The T20 World Cup clash between India and Pakistan in New York lived up to its high expectations but with an unexpected twist. In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistan’s bowlers staged a remarkable comeback, reducing India from a strong position to being all out for 119.

India’s Batting Performance

The much-anticipated match started with a delay due to rain, pushing the toss to a later time. Pakistan won the toss and elected to bowl first, a decision influenced by the overcast conditions and the damp pitch at Nassau County Stadium.

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Early Dismissals: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

Rohit’s early exit was followed by another blow as Virat Kohli, one of the pillars of India’s batting, was dismissed cheaply. Naseem Shah bowled a wide delivery that tempted Kohli into a cut shot, only for him to edge it to Usman Khan at cover-point. With Kohli gone for just 4, India was in a precarious position at 24-2.

Struggles of the Middle Order

The middle order failed to stabilize the innings. Axar Patel was bowled by Naseem Shah in the 8th over, and Suryakumar Yadav, after hitting three boundaries off Haris Rauf, fell in the 12th over. Yadav’s dismissal highlighted Rauf’s resilience and ability to make a comeback after being hit for runs.

Key Contributions and Fall of Wickets

Rishabh Pant was the lone warrior for India, managing to score something significant amidst the collapse. However, the wickets kept tumbling around him. Shivam Dube scooped a ball straight to Naseem Shah, and then Amir struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Pant and Ravindra Jadeja. The Indian innings fell apart rapidly, ending at 119 all out in 19 overs.

India has never defended any 130-plus target in T20Is. The lowest target defended by the men in blue in T20 Internationals was 138 against Zimbabwe in 2016.

India all out for 119, records its lowest T20I score against Pakistan.

Pakistan’s Bowling Attack

Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Amir, were exceptional. They bowled with discipline, exploiting the conditions to perfection and never allowing the Indian batters to settle.

Naseem Shah’s Impact

Naseem Shah was the standout performer, claiming crucial wickets and turning the game in Pakistan’s favor. He dismissed Virat Kohli, Axar Patel, and Shivam Dube, using his pace and swing to devastating effect.

Haris Rauf’s Turnaround

Haris Rauf had a challenging start, conceding three boundaries in his first over, but he roared back with a vengeance. He took the prized wicket of Suryakumar Yadav and then contributed significantly in the field, catching Rohit Sharma. His spell was instrumental in keeping the pressure on India.

Mohammad Amir’s Vital Spell

Amir’s experience shone through as he picked up consecutive wickets in the 15th over. His dismissals of Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja further crippled India’s innings. Amir’s ability to bowl tight lines and vary his pace made him a tough opponent for the Indian middle order.

Overall Batting Collapse

India’s batting collapse was swift and brutal. From a position of relative stability at 89-3, they were bowled out for 119. The inability to build partnerships and the consistent fall of wickets underlined the struggles of the Indian batting lineup against a disciplined Pakistani attack.

Pakistan’s fielding was top-notch, with key catches and quick reflexes adding to India’s woes. Haris Rauf’s catch to dismiss Rohit Sharma and Naseem Shah’s safe hands in the field exemplified their sharpness and readiness.

First 10 overs: 81/3
Next 9 overs: 38/7

Lowest totals for India in T20 World Cups
79 vs NZ Nagpur 2016
110/7 vs NZ Dubai 2021
118/8 vs SA Nottingham 2009
119 vs Pak New York 2024 *

First time Pakistan have bowled out India in T20 Internationals