 |
| File Photo |
Afghanistan vs Australia T20 World Cup 2024 Playing XI Prediction: The two teams last faced each other in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where Glenn Maxwell scored a double century, and Pat Cummins provided strong support. Afghanistan will undoubtedly seek revenge for that loss.
Match Overview:
On Sunday, Australia and Afghanistan will face off in a crucial Super Eight Group One match. Australia has performed exceptionally well so far and aims to secure their semifinal spot with a win. Afghanistan, on the other hand, needs a win to stay in the tournament after losing their previous match.
Afghanistan Needs to Improve Net Run Rate:
Having lost to India by 47 runs in their first Super Eight match, Afghanistan is under significant pressure to win and improve their net run rate. Currently, Afghanistan sits in third place with a net run rate of -2.350. Their batting relies heavily on Rahmanullah Gurbaz (178 runs) and Ibrahim Zadran (160 runs), who need more support from the middle and lower order.
Australia to Watch Out for Farooqi and Rashid:
Fazalhaq Farooqi (15 wickets) and Rashid Khan (9 wickets) have been crucial on American pitches, posing a threat to Australia’s strong batting lineup. Afghanistan showed their all-round skills in the group stage, finishing second behind the West Indies. However, they need to deliver their best performance to challenge the defending champions, Australia, who have won five consecutive matches. Australia's explosive opening duo of David Warner (169 runs) and Travis Head (179 runs) are key players, but Rashid and Farooqi could make an impact with their bowling.
Previous ODI World Cup Encounter:
In their last meeting at the 2023 ODI World Cup in Mumbai, Glenn Maxwell's double century and Pat Cummins' support led Australia to victory. Afghanistan seeks to avenge that loss, feeling more confident in this format.
Australia's Strong Tournament Performance:
Mitchell Marsh’s Australian team, similar to South Africa, has been strong in the tournament thanks to their explosive batsmen. Despite concerns about Maxwell's form, Tim David provides solid all-round capabilities, and Marcus Stoinis strengthens the middle and lower order. Australia's fielding needs improvement, as highlighted by their six dropped catches against Scotland, including three by Marsh. Adam Zampa (11 wickets) ranks second among wicket-takers in this World Cup and plays a crucial role after the three fast bowlers.
Predicted Playing XI for Both Teams:
Australia: David Warner, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh (captain), Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, Matthew Wade (wicketkeeper), Adam Zampa, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins.
Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper), Hazratullah Zazai, Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Ishaq, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan (captain), Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi.
