In what will be a repeat of 2023 ODI World Cup final, India and Australia are set to go head-to-head, this time in a crucial T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8 clash. The pressure will thoroughly be on the Aussie after their surprise loss to Afghanistan. Interestingly, Mitchell Marsh made a ‘condition based’ change in that game as Ashton Agar was brought in to utilize spin conditions over Mitchell Starc. While Agar was economical, he remained wicketless. However, against India, Starc’s express pace could be the answer on a more pace-friendly surface in St Lucia.
Mitchell Starc vs India batters once again!
The Kingstown pitch in the Afghanistan match offered assistance to spinners, prompting the selection of Agar. However, St Lucia is known for its bounce and pace, making Starc’s return a near-certainty. This move would mirror the bowling attack that dismantled India in the 2023 ODI World Cup Final on a challenging Ahmedabad pitch. Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Starc, and Adam Zampa proved unplayable that day, and recreating that potent bowling lineup could be Australia’s trump card.
Australian batting order could make merry!
Barring their blip against the Afghans, Australia’s batting has been largely impressive throughout the tournament. David Warner and Travis Head provide a solid opening partnership, while the middle order boasts the power of Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and the in-form Tim David. Matthew Wade’s explosive batting at the lower-middle order adds another dimension to the lineup.
Predicted Australia XI vs India:
- David Warner
- Travis Head
- Mitchell Marsh (c)
- Glenn Maxwell
- Marcus Stoinis
- Tim David
- Matthew Wade (wk)
- Pat Cummins
- Mitchell Starc
- Josh Hazlewood
- Adam Zampa
Can Australia overcome the challenge?
India remains a formidable opponent, but Australia’s bowling attack, if on song, can restrict their scoring. The batting lineup, with its recent form, has the potential to chase down any total. This high-pressure encounter would be keenly watched as India’s win will not only guide them into top four but could also kick the Aussie, who have been India’s worst nightmare in ICC tournaments, out of contention.
