A brief look at every major team at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021

[marlonbrowndo]

The T20 World Cup is by far the most difficult ICC tournament to predict, purely based on the nature of the format. Once a team makes it out of groups, they have to play superior Cricket for just 80 overs in order to be crowned champions. That is less than one ODI. That isn't to say that preparation, planning and execution still aren't of the utmost importance.

I want to observe some of the strengths, weaknesses and win conditions of each team participating in the tournament. (The teams that have already secured a place in the Super 12 round + Bangladesh)


Australia

Historically, the greatest team when it comes to ODI Cricket. Yet, they have not been able to replicate this success in T20Is. They have been unable to win a single World Cup in the format. The worrying sign for them in this edition is David Warner's recent slump. Possibly their best T20I batsman along with their captain. However, this may be cancelled out by Glen Maxwell's stellar form in the IPL. What Australia can be pleased about is that Maxwell's prolific run started in the second leg of the IPL in the UAE. Which is also where the World Cup will be held. Their pace attack looks excellent with the trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazelwood. Their success will depend on how well their spinners like Adam Zampa will be able to support their pace attack.


England

What is there to say about this England batting line-up that has not already been said? On paper, the most terrifying batting card heading into the tournament. No team can match their explosiveness or their depth. England's success will depend on two things. How well they can utilize said batting line-up in terms of the order and in terms of adapting (sending in a more explosive player or someone more orthodox depending on the situation). Secondly, how well their bowling line-up can support their batting line-up. Adil Rashid has proven himself to be excellent in this format and his spells in the middle overs will be crucial. Finally, the absence of Ben Stokes who has been a key component of this England line-up in the past (providing lot of balance and hard carrying them during various pressure moments), will be interesting to observe.


India

In my opinion India are the favourites heading into this tournament along with England. However, we have established that anything can happen in this form of the game. We must also not forget that since the 2013 Champions Trophy, India have been favourites heading into at least 3 of the following 6 tournaments, but have not been able to win a single one. 2014 World T20, 2015 World Cup, 2016 World T20, 2017 Champions Trophy, 2019 World Cup, and the inaugural Test Championship. This will undoubtedly be weighing on Virat Kohli and his men. 7 tournament losses in a row will not sit well with Indian fans. Regardless, this is an extremely balanced side in all departments. If anything, the one question mark is on their middle order. How well will the others be able to do in games where Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma do not fire?


New Zealand

New Zealand are a team that have been criticized for lacking the killer instinct that is required in order to win big tournaments. However, their recent Test Championship win (despite it being a different format) may just be the turning point for them. This is a team that has all bases covered. They have explosive batsmen who are backed by the reliability of Kane Williamson and the foil that he provides. Their pace and spin attacks both look formidable as well. I feel that Martin Guptill at the top of the order will be key. He had a poor ODI World Cup and will be eager to stamp his mark on this tournament.


Pakistan

Pakistan were possibly the most successful T20I team for the first 5 years of the format. Making the final, winning the cup, and making back to back semi finals - in the first 4 editions of the tournament respectively. It seems like the rest of the world just overtook them over the last 6 years. Could this be a chance for them to have a deep run and remind us of the old Pakistan T20I teams. The two main weaknesses in this Pakistan team are the middle order and the spin attack. If Pakistan are to run the gauntlet in this tournament, it is imperative that a few middle order batsmen step up and support Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. Mohammad Hafeez and Shoaib Malik are the two most experienced T20I players of all time and there is no excuse for them not to step up in this tournament. To make up for the lack of an experienced specialist spinner, either the spearhead pacers like Shaheen Afridi or Hasan Ali will have to take extra responsibility. Or one of the spin bowling all rounders will have to have the tournament of their life. Pakistan has also historically been the poorest fielding side. In a format as short as this, there is no excuse for every single fielder to not be switched on and at the top of his game.


South Africa

South Africa have struggled recently with the retirement of some of their great players. However, their recent T20I away series wins against West Indies and Sri Lanka will provide this young team with a lot of self belief. The "choker" tag has followed South African Cricket for decades. But you can't really choke in a tournament if you aren't favourites. In this case, South Africa are not. If they are able to walk away from this tournament as winners, it will be one of this sport's most legendary tournament runs. All eyes are on Quinton de Kock and Kagiso Rabada. Two South African greats in the making.

West Indies

The only team that have won more than 1 T20 World Cup. One of the constants in both their World Cup wins was Darren Sammy's captaincy. They do not have that at their disposal in this iteration. Apart from their big guns firing, their success will depend on how well Kieron Pollard can lead this team. They also fall into the category of those teams whose bowling lineup must step up and support their explosive batting if they are to win.

