The ICC T20 World Cup 2024 is reaching its climax as India and England prepare to face off in the highly anticipated 2nd semi-final. This thrilling encounter will take place on June 27th at the Guyana National Stadium in Guyana, with the first ball scheduled to be bowled at 8:00 PM IST. India comes into this match with a strong performance in their last group-stage game, where they secured a convincing 23-run victory over Australia. Rohit Sharma led the batting charge with a magnificent knock of 92 runs, showcasing his exceptional form and leadership.
On the bowling front, Arshdeep Singh was impressive, claiming three crucial wickets and continuing his excellent run in the tournament. England, on the other hand, dominated their final group-stage match against the USA, achieving a comprehensive 10-wicket victory. Jos Buttler was in imperious form, smashing an unbeaten 83 runs and guiding his team to a resounding win. Chris Jordan was the star with the ball, taking four wickets and dismantling the USA’s batting lineup.
India finished their Super 8 campaign undefeated, topping Group 1 with a perfect six points. Their consistent performances have made them the team to beat in this tournament. England, meanwhile, secured second place in Group 2 with four points, showing resilience and strength in their journey to the semi-finals. The pitch at the Guyana National Stadium is expected to favour spinners, with three out of five matches at this venue during the World Cup being won by the team batting first.
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This factor could play a significant role in the outcome of the semi-final, adding another layer of strategy to the already intense clash. Historically, India and England have been evenly matched in T20 World Cup encounters, with each team winning two games apiece.
In all T20Is between these sides, India holds a slight edge with a 12-11 record. This sets the stage for a closely contested match, with both teams boasting exceptional talent and strong momentum. As the semi-final approaches, fans and cricket enthusiasts around the world are eagerly awaiting this high-stakes battle, which promises to be a thrilling showcase of skill, strategy, and competitive spirit.
India
India is expected to maintain the same XI that has been playing since their arrival in the Caribbean. However, there is still some speculation based on Rohit Sharma’s past comments about the team management’s decision to include four spinners in the squad. A point of interest is whether they will consider bringing in the second wrist spinner, Yuzvendra Chahal, into the mix. If Chahal is included, it raises the question of who will make way – a finger spinner or a pacer. Despite this potential change, the opening combination is likely to remain the same, given its success so far.
Probable XI: Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav
England
England’s skipper Jos Buttler faces a significant decision regarding the bowling attack. The dilemma is whether to continue with Chris Jordan, who recently claimed a hat-trick, or to bring in the extra pace of Mark Wood. Wood’s speed could be advantageous, but the England management is expected to stick with Jordan, considering his recent form and performance. This decision will be crucial as England aims to counter India’s strong batting lineup and leverage the conditions effectively.
Probable XI: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (c&wk), Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Moeen Ali, Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Jofra Archer, Reece Topley, Adil Rashid
Fantasy XI Suggestion 1:
Jos Butler, Philip Salt, Rishabh Pant, Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Moeen Ali, Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya (vc), Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh
Fantasy XI Suggestion 2:
Jos Buttler (vc), Rishabh Pant, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli (c), Suryakumar Yadav, Moeen Ali, Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Adil Rashid
