India will begin their defence of the ICC T20 World Cup with their opening clash against the United States of America at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday, as Suryakumar Yadav and his troops eye history by retaining the T20 crown, an achievement that remains beyond the reach of any side so far.
India are the holders after their exciting 2024 win against South Africa in the summit fixture and have home advantage as co-hosts alongside Sri Lanka. Former England bowler Tymal Mills feels that India will be tough to beat in their own conditions. ”Obviously all their players are well-accustomed to playing on those decks,” he supported his argument.
Steven Finn from England concurs while also backing the Three Lions. ”It is hard to look beyond India, but the romance of South Africa winning after how close they got to winning by reaching the 2024 final is something I would like to see. I do actually think England are dark horses to win the tournament given how well they played in Sri Lanka and the options they have,” Finn analyzed.
Scotland bowler Kirstie Gordon reckons that India’s Abhishek Sharma will set the tournament on fire. ”He’s got a ridiculous strike-rate and has provided so much firepower at the top of the order for India recently. First World Cup. Home conditions. Are the stars aligned?” he opined.
Finn also threw his weight behind the left-armer Kuldeep Yadav. ”He could clean up in the group stage, looking at India’s opponents, and wrist spin is always a potent wicket threat as the tournament wears on.”
