Rohit Sharma and co. got off to a flying start at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 as they outclassed Ireland by 7 wickets in their tournament opener on 5th June 2024 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium at New Jersey.
Batting first, Ireland were skittled out for a paltry score of 96 on a tricky pitch. Rohit Sharma admitted to not knowing what to expect of this pitch and it spoke why the game was a low-scoring one.
Of course that being said, there were no qualms about India’s bowling performances. Led by Jasprit Bumrah, India’s bowlers were breathing fire against Ireland. Bumrah bagged 2 wickets and conceded just 6 runs in his 3 overs. This made him eventually win the player of the match award.
Hardik Pandya bagged 3 wickets and continued his impressive performances for the Indian cricket team. Notably, the vice-captain of India had scored 40* runs in 23 balls against Bangladesh whilst taking a wicket with the ball in India’s warm-up game on 1st June 2024.
On a pitch that had uneven bounce and the batters didn’t know what to expect, Ireland were swept under the carpet by India’s superior-quality bowlers, who didn’t leave any stone unturned to put on a dominant show with the bat.
Gareth Delany struck a few lusty blows with the willow to help Ireland reach 96 but he was eventually run-out by Mohammad Siraj.
In the 2nd innings, Virat Kohli was dismissed for just 1 by Mark Adair as he top-edged a good-length delivery to third man. It was Kohli’s lowest-ever score in T20 World Cups.
Rohit Sharma put on a classy show as he mustered a knock of 52 runs in 37 balls, before being retired hurt after receiving a blow on his shoulder.
Rishabh Pant who has fought back after his card accident in December 2022 and has shown tremendous levels of resilience, played a crucial knock of 36* runs in 26 balls to steer India home.
The Indian cricket team would be pretty happy with the way things panned out for them in their season opener. Rohit Sharma and co. next lock horns with their arch-rivals, Pakistan on 9th June 2024 and they would have a better understanding of this tricky pitch at New Jersey.
Ireland next cross swords with Canada on 7th June 2024 at the same venue.
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