Nassau Pitch Receive Further Criticism After Rohit Sharma Injury Blow vs Ireland in T20 World Cup 2024
Rohit Sharma’s bruised bicep is anticipated to recover in time for the match against Pakistan on June 9. However, there are growing concerns about the condition of the pitch at Nassau County ground, described as “bordering on dangerous with huge open cracks.” This issue is problematic for stakeholders aiming to promote cricket in the U.S. through the ongoing T20 World Cup.
Team India won vs Ireland; Rohit Sharma walked-off after injury blow
India commenced their campaign with an eight-wicket victory in a low-scoring match against Ireland, who were bowled out for 96 in 16 overs. During the game, Rohit, who scored a half-century, was hit on his right bicep by pacer Josh Little, forcing him to retire hurt. The pitch’s uneven bounce, which caused the ball to suddenly rise from a length, was also responsible for Rishabh Pant being hit on his left elbow during his unbeaten 36.
“Rohit’s injury isn’t serious. He himself said it’s a bit sore. He should be okay for the Pakistan game (on Sunday) as of now. There are two practice sessions before that,” a senior BCCI source told PTI under conditions of anonymity.
Beyond the injury concerns, the pitch, a drop-in brought from Adelaide specifically for the World Cup, has drawn significant criticism. India is scheduled to play two more games at this venue.
Irfan Pathan, Player of the Final from India’s 2007 T20 World Cup win, was outspoken in his criticism, calling the pitch unsafe. “We want to promote cricket in America, but this pitch is not safe for players. If we had a pitch like this in India, it wouldn’t be used for a very long time,” he said on Star Sports. He emphasized that such conditions are unacceptable for a World Cup event, let alone a bilateral series.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan also expressed his disapproval. “Promoting the game in the states is great, but playing on this sub-standard surface in New York is unacceptable. You work so hard to make it to the WC and then have to play on this,” he wrote on his X handle.
Trying to sell the game in the states is great .. love it .. but for players to have to play on this sub standard surface in New York is unacceptable .. You work so hard to make it to the WC then have to play on this ..
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan)
The ICC has not yet responded to the criticism, and the Indian team management is unlikely to file an official complaint. However, the dissatisfaction with the pitch, described by some as “unfit for T20 cricket” and “bordering on dangerous,” is evident.
19:30 IST
