India’s cricket team ended a decade-long wait for an ICC trophy by defeating South Africa in a thrilling T20 World Cup final at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on June 29. This victory made India only the third team after the West Indies and England to win two titles in men’s T20 World Cup history. Under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, India had a perfect campaign, finishing unbeaten and showcasing their dominance on the world stage.

See Also: No congratulatory post from Shubman Gill after India’s T20 World Cup 2024 win; Fans react

India’s journey through the T20 World Cup was nothing short of spectacular. The team won every match leading up to the final, displaying a blend of tactical brilliance, skill, and resilience. Key victories against top teams set the tone for their successful campaign, culminating in the final against South Africa.

Top 5 captains of T20 World Cup 2024

1. Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma led India to their second T20 World Cup title, ending a decade-long wait for an ICC trophy. His strategic brilliance and ability to inspire his team were key factors in India’s unbeaten run.

Rohit took over India’s captaincy in the shortest format after the underwhelming outing from the team in the 2021 T20 World Cup. In his first outing as captain in T20 World Cup, Rohit had led the team to the semifinal in Australia two years back. It was a campaign that ended with a comprehensive defeat against England.

Rohit Sharma’s leadership was instrumental in India’s triumph. Rohit led with a calm demeanor and strategic acumen. His ability to inspire the team and make crucial decisions under pressure was evident throughout the tournament. Rohit’s record as a captain is impressive, with 50 wins from 62 T20I matches, including the World Cup final.

2. Adien Markram

Markram’s leadership saw South Africa reach their first-ever World Cup final in men’s cricket. His calm demeanor and strategic acumen were instrumental in their campaign.

Adien Markram’s captaincy was pivotal to South Africa’s success in the tournament. His leadership style, characterized by calmness and strategic thinking, helped the team navigate challenging situations. Markram’s own performances with the bat and in the field were crucial, as he led from the front and inspired confidence in his teammates.

South Africa had a commendable campaign, reaching the final after several impressive performances. The team showed resilience and skill, particularly in the knockout stages.

As a captain, Markram’s record is stellar. It goes back before the eight wins at T20 World Cup 2024, two wins in as many starts as skipper in the absence of injured Temba Bavuma at ODI World Cup 2023, having also gone six from six 10 years ago as the Proteas won the 2014 edition of the Under 19 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.

3. Rashid Khan

Rashid Khan led Afghanistan to their maiden T20 World Cup semifinal, showcasing resilience and skill. His performances with the ball and as a leader were exceptional.

Afghanistan’s journey to the semifinals was one of the tournament’s highlights. Under Rashid Khan’s leadership, the team defeated top-ranked sides, including New Zealand and Australia. Afghanistan’s rise in cricket has been remarkable, and their performance in this World Cup was a testament to their growth and potential.

4. Jos Buttler

Jos Buttler’s England reached the semifinals, where they were outplayed by India. Despite the loss, Buttler’s leadership and England’s journey were noteworthy.

England’s campaign in the T20 World Cup had its ups and downs. After a shaky start, the team found their rhythm and made it to the semifinals. However, India outplayed them in the crucial match. Jos Buttler’s leadership was commendable, and England’s journey was filled with valuable lessons and experiences.

5. Rovman Powell

Rovman Powell’s West Indies had a mixed campaign, starting strong but faltering in key matches. Powell’s leadership helped the team progress, but they ultimately missed out on the semifinals.

The West Indies, co-hosts of the T20 World Cup 2024, had a promising start but faltered in key matches. Under Rovman Powell’s captaincy, the team showed glimpses of their potential but ultimately missed out on a semifinal berth. Powell’s leadership saw the team make progress, but there were areas that needed improvement.

History was made at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, as India triumphed over South Africa by 7 runs to claim the T20 World Cup 2024 title on Saturday, June 29.

The Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup 2024 was a whirlwind of excitement, showcasing the prowess and tenacity of the world’s top cricket teams. As teams battled it out to secure a spot in the semi-finals, their performances were a testament to their skill, strategy, and sheer determination. This article delves into the rankings based on their Super 8 performances, highlighting the key moments and players that defined their journeys.

Team rankings based on Super Eight performances

1. India: The Champions

India’s journey through the T20 World Cup 2024 was nothing short of spectacular. After their impressive runs in the World Test Championship 2023 and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, India ensured a third successive finale appearance in the T20 World Cup by maintaining an unbeaten streak throughout the 2024 campaign.

Rohit Sharma’s leadership and consistent batting were pivotal. Hardik Pandya’s all-round performance, particularly his three-wicket haul in the final, was crucial. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh’s bowling figures of 2-18 and 2-20 respectively, were instrumental in their final match against South Africa.

