As the T20 World Cup showdown between India and Pakistan looms, Team India aims to extend their winning streak to two matches in New York.
India’s strategy revolves around capitalizing on Pakistan’s shaky form and their unfamiliarity with the challenging conditions as the arch-rivals square off in their T20 World Cup encounter on Sunday. The crucial match, anticipated to attract the tournament’s biggest audience yet, is slated for the newly erected Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, boasting a seating capacity of 34,000.The pitch continues to be a focal point of discussion, drawing notable criticism for its erratic nature, a concern that the ICC has duly recognized. Past cricketers have raised questions about whether these low-scoring conditions can effectively nurture cricket’s growth in the American market.The venue boasts four drop-in pitches, installed in April under the guidance of Adelaide Oval groundsman Damian Hough, but they’re still adjusting. Safety concerns arose due to uneven bounce, highlighted when Indian captain Rohit Sharma was struck on the shoulder in the tournament opener against Ireland on June 5.Arriving in New York late Thursday following a surprise loss to the USA, the Pakistan team faces a tight schedule to acclimate to the demanding conditions. A defeat against India could heavily jeopardize their qualification chances. Babar Azam and his squad must swiftly address their batting struggles and adapt.India’s management may stick to their tactics from the Ireland match, considering omitting Kuldeep Yadav for an additional paceman, despite his success against Pakistan. The batting lineup, with Rohit and Virat Kohli opening and Rishabh Pant at No. 3, is anticipated to stay the same.Suryakumar Yadav seeks redemption following his early dismissal in the last game, aiming for a better performance. Hardik Pandya, known for his success against Pakistan, bounced back from a lackluster IPL to claim three wickets against Ireland.
India’s likely XI vs Pakistan
Openers: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli
Middle-order: Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav
All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel
Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh
