Cricket News sort by Mohammad Hafeez

Make no mistake. Pakistan have been the second best team in the tournament so far, next only to the ruthless Australians.

The two teams that will be battling it out in the first of the two Super Eights clash on Friday are among the most well-balanced outfits in the tournament. If Pakistan have exceptional batting talent and three of the best T20 bowlers in the world, South Africa have an experienced line-up of batsmen, capable of delivering against the best and pace bowlers of the highest calibre.

There is something about this present Pakistan T20 squad that is different from other teams that represented the country in various formats over the years.

Following their disappointing loss to New Zealand, Bangladesh now face an improbable task to qualify for the Super Eights. Mathematically, there are still in with a chance, but Mushfiqur Rahim’s men will have to deliver something spectacular if they have to get through.

Pakistan held onto a 13-run win over New Zealand in the Group D Match at Pallekele. Despite the defeat, New Zealand have done enough to ease into the Super Eights.

In a way, it’s surprising that, of all teams, Pakistan have the best World T20 record. After all, they aren’t renowned for their consistency. They were finalists in 2007, champions in 2009, and almost finalists again in 2010.

After a sensational tie, the winner of the contest in the 2nd T20I was decided through the Super Over. Pakistan defeated Australia in the Super Over through an exciting last ball finish chasing down the target of 12 from 6 balls.

Australia suffered its heaviest defeat in T20Is at Dubai today after Pakistan had dismissed them for a sorry total of 89. Pakistan needing just 90 runs to win from 20 overs cruised to a 7-wicket win with as many as 31 balls to spare.

Australia held their nerve to chase a stiff target of 245 against a quality bowling attack to clinch the Cool & Cool Cup 2012 2-1. The Aussies defeated Pakistan by 3 wickets with three overs to spare in what was an exciting Third and Final ODI at Sharjah.