In the final held in Bridgetown, India defended a target of 177 runs, restricting South Africa to 169/8 in 20 overs. This victory marked the end of India’s decade-long ICC title drought, celebrating a historic win with a seven-run triumph over South Africa.

2. South Africa: The resilient contenders

South Africa’s journey to the T20 World Cup 2024 final was marked by resilience and determination. This was a landmark achievement as it was their first time reaching a World Cup final in any format.

South Africa had a perfect win record leading up to the final. They started strong against Sri Lanka, won closely contested matches against the Netherlands and Bangladesh, and topped Group 2 with victories over the USA, England, and West Indies.

Despite their robust performances, South Africa faced a tough defeat in the final against India, losing by seven runs. The match highlighted their strengths and areas for improvement as they aimed for their maiden World Cup title.

3. Afghanistan: The inspirational team

Afghanistan’s run in the T20 World Cup 2024 was inspirational, even though they fell short of a final appearance. Their journey was filled with historic victories and memorable performances.

Afghanistan made history by reaching their first-ever semi-final in a T20 World Cup. They defeated cricketing giants like New Zealand and Australia, and their thrilling eight-run victory over Bangladesh in St Vincent was a standout moment.

Although Afghanistan lost to South Africa in the semi-final, their performances over the last 12 months, including toppling top-ranked sides in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, showcased their growth and potential on the global stage.

4. England: The comeback kings

England’s journey in the T20 World Cup 2024 was a rollercoaster, characterized by a rocky start but a strong comeback in the Super 8 stage.

England’s campaign began with a rain-affected washout against Scotland and a heavy defeat to Australia. However, they bounced back in the Super 8 stage with a comprehensive win over the West Indies and a crucial victory against the USA.

In the semi-final against India, England’s campaign ended with a 68-run defeat. Despite the ups and downs, their ability to regroup and perform in crucial matches was commendable.

5. West Indies: The early pacesetters

West Indies started the T20 World Cup 2024 with a strong performance but faced challenges that led to their exit before the semi-finals.

West Indies topped Group D in the first round, but their form dipped in the Super 8 stage. Key defeats to England and South Africa cost them a spot in the semi-finals.

6. Australia: The mixed performers

Australia’s campaign in the T20 World Cup 2024 was inconsistent, marked by struggles against lower-ranked teams and notable victories.

Australia faced unexpected challenges against teams like Oman and Afghanistan. However, they managed to secure significant victories, including a dominant performance against defending champions England.

Despite their ups and downs, Australia’s ability to compete against top teams was evident, even though they ultimately missed out on the semi-finals.

7. Bangladesh: The underdogs

Bangladesh’s journey in the T20 World Cup 2024 was marked by determined performances and missed opportunities.

Bangladesh secured wins against Sri Lanka, Netherlands, and Nepal but fell short against stronger teams in the Super 8 stage. Their lack of initiative to push for a semi-final spot highlighted areas for growth.

8. USA: The Surprise Package

The USA cricket team’s debut in the T20 World Cup 2024 was historic and filled with surprising successes.

USA’s campaign included a shocking upset over Pakistan and victories against Canada and Bangladesh. Their performance in the Super 8 stage, though eventually ending in elimination, was a testament to their potential and growth in international cricket.

AFG vs SA Match Preview

South Africa and Afghanistan will face each other in the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024. The match will be held on June 26, 2024, at Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba, Trinidad, beginning at 6:00 AM IST. South Africa is having an excellent performance in this edition. With seven consecutive victories, they have another chance to reach the final of a World Cup, something that they have never accomplished in as many years of international cricket. They are looking forward to defeating AFG, who have a dominant head-to-head record in T20Is. Afghanistan have been on a roll since the ODI World Cup 2023, when they defeated England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, and this year they have stepped up by beating Australia and New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2024. They certainly deserved a spot in the semi-finals, and now is their chance to make history.

AFG vs SA Match Details

Afghanistan vs South Africa – Semi Final Match, T20 World Cup 2024

Venue: Brian Lara Stadium – Tarouba

Date & Time: 27th June 2024 at 06:00 AM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

AFG vs SA Venue Stats

AFG vs SA Pitch Report

The pitch here has seen a lot of runs in recent matches. The pitch will have good bounce, and the ball will land nicely on the bat.

AFG vs SA Weather Report

The weather forecast for Friday in Tarouba, predicts a sunny day. The temperature is expected to hover around 31°C, with no signs of rain so far.

