Due to a wet outfield, India’s final league match in the T20 World Cup 2024 against Canada was abandoned. This means that the Rohit Sharma-led team will head to Barbados to face Afghanistan in their Super 8 opener without much practice. India finished at the top of Group A with three wins in four games on challenging pitches in the USA. The Super 8 matches kick off with India scheduled to play Afghanistan on June 20 at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown. Ahead of this crucial match, let’s take a look at India’s predicted XI against Afghanistan.
India’s Predicted XI for the Afghanistan match:
Rohit Sharma (c)
With over 4000 runs and a strike rate of 139.67 in T20Is, captain Rohit Sharma is a top opener in the T20 format. Despite some quiet outings in the tournament so far, Sharma will be keen to perform well against Afghanistan at the Kensington Oval.
Virat Kohli
Having struggled to find form in the group stage matches, Virat Kohli will be looking to make an impact against Afghanistan. The chase master will be eager to continue his dominance over the Afghan side.
Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper)
Rishabh Pant’s return from injury has been impressive, making him India’s go-to wicketkeeper with his aggressive batting style. Pant is currently the top scorer for India in the T20 World Cup 2024.
Suryakumar Yadav
Ranked as the No.1 T20I batter in the world, Suryakumar Yadav brings aggression and skill to India’s middle order. His recent fifty against the USA has boosted confidence in the Indian camp.
Shivam Dube
With a strong IPL 2024 performance, Shivam Dube adds power-hitting and medium pace to the Indian team. His cameo against the USA will give him confidence going into the match against Afghanistan.
Hardik Pandya
Despite a mixed IPL season, Hardik Pandya’s role as a finisher and bowler provides balance to the Indian side. He will be crucial in the match against Afghanistan.
Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja’s all-round skills add depth to India’s XI. Jadeja will be keen to contribute with the bat against Afghanistan.
Axar Patel
Bowling all-rounder Axar Patel has been a reliable option for India in the T20 World Cup. His ability to take wickets and contribute with the bat makes him a valuable asset.
Jasprit Bumrah
With an impressive economy rate and wickets in the tournament, Jasprit Bumrah will lead India’s bowling attack against Afghanistan.
Arshdeep Singh
Arshdeep Singh’s early breakthroughs and economy rate make him a key player for India. He will look to continue his fine form in the match against Afghanistan.
Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj’s form in the opening match wasn’t great, and he could be replaced by Kuldeep Yadav for the Afghanistan clash.
India’s Predicted Playing XI against Afghanistan: Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh
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