India began their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a magnificent win over Ireland at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl first on a pitch that favored the bowlers. Ireland struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for 96 runs, with Gareth Delaney being the top scorer with 26 runs. The Indian bowlers delivered impressive performances: Arshdeep Singh took 2 wickets for 35 runs in 4 overs, Mohammed Siraj claimed 1 wicket for 13 runs in 3 overs, Jasprit Bumrah took 2 wickets for 6 runs in 3 overs, and Hardik Pandya led the attack with 3 wickets for 27 runs.

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Rishabh Pant finished it in style; India beat Ireland by 8 wickets

In reply, Virat Kohli fell early, managing just one run from five balls. However, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant steadied the innings with a partnership of 54 runs for the second wicket. Rohit Sharma played an explosive innings, scoring 52 runs off 37 balls, featuring three sixes and four fours, before being forced to retire hurt due to a shoulder injury.
India faced another setback when Suryakumar Yadav was dismissed while attempting a big shot. Nevertheless, Rishabh Pant, batting at number four, remained unbeaten on 34 runs, smashing three fours and two sixes. He sealed India's victory with a daring six.

This match marked Rishabh Pant's return to international cricket after a hiatus since December 2022, when he last played a Test match in Bangladesh. His absence was due to a serious car accident that left him with multiple injuries, including fractures and a severe knee ailment.

After undergoing surgery in Mumbai, Pant spent over 14 months recovering and rehabilitating at the NCA. He made a remarkable comeback in the IPL 2024 season for the Delhi Capitals, impressing everyone with his wicketkeeping skills and batting prowess.

Confident in his regained fitness, the BCCI selectors included him in the India T20 World Cup 2024 squad, making him the first-choice wicketkeeper for the team.