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India are set to face Afghanistan in a Super 8 encounter of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados on Thursday (June 20).
Afghanistan’s dominance in the T20 World Cup 2024
Afghanistan, having dominated the group phase with three consecutive victories, faced a setback against West Indies, losing by a significant margin of 104 runs. Despite this loss, Afghanistan secured the second spot in their group, showcasing a strong batting lineup complemented by versatile all-rounders capable of turning the tide. Their bowling attack has also been in top form, solidifying their reputation as a formidable team in the tournament.
India’s commanding group stage performance
India concluded their Group A fixtures at the summit, amassing seven points from four matches. Victories against Ireland, Pakistan and USA propelled India smoothly into the Super 8 stages, underscoring their dominance and strategic prowess in the early phase of the T20 World Cup campaign.
Afghanistan’s probable playing XI for the Super 8 game against India:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Najibullah Zadran
- Mohammad Nabi
- Karim Janat
- Rashid Khan (C)
- Gulbadin Naib
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Naveen-ul-Haq
- Noor Ahmad
Key players to watch out for Afghanistan:
1. Rashid Khan:
- Spin Bowling Maestro: Rashid Khan is Afghanistan’s premier spin bowler and captain. His ability to bowl accurate leg-spin with variations in pace and flight makes him a constant threat to opposition batters. Rashid not only contains runs but also picks up crucial wickets in all phases of the game.
- Leadership: As the captain, Rashid provides strategic guidance and boosts team morale. His experience in international cricket and tactical acumen play a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s performance.
2. Mohammad Nabi:
- All-round Consistency: Mohammad Nabi is known for his all-round abilities, contributing with both bat and ball. His off-spin bowling is effective in restricting opposition batters, particularly in the middle overs. Nabi’s experience and calm demeanor add stability to Afghanistan’s middle order batting.
- Finisher: Nabi’s role as a finisher in the batting lineup is crucial. His ability to accelerate the run rate and score quick runs towards the end of innings often proves decisive in close matches.
3. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk):
- Wicketkeeper-Batter: Rahmanullah Gurbaz provides solidity as a wicketkeeper-batters at the top of the order. His aggressive batting style and ability to score quick runs give Afghanistan momentum in the powerplay overs.
- Fielding Skills: Gurbaz’s role behind the stumps ensures the team maintains high standards in fielding. His agility and quick reflexes contribute to crucial dismissals and prevent extra runs.
Also READ: T20 World Cup 2024: Stephen Fleming calls for a major change in Team India’s playing XI for the Super 8
India’s probable playing XI for the Super 8 game against Afghanistan:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Virat Kohli
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Shivam Dubey
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Arshdeep Singh
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Kuldeep Yadav
Key players to watch out for India:
1. Rohit Sharma :
- Opening Batting Power: Rohit Sharma’s role as the captain and opening batters is crucial. Known for his ability to score big runs and set the tone for the innings, his batting at the top provides stability and aggressive starts to India’s innings.
- Leadership: As the captain, Rohit Sharma provides strategic direction and marshals resources effectively. His experience in leading teams in high-pressure situations adds depth to India’s on-field strategy.
2. Virat Kohli:
- Middle-order Backbone: Virat Kohli is the linchpin of India’s batting lineup, anchoring the middle order. His consistency in scoring runs across all formats of the game makes him a vital cog in India’s batting strategy.
- Fielding and Leadership: Kohli’s athleticism in the field and vocal presence on the field boost team morale and set high standards for fielding. His tactical acumen and decision-making under pressure enhance India’s overall performance.
3. Jasprit Bumrah:
- Death Bowling Specialist: Jasprit Bumrah is India’s premier fast bowler known for his ability to bowl yorkers and slower balls effectively in the death overs. His accuracy and variations make him a potent wicket-taking option in crucial phases of the match.
- New Ball Impact: Bumrah’s skill with the new ball provides early breakthroughs and puts pressure on the opposition’s top order. His ability to swing the ball and generate bounce adds potency to India’s bowling attack.
