T20 World Cup 2024: Shaun Pollock's sweet gesture wins hearts after Rohit Sharma's mic issues

At the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, Rohit Sharma’s statement that his elbow is “just a little sore” delighted the Indian fans. The Men in Blue had just thrashed Ireland by eight wickets in their opening T20 World Cup encounter. Feeling the impact of a blow he had earlier in his innings, the Indian captain went off the pitch and retired hurt after hitting a 37-ball 52.

With eight wickets and 46 balls remaining, India managed to chase down a pitiful 97-run mark. Following the lopsided win, South African icon Shaun Pollock hosted the post-match awards event, which Rohit attended. Following Rohit’s malfunctioning microphone, the former bowler offered him his own. Numerous admirers applauded Pollock’s thoughtful gesture.

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— Nihari Korma (@NihariVsKorma) June 6, 2024

Even in the second inning, when his team was batting, the 37-year-old claimed that the pitch did not ease out.

I am uncertain about the expectations for the pitch. Not knowing what it’s like to play on a five-month-old pitch. Even in our second innings of batting, I don’t think the wicket settled down,” Rohit remarked.

The inaugural winners used Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, two spin-bowling all-rounders, against Ireland. Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav, two of their team’s specialist spinners, were left out. This selection decision surprised both fans and analysts. But in the later stages of the tournament, spinners will matter, Rohit claimed. He rationalised the choice to omit his two starting spinners.

“We sought balance in our team selection process. Later on, spin will be important,” emphasised the renowned cricket player.

India reaped the rewards of the decision, with Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah each taking two wickets, and Hardik Pandya leading the way with a three-for. Axar Patel and Mohammed Siraj each claimed a wicket, and Siraj and Pant both got rid of Gareth Delany.