India kicked off their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a stunning victory over Ireland on June 5 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.

Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, captain Rohit Sharma’s decision paid off as Ireland was dismissed for 96 runs. Gareth Delaney was the top scorer for Ireland with 26 runs. India’s bowlers were exceptional: Arshdeep Singh took 2 wickets for 35 runs in his 4 overs, Mohammed Siraj grabbed 1 wicket for 13 runs in 3 overs, Jasprit Bumrah took 2 wickets for just 6 runs in 3 overs, and Hardik Pandya claimed 3 wickets for 27 runs.

Chasing the target, India faced an early setback with Virat Kohli’s dismissal for 1 run. However, a crucial partnership between Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant, who added 54 runs for the second wicket, steadied the innings. Rohit Sharma played a brilliant knock of 52 runs off 37 balls, including 3 sixes and 4 fours, before retiring hurt due to a shoulder injury.

Suryakumar Yadav’s attempt to hit a six resulted in his dismissal, but Rishabh Pant, batting at number 3, ensured India’s victory with an unbeaten 34 runs, featuring 3 fours and 2 sixes, including a spectacular shot for a six to seal the win.

Jasprit Bumrah was awarded Player of the Match for his impressive bowling performance. India won by 8 wickets and climbed to the top of the Group A points table.

The Indian team’s performance, especially Rohit Sharma’s innings, received widespread praise from the cricket community on social media.