Afghanistan

Only a few weeks before the tournament, Rashid Khan stepped down as captain citing disagreement with the selectors. This will only add to the internal turmoil that is often present within the Afghanistan team. On paper, Afghanistan can defeat any team in a T20 in the UAE. They possibly have the best spin attack in the world with the likes of Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi at their disposal. Nabi also provides necessary reliability to their batting line-up. For Afghanistan, their success will depend on how well they can play as a unit by setting aside conflicts and differences. Their more destructive batsmen like Mohammad Shahzad and Hazratullah Zazai will also have to bring a touch of consistency.

Bangladesh

What immediately stands out is Tamim Iqbal's absence. By far, their most prolific opener in the format. How well Bangladesh can set a platform at the top of the order - to allow players like Shakib Al Hasan, Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim to capitalize off of - will determine how far they go in this tournament. They have the ideal T20 bowling line-up for the conditions with capable all rounders, the experience of Shakib and the skills of Mustafizur Rahman. Furthermore, they need to keep their composure during the closing phase of games. Something that they have been famously unable to do in T20 tournaments in the past. If they are able to make it into the Super 12, they will also have the added advantage of recent games played in similar conditions.

 

[b.lesner]

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup returns on Sunday with no margin for error for the eight nations who are taking part in the first round.

Waiting in the wings are a further eight sides who will be keen to hit the ground running in the Super 12s.

Group 2 contains some of the big hitters of the game, with India, New Zealand and Pakistan, as well as T20’s newest powerhouse, Afghanistan.

They will be joined by the winners of Group B in the first round – one of Bangladesh, Oman, Papua New Guinea or Scotland – as well as the runners-up from Group A, in which Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands and Sri Lanka will do battle.

Group 2 begins on 24 October with one of the sport’s biggest rivalries as India take on Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

With just two places available for the semi-finals, and six teams who will fancy their chances of making it, every match should be a thriller.

Afghanistan (fifth appearance)

Afghanistan’s progress has been meteoric since making their maiden appearance in the 2010 ICC T20 Men’s World Cup.

And in 2021 they will take another step by qualifying automatically for the Super 12s by virtue of their world ranking.

That means the team spearheaded by Rashid Khan, the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade, and Mohammad Nabi, who tops the ICC MRF Tyres T20I all-rounders rankings, will now be dreaming of a first qualification for the semi-finals.


Mujeeb Ur Rahman
Rashid has become Afghanistan’s first global superstar with the leg-spinner announcing himself on the world stage five years ago at the last T20 World Cup in India.

Aged just 17, he took 11 wickets and bowled expertly in tandem with Nabi, who was the only person to take more wickets than him in the tournament.

Mystery spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman, fresh from a stint with the Northern Chargers in The Hundred, is another big threat to opposition batters.

Afghanistan were eliminated in the Super 10s in 2016 with only one win from four, although that was against the eventual champions West Indies.

India (seventh appearance)

India were the inaugural ICC Men’s T20 World Cup champions but have only been back to the final once since lifting the trophy in 2007.

A return could be on the cards if they hit their straps, with head coach Ravi Shastri selecting a squad crammed with world-class stars, while the conditions are likely to be similar to those found at home.

After three straight Round 2 exits between 2009 and 2012, India reached a second final in 2014 – where they lost to Sri Lanka – and the semi-finals two years later on home soil.


Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli was named Player of the Tournament in 2016 after averaging 136.50 from five innings and the 32-year-old will captain India this time around, as they hope to emulate West Indies and become two-time winners.

He will be supported by vice-captain Rohit Sharma, while the likes of off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and big-hitting batter Rishabh Pant add extra stardust.

India beat Pakistan in the 2007 Final and meet them again in the opening game here.

New Zealand (seventh appearance)

New Zealand are still searching for their first ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title and their recent history in global tournaments suggests they will be tough to beat.

In June, they became the first-ever World Test champions by beating India at the Hampshire Bowl, while they narrowly lost in the final of the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup to England in a Super Over.


Martin Guptill
Led by world-class batter Kane Williamson, New Zealand’s squad contains plenty of familiar names, including the likes of fast bowlers Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson and Trent Boult and opener Martin Guptill. With eight players aged over 30, they are also one of the most experienced.

New Zealand’s record at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup leaves plenty to be desired, with two semi-final appearances from six tournaments. They first reached the last four in the inaugural competition in 2007, where they lost to Pakistan by six wickets, and then again last time out in 2016, where they went down to England by seven wickets.

Four Round 2 exits are squeezed in the middle but, ranked fourth in the world on the eve of the 2021 edition, they will be confident of a strong performance.

Pakistan (seventh appearance)

Pakistan have a rich history in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and arrive in UAE and Oman as one of the sides to beat.

They played in the first T20 World Cup Final in 2007, where they lost to India, before lifting the trophy two years later with a Shahid Afridi-inspired performance against Sri Lanka at Lord’s.


Babar Azam
To further underline their status as one of the premier T20 nations, Pakistan reached the semi-finals at each of the next two tournaments in 2010 and 2012 and will be keen to return to the business end once more.

