Team India is set to resume its T20 World Cup 2024 campaign as they face Afghanistan in the Super 8 round. This highly anticipated clash will take place at the Kensington Oval in Barbados, marking India’s first match in the West Indies during this tournament. Having played all their group stage matches in New York, including a washed-out final group game against Canada in Florida, the team is eager to adapt to the new conditions and showcase their skills.
The conditions in New York were considered the toughest venue of the World Cup, presenting significant challenges for the batsmen. However, the batting conditions in Barbados are expected to be more favorable, and this raises questions about India’s team combination. Will they stick with their strategy of four pacers, including Hardik Pandya, or will they include a specialist spinner in their lineup?
As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the game, let’s delve into India’s probable playing XI for the match against Afghanistan.
Contrary to what many might expect, it is unlikely that India will change their opening pair, despite Virat Kohli’s struggle during the group stage where he managed to score only five runs in three matches. Rohit Sharma, who hit a half-century in the opening game against Ireland, has also not been in the best form recently. However, the dynamic duo is expected to continue at the top of the order. The challenging batting conditions in New York could also be a contributing factor to their lack of form.
Rishabh Pant is anticipated to retain his spot at number three, continuing his role as a pivotal player in the middle order. Following him, the ever-reliable Suryakumar Yadav is likely to come in next. Unless there is a batting collapse, no changes are expected in the batting order. Shivam Dube is projected to bat at five, followed by all-rounders Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel.
. These players not only provide solid batting strength but also add significant bowling options for the captain.
All three of Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel are expected to complete their quota of overs. They bring a wealth of experience and versatility, particularly if the pitch tends to be on the slower side, which could be advantageous for the spinners.
Speaking of bowling, the fast-bowling department might witness a tweak, with Mohammed Siraj potentially making way for wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Head coach Rahul Dravid hinted at the possible inclusion of a wrist-spinner, which adds weight to this speculation. With Jasprit Bumrah being a certainty and Arshdeep Singh performing commendably, it appears very likely that Siraj will be dropped to accommodate Kuldeep.
This change could prove strategic, especially considering Kuldeep’s ability to take crucial wickets in the middle overs. The inclusion of a wrist-spinner adds a different dimension to the bowling attack, making it more versatile and unpredictable.
The remaining players, including Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Yuzvendra Chahal, will have to wait for their opportunity. Despite not making the starting XI, their presence in the squad adds depth and backup options for the team management.
In summary, the probable playing XI for India against Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8 clash might look as follows:
Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Arshdeep Singh.
As the match approaches, cricket fans from around the world are eagerly anticipating how Team India will perform in Barbados. The team’s ability to adapt to the new conditions and execute their strategies effectively will be crucial for their success.
Stay tuned for updates, and let’s hope for an exhilarating contest between India and Afghanistan, reflecting the true spirit of the T20 World Cup.
