India vs England T20 World Cup 2024 Semifinal:
The thrilling T20 World Cup 2024, hosted by America and West Indies, has now progressed to an exhilarating semifinal stage. The much-awaited showdown between India and England is set for today (June 27). This high-stakes match will unfold at Guyana's Providence Stadium starting at 8 PM IST.
After England dashed India's hopes in the previous World Cup 2022 semifinal, the stage is set for Rohit Sharma's men to seek retribution and snap a decade-long jinx in knockout stages.
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Spotlight on Spin Wizards Kuldeep and Rashid
In their last semifinal clash, England decimated India with a resounding 10-wicket victory. With potential pitch conditions in Providence favoring spin, Rohit Sharma’s squad looks resilient and ready to settle the score.
Spinners have reveled in the conditions from the get-go, with India's Kuldeep Yadav and England's Adil Rashid eagerly waiting to weave their magic in this knockout battle.
No Action on the Pitch Since June 8
Pacers too have found success at this venue. Afghan seamer Fazalhaq Farooqi played a pivotal role in their early triumph against New Zealand. Interestingly, this field has lain dormant since June 8, providing the curator extra time to craft the perfect pitch for this high-profile encounter. India's performance has been spectacular in the Super-8 stage, but semifinals can extract uncharacteristic errors.
Source: aajtak
Kohli Expected to Deliver Runs
India anticipates a run-flow from Virat Kohli’s bat, who has yet to dazzle this tournament, contrary to his formidable reputation. Captain Rohit, on the other hand, has been the paragon of fearless cricket, exemplified by his explosive 92 off 41 against Australia – a performance not easily forgotten. Both Rohit and Kohli are desperate to make their mark, potentially in their last bid for a T20 world title in India’s colors.
Chahal Could Tip the Scales in India's Favor
Rohit's clear intent to bat aggressively during the powerplays, with disregard for personal milestones, was evident against Australia. While Shivam Dube's middle-order performance has been underwhelming, it will be intriguing to watch his handling of England's clever leg-spinner Rashid.
Though India is expected to play unchanged, the inclusion of leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal could prove crucial against England’s dominant right-handers. While Chahal is yet to play a match in this tournament, it’s likely Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep will continue as India’s spin trident, with Kuldeep emerging as the trump card.
Jasprit Bumrah remains formidable with the ball, posing a significant challenge for England’s batsmen. Hardik Pandya has impressed with his all-round performance, and the team will look to him to maintain this momentum.
Source: aajtak
England's Journey: A Roller Coaster Ride
England's campaign has seen its ups and downs. They faltered against South Africa in the Super Eight but rebounded strongly thereafter. Captain Buttler, fresh off runs in their last game and familiar with India's bowling, is poised to potentially tip the match in England’s favor.
Opening with him, Salt can quickly swing the game away from the opposition, and India must strategize to counter him early on. Runs are expected from Bairstow and Moeen Ali, with Moeen’s off-spin likely offering valuable breakthroughs against India’s left-handers.
Archer Set to Challenge Rohit and Kohli
Liam Livingstone, capable of both leg and off-spin, might deliver his full quota of overs as he did against the USA. Rashid’s four overs could very well become the game-changer. Jofra Archer, back from injury and playing his first major tournament, has already showcased impressive skills, ready to challenge top players like Rohit and Kohli. Chris Jordan, coming off a hat-trick, will be brimming with confidence. With weather forecasts hinting at rain during and before the semifinal, match conditions could indeed be unpredictable.
Here are the Squads for India and England:
Indian Squad:
Rohit Sharma (Captain), Hardik Pandya, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj.
England Squad:
Jos Buttler (Captain), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Tom Hartley, Will Jacks, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, and Mark Wood.