Ranked third in the world, they have the squad to do so under captain Babar Azam. They boast one of just three players at the entire tournament aged 40 and over in Mohammad Hafeez but only three others are over 30 in a young squad that is packed with talent.

Azam is ranked the second-best batter in T20 cricket, while wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan is also inside the top 10.

 

[MenInG]

The T20 World Cup is by far the most difficult ICC tournament to predict, purely based on the nature of the format. Once a team makes it out of groups, they have to play superior Cricket for just 80 overs in order to be crowned champions. That is less than one ODI. That isn't to say that preparation, planning and execution still aren't of the utmost importance.

I want to observe some of the strengths, weaknesses and win conditions of each team participating in the tournament. (The teams that have already secured a place in the Super 12 round + Bangladesh)


Bangladesh

What immediately stands out is Tamim Iqbal's absence. By far, their most prolific opener in the format. How well Bangladesh can set a platform at the top of the order - to allow players like Shakib Al Hasan, Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim to capitalize off of - will determine how far they go in this tournament. They have the ideal T20 bowling lineup for the conditions with capable all rounders, the experience of Shakib and the skills of Mustafizur Rahman. Furthermore, they need to keep their composure during the closing phase of games. Something that they have been famously unable to do in T20 tournaments in the past. If they are able to make it into the Super 12, they will also have the added advantage of recent games played in similar conditions.

Excellent write up

My feeling is that Bangladesh are in no position to challenge the big guys, seems disappointment for their fans in this tournament.

 

[marlonbrowndo]

Excellent write up

My feeling is that Bangladesh are in no position to challenge the big guys, seems disappointment for their fans in this tournament.

Appreciate it. Have not been able to post much recently but plan on being more active now that the World Cup is around the corner.

 

[RyanRyan10]

Excellent work OP.

Just want to know why you missed Sri Lanka, considering you have included Bangladesh as well.

 

[MenInG]

Appreciate it. Have not been able to post much recently but plan on being more active now that the World Cup is around the corner.

Have added this as an article to our World Cup section

http://www.pakpassion.net/icc-mens-t20-world-cup-2021

 

[Mamoon]

India is by far the strongest team. If they don’t get terribly unlucky as they have over the last few years, they should lift the title.

England’s batting lineup will be somewhat neutralized on these pitches. They are still second favorites but I don’t see them going all the way.

New Zealand is a poor team and Australia never performs in WT20s for some strange reason.

 

[Rana]

India is by far the strongest team. If they don’t get terribly unlucky as they have over the last few years, they should lift the title.

England’s batting lineup will be somewhat neutralized on these pitches. They are still second favorites but I don’t see them going all the way.

New Zealand is a poor team and Australia never performs in WT20s for some strange reason.

What was terribly unlucky about the CT final? They won the toss and elected to field, DRS was available throughout the tournament and match. It was a flat deck and the game was not stopped once due to bad weather.

Care to explain how they were terribly unlucky?

 

[Rana]

India is by far the strongest team. If they don’t get terribly unlucky as they have over the last few years, they should lift the title.

England’s batting lineup will be somewhat neutralized on these pitches. They are still second favorites but I don’t see them going all the way.

New Zealand is a poor team and Australia never performs in WT20s for some strange reason.

Also, what was terribly unlucky about the Semi final loss to West Indies and New Zealand? They got beat fair and square in both matches

 

[Rajdeep]

What was terribly unlucky about the CT final? They won the toss and elected to field, DRS was available throughout the tournament and match. It was a flat deck and the game was not stopped once due to bad weather.

Care to explain how they were terribly unlucky?

Also, what was terribly unlucky about the Semi final loss to West Indies and New Zealand? They got beat fair and square in both matches

2016 Semi Final - Unlucky with no balls...2 wickets but both were no balls

https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cric...in-our-favour-says-simmons/article8422279.ece

2017 CT Finals - Bumrah no ball. Pak wont score more than 250 had that not been a no ball. Just like Asia cup 2018 when Pak batted 1st and couldnt cross 250 on both occassion.

2019 Semi - Rain intervention. Indian batsmen had to bat in next morning moisture with test cricket like bowling conditions.

Basically 2015 Quarter Final was the last time we lost due to difference in skills. After that all due to bad luck.

[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] you agree with my assessment?

 

[Rana]

2016 Semi Final - Unlucky with no balls...2 wickets but both were no balls

https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cric...in-our-favour-says-simmons/article8422279.ece

2017 CT Finals - Bumrah no ball. Pak wont score more than 250 had that not been a no ball. Just like Asia cup 2018 when Pak batted 1st and couldnt cross 250 on both occassion.

2019 Semi - Rain intervention. Indian batsmen had to bat in next morning moisture with test cricket like bowling conditions.

Basically 2015 Quarter Final was the last time we lost due to difference in skills. After that all due to bad luck.

[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] you agree with my assessment?

Lol

You’ve got to keep your foot behind the line when it matters. That’s just the rules, not luck. I think the word luck should depend on umpiring decisions now that are deemed ‘umpires call’ in cricket. Otherwise, your ability on the day decides your overall fate.