AFG vs SA Last Five Matches

AFG vs SA Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: AUS vs BAN Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Probable Playing XI, Pitch Report & Injury Updates For 44th Match

AFG vs SA Probable Playing XIs:

South Africa Probable Playing XIs

Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock (wk), Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi

Afghanistan Probable Playing XIs

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan (c), Nangeyalia Kharote, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi

Topmost Picks for AFG vs SA Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – South Africa

• Heinrich Klaasen- Klaasen has scored 108 runs in 5 matches at a good average of 36. He was striking at a rate of 180+ before this World Cup but the tough pitches here saw a dip in his strike rate.
• Kagiso Rabada- Rabada has picked 7 wickets so far in 5 matches with his best of 3/18 coming in the last match against USA.

Top Picks – Afghanistan

• Rahmanullah Gurbaz – Gurbaz is the leading run scorer of the tournament with 281 runs in 7 matches at a strike rate of 129.
• Rashid Khan – Rashid Khan is not just leading the team well but also looks in sharp form with his spin bowling. He has taken 14 wickets in 7 matches at a brilliant strike rate of 12.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for AFG vs SA Dream11 Team:

Quinton de Kock, Heinrich Klaasen, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, Aiden Markram(VC), Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rashid Khan(C)

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for AFG vs SA Dream11 Team:

Quinton de Kock(C), Heinrich Klaasen, Rahmanullah Gurbaz(VC), Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rashid Khan

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Quinton de Kock, Rashid Khan

Vice-captain – Aiden Markram, Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Wicketkeeper – Rahmanullah Gurbaz

AFG vs SA Probable Winners:

South Africa and Afghanistan are meeting for the third time in the T20Is, and this will be their most important match because it is a semi-final for the T20 World Cup 2024. The confident AFG, who kicked out Australia, will be prepared to face the in-form South Africa, who have yet to lose a match. We believe South Africa will break the jinx this time and make it to the World Cup final for the first time in their international cricket history. Afghanistan has a strong bowling unit with both pacers and spinners ready to attack. Considering the team combination, South Africa are expected to win this match.

AFG vs UGA Match Preview

Afghanistan will face Uganda in the fifth game of the T20 World Cup 2024. The game will be held at Providence Stadium in Guyana and will begin at 6:00 AM IST on June 4. On paper, Afghanistan appears to have an easy match, but you never know what will happen when the two teams take the field for their T20 World Cup opener. PNG stunned the West Indies yesterday, and Oman nearly defended a 109-run lead against Namibia. Afghanistan has one of the best teams at its disposal, with quality batters, brilliant pacers, and match-winning spinners, and if they perform to their full potential, they could win the World Cup.

AFG vs UGA Match Details

Afghanistan vs Uganda – 5th Match, T20 World Cup 2024

Venue: Providence Stadium – Providence

Date & Time: 04th June 2024 at 06:00 AM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

AFG vs UGA Venue Stats

AFG vs UGA Pitch Report

The Providence Stadium provides a good batting surface early in the game. The pitch is firm and flat, with plenty of pace and bounce. The ball glides nicely onto the bat, and playing shots will be simple.

AFG vs UGA Weather Report

The weather is expected to remain overcast throughout the day, with some rain showers possible.

AFG vs UGA Last Five Matches

AFG vs UGA Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, warm-up wrap: India vs Bangladesh

AFG vs UGA Probable Playing XIs:

Uganda Probable Playing XIs

Ronak Patel, Robinson Obuya, Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Riazat Ali Shah, Brian Masaba (c), Fred Achelam, Dinesh Nakrani, Cosmas Kyewuta, Henry Ssenyondo, Bilal Hassan

Afghanistan Probable Playing XIs

Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan (c), Karim Janat, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi

Topmost Picks for AFG vs UGA Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Uganda

• Simon Ssesazi- He is the team’s leading run scorer in T20I cricket, with over 2000 runs. He is also the only Uganda batter to score a hundred in the format. 
• Dinesh Nakrani- He adds a lot of balance to the side given his all-round skills. Dinesh has scored over 800 runs for the side in addition to his 67 wickets. He will be one of the big game players for Uganda.

Top Picks – Afghanistan

• Rahmanullah Gurbaz- Gurbaz has been one of the biggest match winners for Afghanistan in T20Is. He is highly consistent for the national team and on his day can single handed win a game for his team.
• Noor Ahmed- Uganda batters have not played a lot of cricket against top teams and reading Noor’s left arm spin will be a challenge for them. Noor could pick multiple wickets in the game.

