NEW YORK:
Jasprit Bumrah bowled a terrific spell as India edged past Pakistan by 6 runs at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.
Chasing a target of 120, Pakistan was solidly put at 73 for 3 in 12.1 overs, needing run-a-ball 47, but Bumrah turned the game on its head with some sensational bowling.
He finished with figures of 3 for 14 in four overs, playing a key role in stopping Pakistan at 113 for 7 in 20 overs. Earlier, Pakistan pacers were right on the money as they bowled out India for 119 runs.
Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf were the pick of bowlers for Pakistan with three wickets each while Mohammad Amir picked two wickets. Rishabh Pant scored 42 runs but other Indian batters failed to play noticeable knocks after Pakistan captain Babar Azam won the toss and opted to bowl first.
India was in a good position of 81 for 3 after 10 overs but what followed was a batting collapse as the side scored 38 runs and lost 7 wickets in the next 9 overs.
Bumrah is a “genius”, says Rohit
“We didn’t bat well enough. Halfway through our innings, we were in a good position. We didn’t put enough partnership there and fell short with the bat. We spoke about every run matters on a pitch like that. There was enough in the pitch. Was a good wicket to be honest, compared to the last game. With a bowling lineup like that, you feel confident to do the job. Halfway through the stage when they were batting, we got everyone together and said that if it can happen to us, it can happen to them. A little contribution from everyone can make a huge difference. He’s going from strength to strength (Bumrah). We all know what he can do. Not going to talk too much about him. Want him to be in that mindset throughout the WC. He’s a genius, we all know that. The crowd was superb. They never disappoint wherever we play. I’m sure they’ll be going home with a big smile. It’s just the start, we have a long way to go,” said India captain Rohit Sharma.
Batting was not up to mark: Babar
“We bowled well. In the batting, lost back-to-back wickets and had too many dot balls. Tactics were simple to play normally. Just strike rotation and the odd boundary. But in that period we had too many dot balls. Can’t expect much from tailenders. Our mind was to utilise first overs in batting. But one wicket down, and again we weren’t up to the mark in the first six. The pitch looked decent. The ball was coming on nicely. It was a little bit slow, and some balls extra bounce. Have to win the last two matches. Will sit and discuss our mistakes but looking forward to last two matches,” said Pakistan captain Babar Azam.
