India beats Pakistan by 6 runs in a T20 World Cup match in New York.

New Delhi, June 10, 2024:  In a low-scoring thriller at the T20 World Cup on Sunday, India held their nerve to defeat arch-rival Pakistan by 6 runs, defending a modest total of 119 on a challenging New York pitch.

 Pakistan was restricted to 113/7, thanks to a sensational bowling effort led by Jasprit Bumrah.

India made a good start against its arch-rival:

India suffered a dramatic batting collapse after being comfortably placed at 80/3 overs, losing their next seven wicket for just 39 runs and getting bowled out in 19 overs.

On a surface where the ball stopped after pitching and stroke-making was difficult, Rishabh Pant stood out with a crucial 42 off 31 balls, ensuring India reached a fighting total.

India’s innings began with promise, but early blows derailed momentum.

Rohit Sharma (13 off 12) struck an early six using a pick-up shot but mistimed a similar stroke and was caught at square leg.

Virat Kohli fell cheaply trying to cut over point, only to be brilliantly caught.

Promoted to No. 4, Axar Patel (20 off 18) stitched an important partnership with Pant. Despite getting three reprieves, Pant eventually fell at mid-off while trying to accelerate. Suryakumar Yadav once again failed to make an impact.

Pakistan’s chase:

Pakistan made a steady start with Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, but Bumrah broke through early, dismissing Babar for 13. Rizwan then combined with Usman Khan and later Fakhar Zaman to take Pakistan to 80/3 in 14 overs, putting them in a strong position.

However, tight, disciplined spells from Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel built immense pressure. When Rizwan tried to break free, Bumrah returned to cast him for 31 off 44, a turning point in the match. Pakistan’s lower order failed to cope with the rising required rate, and India closed out the game clinically.

Bowling figures:

India—Bumrah 3/13 (4), Hardik 2/24 (4), Axar 1/11 (2). Pakistan—Naseem Shah 3/21 (4), Haris Rauf 3/21 (3), Mohammad Amir 2/23 (4).

Pakistan’s top scores were Rizwan (31 off 44), Imad Wasim (15 off 23), and Fakhar Zaman (13 off 8).

Rohit Sharma reacts:

“We didn’t bat well enough. At the halfway mark, we were in a good position but couldn’t build partnerships. On this kind of pitch, every run matters. With our bowling lineup, we were confident,” Rohit said after the match. Speaking on Bumrah, he added. “He’s going from strength to strength. He’s a genius, we all know that. We don’t want to talk too much—just want him to stay in this mindset throughout the World Cup.”

He also praised the crowd, “The fans were superb. They never disappoint. I’m sure they will go home with a big smile. It’s just the start; we have a long way to go.”

Also Read: The BCCI announced the Team India Squad for the T20 World Cup.

EOM.