Umpire’s call can be something that would be considered lucky or unlucky.

 

[GoUgandaCranes]

2016 Semi Final - Unlucky with no balls...2 wickets but both were no balls

https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cric...in-our-favour-says-simmons/article8422279.ece

2017 CT Finals - Bumrah no ball. Pak wont score more than 250 had that not been a no ball. Just like Asia cup 2018 when Pak batted 1st and couldnt cross 250 on both occassion.

2019 Semi - Rain intervention. Indian batsmen had to bat in next morning moisture with test cricket like bowling conditions.

Basically 2015 Quarter Final was the last time we lost due to difference in skills. After that all due to bad luck.

[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] you agree with my assessment?

A no-ball is not down to bad luck. It's an unforced error just like a dropped catch or a missed run-out chance. A bad crucial umpiring decision or an unexpected injury may be considered as luck along with a toss that changes the conditions totally and you end up on the wrong side of it.

 

[silentkiller187]

2016 Semi Final - Unlucky with no balls...2 wickets but both were no balls

https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cric...in-our-favour-says-simmons/article8422279.ece

2017 CT Finals - Bumrah no ball. Pak wont score more than 250 had that not been a no ball. Just like Asia cup 2018 when Pak batted 1st and couldnt cross 250 on both occassion.

2019 Semi - Rain intervention. Indian batsmen had to bat in next morning moisture with test cricket like bowling conditions.

Basically 2015 Quarter Final was the last time we lost due to difference in skills. After that all due to bad luck.

[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] you agree with my assessment?

Bowing no balls is not bad luck, its an error of judgement on behalf of the bowler, its more to do with skill rather than luck.

 

[Rana]

The NZ rain intervention ‘bad luck’, is a lie also.

No one asked Pant to throw his wicket away. Kohli and Sharma were done by Boult’s new ball exploits just like they were done a couple of years earlier by Amir with the same angle and pace. They need to stop choking against left arm seam in ICC knockouts.

Jadeja and Dhoni batted beautifully on the same wicket!

 

[Amir]

India is by far the strongest team. If they don’t get terribly unlucky as they have over the last few years, they should lift the title.
.

Agreed. As long as the other team doesn't show up, then India won't get a chance to be unlucky. Great analysis.

 

[MenInG]

Five long years we have had to wait but the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup returns on Sunday with 16 teams looking to emulate the West Indies who lifted the trophy in 2016.

It all begins with the first round in which eight teams are split into two pools, from whom the top two will qualify for the Super 12 where they will join the world’s top eight sides.

Among the first-round sides are Sri Lanka, who have played and won more matches in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history than any other team, and Bangladesh, the other ever-present among the eight.

Bangladesh will be in action on the opening day against Scotland, but it all kicks off with hosts Oman taking on debutants Papua New Guinea to the Al Amerat Cricket Stadium.

Those four sides are in Group B, while in Group A, Ireland and Netherlands face off in a potentially crucial match on Monday, with Sri Lanka going up against Namibia later in the day.

With 12 games across the first six days, the action will come thick and fast to decide which teams will make it through to the Super 12 where Group 1 looks a blockbuster with defending champions the West Indies, reigning one-day world champions England, and heavyweights Australia and South Africa.

They will be joined by the winners of Group A and the runners-up in Group B.

Meanwhile, in Group 2, inaugural winners India are joined by great rivals Pakistan – who they will face in their opening game – as well as New Zealand and Afghanistan, the emerging force in T20 cricket, plus the winners of Group B and runners-up from Group A.

The Super 12 action kicks off on October 23 with Australia against South Africa, one of the sport’s iconic rivalries, followed by a day/night affair at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium between England and the West Indies – a repeat of the 2016 final when Carlos Brathwaite announced himself to the world.

Brathwaite returns as part of an experienced Windies side which includes three players who featured in the first T20 World Cup – the Universe Boss Chris Gayle, as well as all-rounder Dwayne Bravo and fast bowler Ravi Rampaul.

They are three of the seven players who return having also appeared in the first edition. The other four are Bangladesh duo Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim, Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez and India opener Rohit Sharma.

Those players could all have a big influence on the final outcome, but as Brathwaite showed in 2016 with his 34 off 10 deliveries, newcomers can also become the heroes.

With that in mind, could one of Babar Azam, Rishabh Pant, Lockie Ferguson or Tabraiz Shamsi be the player to swing a crucial game this time around?

Shamsi, the number one ranked bowler in the MRF Tyres ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings, could be particularly influential on the turning wickets in the UAE and Oman as he tries to help South Africa reach the semi-finals for the third time.

T20 cricket is all about speed, and the Super 12 will also go by in a flash with 30 matches in just 17 days.

By November 10, we will be down to just four teams, with the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi playing host to the first semi-final, while the Dubai International Cricket Stadium hosts the second as well as the final on November 14.

