Why did Pakistan lose the ODI World Cup 2023 in India? Tells Mickey Arthur

• Former Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur expresses dismay over the hostile atmosphere at Narendra Modi Stadium during the Cricket World Cup clash with India.
• Lack of visible support in the colossal cricketing arena affected Pakistan’s motivation and performance.
• Despite the challenging circumstances, Arthur commends the players for their resilience in the face of adversity.

Former Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur has voiced his disappointment over the hostile atmosphere at Narendra Modi Stadium during the Cricket World Cup 2023 clash with India. Arthur noted the challenging environment created by the absence of support for Pakistan in the colossal cricketing arena led by Babar Azam.

The world’s largest cricket stadium, hosting five World Cup clashes, presented a daunting spectacle that left the Pakistani team grappling with overwhelming circumstances. Arthur highlighted the tough and hostile experience of not having any Pakistan support at the stadium, a crucial factor for the team’s motivation.

The lack of support in the stadium was particularly challenging for the players, as Pakistan are known for thriving on the incredible support they usually receive. Despite the electrifying atmosphere that drew jam-packed crowds for matches involving India, Pakistan found it difficult to engage in the simple dynamics of bat and ball in Ahmedabad.

Making their comeback on Indian soil after seven years, the Green army struggled not only with the game but also with the palpable absence of support. Pakistan finished 5th on the points table, failing to make it to the top 4 and qualify for the next stage of the World Cup. The team managed to secure wins against underdog teams but faced challenges against stronger opponents in the tournament.

What Mickey Arthur says on Pakistan’s journey in World Cup 2023?

Despite the challenging circumstances, Arthur commended the players for not complaining and giving their best effort. The lack of visible or audible support played a role in the team’s motivation, affecting their performance in crucial moments.

Arthur emphasized the role of a supportive fan base in motivating players and highlighted the impact of the hostile environment on Pakistan’s Cricket World Cup campaign. The Narendra Modi Stadium witnessed significant fluctuations in attendance, with non-India matches struggling to fill the stands, contributing to the overall tough experience for the Pakistani team.

“It was extremely tough not having any Pakistan support. The one thing that really drives the Pakistan team is the incredible support they receive at grounds and hotels. Here we never had that, and that was quite tough in a World Cup, particularly for the players,” Arthur was quoted as saying by the Wisden.

“As you can imagine it was a tough, hostile environment in Ahmedabad. But we were expecting this, and to their credit our players never moaned or complained once. They cracked on and tried their best — nevertheless it ultimately does play a role in motivation when you can’t see or hear that support base around you,” he added.

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