Match-winning bowler Jasprit Bumrah encapsulated the drama of India’s heart-stopping win against Pakistan, as the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium added another thrilling chapter to the storied rivalry between the two cricketing giants.
A jubilant Bumrah highlighted two pivotal moments of his bowling performance that fueled India’s remarkable comeback victory over Pakistan in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 encounter.
Bumrah’s spell of 3/14 from four overs, which included an impressive 15 dot balls, played a crucial role as Pakistan faltered in their chase of 120, eventually succumbing to a six-run defeat.
Despite favorable bowling conditions, Pakistan’s steady start seemed to set them on a path to victory, with openers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan reaching 26 without loss in the fifth over.
Bumrah’s first key moment came when he dismissed Babar for 13, with Suryakumar Yadav taking the catch. This wicket signaled to Pakistan that their chase might be more challenging than anticipated. Rizwan, undeterred, pushed on, even as Usman Khan and Fakhar Zaman fell at the other end.
With Pakistan needing just 40 runs off 36 balls and seven wickets in hand, Rizwan appeared poised to guide his team to victory. However, Bumrah’s return to the attack proved decisive. His first delivery back slipped under Rizwan’s bat, shattering the stumps and igniting India’s comeback.
Reflecting on these crucial dismissals, Bumrah said, “The first wicket was very important to set the base and apply pressure. If they had gotten off to a good start, the pressure would have mounted on us.”
He added, “That third over of mine was a crucial stage. If that had gone in Pakistan’s favour, the game might have been over. But everyone executed their roles perfectly, which helped us tremendously.”
Bumrah went on to claim the wicket of Iftikhar Ahmed, and Arshdeep Singh sealed the win with a composed final over, dismissing Imad Wasim and thwarting a late surge from Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi.
This victory places India at the top of Group A, edging out the also undefeated USA on Net Run Rate, after the USA stunned Pakistan in Dallas on June 6. Pakistan, now winless, faces a steep climb, needing convincing victories over Canada and Ireland and favourable results from other group matches to advance.
Bumrah praised his fellow bowlers, emphasizing their cohesive effort and skill. “We take a lot of pride in our bowling unit and work hard to develop our skills. We’re very happy to have contributed to this win,” he said.
He concluded, “We stayed calm and clear on our objectives. We didn’t panic, and that’s a very positive sign for us.”