Over the previous six editions of the tournament, a trio of sides have made it to the semi-finals on four occasions. Pakistan did so in the first four editions, while Sri Lanka did it four times running between 2009 and 2014. The other side to have managed it are the West Indies, the only team to have won the tournament more than once.

Australia have the best record of any team not to have won the competition, with three semi-final appearances and one runners-up finish in 2010, beaten by England in the final.

Under the leadership of Aaron Finch, could this be the tournament where they break their duck? Or maybe Afghanistan will continue a remarkable rise, spearheaded by the world’s number one all-rounder Mohammad Nabi and the ICC Men’s T20I Player of the Decade Rashid Khan.

At this stage it is impossible to tell, so make sure to follow every moment of what should be a thrilling World Cup.

 

[Mamoon]

Agreed. As long as the other team doesn't show up, then India won't get a chance to be unlucky. Great analysis.

Every team needs some luck to win a tournament. Every single player or every single team that has ever won a tournament/title in any sport had had some luck.

As far as India’s are concerned, they have consistently found themselves on the wrong end of fate over the last few tournaments.

They haven’t had any luck and whatever could go wrong did go wrong for them.

They should have won at least two of the last four ICC events.

 

[Rana]

Agreed. As long as the other team doesn't show up, then India won't get a chance to be unlucky. Great analysis.

India would be terribly unlucky if the opposition manages to field a side, you just have to feel for them.

 

[Mamoon]

[MENTION=2016]Rana[/MENTION]

I don’t have the energy to explain myself over and over again. I have already discussed, in great detail, how India has been the unluckiest team in LOIs over the past few years.

You can search for my posts on this topic if you wish to.

 

[Rana]

[MENTION=2016]Rana[/MENTION]

I don’t have the energy to explain myself over and over again. I have already discussed, in great detail, how India has been the unluckiest team in LOIs over the past few years.

You can search for my posts on this topic if you wish to.

Just because they have been consistent winners in bilaterals does not make them unlucky when they can’t top it off with an ICC trophy. In all the knockout matches they have lost, tell me the pivotal moments that made them unlucky?

 

[sweep_shot]

Favorites - India, England, and New Zealand.
Dark horses - West Indies and Pakistan.

 

[Major]

Simple rule at uae, the one with the spinners takes the tournament.

Afhanistan has spinners but afg doesnt habe a good captain who understands how to use bowlers. Mujeeb should be used in middle orders not openes with.

India has got great spinners.

I would also say look out for namibia. Their captain is great form

 

[sharmaji]

Excellent work by OP.

According to me,

favorites to win: Pakistan, New Zealand

Obviously I will support India, but I think India may not win this time again.

 

[Mp812]

What was terribly unlucky about the CT final? They won the toss and elected to field, DRS was available throughout the tournament and match. It was a flat deck and the game was not stopped once due to bad weather.

Care to explain how they were terribly unlucky?

Take into consideration India- Pakistan encounter results of 3 games before the 2017 CT final and 3 games after that.
That should give you a clue.

 

[Rana]

Take into consideration India- Pakistan encounter results of 3 games before the 2017 CT final and 3 games after that.
That should give you a clue.

So Pakistan were unlucky to lose to West Indies in the World Cup 2019? A loss that cost us a Semi final spot basically

Also, the game that was rained off against Sri Lanka.

 

[nextover666666]

2016 Semi Final - Unlucky with no balls...2 wickets but both were no balls

https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cric...in-our-favour-says-simmons/article8422279.ece

2017 CT Finals - Bumrah no ball. Pak wont score more than 250 had that not been a no ball. Just like Asia cup 2018 when Pak batted 1st and couldnt cross 250 on both occassion.

2019 Semi - Rain intervention. Indian batsmen had to bat in next morning moisture with test cricket like bowling conditions.

Basically 2015 Quarter Final was the last time we lost due to difference in skills. After that all due to bad luck.

[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] you agree with my assessment?

Bowling a new ball is not unlucky its just the bowler not being disciplined hahaha weather you accept the loses or not fact of the matter is each time india lost they were outplayed simple as that.

 

[Mp812]

So Pakistan were unlucky to lose to West Indies in the World Cup 2019? A loss that cost us a Semi final spot basically

Also, the game that was rained off against Sri Lanka.

yes it was bad luck it rained . As for WI game... yes in a way because other wise Pakistan beat WI most of the times with ease except when WI players get lucky..isnt it?

 

[nextover666666]

yes it was bad luck it rained . As for WI game... yes in a way because other wise Pakistan beat WI most of the times with ease except when WI players get lucky..isnt it?

Windies didn't get lucky they beat us fair and square exposed our batsman technique with the bouncers and bowled us out to a low score.

The only luck factor that happens in cricket is the rain pretty much that's it

 

[AamchiMumbaikar]

Favs - Pak, Wi, Eng
Dark horses - Nz, Ind
Strong and can spring a surprise - Aus, Sa
Very less chances - Sl, Bdesh, Afg

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

The way I see it, India is the strongest team on paper and heavy favorites.

