Rohit Sharma. (Source – Getty Images)
Tension is brewing in the Indian camp ahead of their blockbuster ICC T20 World Cup 2024 clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday. Star opener and captain Rohit Sharma suffered an injury scare during the team’s training session in New York.
During batting practice, one of India’s throwdown specialists delivered a delivery that jumped off on the good length and struck Rohit’s fingers of his batting hand. The India skipper was visibly in pain as the team’s medical staff rushed to attend to him. After a couple of minutes, Rohit received treatment, but he eventually carried on batting after getting the all-clear.
This is the second injury setback for the 37-year-old in the tournament so far. In India’s opening game against Ireland, he had to retire hurt after a pull shot struck his bicep. Though he played down concerns in the post-match presentation, the Men in Blue will be hoping their captain can stay injury-free for the crunch tie against the Men in Green.
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India defeated Ireland in first league-stage game
Another concerning factor has been regarding the newly-laid pitch at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. With variable bounce already causing problems, the ICC has been forced to intervene to try and rectify the issues.
India will be playing three out of four group-stage games at this venue. With an eight-wicket victory over the Irish side, Rohit and Co. will be hoping to do the same against the Babar Azam-led side.
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On the other hand, Pakistan are facing real problems as they lost their opening game to co-host USA at the same venue. Ahead of the India game, the 2009 edition champions will be up against Canada and will be hoping to get a win and bolster their confidence for the blockbuster clash.