The men’s T20 World Cup is underway almost one year later than expected. The tournament was meant to take place in India but was delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, 364 days later, cricket fans around the world can enjoy the fantastic tournament.
The Group Stage
Qualification for the final four spots in the main draw began on Sunday. Ireland and Scotland were among the teams in contention. After that, the “Super 12′ group stages will start on Saturday, October 23. The first match will see Australia face-off with South Africa.
The top 9 teams, based on the ICC Men’s T201 rankings on December 18, 2018, qualified for the Super 12 automatically. The top two teams from Group A and B will qualify for the Super 12 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021. Those wagering on the tournament’s events should read top cricket betting news to help them make more informed choices. So, what happens if two teams finish with an equal number of points? These parameters will be considered in that order:
- Number of wins
- Net run-rate
- Head-to-head result
- Super 12 seeding
How Does The Tournament Work?
Each team will play every team in their group once. After that, the top two in each group will advance to the knockout stages. The Super 12 group stage matches run from October 23 to November 8. The semi-finals will be held on 10th and 11th November. After that, Dubai International Cricket Stadium will host the final on November 14.
Icc Men’s T20 World Cup Groups
Group 1
- Australia
- South Africa
- England
- West Indies
- Qualifier (A1)
- Qualifier (B2)
Group 2
- Afghanistan
- New Zealand
- India
- Pakistan
- Qualifier (A2)
- Qualifier (B1)
The teams battling it out for the final four spots are Namibia, Ireland, Netherlands, Oman, Bangladesh, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, and Sri Lanka.
England Are Among the Favorites
England aspires to add the T20 world title to their 50-over World Cup title. They won the crown in breathtaking style in 2019. They enter the tournament as the top-ranked team. Additionally, they made it to the 2016 final, where they were outwitted by some final-over brilliance from Carlos Brathwaite.
Besides that, the England team is boosted by the presence of the world’s number one batter Dawid Malan in their ranks. As if that is not enough, they also have a formidable spin duo of Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid.
On the other hand, the unavailability of Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes is a blow to the team. Ben Stokes will be particularly missed because his presence in the team usually gives it a confidence boost regardless of the format. Fortunately, they have a well-stocked pace attack and the return of Tymal Mills, a left-arm fast bowler offering the team a point of difference.
India Are England’s Biggest Threat
Virat Kohli, who will be making his final appearance as T20 captain, will lead India, who are the team likely to upset England’s ambitions. Most of India’s squad members have experienced these conditions in the Indian Premier League. Their experience could come in handy when the competition becomes tighter.
New Zealand Have a Strong Bowling Attack
New Zealand are the beaten 50-Over World Cup finalists. They come into this tournament with a strong bowling attack that other teams will be wary of.
Cricket fans should also look out for West Indies. They boast of a more rounded squad than the side that won the trophy five years ago.
Players to Watch
Babar Azam
Azam is Pakistan’s captain, and his numbers speak for themselves (61 T20is’ Runs 2204; Average 48.56; Highest score 122). Moreover, he is second in the batting rankings, and his aggression and clean hitting make him one of the most exhilarating players to watch in this tournament.
Mitchell Starc
The Australian also boasts a remarkable record (41 T20is; Wickets 51; Average 21.82; Best figures 3-11). Starc was the top wicket-taker at the 2019 World Cup, and his pace and slower balls make him a key player during the start and end of innings.
Nicholas Pooran
The West Indies player is one of the most naturally talented batters in the tournament. His numbers are also great, having 41 T20is; Runs 634; Average 22.64; Highest score 62*. Moreover, he has experience in T20 leagues worldwide and could offer the much-needed consistency for the defending champions.
Adil Rashid
There are not many players that can hit the English player out of the attack. He also boasts superior numbers (62 T20is; Wickets 65; Average 24.29; Best figures 4-35). Besides that, the pressure Rashid applies in the middle overs has been critical to
England’s recent success. His team will be hoping he brings his top-form to this tournament to help them with their aim to win it!