In the second tier I would put Pakistan, England and New Zealand.

As for Australia, I hope they get smashed from pillar to post.

 

[Mesozoic]

Lol at the reverse jinxing attempts on this thread from both the sides.

 

[hamzi]

Every team needs some luck to win a tournament. Every single player or every single team that has ever won a tournament/title in any sport had had some luck.

As far as India’s are concerned, they have consistently found themselves on the wrong end of fate over the last few tournaments.

They haven’t had any luck and whatever could go wrong did go wrong for them.

They should have won at least two of the last four ICC events.

That has to be the most absurd thing i have ever heard....By that logic Pakistan should have won the 2010 t20 world cup IF Hussey didnt play that innings? Very Unlucky
Pakistan were unlucky when Rahat ali dropped Watson in the 2015 WC Q.F...Probably would have gone to win the world cup?
Same goes for 2019 where had our match with Srilanka not been washed out we would be in the Semi Finals and probably win the World cup? Again extremely unlucky.

If we started on Luck and how unlucky certain incidents were then no team deserved their titles....At the end of the day all that matters is whether you Won or Not....stop with the excuses!!

 

[Mesozoic]

If each and every team plays to the best of their abilities most of the times, this is how i think the whole thing will pan out -

Group 1

1. ENG 5 - 4 - 1 - 8 points (will lose a one off)

2. AUS 5 - 3 - 2 - 6 points (go through on NRR)

3. SAF 5 - 3 - 2 - 6 points

4. SL 5 - 2 - 3 - 4 points

5. WI 5 - 2 - 3 - 4 points

6. SCO 5 - 0 - 5 - 0 points

Group 2

1. IND 5 - 4 - 1 - 8 points (mental block against NZ)

2. NZ 5 - 4 - 1 - 8 points (will lose to Af/Pk/Bd)

3. PAK 5 - 3 - 2 - 6 points

4. AFG 5 - 2 - 3 - 4 points

5. BAN 5 - 2 - 3 - 4 points

6. IRE 5 - 0 - 5 - 0 points



SF 1

ENG vs NZ

England should win comfortably

SF2

IND vs AUS

India should win a close game.

FINAL

IND vs ENG

India to choke against Tymal Mills with the new ball and captain Morgan will take his revenge on mentor Dhoni.

T20 World Champions - England

 

[Mamoon]

That has to be the most absurd thing i have ever heard....By that logic Pakistan should have won the 2010 t20 world cup IF Hussey didnt play that innings? Very Unlucky
Pakistan were unlucky when Rahat ali dropped Watson in the 2015 WC Q.F...Probably would have gone to win the world cup?
Same goes for 2019 where had our match with Srilanka not been washed out we would be in the Semi Finals and probably win the World cup? Again extremely unlucky.

If we started on Luck and how unlucky certain incidents were then no team deserved their titles....At the end of the day all that matters is whether you Won or Not....stop with the excuses!!

Pakistan was a poor side in the 2015 and the 2019 World Cups. They did not get unlucky, they were just not good enough to go all the way.

Even if Watson was dismissed, Pakistan had no chance of winning the match because the total was well below par and Australia had a very deep lineup.

The 2015 Australian side was pretty much unbeatable at home. They had no weaknesses at all and on top of that, they were mentally very strong.

In the 2019 World Cup, Pakistan were not good enough at all. They were not eliminated because of the washout vs Sri Lanka; they were eliminated because they had the third worst NRR among all sides.

Pakistan’s World Cup campaign pretty much ended after the very first game when they imploded against the West Indies, getting all out for 103 runs with West Indies chasing the target inside 14 overs.

That crushing defeat meant that Pakistan needed to pull off something extraordinary in the remaining games, and the only extraordinary effort was against England. Unfortunately, it was not enough at the end of the day.

Besides, using the Sri Lankan match as an excuse is pointless. There is no guarantee that Pakistan would have beaten Sri Lanka.

On one hand, Pakistani fans want to convince you that their team is unpredictable, but on the other hand, they also want to convince you that they were 100% certain to beat Sri Lanka.

If Pakistan and Sri Lanka could beat England, Bangladesh could beat South Africa, Afghanistan could nearly beat India and Pakistan, then Sri Lanka could have also beaten Pakistan.

Moreover, let’s not forget that the India vs new Zealand group match was also washed out. Had New Zealand beaten India in the group stage, Pakistan would have been eliminated in the group stage regardless of the outcome against Sri Lanka.

Besides, even if Pakistan would have qualified for the semifinals, they would stand no chance against India, England and Australia.

Pakistani fans are delusional to think that they would have repeated the heroics of the CT. Such flukes don’t happen frequently.

However, I do agree that Pakistan can consider themselves unlucky in the 2010 WT20 semifinal.

