Usman Tariq's first reaction after losing to India in key T20 World Cup clash: 'After the match...'

Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq has opened up after his team’s disappointing loss to India in a crucial ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 clash. He said that his side is focused on learning from its mistakes and moving forward after the humiliating defeat at the hands of arch-rivals India.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Pakistan’s final Group A game, Tariq backed the senior players and said defeats are part of the sport. “Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi have won many matches for us. Winning and losing are part of the game. Going forward, you will see us play well,” Tariq said.

Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi performed poorly against India. While Babar failed to anchor the chase when his team needed him the most, Shaheen conceded a lot of runs during India’s innings. Other senior players, including Shadab Khan, also didn’t do well as India demolished them in the game.

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Talking about the team’s reaction after the defeat, he explained that the dressing room discussions focused on identifying errors. “After the match, the discussion is always about what mistakes we made. If one match doesn’t go well, that’s part of the game,” he stated.

“Problems arise when you don’t work on your mistakes. We have worked on our mistakes. If we don’t repeat them, there won’t be any problem,” he added.

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Tariq also addressed the issue of pressure in high-profile matches like the one against India. “Feeling pressure is normal. Controlling pressure is part of the job, and we have worked on that. But right now, there is no pressure. I didn’t feel that the team was under pressure,” he concluded.

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In the game against India, Pakistan opted for a spin-heavy bowling attack with Tariq being hyped as their trump card. However, the plan did not work as India posted a strong total of 175/5 in 20 overs, thanks to a blistering half-century from Ishan Kishan and some questionable decisions by Salman Agha.

Pakistan’s spinners struggled to contain the runs. Tariq was brought in very late, when Pakistan were already chasing the game. Abrar Ahmed conceded 38 runs in three overs, while Shadab Khan gave away 17 runs in a single over, with neither picking up a wicket.

Pakistan’s batting then collapsed under pressure and they were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs after a poor start. Pakistan currently sit third in Group A with two wins and one defeat, holding a net run rate of -0.403. A win against Namibia in their final group game would take them to six points and seal their place in the Super Eight. However, a defeat will put their hopes at risk.