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The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York. However, a potential hurdle has emerged – the pitch itself.
India vs Pakistan, a blockbuster clash with a pitch conundrum
Concerns about the pitch's uneven bounce and carry arose during the opening match between South Africa and Sri Lanka at the same venue. These conditions continued on the practice pitches where the Indian team trained at Cantiague Park. Proactive measures are underway to address these concerns. As per an NDTV report, the BCCI has lodged an unofficial complaint with the ICC regarding the practice pitches. Additionally, the BCCI arranged a special pre-match practice session with a throwdown specialist from Sri Lanka, Nuwan Seneviratne. They also modified one of the practice pitches to offer a more abrasive surface, hoping to mimic the game conditions.
Whether these steps will be enough to ensure a fair and balanced contest between India and Pakistan remains to be seen. The pitch will undoubtedly be a factor in this high-voltage clash. India's preparations for their high-profile clash against Pakistan were met with a minor concern. During a practice session, Rohit Sharma was struck on the thumb. Later, Rohit brushed off any concerns about injury and carried on with his batting in full flow. Despite that BCCI reportedly submitted an unofficial complaint to the ICC regarding the practice pitch conditions at Cantiague Park.
However, later in the pre-match press conference, Rohit gave a big update on his injury. He said that injury is secondary and nothing can get bigger than winning a World Cup.
“It's tough but that is why I would like to highlight the experience we have, blows count for nothing. When you play in places like SA, AUS, we have to overcome the challenges. We thrive in these difficult moments. It's the WC, so nothing can get bigger than this,” Rohit Sharma said in the pre-match press-conference.
Notably, India kickstarted their T20 World Cup campaign with a resounding 8-wicket victory over Ireland at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York. Opting to bowl first, the Indian bowlers displayed exceptional control and discipline. They picked up wickets at regular intervals, dismantling the Irish batting line-up for a meager 96 runs.
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Hardik Pandya emerged as the wrecker-in-chief, claiming three crucial wickets. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh provided excellent support, bagging two wickets each. Chasing a modest target, India showcased their batting prowess. Rohit Sharma anchored the chase with a well-composed half-century, providing a solid foundation. Rishabh Pant provided the finishing flourish with a quickfire 36-run knock off just 26 balls, ensuring a comfortable victory with plenty of overs to spare.
Meanwhile, Pakistan suffered a big upset against USA and will look to bounce back in the clash against India.
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