Guyana (West Indies), June 27: In the battle of titans, as the two former World Champions India and England clash in the second semifinal of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 on Thursday, apart from world-class batters of both sides, the focus will be on the match-winning bowlers as well.
The reigning champions England will definitely rely on fearsome pacer Jofra Archer, who can ruin any world-class batting line-up in a couple of overs. After his return to international cricket after long injury lay-off, Archer has been very impressive again.
Besides, Jos Buttler-led England will also bank on seasoned leg spinner Adil Rashid, who is enjoying an exceptional run in the tournament.
Besides, England's tall, left-arm, new ball operator Reece Topley is also likely to test Indian top order, who at times crumble against quality left-arm pace.
In his new role as opener in the shortest format during the ongoing T20 World Cup, seasoned Virat Kohli has been inconsistent. Excepting on two occasion, Kohli has mostly been pretty ordinary as a batter.
He too has a dubious record of getting caught in the slip cordon, chasing the away going delivery. Being aware of that weakness of the iconic Indian batter, England will surely entice him to fall into that trap.
If Indian skipper Rohit Sharma falls early and Rishabh Pant walks in at No 3, as he has been batting at that slot throughout the tournament, then England may introduce spin even in the power-play.
Because Kohli and Pant do not have very high strike rates against turners.
In that case, Adil Rashid will be a threat and so is Moeen Ali. Even Liam Livingstone, with his part time spin can be effective.
Of course, if the Indian skipper returns to the pavilion early, then India promoting the other left-hander Shivam Dube ahead of Rishabh Pant, may not be ruled out. He can punish the spinners mercilessly.
But the problem with Dube has been his not so impressive strike rate in the World Cup so far. The ultra-aggressor has turned into a controlled-stroke player.
From England's bowling perspective, even Mark Wood and Sam Curran can have their day if they get into good rhythm.
Overall, it would be India's batting approach against a well balanced English bowling attack, which is likely to decide the course of the second semi battle.