AFG vs UGA Probable Winners:

Afghanistan are the clear favourites to win. The team has a strong batting lineup, which is supported by a potent bowling attack that includes good pacers and outstanding spinners. Uganda could put the Afghan batters under pressure, but scoring runs against three quality spinners would be difficult, so Uganda may not even score 120 runs in the match. We see Afghanistan as the clear favourites. Considering the team combination, Afghanistan are expected to win this match.

Jonathan Trott, the head coach of Afghanistan’s Men’s National Cricket Team, had a clear strategy during the 2023 ODI World Cup. He wanted his team to stay in the game as long as possible, making sure they played deep into the match. This approach worked well for Afghanistan. Their batting lineup consisted of players who preferred to take their time and bat through the innings. This style suited players like Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmat Shah perfectly, as they thrived on playing long innings.

Afghanistan’s spinners played a crucial role later in the matches, as they usually do. Their effective bowling helped the team achieve their best-ever World Cup performance. The combination of patient batting and strategic bowling showcased the strength of the Afghan team and highlighted their improvement on the world stage.

Afghanistan has had a poor record in T20 World Cups, winning only one out of 15 matches against top 10 ranked teams despite their talented players. However, in 2024, as the World Cup moves to the West Indies and the United States of America (USA), they are well-positioned to improve that record. The team selection has been better this time. While Afghan spinners have always been their strong suit, their anchor-heavy batting has been a weakness.

This year, Afghanistan’s batting lineup shows improvement with some solid hitters, including Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Najibullah Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, and Mohammad Nabi. Additionally, captain Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman are capable of big hits down the order. With these changes, Afghanistan hopes to turn their fortunes around in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

What can win them the trophy?

Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, and Mohammad Nabi are standout spinners who feature prominently in T20 leagues worldwide. Their names frequently appear on the wicket-takers list, known for their economical spells and ability to baffle batters with their high-quality spin. This quartet, likely to play in Afghanistan’s first tournament game, brings a remarkable variety to the table: a left-arm wrist spinner, an orthodox off-spinner, a right-arm wrist spinner, and an off-break bowler who can drift the ball.

In addition to these four, Afghanistan also boasts Nangeyalia Kharote, a left-arm orthodox spinner who has taken five wickets in just three T20Is for his country. This diverse and talented spin attack positions Afghanistan as a formidable opponent in the upcoming T20 tournaments. When comparing the performance of Afghan spinners with those from other top spin nations, it’s clear they excel in both economy and wicket-taking.

Since the 2021 T20 World Cup, Afghan spinners have boasted the best economy rates while also being among the top wicket-takers. In T20 cricket, the ability to contain runs is crucial, often leading to more wickets. Afghanistan’s success and their potential qualification for the Super Eights will again depend heavily on their spinners, who have proudly represented the nation since Afghanistan’s entry into international cricket.

Since the 2021 T20 World Cup, Afghanistan’s batters have had the lowest combined strike rate among all teams, just 121.5. This highlights their struggles on the big stage. Significant improvements were needed, and the current squad appears to be a much better hitting team than previous versions. While Ibrahim Zadran and Azmatullah still play as anchor batters, with T20I strike rates of 107.23 and 113.83 respectively, the batters around them are known for their aggressive hitting.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz has gained a reputation for quick starts in T20 leagues worldwide. Najibullah Zadran’s six-hitting ability, though underrated, is crucial for Afghanistan, providing the team with much-needed big shots. Additionally, players like Gulbadin Naib and Rashid Khan are dynamic batters capable of changing the game’s course with just a few deliveries.

Group C of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with a diverse mix of cricketing talent from around the globe set to clash on the field. Group C of the T20 World Cup features an intriguing three-team battle between New Zealand, West Indies, and Afghanistan for the top two spots. Additionally, the presence of Papua New Guinea and Uganda adds the potential for upsets. Each of the top three teams in this group has distinct strengths: New Zealand is a balanced squad, Afghanistan relies more on its bowlers, and West Indies has opted for a batting-heavy side.

Group C Preview

1. West Indies

Led by Rovman Powell, the West Indies team enters the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with high hopes and a formidable lineup. Despite a lackluster performance in the previous edition, the Caribbean side boasts a balanced squad with several all-rounders and big hitters capable of turning the game on its head.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024, Match 1: USA beat Canada by 7 wickets

Key Players

Rovman Powell

The all-rounder has been in excellent form since taking over captaincy duties in February 2023. The right-hander has enjoyed a promotion up to five in the order and averages close to 40 with a strike rate of 170 since the last World Cup. Powell has a strong preference for facing pace bowling through the death overs, where his strike rate jumps to 197.

