Thrown together in the second match of the Super 8, India and Australia are set for a high-decibel and high-voltage contest at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground in St. Lucia on June 24. Both teams showed brilliant cricket in all their matches and remained unbeaten in the tournament.
This match is so important because the winner automatically has an easier route to the semifinals, adding gravity to what already has the necessary ingredients for a top-of-the-charts encounter.
Match Preview
India comes into this game following a comprehensive 47-run win against Afghanistan. Their performance came in the form of solid batting exhibitions and a strong bowling display. Despite their excellent run of form, India still has concerns regarding key senior players’ performance. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have not been able to get into any kind of rhythm in the tournament and, therefore, end up putting extra pressure on the middle and lower order to step up.
Australia, on the other hand, have been coasting. They were way too good for Bangladesh in the last match, winning by eight wickets. The victory happened due to effective batting and bowling units. All the players are getting into the act lately, and the Australians have found a balanced lineup that can test any opposition.
As both sides take on each other, it will indeed be an action-packed, savoury match for fans. Both teams tested their skill, strategy, and nerves of steel to book their spots in the semifinals.
Key Players
India
Rishabh Pant: The youngster is in amazing form, with vital runs during heavy stages. Such is his batting that he can turn the previous scenario on its head in a few overs.
Suryakumar Yadav: He has been almost like a revelation in this tournament. He has also grabbed everyone’s attention, dishing out runs when necessary and stabilizing the innings just when it was about to balloon downwards. He is versatile with his shots, be it defensive or aggressive.
Jasprit Bumrah: The man spearheading India’s bowling, Bumrah, bowled a 4-1-7-1 spell against Afghanistan. It was nothing short of a masterpiece in pace bowling. He can bowl yorkers at will and maintain a tight line and length, which will be a critical factor in not allowing the Australian batsmen to cut loose.
Axar Patel: The left-arm spin of Axar Patel at the other end also does a brilliant job in the closing overs, claiming breakthroughs for India but keeping things tight on the economy. His work would be a part of the key in trying to contain a solid Australian batting lineup.
Australia
Marcus Stoinis: The all-rounder has looked in terrific touch with both bat and ball. His all-round show has been the sole reason for Australia’s diligence in this World Cup. His ability to contribute significantly in either department with equal effect makes him a key player for Australia.
Mitchell Marsh: The Australian skipper has been pretty good, but he needs to score important runs in these matches. His leadership and performance are the key mandates with which Australia will roll over the line.
Pat Cummins: Cummins’ effectiveness can be judged by early breakthroughs and maintaining pressure on the opposition. Experience and skill will be his other utilities against a strong Indian batting lineup. He will be riding high on confidence after his hat-trick against Bangladesh.
Match Prediction
The winner of this match is difficult to predict, as both teams are coming off some good performances. However, Australia may edge due to their overall balance and fewer worries in the lineup. Australia’s capacity to have multiple players step up in contrasting match situations gives them a more balanced look.
Only one of their openers is consistently in form, and hence, the inconsistency of the top order is bothersome for India. If Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli could come to this World Cup with their form, India might easily have fancied their chances. But their lean patch gives Australia the mental edge.
