ICC T20 World Cup 2024: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli react as 'Best Fielder' award returns with fresh twist, watch viral video
Xtra Time Web Desk: In a stellar performance, Mohammed Siraj was honored with the 'Fielder of the Match' medal as Team India began their ICC T20 World Cup campaign by thrashing Ireland by eight wickets at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. Siraj's fielding brilliance, particularly in the 16th over, was a key highlight, where his efforts resulted in the crucial dismissal of Gareth Delany.
While Siraj did not need to complete his full four-over spell, as Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah efficiently dismantled the Irish batting lineup, he made a significant impact with both his bowling and fielding. Siraj bowled three overs, taking one wicket for 13 runs, demonstrating his value in the field.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) showcasing a young Indian fan presenting the 'Fielder of the Match' medal to Siraj. The moment was heartwarming, with Siraj accepting the medal and embracing the young supporter warmly.
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Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah were also instrumental in India's dominant victory, with Hardik claiming three wickets and Bumrah two, underlining India's formidable bowling attack in the tournament opener.
"In T20 cricket one of the key factors is game awareness as every ball is an opportunity. A great example of today was Axar Patels' caught and bowled and Virat Kohli's intensity backing up showing what we spoke in the morning," India fielding coach T Dilip said in a video posted by BCCI.
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The young fan who awarded Mohammed Siraj the 'Fielder of the Match' medal expressed his desire to meet star pacer Arshdeep Singh, praising him as the best speedster.
In the match, Team India showcased a dominant performance, securing an eight-wicket victory against Ireland. Opting to field first, Indian bowlers applied relentless pressure on the Irish batters from the start, reducing them to 50/8. Despite this early collapse, a spirited fightback from Gareth Delany, who scored 26 off 14 balls, and Joshua Little, who added 14 off 13 balls, helped Ireland reach a total of 96 in 16 overs.
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India's run chase of 97 runs was anchored by a stellar half-century from skipper Rohit Sharma, who scored 52 off 37 balls, hitting four boundaries and three sixes. Rishabh Pant provided strong support with an unbeaten 36 off 26 balls, which included three fours and two sixes, guiding India to a comfortable win with eight wickets in hand.
The Indian bowlers' efforts, particularly those of Hardik Pandya, who took three wickets, and Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed two, were crucial in setting up the victory. The match also highlighted the depth and strength of India's cricketing talent, both in bowling and batting.