Akeal Hosein

Left-arm spinner Hosein has quickly developed into a key part of the West Indies bowling attack. He is a powerplay specialist and has bowled 52% of his overs in this phase since the last World Cup, operating at a quicker and flatter trajectory than most spinners, with 65% of his deliveries above 56 mph. Right-hand batters find Hosein particularly tough to get away; he concedes under eight runs per over against his preferred match-up.

Fixtures

Sun, 2 June 2024 – West Indies v Papua New Guinea, Guyana, 10:30 AM LOCAL
Sat, 8 June 2024 – West Indies v Uganda, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Wed, 12 June 2024 – West Indies v New Zealand, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – West Indies v Afghanistan, St. Lucia, 08:30 PM LOCAL

West Indies: Rovman Powell (c), Alzarri Joseph, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd

2. New Zealand

New Zealand approaches the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with a consistent squad, highlighting their stability and well-roundedness. Led by the seasoned Kane Williamson, the Blackcaps boast a wealth of experience alongside promising young talents like Rachin Ravindra and Finn Allen. With a strong emphasis on team balance, New Zealand features a formidable pace attack led by Trent Boult and Tim Southee, complemented by spin options like Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi.

Key Players

Finn Allen

The right-hander’s boundary-hitting ability in the first half of the innings is phenomenal and will be key in providing the platform to build big totals. His powerplay strike rate of 149 in this World Cup cycle is among the highest of any player in T20 history. He will need to combine his raw power with maturity to turn those cameos into meaningful totals.

Mitch Santner

Left-arm spinner Santner has a phenomenal record in the Caribbean, averaging under 17 with the ball at an economy of 5.5. In no other geographical area in the world does he have a better bowling record? His ability to subtly change his speed, flight, and trajectory will make him tricky to face on potentially helpful tracks. With the hit-and-miss Ish Sodhi providing the high-variance leg-spin for the Kiwis, Santner has to offer reliability and a wicket-taking threat.

Fixtures

Fri, 7 June 2024 – New Zealand v Afghanistan, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Wed, 12 June 2024 – New Zealand v West Indies, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Fri, 14 June 2024 – New Zealand v Uganda, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – New Zealand v Papua New Guinea, Trinidad, 10:30 AM LOCAL

New Zealand: Kane Williamson (c), Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee. Travelling Reserve: Ben Sears

3. Afghanistan

Led by the dynamic Rashid Khan, the team boasts a formidable spin attack featuring the likes of Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Mohammad Nabi. Afghanistan’s recent series victories against Pakistan and Ireland showcase their growing prowess in the shortest format of the game.

Key Players

Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Dynamic opening batter Gurbaz has been plying his trade in various franchise leagues across the globe, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), Major League Cricket (MLC), and ILT20. In the powerplay, he will look to take on seam bowlers down the ground and pounce on any bowlers who overpitch. Since the end of the last World Cup, Gurbaz has more than doubled the number of runs than any other Afghanistan batter (1,504) and achieved this at a strike rate of 143.

Rashid Khan

Widely regarded as the best T20 bowler operating today, Rashid’s skills are in high demand across T20 franchise leagues globally. His brand of fast and direct mystery spin has been puzzling batters over his nine-year international career. Across this World Cup cycle, his wickets have come at an average of just below 20 and at a miserly economy rate of under seven. No bowler has taken more T20 wickets this decade than him.

Fixtures

Mon, 3 June 2024 – Afghanistan v Uganda, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Fri, 7 June 2024 – Afghanistan v New Zealand, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Thur, 13 June 2024 – Afghanistan v Papua New Guinea, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – Afghanistan v West Indies, St. Lucia, 08:30 PM LOCAL

Afghanistan: Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Ishaq, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Nangyal Kharoti, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik. Reserves: Sediq Atal, Hazratullah Zazai, Saleem Safi

4. Uganda

Uganda’s journey to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 has been nothing short of impressive. Coming off a stellar performance in the Africa region qualifier, where they secured their spot with convincing wins, Uganda enters the tournament with confidence and determination. Led by Brian Masaba, the team brings a blend of experience and emerging talent to the global stage.

Key Players

Simon Ssesazi

Consistent left-hander Ssesazi is his country’s leading run-scorer in T20 internationals and has been the leading run-scorer across all nations in this World Cup cycle. His strike rate has been above 130 against both pace and spin in this time, and his average of 43 against seamers provides great stability at the top of the order.

Alpesh Ramjani

Mumbai-born left-arm spinner Ramjani has taken 70 wickets from his 39 T20Is at an average of just 8.88. He is an all-phase bowler and brings consistency throughout, but through the middle overs, he has taken 33 wickets and concedes just 4.37 runs per over.

