In the 44th match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, India will take on Afghanistan at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados tonight, i.e., June 20 at 8 PM IST.
Team India are on a roll in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, having won all the games yet, barring the one washed-out game against Canada. The side qualified for the Super Eights stage with seven points and an NRR of over +1.10. The Men in Blue will face Afghanistan in their first Super Eights match, hoping to build on their strong performance from the group stage. The match against the giant killers could take a lot from India. Experienced batters like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Hardik Pandya, need to showcase some brilliance with the bat. Nonetheless, on the other hand, Rishabh Pant, and Suryakumar Yadav have been decent but have yet to prove themselves on big occasions. With the ball too, Jasprit Bumrah needs to continue his form, while Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, and others also need to deliver a bit better than the last game. There’s also a high chance of having Kuldeep Yadav or Yuzvendra Chahal in the playing XI, depending on the pitch.
On the other hand, Afghanistan will go all out against India, with a nothing-to-lose attitude. The likes of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, and others can be a huge threat to Indian bowlers, while Noor Ahmad, Rashid Khan, Naveen-ul-Haq can create huge impact with the ball. The Indian Premier League (IPL) has provided Afghan players with valuable experience, confidence, and a winning mindset that many underdog teams lack. Furthermore, the unit has played all of its matches in the Caribbean and defeated New Zealand, which will undoubtedly enhance their morale heading into this game.
Head-to-Head:
India and Afghanistan have faced each other eight times in the 20-over format, of which the Men in Blue have won seven games. Notably, one match was called off without a result.
Where to watch:
TV: Star Sports
OTT: Disney+ Hotstar