As the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 approaches, the Indian cricket team has commenced rigorous training sessions in New York, gearing up for their opening match against Ireland on June 5. The tournament, scheduled from June 1 to 29, will be hosted across the West Indies and the USA. The Men in Blue will also play their sole warm-up game against Bangladesh on June 1 at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.
The Indian squad has been diligently preparing at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, with key players such as Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, and the top-ranked T20I batter Suryakumar Yadav participating in the sessions. Bumrah, who missed the 2022 edition due to injuries, has been in stellar form, showcasing his prowess in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) despite Mumbai Indians finishing at the bottom of the table. His performance will be pivotal for India’s success in the tournament.
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Rishabh Pant, making a much-anticipated return to the national team after a 16-month hiatus following a severe road accident in December 2022, expressed his enthusiasm about rejoining the squad. Pant, who had a commendable IPL season with Delhi Capitals, emphasized the unique experience of playing in the USA and the significance of adapting to new conditions. His comeback adds a substantial boost to India’s batting lineup.
Visuals from the training sessions have shown players like Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, and Avesh Khan actively engaging in net practice. All-rounder Hardik Pandya, despite a challenging IPL season, has been working hard to regain form, practicing with both bat and ball. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has shared glimpses of these intensive sessions, reflecting the team’s commitment and preparation for the mega event.
Also See: India vs Ireland Live Score 2024 T20 World Cup (Match Scorecard, Playing 11, Match Stats)
Security measures have been heightened in New York, particularly for the high-octane India-Pakistan clash on June 9, following reports of potential threats. Governor Kathy Hochul assured that elevated security measures, including increased law enforcement presence and advanced surveillance, are in place to ensure the safety of players and fans. The International Cricket Council (ICC) also emphasized that robust security plans are in effect for the entire tournament.
India’s T20 World Cup campaign includes crucial matches against Ireland, Pakistan, USA, and Canada. The team aims to end their ICC trophy drought, having last won an ICC title in 2013. With a history of near-misses in recent years, including the T20 World Cup semifinals in 2016 and 2022, and the 50-over World Cup final in 2023, the Indian squad is determined to clinch their first T20 World Cup title since their inaugural win in 2007.