IND vs ENG – T20 World Cup 2024 : The semi final clash between India and England in the 2024 T20 World Cup was nothing short of a blockbuster. Held at the rain-drenched Providence Stadium in Guyana, this match was a test of resilience, strategy, and sheer willpower. India, haunted by past semifinal failures, especially the drubbing in Adelaide 2022, sought redemption. England, the defending champions, aimed to retain their crown. The encounter, however, was as much against the opponents as it was against the elements.
Let’s have a look into more details: IND vs ENG – T20 World Cup 2024
A Rain Soaked Start
The drama began even before the first ball was bowled. Heavy rain showers delayed the toss by nearly an hour and a half, setting a tense atmosphere for what was to come. As the skies cleared, England won the toss and opted to bowl first, banking on the conditions to give their bowlers an early edge.
India’s Batting Resilience
India’s innings began with the familiar sight of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli at the crease. However, Kohli’s struggle for form continued as he fell for just nine runs, bowled by Reece Topley in the third over. Rishabh Pant followed soon after, leaving India at 46/2 at the end of the powerplay.
With the pressure mounting, Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav steadied the ship. The duo adapted to the sluggish pitch and the intermittent rain, which forced a break after the eighth over. When play resumed, they picked up the pace. Rohit, in particular, showcased his adaptability, reaching his half century in 36 balls before falling to Adil Rashid in the 14th over.
Suryakumar Yadav, in his trademark aggressive style, kept the scoreboard ticking. Despite the conditions and England’s disciplined bowling, India managed to post a competitive total of 171/7, thanks to late cameos from Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel.
England’s Fragile Chase
Chasing 172, England’s start was nothing short of a nightmare. Axar Patel, who had already had a stellar tournament, struck early, dismissing Jos Buttler in the fourth over. He continued his magic, claiming wickets with the first ball of each of his next two overs, sending Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali back to the pavilion. England were reeling at 47/5, with Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav further tightening the screws.
The English batting lineup crumbled under the pressure. They were eventually bowled out for 103, giving India a resounding victory by 68 runs and a place in the final. Axar Patel’s exceptional bowling figures of 3/19 were instrumental in dismantling England’s hopes.
Key Moments
- Rohit Sharma’s Steady Leadership: The Indian captain once again proved his mettle, scoring a crucial 57 off 39 balls, anchoring the innings at a time when the team needed stability the most.
- Axar Patel’s Early Strikes: Axar Patel’s knack for picking up wickets early on was crucial. His breakthrough of Jos Buttler set the tone for England’s collapse.
- Suryakumar Yadav’s Counter Attack: Surya’s aggressive 47 off 36 balls provided the momentum India needed in the middle overs, especially after the rain break.
- England’s Powerplay Disaster: Losing half their side before reaching 50 runs put England on the back foot, a position from which they could never recover.
- Bumrah’s Death Bowling: Jasprit Bumrah’s clinical performance, including a key wicket and tight bowling, ensured that England had no room to maneuver in the final overs.
The victory was more than just a step into the final; it was a statement. The scars from the Adelaide 2022 semifinal were healed as India showcased a transformed, aggressive approach to T20 cricket. The memories of Rohit Sharma sitting dejectedly in the dugout after the loss to England in 2022 were replaced by his determined leadership that has brought India within touching distance of a World Cup triumph.
As India looks forward to the final, they do so with a blend of confidence and caution. The lessons learned from past failures have forged a team that plays fearless, modern T20 cricket. With Rohit Sharma at the helm, Jasprit Bumrah’s lethal bowling, and a batting lineup capable of adapting to any situation, India is poised to break their ICC title drought.
Read more : ICC T20 World Cup 2024 Semi Finals : Afghanistan vs South Africa and India vs England
FAQ
Who won the IND vs ENG T20 World Cup 2024 match ?
India won by 68 Runs