Fixtures

Mon, 3 June 2024 – Uganda v Afghanistan, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Wed, 5 June 2024 – Uganda v Papua New Guinea, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Sat, 8 June 2024 – Uganda v West Indies, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Fri, 14 June 2024 – Uganda v New Zealand, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL

Uganda: Brian Masaba (c), Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Cosmas Kyewuta, Dinesh Nakrani, Fred Achelam, Kenneth Waiswa, Alpesh Ramjani, Frank Nsubuga, Henry Ssenyondo, Bilal Hassun, Robinson Obuya, Riazat Ali Shah, Juma Miyaji, Ronak Patel. Travelling Reserves: Innocent Mwebaze, Ronald Lutaaya

5. Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG) arrives at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with a sense of excitement and ambition. Led by Assadollah Vala, PNG brings a blend of talent and enthusiasm to the tournament. Their unbeaten record in the qualifiers, winning six consecutive matches, underscores their potential as a competitive force on the global stage.

Key Players

Tony Ura

Right-hander Ura is the backbone of the Papua New Guinea team. Opening the batting, Ura has been the leading run-scorer since the last World Cup, and he is the best run-scorer for his country overall in this format. His runs also come quickly – his strike rate of 151 in this cycle is the highest of any PNG batter to face more than 50 balls. He strikes at over 150 against both pace and spin and loves a flying start, striking at 166 in the powerplay. He’s the only PNG batter to have a century in international T20s.

Charles Amini

The leg-spinner has a crucial role as the main spinner in a side that has generally been very pace-heavy. Since the last World Cup, Amini has bowled comfortably more than half of the spin deliveries sent down by PNG, taking 18 wickets. On Caribbean surfaces, his performance will be significant to his side.

Fixtures

Sun, 2 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v West Indies, Guyana, 10:30 AM LOCAL
Wed, 5 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v Uganda, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Thur, 13 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v Afghanistan, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v New Zealand, Trinidad, 10:30 AM LOCAL

Papua New Guinea: Assadollah Vala (c), Alei Nao, Chad Soper, CJ Amini, Hila Vare, Hiri Hiri, Jack Gardner, John Kariko, Kabua Vagi Morea, Kipling Doriga, Lega Siaka, Norman Vanua, Sema Kamea, Sese Bau, Tony Ura

Group C Prediction: Top Two Teams

Given their experience and squad strength, New Zealand and the West Indies are the favorites to advance from Group C. Afghanistan has the potential to upset the established order, while Uganda and PNG can spring surprises if they play to their strengths.

The Caribbean conditions, known for their slower pitches, will favor spinners and all-rounders. Teams with strong spin attacks and adaptable batting lineups will have an advantage.

Each team in Group C must capitalize on their strengths and adapt to the conditions to advance. Consistency and strategic play will be key to securing a spot in the Super Eight. From the batting powerhouses of the West Indies to the spin prowess of Afghanistan, the competition promises to be fierce. As the tournament unfolds, cricket fans worldwide will be treated to a spectacular display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship.

Afghanistan has been one of the most improved cricket teams over the last decade. Their consistent performances against higher-ranked teams and impressive showings at ICC events have made them a formidable force in international cricket.

As they gear up for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, Afghanistan, ranked 10th in the ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings, enters the tournament as a dangerous underdog. With dry and slow pitches in the West Indies expected to favour their spinners, Afghanistan could be a tricky team to handle.

Afghanistan’s cricket journey

Afghanistan’s cricket journey is a tale of rapid progress and remarkable achievements. From playing in the lower tiers of international cricket to competing on the global stage, Afghanistan has made significant strides. Their notable performances in previous T20 World Cups, including memorable wins and competitive matches against top teams, have cemented their status as a rising cricketing nation. Recent victories over Pakistan and Ireland further underscore their growing prowess in the T20 format.

See Also: English pacer Brydon Carse banned from all formats of cricket; Here’s why

3 Afghanistan’s players to watch out for in T20 World Cup 2024

Afghanistan’s success in the T20 World Cup 2024 will heavily rely on the performances of several key players who have proven their mettle in international cricket.

1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Rahmanullah Gurbaz is a dynamic opening batsman known for his aggressive style. His ability to provide quick starts makes him a crucial asset for Afghanistan.

In previous T20 World Cups, Gurbaz has made significant contributions, notably during the 2021 and 2022 editions. His quickfire 28 runs against Sri Lanka in 2022 showcased his fearless approach.

