The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has been marked by controversy surrounding scheduling and format, but it is only fitting that the final pits two unbeaten teams against each other. India and South Africa will face off on Saturday, June 29, at Barbados, with the latter having had a few more hours to rest and recover from their semifinal win against Afghanistan. India, on the other hand, had to battle against England in a closely contested match, but emerged victorious with a landslide margin. The Men in Blue have been clinical throughout the tournament, and although they were given a run for their money by a couple of teams, they have arguably been the best side on display.
The final is likely to be a high-scoring encounter, with both teams boasting strong batting lineups. South Africa has the firepower to take on India’s pace attack, with players like Quinton de Kock and Heinrich Klaasen capable of exploding on the big stage. India, however, has a deeper batting lineup, with players like Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant capable of turning the game around. The bowlers will also play a crucial role, with both teams having three fast bowlers and three spinners. Tabraiz Shamsi and Kuldeep Yadav will be key players in the middle overs, while Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep will be relied upon to provide the initial breakthrough.
Virat Kohli in T20 2024 (Via Virat Kohli/Twitter)
One of the key areas of concern for India is their inability to buy a run for Virat Kohli, who has been struggling to score runs throughout the tournament. Similarly, South Africa’s top order, comprising of Reeza Hendricks and Aiden Markram, has been fragile and vulnerable to early dismissals. Despite these concerns, India are likely to start as favorites in the final, given their convincing performance throughout the tournament. They have more batting depth, more match-winners in good form, and a better bowling attack than South Africa.
While knockout games can be unpredictable, India’s clinical display throughout the tournament suggests that they are the team to beat. In the end, predicting the outcome of the final is always a challenge, and this match is no exception. However, based on the information available, India seem to be the team with the upper hand. They have the firepower, the depth, and the bowling attack to take on South Africa, and it would be no surprise if they emerge victorious.