It was a terrible bottle job by Amir and the chucker in the 19th and 20th overs. Australia needed around 100 runs in the last 7 overs with 5 wickets in hand. 9 out of 10 times, Pakistan would have closed out the match.

Pakistan vs England final could have been anyone’s game.

The biggest bad luck for Pakistan in that tournament was that Gul couldn’t play because of injury. He was at his peak at the time. With him playing, Pakistan would have probably defended the title.

The 2007-2010 Pakistan T20 team was genuinely great. It is no coincide that they performed exceptionally well in all three WT20s.

They were a much better team than the fake number one under Sarfraz in 2017-18 who would have been destroyed by India in a series.

 

[Mamoon]

If each and every team plays to the best of their abilities most of the times, this is how i think the whole thing will pan out -

Group 1

1. ENG 5 - 4 - 1 - 8 points (will lose a one off)

2. AUS 5 - 3 - 2 - 6 points (go through on NRR)

3. SAF 5 - 3 - 2 - 6 points

4. SL 5 - 2 - 3 - 4 points

5. WI 5 - 2 - 3 - 4 points

6. SCO 5 - 0 - 5 - 0 points

Group 2

1. IND 5 - 4 - 1 - 8 points (mental block against NZ)

2. NZ 5 - 4 - 1 - 8 points (will lose to Af/Pk/Bd)

3. PAK 5 - 3 - 2 - 6 points

4. AFG 5 - 2 - 3 - 4 points

5. BAN 5 - 2 - 3 - 4 points

6. IRE 5 - 0 - 5 - 0 points



SF 1

ENG vs NZ

England should win comfortably

SF2

IND vs AUS

India should win a close game.

FINAL

IND vs ENG

India to choke against Tymal Mills with the new ball and captain Morgan will take his revenge on mentor Dhoni.

T20 World Champions - England

In the last 6 years, India and England have been the two best white ball sides and a showdown in an ICC tournament final has been on the cards.

We could have had three finals between the two sides in the last three tournaments (2016 WT20, 2017 CT, 2019 WC).

Hopefully, it will finally happen this time. The cricket world really deserves to see a tournament final between this generation of Indian and English cricketers.

 

[Usman Chadda]

2016 Semi Final - Unlucky with no balls...2 wickets but both were no balls

https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cric...in-our-favour-says-simmons/article8422279.ece

2017 CT Finals - Bumrah no ball. Pak wont score more than 250 had that not been a no ball. Just like Asia cup 2018 when Pak batted 1st and couldnt cross 250 on both occassion.

2019 Semi - Rain intervention. Indian batsmen had to bat in next morning moisture with test cricket like bowling conditions.

Basically 2015 Quarter Final was the last time we lost due to difference in skills. After that all due to bad luck.

[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] you agree with my assessment?

No balls arent bad luck, they are caused by incompetence by a bowler. It’s like saying Pakistan was unlucky against Australia in the WC19, where four dropped catches made sure Warner got to a hundred and set up a decent total.

 

[drubwrubnat]

Lol at the reverse jinxing attempts on this thread from both the sides.

True that….
Im categorically saying, i dont see Pakistan beating India,

definitely i will put up stakes, im very closely watching selection in final 11 of these 3 personalities - shardul, malik & hafeez.

 

[Rajdeep]

No balls arent bad luck, they are caused by incompetence by a bowler. It’s like saying Pakistan was unlucky against Australia in the WC19, where four dropped catches made sure Warner got to a hundred and set up a decent total.

No ball by itself is not bad luck but wicket falling on that very ball is. And if it happens twice in a single game like 2016 WT20 semi final, it is definitely bad luck.

Dropping a catch is attributed to skill of a player and cant be termed as bad luck.

I mean Fakhar played so many balls on that day but only nicked one when Bumrah overstepped. It is just a cruel co-incidence aka bad luck.

 

[sam_ahm]

Very Well written OP.

Sri Lanka should mostly make the next round and they've got some good players as well, Kusal Perera will hold the key, Hasaranga has been their in form all rounder and a few of the youngsters have shown promise. I think Sri Lanka's bowling will enjoy slow and sluggish wickets, Akila Dhananjaya is a good addition to the side and their mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana is another one to watch out for.

If you don't follow associate cricket then you'll be in for a surprise. Netherlands, Scotland, Namibia, Oman have improved a lot and along with Ireland should be able to push the big guns.

I'll attempt to pick a few players from other nations that I think will be doing good.

Ireland - Stirling, Balbirnie, Harry Tector, McBrine

Netherlands - O'Dowd, B Cooper, Seelar, Van der Merve

Scotland - R Berrington, MacLeod, Safyaan Sharif, Josh Davey, K Coetzer

Namibia - Erasmus, P Ya France, JJ Smits, D Wiese, Z Green

 

[nextover666666]

No ball by itself is not bad luck but wicket falling on that very ball is. And if it happens twice in a single game like 2016 WT20 semi final, it is definitely bad luck.

