The second round of matches in the T20 World Cup Super 8s takes centre stage this weekend. We could see one group’s top two settled this weekend if the results go the way of India and Australia.
The other group is a little more complicated because of how the matches line up although the winners of England vs South Africa will have one foot in the last four.
Friday 21 June
England 72/100 | Tie 25/1 | South Africa 23/20 (16:30)
South Africa face the biggest test of their quality at the tournament to date when they take on England.
England demolished the West Indies last time out and are among the favourites to win the whole thing.
Phil Salt finding his best form is one thing but England can still find that little bit extra if more of their batters come good.
The Proteas bowlers will be hard-pressed to maintain their impact across the first group stage in the Super 8s but Tabraiz Shamsi’s form is encouraging.
Verdict: England 72/100
South Africa haven’t really put together a complete performance yet and could be vulnerable against an English side who are finding their groove.
Saturday 22 Juen
USA 52/10 | Tie 25/1 | West Indies 2/15 (02:30)
USA and the West Indies will be out to bounce back after losing their opening matches in this phase.
A second loss for either side will leave them on the brink of elimination and needing favours in order to progress.
The West Indies will have the edge in terms of batting power and depth in this one.
USA have shown terrific grit through the competition and will need to scrap and claw for everything they can to get something out of this match.
Verdict: West Indies 2/15
The USA have been brave, putting in some outstanding performances but should ultimately fall short against the Winides.
India 1/9 | Tie 25/1 | Bangladesh 57/10 (16:30)
Rather ominously for the rest of the teams in this competition, Suryakumar Yadav returned to his best against Afghanistan.
India are well placed for a push towards the title now and a win against Bangladesh will just about seal their place in the last four.
Bangladesh don’t appear to be in the greatest shape but they need to win to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
The Tigers’ net run rate took a hit with a comfortable win for Australia in a rain-impacted Super 8s opener.
Verdict: India 1/9
There’s only one winner here. Back India to all but book their place in the semi-finals.
Sunday 23 June 2024
Australia 21/10 | Tie 25/1 | Afghanistan 7/2 (02:30)
If India beat Bangladesh and Australia beat Afghanistan this group’s two teams progressing to the semi-finals will be settled.
Australia have a potent opening pair in Travis Head and David Warner and they have match-winners up and down their XI.
Pat Cummins’ brilliant hat-trick to derail Bangladesh last time out just shows how quickly they can take the game away from their opponents.
Afghanistan need their established stars to really come to the party if they are to put up a fight against Australia.
Verdict: Australia 21/100
The Aussies look like they could go on to win the whole thing. Back them to beat the Tigers on Sunday.
