T20 World Cup 2024, India vs Pakistan Preview: India and Pakistan are set to renew their storied rivalry in a T20 World Cup Group A match at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York this Sunday. Rohit Sharma’s India enters the match with confidence after an 8-wicket victory over Ireland. In contrast, Babar Azam’s Pakistan is looking to bounce back from a disheartening super-over loss to the US in their previous game. India’s recent form gives them an edge, but they know better than to underestimate their determined rivals.

However, weather forecasts are casting a shadow over this highly anticipated encounter. According to Accuweather, there is a 51% chance of rain at 11 AM local time (8:30 PM IST), just half an hour after the scheduled start of the match.

Given that it’s a day game, there is potential for extra time to be allotted in case of rain delays. Nonetheless, it is unlikely that players and fans will wait until the afternoon for the match to start. Despite the forecast, there remains a strong possibility that the game could proceed without significant interruptions, allowing fans to enjoy a full 20-overs-a-side contest.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma sustained a blow to his left thumb during a net session. The injury prompted immediate attention from the team’s medical staff. Despite the scare, Rohit resumed practice, alleviating concerns about his fitness for the match.

The pitch at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, where India played their opener against Ireland, has been under scrutiny for its uneven and slow outfield. Despite these challenges, India secured a convincing victory, with Rohit scoring 52 runs off 37 balls at a strike rate of 140.54 before his injury forced him to retire at the end of the 10th over.

In response to the criticism of the pitch conditions, the International Cricket Council issued a statement on Thursday acknowledging the inconsistency of the surfaces used at the stadium. They assured that the groundsmen are working diligently to improve the pitches for the remaining matches.

As fans eagerly await the showdown, the hope is for clear skies and an uninterrupted contest between these cricketing giants.