Image Credit- ICC
The most recent T20 World Cup included two high-profile matches for India. On the pitch that was difficult to bat on, they prevailed, and on the pitch that was somewhat easier, they lost. They will be happy that the surfaces at this event are more difficult than anticipated. That means they won’t lose to the team that has a stronger six-hitting background, as they did in 2022 and 2016.
Ireland enters the contest as well due to less-than-ideal weather. It will be up to Josh Little to replicate the feats of previous left-arm quicks against India. India is front-loading this World Cup, so if he can bowl full and attempt to get LBWs and bowleds, it will be doubly helpful. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav – their three best batters – are likely to be Nos. 1, 2 and 3. Taking them out early might be half the job done.
Although it’s early, discipline appears to be more important than strength in this T20 World Cup, which has thrown caution to the wind. Thus, keep an eye out for Jasprit Bumrah as he holds back and puts being unhittable first. And for Paul Stirling to maximise the powerplay by answering with measured risks. Kuldeep Yadav will never give up the stumps, making the most of his increased air speed. To prevent him from getting wickets, Ireland’s middle order, which includes Harry Tector and Curtis Campher, will need to cooperate. Though difficult, that is what they desire. These kinds of sports and occasions are what Ireland is all about.
He got chills when he put on just the jersey. Just picture the scene as Rishabh Pant enters the batting cage. Or even simply that moment back on the pitch, representing India in a World Cup official match no less. Maybe he’ll make the news. He may or may not. It’s significant, though, that after that automobile accident less than two years ago, he is back and able to play cricket at this level. He and his no-look flips for six are a blessing to the sport.
Harry Tector scored an action-packed 64 off 33 balls, his highest T20I total, against India, albeit against a distinctly inferior attack. More recently, he helped Afghanistan to a score that ultimately proved more than defendable by scoring 56 off 34 balls, defying Rashid Khan and the Afghan team. Because of his strength and attitude, the middle-order hitter stands out, and this T20 World Cup might be his chance.