(AP Photo)

India’s batting coach Vikram Rathour explained that the decision to include Axar Patel over Kuldeep Yadav in the playing eleven against Ireland was influenced by the specific conditions prevailing at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium. In their T20 World Cup opener, India opted for the spin duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Patel. However, they only bowled a total of two overs, with Axar claiming a wicket in his very first over.

Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya completed their full quota of four overs each, with Pandya securing three wickets. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj also made significant contributions with the ball, each picking up two wickets, while Siraj managed to claim one wicket.

“As team management, in a tournament like the World Cup, all 15 are in play. So, depending on what conditions we get and we are playing, we need to have enough flexibility in our team or group to handle that and I think we have that here, Rathour said in the post-match press conference.

“So, looking at the conditions in the morning, we thought that this is the best team we should go within this game. So again, depending on what happens in the next game and what the conditions are and what the situation is, you will keep seeing that we will be flexible with our teams,” he added.

Rohit Sharma, the captain of India, showcased his batting prowess with a brisk 37-ball 56 before being forced to retire hurt due to an injury to his arm. Rishabh Pant played a crucial role in steering the team to victory with an unbeaten knock of 36 runs, which included two sixes and three boundaries. India successfully chased down the target in just 12.2 overs with Pant’s contribution being instrumental in the win.

India’s next challenge will be against arch-rivals Pakistan in a highly anticipated match at the same venue on Sunday, June 9th.