09 June,2024 08:15 PM IST | New York | mid-day online correspondent
Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam at the toss (Pic: Screengrab)
Pakistan captain Babar Azam won the toss and opted to bowl against India in their T20 World Cup 2024 Group A match at Nassau International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. Light rain delayed the toss and the game will start half an hour later than scheduled at 11m local (15:00 GMT).
During the toss, a comedic incident unfolded featuring Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Ravi Shastri prompted Rohit to conduct the toss, unaware that the 36-year-old was instead waiting Babar to flip the coin. It was only after a brief moment that Rohit realized he had the coin tucked away in his pocket.
Watch the video below.
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India, the pre-tournament favourites, won their opening game against Ireland while Pakistan are still reeling from a shock defeat at the hands of co-hosts USA. Pakistan welcomed back all-rounder Imad Wasim, who missed their opening game with a rib injury.
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Azam Khan misses out in the only change for Pakistan. India are unchanged as they look to take firm control of Group A which also features Canada. The surface at the New York venue has produced low scoring games and has been criticised for producing uneven bounce with organisers conceding it had been inconsistent.
In the previous edition of the competition, India relied on Kohli's bat to secure a thrilling victory at the legendary Melbourne Cricket Ground in 2022. This time, Pakistan will try to avenge their slump by winning their first match of the competition after suffering an incredible meltdown against the USA in Dallas.
Meanwhile, Rohit-led Team India started their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a comfortable win over Ireland by 8-wicket while Babar Azam-led Pakistan suffered an embarrassing defeat at the hands of associate member US.
Speaking at the time of toss, Babar said, "We will bowl first because of the weather and moisture in the pitch. The conditions suit us, we have four fast bowlers. We will try to use it to our best. Past is past, we are looking forward to today's match, we are ready and will give our 100 per cent. Always a big game, our confidence is always high for India vs Pak. Azam Khan is resting."
India are headed into the match with the same playing XI while Pakistan have made one change as they have replaced Azam Khan with Imad Wasim.