India are gearing up to face Afghanistan in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 Super-Eights encounter in Barbados. The Indian team concluded their group stage with an impressive record, securing three wins out of three matches against Ireland, Pakistan, and the USA in Group A. Their final match against Canada was abandoned due to rain, leaving India unbeaten in the group stage.
In contrast, Afghanistan finished second in Group C, achieving three victories and suffering a single defeat against the West Indies. Both teams will be eager to continue their strong performances in the Super Eights.
India aims to end ICC Trophy drought
India’s primary objective in this tournament is to break their long-standing drought of ICC tournament titles. Their last major triumph was the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013. Before that, India celebrated victories in the T20 World Cup in 2007 and the 50-over World Cup in 2011.
In recent years, the Indian team has consistently reached the semifinals and finals of various tournaments but has fallen short during the knockout stages. The current squad is determined to overcome this hurdle and claim a coveted ICC trophy.
AB de Villiers reveals how India can win their next ICC trophy
South African cricket legend AB de Villiers has weighed in on how India can secure a victory in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup. De Villiers believes that India must adopt an aggressive approach and “throw the first punch” in their matches to gain momentum early on.
“Just make sure you throw the first punch. In the past World Cups, I think they have been a bit conservative, sort of feeling their way into a game. They are such a quality team that I feel they can take a bit of a risk early in the game to get the momentum because there is no looking back once they get the momentum,” said De Villiers on his YouTube channel.
Also READ: South Africa legend Graeme Smith picks his favourite team to win T20 World Cup 2024
De Villiers suggests Virat Kohli to change his batting order
De Villiers also offered specific advice for Virat Kohli, who has struggled with the bat in the T20 World Cup 2024. In the three matches against Ireland, Pakistan, and the USA, Kohli has scored one, four, and zero runs respectively. While many experts suggest Kohli should continue as an opener, de Villiers believes a change in his batting position could be beneficial.
“I have always said please bat Virat at No. 3. Especially in better wickets that they will play now, Virat is the go-to guy at No. 3. He can play the attacking game and also pull back and absorb the pressure if necessary. He is the best player in the world in the middle overs. I don’t see any reasons [for opening],” added De Villiers.
Also READ: AFG vs IND, T20 World Cup 2024 – Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Afghanistan vs India
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