Rohit Sharma has revealed that the Indian cricket team faced an unusual situation ahead of their high-profile T20 World Cup match against Pakistan. The team was essentially confined to their hotel rooms due to a credible security threat, adding an extra layer of tension to an already highly charged encounter.
Speaking on JioHotstar's special program “Champions Waali Feeling Phir Se,” Sharma recounted the events leading up to the crucial match. "Before the India vs Pakistan match, we were told there was a threat – something was going on. So, two days before the game, we weren't allowed to step out of the hotel," he stated. This restriction on their movement created an atmosphere of heightened awareness and anticipation within the team.
The situation was further amplified by the sheer number of people congregated in the hotel. "We were ordering food in, and the hotel was so packed you could barely walk. Fans, media — everyone was there," Sharma explained. The convergence of fans and media personnel only served to intensify the feeling that this was far from a normal game. "That's when you realise this isn't just another match — something special is about to happen," he added.
Despite the unsettling circumstances, the Indian team managed to channel the heightened emotions into their performance. Sharma also described the electrifying atmosphere as they approached the stadium. "As soon as we got near the stadium, it already felt like a celebration — Indian fans, Pakistani fans, all dancing and enjoying themselves," he said. This vibrant display of camaraderie, despite the intense rivalry, is a hallmark of India-Pakistan matches. "I've played so many India–Pakistan games now — I've lost count — but that pre-match energy, that feeling… It's always something else. Nothing compares to it."
The security concerns surrounding the India-Pakistan T20 World Cup match were widely reported. Prior to the match, authorities in New York had heightened security measures following threats, including a "lone wolf" attack. Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder had stated that the event received a threat linked to ISIS-K in April, with more specific threats emerging closer to the India-Pakistan game. These threats even included potential drone attacks, leading to the designation of Eisenhower Park as a no-fly zone. New York Governor Kathy Hochul had also stated that the New York State Police were directed to increase enforcement presence, surveillance, and screening processes for the tournament.
The heightened security measures extended to the team's accommodations, with reports indicating a three-layer security detail at the team hotel and restrictions on outsiders entering the immediate vicinity. While such intense security arrangements can be disruptive, they were deemed necessary to ensure the safety of the players and fans.
Sharma also spoke about Rishabh Pant's crucial innings against Pakistan, highlighting the importance of Pant's aggressive approach. "We just wanted Rishabh to be Rishabh — do all the things he does best, unsettle the bowlers, play freely. And he did that perfectly," Sharma said. He lauded Pant's 42-run knock, emphasizing its significance on a challenging pitch. Sharma also praised the performances of Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh, noting the importance of proactively utilizing Bumrah's wicket-taking abilities.
Ultimately, India emerged victorious in the match, showcasing their resilience under pressure. Sharma also put the win into perspective, saying that winning the World Cup was more important than just beating Pakistan.
