Rohit Sharma and pace bowlers star as India beat Ireland in New York

India beat Ireland by eight wickets in both teams’ opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in New York on Wednesday.
India captain Rohit Sharma showed his class with a fine half-century to help his side successfully chase down a manageable target of 97 to win, although the skipper wasn’t able to carry his bat after retiring hurt on 52 (37).

India lost Virat Kohli early in their chase of 97, with the opener departing for 1 (5)

But Rishabh Pant, promoted to No. 3, did a strong job on a challenging batting track and hit the winning runs with a huge and unorthodox six, finishing on 36* (26) as India wrapped up the win with 7.4 overs and eight wickets to spare.

Earlier, India’s bowlers produced a sizzling display on a helpful surface to rip through Ireland, bowling them out for just 96 in the Group A contest at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium.

Hardik Pandya took 3/27, with Jasprit Bumrah brilliant with his 2/6 from 3 overs, and Ashdeep Singh impactful with the new ball but expensive late on as he finished with four-over figures of 2/35.

Only four Ireland batters reached double figures, with a late flurry of runs from Gareth Delany (26 from 14) helping his side up to a total that at least gave the bowlers something to work with.