The cricketing world is abuzz as Team India and Australia prepare to face off in their last T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8 clash. This highly anticipated match will take place at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in St. Lucia on Monday, June 24. Both teams have much at stake, with India eyeing a semifinal berth and Australia fighting to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Team India’s journey so far

India has been on a roll in the Super 8 stage, securing consecutive wins against Afghanistan and Bangladesh. These victories have brought them tantalizingly close to a semifinal spot. Key players like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Arshdeep Singh have stepped up, showcasing their prowess and form.

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Australia’s current standing

Australia, on the other hand, is reeling from a shocking defeat against Afghanistan. This loss has put them in a precarious position, with their Super 8 exit looming large. The team faces several challenges, including finding the right balance in their playing XI and regaining lost momentum.

Following their defeat to Afghanistan, Australia are now staring at elimination, a fate that could be sealed if they lose this match, especially with Afghanistan expected to have the upper hand over Bangladesh. India, understandably, would not want to miss the opportunity to cut Australia’s journey short.

Top 3 Key Player Battles

1. Rohit Sharma vs. Mitchell Starc

Rohit Sharma’s struggles against left-arm pacers are well-documented. In this tournament, he has fallen to left-arm seamers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and Saurabh Netravalkar.

Now, he faces Mitchell Starc, one of the most lethal left-arm pacers. Despite not having a standout tournament, Starc’s ability to swing the ball at high speed makes this a crucial battle.

2. Arshdeep Singh vs. Travis Head

Arshdeep Singh has emerged as India’s leading wicket-taker in this tournament, with 12 scalps to his name. Arshdeep has faced Head twice in T20I cricket a year ago, and was punished on both occasions, he got the wicket of Head in both IPL matches where he faced the Australian batter this season.

His contest with Travis Head will be one to watch. Head, known for his aggressive batting, has had mixed fortunes against Arshdeep in the IPL. This duel could be pivotal in determining the early momentum of the match.

3. Virat Kohli vs. Adam Zampa

Virat Kohli’s performance has been a roller-coaster ride in this competition. He has shown glimpses of his brilliance but has also thrown away his wicket at crucial moments. Kohli has faced Zampa in 12 T20Is, and has scored 74 runs off 90 deliveries across those matches. Having lost his wicket to the leg-spinner thrice, his strike rate against Zampa – merely 121.6 – highlights his cautious approach.

Facing Adam Zampa, Australia’s leading wicket-taker, will be another stern test for Kohli. Zampa has troubled Kohli in the past, and this battle will be crucial in the middle overs.