In a spectacular showdown last night,
India emerged victorious against England, securing their spot in the finals to
face South Africa.
Despite incessant rain and a
tricky pitch, India had all the right answers. Rohit Sharma’s men marched into
the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a 68-run victory over England in
their semi-final on Thursday, June 27, 2024.
Leading the charge was their
inspirational skipper Rohit Sharma, who laid the foundation with an aggressive
57 off 39 balls. He was well-supported by Suryakumar Yadav, who scored 47 off
36 balls. India posted 171 for seven after being asked to bat first in the
rain-hit match. The victory was set up by Rohit (57, 39b, 6x4, 2x6) and
Suryakumar (47, 36b, 4x4, 2x6), both of whom excelled on a challenging pitch
that tested batters with low bounce.
It took tremendous skill and
patience for Rohit and Suryakumar to succeed. Their crucial 73-run third-wicket
stand took India to safe waters. Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel
struck a few big blows to keep the scoreboard moving at a healthy pace.
England struggled early in the
chase, losing three wickets in the PowerPlay. The dangerous Jos Buttler was
dismissed by left-arm spinner Axar Patel, who angled it in from around the
wicket. Jasprit Bumrah’s slower ball deceived Phil Salt, and Axar scalped
another wicket when he rattled Jonny Bairstow with a flat, straight delivery.
India relentlessly pushed forward,
removing Moeen Ali and Sam Curran cheaply. At 49 for five, all hope was lost
for England. The end came swiftly, and the Indian juggernaut moved to within
one game of lifting the World Cup trophy.