Gurbaz’s role is to capitalize on the powerplay overs and set a strong foundation for the innings. His aggressive batting can put pressure on the opposition and create a momentum shift.

2. Mohammad Nabi

Mohammad Nabi, an experienced all-rounder, has been a cornerstone of Afghan cricket. His performances in T20 World Cups have been instrumental in Afghanistan’s success.

Nabi was pivotal in Afghanistan’s 2016 ICC World Twenty20 campaign and continued to lead by example in subsequent tournaments. His all-round abilities and leadership were crucial in the 2021 T20 World Cup.

Nabi’s experience and calm demeanour make him a vital player. His contributions with both bat and ball, along with his strategic insight, are invaluable for Afghanistan.

3. Rashid Khan

Rashid Khan, a global T20 sensation, is known for his exceptional leg-spin bowling. He has set numerous records and is a key figure in Afghanistan’s bowling attack.

Rashid holds the record for being the quickest to 50 T20I wickets and is Afghanistan’s highest wicket-taker in T20 World Cups. Despite a challenging IPL 2024 season, his return from injury brings crucial depth to the squad.

Rashid’s ability to bowl economically and take wickets in crucial moments makes him a game-changer. His leadership in the bowling department will be vital for Afghanistan’s success.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 is just around the corner, and cricket fans worldwide are buzzing with anticipation. Afghanistan stands out as a squad full of potential and intrigue among the many teams vying for glory. Often regarded as underdogs, the Afghan team has shown flashes of brilliance, especially in the game’s shortest format.

Afghanistan’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad is a mix of exciting talent and experienced campaigners. Their formidable spin attack and explosive batting lineup make them a team to watch out for. However, consistency in the pace department and key batting positions poses challenges.

Rashid Khan’s leadership and the emergence of young talent offer promising opportunities, while the form of key players and potential injuries remain threats. If they can address these issues, Afghanistan has the potential to surprise many and make a deep run in the tournament.

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To understand their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, let’s dive into a comprehensive SWOT analysis of the current Afghanistan T20 World Cup squad.

SWOT Analysis of Afghanistan’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad

Strengths

One of Afghanistan’s most significant advantages is their world-class spin attack. The trio of Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman can be a nightmare for any batting lineup. Rashid Khan, renowned for his deceptive googlies and quick leg-breaks, is one of the best T20 bowlers globally.

Mohammad Nabi brings experience and guile and can break crucial partnerships with his off-spin. Mujeeb Ur Rahman, with his unique mystery spin, adds another dimension to this potent attack. These spinners will be critical in the middle overs, where they can stifle the run flow and pick up vital wickets.

Afghanistan boasts a cadre of young, dynamic batters who can change the course of a game within a few overs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, with his aggressive batting style, can provide explosive starts. Najibullah Zadran, known for his ability to finish innings with a flourish, brings stability and firepower to the middle order.

Another strength of the Afghan squad is their tight-knit team chemistry. Many players have come up through the ranks together, playing in various domestic and international leagues. This familiarity and unity translate into strong on-field performances, where players back each other up and fight as a cohesive unit.

Weaknesses

While Afghanistan’s spin attack is formidable, their pace attack leaves much to be desired. Naveen-ul-Haq and Fazalhaq Farooqi have shown potential but need more consistency at the highest level. Their inability to regularly deliver breakthroughs or contain runs could be a significant drawback, especially on pitches that favor pace.

Afghanistan’s number 3 batting position remains a concern. The team needs a reliable batter in this crucial spot, which leads to frequent changes and instability in the lineup. This inconsistency can disrupt the team’s momentum and put additional pressure on the middle order.

Despite their talent, many Afghan players need more experience in high-pressure matches. The mental fortitude required to perform in crunch situations is often developed over time, and this inexperience could be a stumbling block in crucial games.

Opportunities

Rashid Khan, one of the world’s premier T20 players, is set to captain Afghanistan in his first ICC trophy. This is an exciting opportunity for him to prove his leadership skills and inspire his team. His aggressive captaincy style and tactical acumen could be game-changers for Afghanistan.

The T20 World Cup is an excellent platform for young Afghan players to showcase their skills on the global stage. Players like Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Karim Janat have the chance to establish themselves as future stars of international cricket. A strong performance in this tournament could open doors to lucrative league contracts and further their careers.

They are being perceived as underdogs that can work to Afghanistan’s advantage. With less pressure and fewer expectations, they can play fearless cricket. This mindset can lead to surprising upsets against more fancied teams, making Afghanistan a dangerous opponent.

