
T20WC: The Semis and What to Expect
- Category: Pics |
- 16 Jan, 2023 |
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This year's ICC Mens' T20 World Cup has been one of the most exciting tournaments that cricket fans have had the pleasure to witness. Being played on Australia's challenging pitches, it has seen its fair share of washed-out matches and rain delays. However, the dismay brought by the rain has been balanced out by the many final over thrillers fans have gotten to see.
After stunning performances by the associate nations, most note-worthy of them being Netherlands' defeating South Africa by 13 runs and Australia's bare margin win from Afghanistan by 4 runs, the tournament has entered its coveted Semi-Final stage.
Only two matches away from the Final, four talented, lucky nations have made it through to the semis. If you're a fan of odds and chance, tipster is a good way to get into the online gambling scene.
INDIA VS. ENGLAND: Expectations
India Hopes to Fly High:
With Surya Kumar Yadav, affectionately nicknamed SKY by his loyal fanbase, the sky truly has been the limit. Recently crowned the number one T20I batsmen, he's producing cricketing shots out of nowhere, and his astounding form just keeps on getting better.
An undisputed king of the current cricketing world, Virat Kohli has finally managed to rediscover his magic touch. With a once-in-a-lifetime performance against his match with Pakistan, fans expect Kohli to bring the same fire to the semis as well. Always appreciated for its batsmen, India have found a godsend in Arshdeep Singh. His Yorkers have been on target, and he's had multiple match winning performances throughout.
England Look to Dominate:
On the other hand, England have been fierce competitors throughout Group 1, and have understandably ended up sitting comfortably at the top. Having had a rocky selection, Ben Stokes has been England's most enigmatic player. Supported by Livingstone and Moeen Ali, these three are the most key players for the country. English fans who had been disappointed by the abandoned Aus vs. Eng were paid back in full by England's win against table-toppers New Zealand.
Both countries boast some stunning play, with great fielding and flawless captaincy, it will be a well balanced match. SKY or Kohli could be the key factors that make the difference in this match, whereas Moeen Ali's calm can bring England to the Finals as well.
PAKISTAN vs. NEW ZEALAND: Expectations
The Tournament’s Dark Horse:
Pakistan has undoubtedly, and unsurprisingly been the most unpredictable team of the tournament. After being knocked out almost five times throughout the tournament, they have made a surprise entry into the Semis.
With their key players Babar Azam and Muhammad Rizwan facing an agonizing tournament, they have had a few close loses, losing to Zimbabwe by just 1 run. However, newfound Muhammad Haris shows aggressive intent and could be Pakistan's chance to enter into modern day t20 cricket mindset.
Aided by Iftikhar Ahmed who has been hitting 100+ meter long sixes with ease, Pakistan still poses a massive threat. With a pace attack that is arguably the best in the world, Haris shooting 150 kmph Yorkers, Shaheen and his first over wicket legacy, Naseem and Wasim Jr. with their match winning bowling and a spinning genius in Muhammad Nawaz, Pakistan are still in it to win it.
New Zealand Looks For Redemption:
New Zealand have been enjoying the top spot in Group 1. Cool and calm, captain Kane Williamson has led his team and country to yet another tournament semi-final. New Zealand, having won only one major ICC title, the 2000 Champions Trophy, will be eyeing this year's Cup. With an impressive 89 run victory against Australia, New Zealand's Devon Conway and an absolute star, Glenn Phillips will be looking to take their country well past the finishing line. The Semi is likely to see Boult and Santner wreaking havoc, with Sodhi's enchanting spin magic taking a few key wickets.
With Pakistan's openers in dire straits, and a shaky middle order, New Zealand could have a fighting chance to win this match. At the same time an important knock from Haris and Pakistan's usual roller coaster ride of luck mixed in with the talent of their pace attack makes Pakistan a formidable opponent.
Whichever match we focus on, and whoever ends up winning, the Semis are expected to be full of entertainment, passion and definitely a little sprinkle of luck. You can count on being amazed by performances of the above-mentioned players and will guaranteed get your