Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant Make Light Work of 97-Run Target to Hand India Winning Start at T20 World Cup 2024
New York, June 5, 2024 – India’s campaign at the T20 World Cup 2024 got off to a winning start as they comfortably chased down a modest target of 97 runs against Ireland. Veteran opener Rohit Sharma and dynamic wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant steered the team to an 8-wicket victory with 46 balls to spare.
India’s Pace Quartet Shines in Bundling Out Ireland
Opting to bowl first, India’s fast bowling quartet of Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, and Hardik Pandya made light work of the Irish batting lineup. The seam movement and uneven bounce on the surface proved too tricky for the Irish batters, as they were bundled out for a paltry 96 runs in just 16 overs. Hardik Pandya was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for 27 runs, while Bumrah and Arshdeep chipped in with 2 wickets each.
Rohit and Pant Steer India to a Comfortable Victory
In the club cricket fantasy chase, veteran opener Rohit Sharma got India off to a brisk start, scoring 52 runs off just 35 balls before retiring hurt. Rishabh Pant then took charge, playing a measured unbeaten innings of 36 to guide India home comfortably. The 100-ball cricket live match was wrapped up in just 14 overs, with India winning by 8 wickets.
Challenging Pitch Conditions at the New T20I Venue
While the win was comprehensive, the match will be remembered for the challenging pitch conditions at the new T20I venue in New York. Batters from both teams struggled to cope with the inconsistent bounce, with several taking body blows throughout the game. India’s four-pronged pace attack, however, proved to be the difference, perfectly exploiting the surface to bundle out Ireland cheaply.
“The backyard cricket-esque conditions are sure to be a talking point leading up to that high-voltage clash.”
With the 100-ball cricket schedule now in full swing, India will be keen to build on this winning start as they prepare to face arch-rivals Pakistan on June 9 at the same venue.
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