Rohit Sharma Battles Injury As India Clinches T20 World Cup Opener Against Ireland

Rohit Sharma experienced some discomfort after retiring hurt during India's commanding T20 World Cup win over Ireland. Despite the setback, he found solace in his team's disciplined performance.

India's captain retired hurt after scoring 52 in the second innings in New York. Rahul Dravid's side chased a 97-run target with more than seven overs to spare. The opening batter was struck on the upper arm by a fierce Josh Little delivery in the ninth over, leading to his departure from the field. Rishabh Pant's unbeaten 36 then guided India to victory.

In his post-match interview, Rohit acknowledged the lingering pain but praised his team's bowling performance. Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, and Arshdeep Singh all delivered impressive spells.

"Just a little sore. New ground, new venue, wanted to see what it's like to play on; I don't think the pitch settled down, there was enough there for the bowlers," Rohit said.

"Stick to your basics, think about Test match bowling. Arshdeep can swing the ball into the right-handers and that set the tone."

"If the conditions are there for the seamers, we wanted them in the squad. The spinners will play their part later in the tournament. We are open to making changes to the team's needs."

Impressive & effective! #TeamIndia's clinical bowling display in numbers #T20WorldCup | #INDvIRE pic.twitter.com/Zag2z0bU50

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Bumrah delivered a remarkable spell, taking two wickets for just six runs from his three overs as Ireland struggled to 96 all out in New York.

"When you come here and the ball is seaming around with some bounce and pace, I would never complain," Bumrah said. "You have to be proactive, you can't preempt things."

"You realise how the wicket is and then go back to what works for you. Once the seam goes down the pitch does settle down."

"You have to be prepared to bowl in all conditions, so very happy today."

India will face fierce rivals Pakistan on Sunday following their opening World Cup victory. Rohit anticipates his team will need to be adaptable based on conditions.

"I don't know what to expect from the pitch but we will prepare as if conditions are going to be like that," Rohit added.

"That will be a game where all 11 of us need to come together and contribute."

"It was scratchy but good to spend time in the middle, hopefully we can do the same [against Pakistan]."