Threats

Recent form is crucial in T20 cricket, and some of Afghanistan’s key players, including Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, need help finding consistency. If these players fail to regain their form, it could severely impact Afghanistan’s chances in the tournament. Their performance will be under scrutiny, and the team will be hoping for a return to their best.

Injuries to key players can derail any team’s campaign, and Afghanistan is no exception. With a relatively thin bench strength, an injury to a key player like Rashid Khan or Mohammad Nabi could be catastrophic. The team’s medical and fitness staff must ensure the players are in peak condition throughout the tournament.

While their spin attack is a significant strength, Afghanistan’s overreliance on it can be a double-edged sword. Teams with strong spin-playing abilities could neutralize this threat, exposing Afghanistan’s weaker pace attack. Astute opponents might need more balance in their bowling attack.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board has made a strategic move by appointing former West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo as their bowling consultant for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, which will be held in the Caribbean and the USA.

Dwayne Bravo: A Legendary Career

Dwayne Bravo’s cricketing career is nothing short of illustrious. He played 295 international matches for West Indies, amassing 6423 runs and taking 363 wickets. However, his real forte lies in T20 cricket, where he is currently the leading wicket-taker with 625 scalps in 573 games. His recent stint in the ILT20, where he played a crucial role for the champions, MI Emirates, showcases his continued relevance in the format.

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Impact of Bravo’s Appointment on Afghanistan

Bravo brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to the Afghan camp. His expertise in T20 strategies, particularly in death bowling and variations, is expected to enhance Afghanistan’s bowling capabilities significantly.

Afghanistan’s Preparations for the T20 World Cup

The Afghanistan team has already arrived in St. Kitts and Nevis to begin a 10-day training camp. This camp, overseen by the coaching staff, including Bravo, is crucial for fine-tuning skills and building team cohesion.

Warm-up Matches and Initial Challenges

Afghanistan’s preparation includes warm-up games against Oman on May 29 and Scotland on May 31. These matches are critical for assessing player form, experimenting with combinations, and implementing Bravo’s strategies. The primary objective is to gain momentum and build confidence ahead of the tournament.

Afghanistan’s Group Stage Opponents

Placed in Group C, Afghanistan will face West Indies, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Uganda. Each match poses unique challenges. The games against West Indies and New Zealand are particularly significant, requiring strategic planning and execution to advance to the knockout stages.

Afghanistan’s Squad Overview

Afghanistan’s squad for the T20 World Cup is a mix of experienced campaigners and promising young talents. Key players like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Hazratullah Zazai will be pivotal. The squad’s strengths lie in its potent spin attack and explosive batting lineup, while its main weaknesses revolve around inconsistencies in its pace bowling and middle-order stability.

Afghanistan recently unveiled their 15-player squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in June in the West Indies and the USA. Led by the dynamic Rashid Khan, the squad blends experience and youthful talent.

Rashid Khan to Lead the Charge

Rashid Khan, known for his formidable spin bowling and astute leadership, has been entrusted with the captaincy duties for Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup. With his wealth of experience in the shortest-game format, Rashid’s leadership will be pivotal for Afghanistan’s campaign.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024: All squads announced so far

Squad Additions and Omissions

Afghanistan has introduced several new faces to their squad compared to the previous edition. Karim Janat, Mohammad Ishaq, and Noor Ahmad have all earned spots in the team, bringing fresh energy and skills to the table.

One notable absence from the squad is Hashmatullah Shahidi, who led Afghanistan in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. Despite his leadership credentials, Shahidi has been omitted from the T20 World Cup squad, with his last T20I appearance dating back to 2022.

Youngster Nangyal Kharoti recently made his international debut against Ireland and has been rewarded with a place in the squad. The 20-year-old impressed selectors with his stellar performance, claiming five wickets in three matches with an impressive economy rate.

Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Ishaq, a familiar face from Afghanistan’s U19 setup, has also been included in the squad. Having represented Afghanistan in previous U19 World Cups, Ishaq brings skill and youthfulness to the team’s batting lineup.

Bowling Arsenal

Rashid Khan will spearhead Afghanistan’s spin attack, supported by Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Nangyal Kharoti, and veteran Mohammad Nabi. The spinners are expected to be crucial in containing opposition batters and taking key wickets.

Naveen-ul-Haq, Fareed Ahmad, and Fazalhaq Farooq form Afghanistan’s fast-bowling arsenal. With their ability to bowl at pace and extract bounce from the surface, these bowlers add depth to Afghanistan’s bowling lineup.

Afghanistan Squad: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Ishaq, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan (c), Nangyal Kharoti, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik

Reserves: Sediq Atal, Hazratullah Zazai, Saleem Safi