In match 8 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, India’s captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and chose to bowl first against Ireland at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York.

Bowlers Dominate on a Tricky Pitch

The pitch at Nassau County Cricket Stadium, already under scrutiny after the South Africa-Sri Lanka game, proved to be a fast bowler’s paradise. Arshdeep Singh struck twice in his second over, removing the Irish openers and setting the tone for the rest of the Indian pacers.

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Ireland’s innings quickly crumbled to 50/8, with only a brief resistance from Gareth Delany and Joshua Little adding 27 runs for the ninth wicket.

Hardik Pandya and the Pacers Shine

Hardik Pandya, who has faced criticism for his IPL performance, showed his prowess by taking three crucial wickets. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh each took two wickets, showcasing a collective effort from the Indian bowling attack. The uneven, two-paced pitch gave no breathing room to the Irish batters, who were bowled out for 96.

Ireland crumbles under India’s bowling onslaught

After Tucker’s dismissal, Ireland’s innings quickly collapsed under India’s disciplined and aggressive bowling. Hardik Pandya removed Harry Tector and Curtis Campher in quick succession, while Mohammed Siraj dismissed George Dockrell. The lower order offered little resistance, with only Gareth Delany scoring a brisk 26. Jasprit Bumrah and Axar Patel wrapped up the innings at 96 runs in 16 overs. Pandya finished with impressive figures of 3/27 in four overs, as India’s bowlers dominated, capitalizing on every opportunity.

Key Moments of the Match

• Arshdeep Singh’s Early Strikes: Arshdeep Singh removed the Irish openers in his second over, setting the stage for India’s bowling dominance.
• Gareth Delany and Joshua Little’s Partnership: Delany and Little managed to add 27 runs, the highest partnership of the innings, before Bumrah broke it.
• Hardik Pandya’s Stellar Performance: Pandya took three wickets, including a classical seam delivery to dismiss Curtis Campher, highlighting his return to form.
• Ireland’s Collapse: Ireland’s innings ended at 96, with a mix-up leading to the final run-out.

India’s Tactical Decisions

Rohit Sharma’s decision to bowl first in cloudy conditions paid off as the fast bowlers took full advantage of the pitch. Notably absent were Yashasvi Jaiswal and Kuldeep Yadav, as Rohit opted for an all-rounder and pacer-heavy lineup against Paul Stirling’s Ireland.

With a target of 97, the focus now shifts to the Indian batters and how they handle the tricky conditions. This match not only highlighted India’s bowling strength but also set the stage for their upcoming high-stakes encounter against Pakistan.

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