Round one of the T20 World Cup concludes on Friday with Sri Lanka already through to the Super 12s. In the other match, Ireland face Namibia with a place in the next phase on the line.
Namibia vs Ireland | 22 October | Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah | 12:00
To Win Match
Namibia 31/20
Tie 25/1
Ireland 52/100
Namibia showed their class and quality in one of the biggest chases of the tournament so far last time out.
The Southern African side leaned heavily on the experience of former Proteas all-rounder David Wiese.
Ireland have bowled well in the tournament so far but can’t be pleased with how their batsmen have handled the pressure.
While the Irish are favourites, the full member will have its hands full in dealing with Namibia, who bat deep and are well-balanced.
Unlike the other group, there is no need to break out the calculators unless this match ends in a tie. The winner will progress to the Super 12s, the loser goes home.
Verdict: Ireland 52/100
Namibia have showed grit in their win over the Dutch but you feel the Irish will be too good.
Sri Lanka vs the Netherlands | 22 October | Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah | 16:00
To Win Match
Sri Lanka 2/13
Tie 25/1
The Netherlands 9/2
The only thing on the line for Sri Lanka is their tournament winning streak and perhaps to spot in their group.
The Netherlands are playing for pride and will be determined to show that they are better than the results they have yielded in the preceding matches.
Sri Lanka may yet prove to be contenders for further progression and should be helped by having these three pool games behind them.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s ‘pinch-hitting’ role might continue as Sri Lanka seek a solution to their middle-over droop.
Winning the group will see Sri Lanka inserted into arguably the tougher of the two Super 12s groups, but they aren’t in a position to give this game away and will want to keep playing well.
Verdict: Sri Lanka 2/13
Sri Lanka have looked the best team in Round 1 and will be far too good for the winless Dutch.
