The 2024 T20 World Cup is reaching its climax, and India is set to face off against Australia in a pivotal match on June 24 in St Lucia. The outcome of this encounter will have a significant impact on which teams qualify from the Super 8 stage in Group 1. Australia is under pressure after their loss to Afghanistan, and they desperately need a win to keep their fate in their own hands. On the other hand, India is favored to reach the semifinals without any major hiccups, but they will still treat this clash as a must-win game to weaken the playing field for the knockouts and maintain their momentum.
India’s bowling strategy has been under scrutiny, particularly with the use of Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, both left-arm spinners. While they have been economical, the team cannot afford to bowl them against left-handers, as Australia can punish them if they don’t get this right. Rohit Sharma needs to be cautious in his bowling changes and not expose his left-arm spinners to left-handers. Moreover, India might have gotten away with it so far, but they cannot make the same mistake again.
Ravindra Jadeja (Via Ravindra Jadeja/Twitter)
The batting order will also play a crucial role in this match. Suryakumar Yadav is expected to bat above his usual position, but India might need to hold him back if Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa operate in tandem in the middle overs. Shivam Dube’s promotion to the top order could be the best option if the entry point works out, allowing him to face spinners and add value to the team.
India’s bowlers also need to target the top of Travis Head’s off stump relentlessly. He has struggled against deliveries around the off-stump and on a good length, especially when cramped by right-arm pacers coming around the wicket. Jasprit Bumrah might need to take the new ball to replicate Naveen-ul-Haq’s success in the 2023 World Cup final. If India’s bowlers can execute this plan, they will be well on their way to securing a crucial win. The match on June 24 promises to be an intense encounter, with both teams knowing that the stakes are high.
