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[Saba Sports News] Rohit Sharma was in destructive form against England in the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup on June 27, smashing his second consecutive half-century and third overall in the tournament.
Following an awe-inspiring 41-ball 92 against Australia, Rohit continued his aggressive batting at the Providence Stadium in Guyana against England’s experienced bowling lineup. He hit six fours and two sixes in his 57-run knock off just 39 balls. The first of his two sixes came off the last ball of the 11th over against Liam Livingstone. There was a unique backstory to this maximum, and the video has gained much popularity on social media.
Livingstone had conceded just three runs from the first five balls against the set pair of Rohit and Suryakumar Yadav. Before the final ball, Rohit was heard on the stump mic telling Suryakumar that he would go for a big hit if Livingstone pitched it up. True to his word, when Livingstone delivered a fullish ball, Rohit launched it over long-on for a huge six. “Upar daale toh deta hu na [If he pitches it up, I’ll hit him],” the 37-year-old batter told Suryakumar before the final ball of the over.
On the back of a 73-run third-wicket partnership between Rohit and Suryakumar, India scored 171/7 in their 20 overs. England needed to break the record for the highest successful run-chase at the venue to reach back-to-back T20 World Cup finals. However, after a decent start, they lost their two formidable openers – Jos Buttler and Phil Salt – inside the first five overs. Jonny Bairstow also departed inside the powerplay, leaving England in trouble.
Axar Patel took a wicket in each of his first three overs, finishing with figures of 3/23. Kuldeep Yadav was introduced after the powerplay and deceived the England batters through the middle overs, also taking three wickets for just 19 runs. Jasprit Bumrah claimed two wickets, including the in-form Phil Salt. England’s disappointing chase also included two run-outs, and they were bundled out for 103 in the 17th over, giving India a comprehensive 68-run victory.
India will face South Africa in the final at Kensington Oval, Barbados, on June 29. While India are the inaugural champions, South Africa will be appearing in a World Cup final for the first time.