T20 World Cup 2024: Vintage Bumrah turns the tide for India to win a nail-biting thriller - Cricket Winner

Cricket fans witnessed a thrilling encounter as India faced Pakistan in a nail-biting match at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. Jasprit Bumrah, India’s ace speedster, delivered a masterclass in bowling, turning the tide in India’s favor during the crucial final overs. His performance was instrumental in securing a narrow six-run victory for India, showcasing his value as a match-winner.

Match Context and Setup

The match was played on a challenging pitch, which made batting difficult for both teams. India, batting first, struggled to post a competitive total, managing only 119 runs.

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The conditions were overcast, and the pitch offered variable bounce, making it a bowler’s paradise. Pakistan, chasing a modest target of 120, started cautiously, aiming to provide a solid foundation through their openers, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.

Jasprit Bumrah’s Early Impact

Bumrah’s first spell was crucial in setting the tone for the match. His disciplined line and length kept the Pakistani batsmen in check. The first significant breakthrough came when Bumrah dismissed Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, for 13.

Babar was caught by Suryakumar Yadav, leaving Pakistan at 26 for 1 after 5 overs. This early wicket was vital in applying pressure on Pakistan’s batting line-up.

Key Moments in the Match

Mohammad Rizwan anchored the innings for Pakistan, playing a steady hand. Alongside Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman and Usman Khan contributed with scores of 12 and 16, respectively.

At 73 for 3 in the 13th over, Pakistan appeared to be in control, needing just 47 runs off 47 balls. However, the match was delicately poised, with both teams sensing an opportunity.

Turning Point: Bumrah’s Return

The turning point of the match came when Bumrah returned for his second spell. With Pakistan needing 47 runs from 47 balls, Bumrah’s precision and skill came to the fore. He bowled Mohammad Rizwan for 28, a crucial wicket that shifted the momentum.

Rizwan, who was batting confidently, misjudged a length delivery that stayed low, resulting in his stumps being rattled. Bumrah further dented Pakistan’s chase by removing Iftikhar Ahmed, ending with remarkable figures of 3 for 14 in his four overs.

The equation came down to 18 off the last six balls and Arshdeep Singh held his nerve to defend it and ensure another famous win for India over Pakistan on the world stage. While Hardik used the short ball well, Bumrah got rid of a well-set Rizwan in the 15th over before dismissing Iftikhar Ahmed in the 19th over that went for just three runs.

Support from Other Bowlers

Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh also played pivotal roles in India’s victory. Pandya dismissed Shadab Khan and Imad Wasim, while Arshdeep bowled a tense final over. Pandya’s clever bowling, particularly his short-length deliveries, kept the Pakistani batsmen under constant pressure. Arshdeep’s composure in the final over, despite Naseem Shah’s late boundaries, ensured India’s narrow win.

Bumrah’s Exceptional Figures

Bumrah’s bowling figures of 3 for 14 were exceptional, considering the high-stakes nature of the match. His ability to deliver under pressure highlighted his consistency and skill.

Bumrah’s performance was a masterclass in fast bowling, demonstrating his ability to adapt to different conditions and execute his plans flawlessly.

Drama in the Final Overs

The final overs were filled with drama as Naseem Shah hit consecutive boundaries off Arshdeep, giving Pakistan a glimmer of hope. However, Arshdeep’s calmness under pressure and accurate bowling ensured that Pakistan fell short by six runs, finishing at 113 for 7 in their 20 overs.