Pakistan's 2024 T20 World Cup campaign got off to a nightmare start on Thursday, as they were defeated by minnows USA in a super over.
The after-effects of that shocking defeat seems to be catching up with the Pakistan players who were, till then, having a gala time in the USA.
The Babar Azam-led side had been interacting with fans over a private, paid dinner in Dallas before the USA match and were even spotted at local events.
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But the mood in the camp has now turned sombre after a harrowing defeat that has even put their Super 8 qualification in jeopardy.
Did Pakistan cancel a gala dinner in New York?
As criticism and disappointment over Pakistan's loss to USA poured in, the team have been forced to cancel some of their plans in New York.
Ahead of their game against India on June 9, Pakistan had scheduled a gala dinner, a ticketed event, where select fans could interact with players during the event.
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Now, after the backlash against the team, the gala dinner has been cancelled. However, that has not stopped the volley of questions they have been facing.
Former Pakistan wicket-keeper Rashid Latif was quick to question the team management and players, asking the logic behind such events during an important event like T20 World Cup.
Who is providing the tour schedule in advance to who? are these pre-arranged?, who is giving the go ahead for events during a World Cup? @TheRealPCBMedia pic.twitter.com/juYxdjcZp7
— Rashid Latif | 🇵🇰 (@iRashidLatif68) June 7, 2024
It certainly is strange to see such events with fans during a World Cup. However, Pakistan have now decided to scrap the dinner.
READ: Empty stands at India's T20 World Cup match? ICC slammed for premium ticket prices
When is India vs Pakistan match?
Pakistan will face arch-rivals India in their second outing at the T20 World Cup 2024. The Asian powerhouses will clash at the Nassau County Stadium in New York on June 09. The match starts at 8:00 pm IST.
