Indian bowlers delivered an impressive performance to save the day in their T20 World Cup 2024 Group A clash against Pakistan. In a nail-biting match held in New York, India successfully defended a modest total of 119 runs, winning by 6 runs and handing Pakistan their second consecutive defeat in the points table.
The star-studded bowling lineup, led by Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah, showcased their prowess on a sluggish pitch where both batting units struggled. Jasprit Bumrah's exceptional spell, which included 14 dot balls and the crucial wickets of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, was pivotal. His disciplined bowling in the death overs ensured that Pakistan fell short of the target, finishing at 113 for 7.
Hardik Pandya, who had an off day with the bat, compensated with a stellar bowling performance. Utilising the conditions effectively, Pandya bowled to the field, hitting hard lengths and deploying bouncers to significant effect. He claimed the wickets of Fakhar Zaman and Shadab Khan, further derailing Pakistan's chase.
The match saw Pakistan adopting a timid batting approach, which ultimately cost them. Mohammad Rizwan, who faced criticism for his 44-ball 31, failed to capitalise on his start, with his dismissal in the 15th over triggering a collapse. Pakistan managed just 33 runs in the final 35 balls after Rizwan's wicket, struggling against India's quality bowling attack.
Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja criticised the team's inability to win big games, particularly after their shocking loss to the USA in the tournament opener in Dallas. Raja highlighted the psychological aspect of Pakistan's struggles, emphasising their failure to seize opportunities against India in World Cup matches.
India's 7th victory in eight T20 World Cup encounters against Pakistan further solidified their dominance. The match, however, was not without its challenges for India. Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary cricketer, was critical of India's batting approach, describing it as “reckless and arrogant.” He pointed out the need for respect towards Pakistan's high-quality bowling attack, which was evident in the dismissals of key players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma early in the innings.
India's batting, which posted 50 for 2 in the powerplay despite losing their openers, struggled after the initial six overs. Axar Patel's inventive batting in the powerplay and Rishabh Pant's gritty 42 off 31 balls were the highlights. However, the team's recklessness saw them losing their last seven wickets for just 30 runs, eventually getting bowled out for 119.
Pakistan's fielding woes continued as they dropped Rishabh Pant multiple times, which allowed him to make a significant contribution. Despite the drops, Pakistan's disciplined bowling kept the game within reach, but their batting collapse under pressure led to India's victory.
India, now at the top of Group A with a better Net Run Rate than the USA, will look to carry this momentum into their next game against the USA in New York on Wednesday. The win over Pakistan has boosted their confidence, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the T20 World Cup 2024.
