So, after the amazing and triumphant scenes in Nottingham at the semi-final, it was unfancied Pakistan who took the honours in the final in London beating Sri Lanka’s total of 138-6 with eight balls remaining.
Talismanic all-rounder, Shahid Afridi, man of the match in the semi-final, was again the hero, hitting 54 not out from 40 balls to steer Pakistan to an eight-wicket win.
Pakistan’s transformation from World Twenty20 also-rans to champions showed the unpredictability of this exciting form of cricket. But who’s to say that the momentum the players gained from their Trent Bridge semi-final victory and the subsequent display of passion from their fans didn’t carry through to their inspired triumph in the final.
Remember that Pakistan had lost two of their first three matches and needed a win against the Netherlands just to make the last eight. And it was only victory against New Zealand which gave them the springboard to move towards the ultimate prize.
So congratulations to Pakistan. And what a great Tournament was had here in Nottingham. More of the same please over the coming years!
