final.”