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As anticipation builds for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 final in Barbados, Team India stands ready to face South Africa in a highly anticipated clash. Throughout the tournament, the Men in Blue maintained an impeccable record, remaining undefeated in all their matches.
India’s triumph over Australia and England
In one of the tournament’s pivotal moments, India faced Australia in the Super 8 stage, a match they needed to win to secure the top spot in their group. This victory proved crucial, ensuring India’s advancement to the semi-finals even if adverse weather conditions affected their scheduled match against England.
In the semi-final, India showcased their dominance once again by defeating England convincingly, securing their place in the final match against South Africa.
Controversy sparked by Inzamam-ul-Haq
However, amidst India’s successes, controversy erupted following their match against Australia. Former Pakistan cricket captain Inzamam-ul-Haq raised eyebrows with his comments on Indian bowler Arshdeep Singh. Inzamam had questioned the early reverse swing observed in the 15th over, suggesting that external factors may have been at play in achieving this bowling effect.
Rohit Sharma’s epic response
Following the controversial comments, Indian captain Rohit Sharma swiftly responded to Inzamam’s allegations, defending his team and dismissing any insinuation of foul play. With characteristic wit, Rohit pointed out the natural conditions in Barbados, where the tournament is being held, as conducive to reverse swing. He emphasized that such conditions are common in the Caribbean and should not be misconstrued as tampering.
“What can I say. Don’t you see the rough surfaces and the heat here? This isn’t Australia or England. Here the conditions will result in the ball reverse swinging in 12-15 overs. It’s happening for all teams and not us alone. Sometime people need to open their mind and think,” Rohit had said ahead of India versus England game.
Also READ: T20 World Cup 2024: Rohit Sharma responds to Inzamam-ul-Haq’s ball-tampering allegations on Arshdeep Singh
Inzamam’s reaction and escalation
Inzamam, in turn, has now reacted strongly to Rohit’s remarks, expressing displeasure at being lectured on cricketing nuances by the Indian captain. He maintained his stance that his comments were justified, given the observations made during the match. Inzamam criticized Rohit for implying that his understanding of the game was lacking and argued that such allegations and responses should not overshadow the spirit of fair play in cricket.
“The first thing is he (Rohit Sharma) mentioned that reverse swing is happening, just like we said earlier. Secondly, Rohit Sharma doesn’t need to explain to us how reverse swing occurs, in what intensity of sunlight it happens, or on which pitch it occurs. Those who teach you these kinds of things don’t need to be told these things. We should tell him that such conversations are not appropriate,” reacted Inzamam while speaking to 24 News.
