New York’s Nassau County Cricket Stadium turned into a sea of blue as India squared off against Pakistan in a 2024 T20 World Cup match on Sunday. And the Indian fans got their money’s worth as Jasprit Bumrah played a starring role in his team defending 119 for a six-run win over their arch-rivals.
Bumrah was the prime reason behind India turning it around in New York as his breathtaking four-over spell snuffed the life out of Pakistan’s chase.
Bumrah finished with outstanding figures of 3/14 from four overs that included the scalps of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Iftikhar Ahmad.
And 15 off his 24 deliveries were dot balls.
“It feels really good,” Bumrah said after India’s win as he collected player-of-the-match award. “We felt we were a little under par and the wicket got a little better after the sun came out. We were really disciplined so it feels good.”
The rain and overcast conditions meant fast bowlers came into play early on and Pakistan expectedly opted to bowl first. India lost both their openers cheaply before a strong recovery led by Rishabh Pant brought them to 89/3.
However, India suffered a spectacular batting collapse to be bowled out for 119.
Talking about his plans while defending a low total, Bumrah said, “I tried to hit the seam as much as I could, tried to be as clear as I could with my execution and it all came out well so I felt happy.”
And he also acknowledged the support of the fans at the venue.
“Felt like we were playing in India, really happy with the support and that gives us energy on the field,” he said.
With this win, India (four points) have climbed up to the top of Group A standings ahead of their next opponents USA (four points) thanks to a superior net run-rate. Pakistan are third and are yet to open their account after losing both their fixtures.
