India and Pakistan will face off for the eighth time in T20 World Cups in a highly anticipated match on Sunday. Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam will need to be mindful of the conditions at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. India kicked off their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a victory over Ireland in tough conditions. Rohit Sharma scored a brilliant fifty before retiring hurt after being struck on the arm.  

A major positive for India is the form of their bowlers, particularly Jasprit Bumrah, supported by Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj. On the other hand, their arch rival  Pakistan experienced a setback when they lost to the USA in their opening match. They will need to improve their bowling and some aspects of their batting. Shaheen Afridi and Babar Azam will be crucial with both the bat and the ball. Let us look at top three player battles to watch out for ahead of the big game; 

Jasprit Bumrah vs Babar Azam 

The Indian team and fans will once again rely on Jasprit Bumrah to perform with the ball. The 30-year-old bowled exceptionally well against Ireland, putting the batters under pressure with his swing and pace. For India, Babar Azam’s wicket will be crucial to breaking the morale of the Pakistani team. If the Pakistan skipper gets going, it could be a long day in the field for the Indians. The 29-year-old was Pakistan’s top scorer against the USA with 44 runs and will be expected to lead the batting effort for his side. 

Virat Kohli vs Mohammad Amir 

Virat Kohli experienced a rare setback in the last game against Ireland, scoring just one run, his lowest in a T20 World Cup. Determined to bounce back, he aims to play a significant knock against Pakistan, a team he traditionally excels against. Kohli will face a familiar rival, Mohammad Amir, who has challenged him in the past. This match-up promises excitement, as Kohli has scored 16 runs off 19 balls against Amir in T20Is, with Amir dismissing him twice in ODIs. Kohli’s performance will be crucial for India’s quest for another victory. 

Rohit Sharma vs Shaheen Shah Afridi 

Rohit Sharma was India’s standout batter in the first game against Ireland, scoring a crucial half-century on a challenging surface in New York before retiring hurt. His form will be vital for India, as an early dismissal could put the team in jeopardy. Rohit aims to build on his performance and provide a solid start for India. However, his main concern will be facing left-arm pacers, particularly Shaheen Afridi, who troubled him in the 2021 T20 World Cup. The duel between Rohit and Shaheen will be one to watch, with Shaheen having bowled six balls to Rohit in T20Is and dismissed him once.