Back on November 2, Pietersen had tweeted that only Afghanistan and Pakistan have the potential to beat England, but only if the game is played in Sharjah. He labelled England as favourites to win the marquee tournament. However, that prediction turned false when New Zealand knocked out England in the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup on Wednesday.
“Only Pakistan or Afghanistan can beat England in this T20 World Cup. BUT and it’s a BIG BUT, the game would have to be played on a used wicket in Sharjah. Anywhere else, just hand England the trophy like Chelsea should be handed the EPL trophy RIGHT NOW!” Pietersen had tweeted.
After England’s campaign was done and dusted from the multi-team tournament, Jaffer hilariously trolled Pietersen for his tweet. He tweeted a picture of Kane Williamson with a caption, “Haa, hum to yaha bass Burj Khalifa dekhne aaye hai.” (Yeah, we have just come to see the Burj Khalifa)
The former World Cup winner England was looking forward to sealing the tournament under Eoin Morgan’s captaincy. But England suffered a 5-wicket defeat against New Zealand in first semi-final.
Chasing 167, the Black Caps lost two big wickets of Martin Guptill and Kane Williamson early. To a large extent, England bowlers dominated the game, but it was Daryl Mitchell ( 72 off 42) and James Neesham (27 off 11) who the tide in New Zealand’s favour.
“Definitely something that stood out today. Has batted beautifully in a high-pressure situation. T20 cricket – it’s a game of small margins. Depending on the surface, the short side – these things can be match-defining. He came out and hit the ball hard, that’s what he does (Neesham). Changed the momentum really,” said Williamson in the post-match presentation ceremony.
“Fantastic knock from Daryll, hit the big shots when it counted. We’ll be following that match – going to be fantastic. We know we have another challenge coming up and we’ll change our focus after tonight,” he added.
After Pakistan’s defeat in the second semi-final, New Zealand are set to play Australia in the summit clash on Sunday, November 14.
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