Indian skipper Rohit Sharma shared an injury update after Team Indias comprehensive triumph over Ireland today (June 5). The Men in Blue kicked off their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a resounding eightwicket victory over Ireland at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.
India lost Virat Kohli early in their 97-run chase. Rohit Sharma too had hitches before finding his rhythm. He had a solid half-century before retiring due to a shoulder injury. The Indian skipper appeared in discomfort as he headed back to the changing room with the physio.
Fans were relieved when Rohit confirmed that there was nothing to be concerned about after walking away in excruciating discomfort.
When asked about the injury after the game, he informed the host broadcaster:
“Just a little sore (the arm).”
Despite the injury Rohit was in fine form during his 37ball innings of 52 hitting three sixes and four boundaries. Returning to international cricket post a harrowing car accident in December 2022 Rishabh Pant showed promising form. Pant remained unbeaten at 36 runs from 26 deliveries and executed an aggressive reverse scoop to seal the match.
Aside from India’s overwhelming victory, what drew the most attention was the New York wicket. Rohit Sharma commented on the pitch utilized in today’s game, saying:
“We were quite unsure of what to expect of the pitch. It’s a new ground, new venue, drop-in pitch. Not really aware of what it is like playing on a pitch, which is five months old. It was all about getting used to the conditions, so that’s why we bowled first to look at the conditions, see how the pitch plays.”
“Don’t think the wicket settled down when we batted second. To get those two points was very important. When there’s enough on the pitch, you’ve got to stick to the basics, think of bowling Test match lengths, try and hit them consistently.”
Rohit Sharma
The wicket in the United States has also made headlines, with numerous former cricketers chastising the International Cricket Council for utilizing unprepared pitches.
“All eleven of us need to come together and contribute” – Rohit Sharma on Pakistan game
After a successful start to the T20 World Cup, India will now focus on the crucial match against Pakistan. The matchup is expected to determine the result of Group A.
Rohit Sharma said they will prepare for the next game with today’s wicket in mind. He believed that everyone would have to rise up to fight the Men in Green.
“Don’t know what to expect from the pitch but we will prepare as per the conditions like this one. That is going to be the kind of game where all eleven of us need to come together and contribute.”
Rohit Sharma
India and Pakistan will face off at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday, June 9.