Rohit Sharma. (Source – BCCI)
The blockbuster clash between archrivals India and Pakistan in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2024 has taken a new twist with concerns over Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s fitness. Rohit was struck on his arm by a bouncer during India’s opening match against Ireland and was forced to retire hurt.
The Men in Blue kicked off their T20 World Cup campaign with a convincing win over the Irish side in New York on June 5. The star opener was in sublime form, scoring a blistering 52 off just 37 balls, before a nasty bouncer from Mark Adair struck him, forcing him to retire hurt.
Fortunately for the Indian team and their fans, a senior BCCI source has confirmed that the 37-year-old’s injury is not serious, and he should be fit in time for the clash against Men in Green on June 9 at New York’s Nassau County International Cricket Stadium.
In a post-match interview, Rohit himself provided an update about his injury scare and mentioned that his arm was a little sore. “Just a little sore (the arm).”
Also read: Rohit Sharma comically forgets playing combination for Ireland clash, video goes viral
What is ‘Retired Hurt rule’ in cricket?
The term ‘Retired Hurt’ refers to a situation where a batter is unable to continue playing due to an injury. With the consent of the fielding captain, the injured batter can leave the field and may return to resume their innings later, as long as it is before the innings is over. However, if the batter is unable to resume batting beyond that time, they cannot return to play.
According to Law 25.4.2 – If a batter retires because of illness, injury, or any other unavoidable cause, that batter is entitled to resume his/her innings. If for any reason this does not happen, that batter is to be recorded as ‘Retired – not out’
Also read: Spin will play a big role in T20 World Cup 2024: Rohit Sharma
Sharma and Co. kicked off their World Cup campaign with a bang as they registered an eight-wicket over the Paul Stirling-led side. After their game against Pakistan, the Indian camp will play against the co-hosts United States of America (USA) and their last league game will be against Canada on June 15 at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill.