In a gripping low-scoring encounter at the Twenty20 World Cup, India triumphed over rival Pakistan by six runs, defending a modest total of 119 runs. The match, delayed by rain for 50 minutes at Long Island’s Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, kept fans on the edge of their seats.
After being bowled out for 119 in 19 overs on a challenging wicket, India’s prospects seemed uncertain. However, a stellar performance by pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah turned the tide. Bumrah delivered a match-winning spell, claiming 3 wickets for just 14 runs in his four overs.
“We were looking at 140, but nevertheless, the bowlers did the job,” remarked India’s captain Rohit Sharma. “At the halfway stage, we got together and said if things can happen to us, they can happen to them too. Bumrah is going from strength to strength. He’s a genius with the ball.”
Chasing 120, Pakistan appeared poised for victory at 80-3 after 14 overs. Yet, Bumrah’s dismissal of top-scorer Mohammad Rizwan, who was clean bowled for 31, shifted the momentum. Pakistan’s middle-order struggled against tight Indian bowling, managing only two boundaries in the final six overs. They concluded their innings at 113-7, falling short of the target.
Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam reflected on the loss, saying, “We played too many dot balls, and the pressure was on us. You can’t expect too much from tailenders. We were not up to the mark in the first six overs; we had targeted 40-45 runs, but we couldn’t capitalize properly.”
The victory places India at the top of Group A with four points, sharing the lead with co-host USA but ahead on net run rate. Pakistan, having lost their first two matches, face an uphill battle to progress to the tournament’s next stage. They must win their remaining games against Canada and Ireland and rely on other results to advance.
India’s win not only reinforces their position in the tournament but also highlights the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket, where momentum can shift rapidly. Fans worldwide were treated to a classic encounter between two cricketing giants, underscoring the sport’s thrilling appeal.
Reference(s):
India defend 119 in low-scoring win over Pakistan at T20 World Cup
cgtn.com
