After a dominating win in IND vs AUS, hosts India will take on Afghanistan in their second league World Cup match at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Hyderabad on Wednesday, October 11. While Team India will be favourites against Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side, the unpredictable Afghanistan can surprise any team on their day.
There are several players in both sides who could play a key role in their side emerging winners on Wednesday. Here are three key player battles to look forward to:
Virat Kohli vs Naveen Ul Haq
Fans are eagerly waiting to see Virat Kohli and Naveen ul Haq face to face will once again on Wednesday. For those who are unaware, Kohli and Naveen were involved in a ugly spat during the IPL 2023 season earlier this year. With the whole crowd chanting Kohli..Kohli at Arun Jaitley Stadium, it would be interesting to see how Naveen will respond against the star Indian batter.
Rohit Sharma vs Rashid Khan
Another battle that fans would be thrilling to watch will be between Indian captain Rohit Sharma and Afghanistan’s star spinner Rashid Khan. Rohit Sharma had a disappointing start to the tournament, getting out to on a duck against Australia. The Indian skipper seems to have his work cut out against Rashid Khan. They have faced each other several times in the IPL, and Rashid has had the upper hand each time.
In the IPL, Rashid Khan has bowled 26 balls to Rohit Sharma, and Rohit has only managed to score 29 runs against him. During this period, Rohit has been dismissed four times. However, in T20Is, Rohit has scored 20 runs off 8 balls against the spinner.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz vs Jasprit Bumrah
Another battle that would be closely watched. Afghanistan’s opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been in sensational form and his aggressive approach in powerplay has frustrated many top bowlers in the past. However, will he able to replicate the same aggression against India’s top pacer Jasprit Bumrah? That is the answer fans and pundits will find out on Wednesday.
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