Dropping a catch is attributed to skill of a player and cant be termed as bad luck.

I mean Fakhar played so many balls on that day but only nicked one when Bumrah overstepped. It is just a cruel co-incidence aka bad luck.

Nope not bad luck just bowler being stupid

 

[MenInG]

Oct 16 (Reuters) - West Indies will again rely on a hardened bunch of Twenty20 specialists as they bid to retain their World Cup title, but are set for a stern test from India, out to secure a first global trophy under Virat Kohli, and an England team bidding to become champions in two formats.

The seventh edition of the showpiece Twenty20 World Cup was set to take place in India, but a COVID-19 surge in the country forced it to relocate.

The tournament will begin on Sunday with co-hosts Oman playing debutants Papua New Guinea in a preliminary Group B match in Muscat.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host the Super 12 stage and the knockout matches across three venues -- Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi -- with 70% fan capacity.

The 16-team tournament is the biggest global cricket event since the COVID-19 pandemic struck and the event had to be shifted even though the Indian board retains its host status.

Kohli will step down as India's Twenty20 captain after the tournament and his team mates will hope to give him, and outgoing head coach Ravi Shastri, a fitting farewell. read more

Each member of the team has played the UAE leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and are familiar with local conditions.

Kohli will be able to tap into the experience of team mentor Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who led India to the inaugural title in 2007.

England will be out to become world champions in both white-ball formats two years after winning their maiden 50-overs World Cup under Eoin Morgan.

Morgan has endured a lean IPL, and they will be without explosive all-rounder Ben Stokes, who is addressing mental health issues, as well as injured fast bowler Jofra Archer.

Bowling all-rounder Chris Jordan believes they still have the "talent and chemistry" to win a second world 20-overs title.

"Having been together for so long, the chemistry is there, the talent is there - all the ingredients are there for us to make a decent run in this campaign," said Jordan.

"The squad is very, very strong and I am pretty optimistic."

T20 MERCENARIES

West Indies, the only team to have won the tournament twice, will once again bank on their awe-inspiring bunch of Twenty20 mercenaries, cricketing guns-for-hire who ply their trade in the world's lucrative T20 competitions, to accomplish a treble.

Captain Kieron Pollard and fellow all-rounders Andre Russell and Dwayne Bravo are the three pillars of a side teeming with match-winners.

New Zealand have reached the final in three of the last four global tournaments and the reigning world test champions under Kane Williamson are once again strong title contenders.

Aaron Finch's Australia will be hunting for the one major trophy that has eluded them but their recent form does not inspire confidence.

They head into the tournament having lost their last five Twenty20 series, including a 4-1 thumping of their depleted team in Bangladesh.

Former champions Pakistan will enter the tournament slightly undercooked but motivation will be high.

Babar Azam and his team mates were outraged when New Zealand and England pulled out of their Pakistan tour over security concerns, and plan to channel their anger to improve their performance on the field. read more

Afghanistan had an even more tumultuous buildup since the Taliban swept to power in August.

 

[marlonbrowndo]

Excellent write up

My feeling is that Bangladesh are in no position to challenge the big guys, seems disappointment for their fans in this tournament.

Perhaps you were right

 

[sam_ahm]

If you don't follow associate cricket then you'll be in for a surprise. Netherlands, Scotland, Namibia, Oman have improved a lot and along with Ireland should be able to push the big guns.

As I Mentioned, I never had a doubt about associate nations doing well.

Regarding Bangladesh, let us see. As of now I give them the benefit of doubt because overall they still look a good team and most of these main stream teams don't realize how good associate teams are until they play them which can result in a shock Loss.

Let's see.

 

[Hassaan HS]

Rights and wrongs: A break down of all 12 eliminated teams
e’re down to the final four of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with England taking on New Zealand and Australia meeting Pakistan for the two tournament final places. For 12 other teams, the reviews continue.

We look at where it went right and wrong for each of the eliminated teams.
SUPER 12 TEAMS
Group 1
SOUTH AFRICA

Third in Super 12 Group 1 - eight points - NRR 0.739

Highlights

Unfancied heading into the tournament, South Africa went on to win four of their five games, only missing out on the semi-finals by net run-rate. By the time they were eliminated it was clear they were a good enough team to win the whole thing.

Under pressure after a narrow final over first-up defeat against Australia, the Proteas went on to win four matches on the bounce, including a nerve-wracking victory over world No.1s England.

While that victory proved bittersweet, the Proteas fittingly got a moment to celebrate right at the end as Kagiso Rabada claimed a hat-trick.
What went wrong

It’s perhaps harsh to pick apart South Africa’s campaign in minutiae given their 80 per cent win record, though Temba Bavuma’s men will lament their sluggish start in a defeat to Australia.

Despite limiting the net run rate damage by pushing the match to the final over in a strong bowling performance, South Africa’s batting frailties were exposed early, unable to regroup in an innings of 118/9.

From there, the team were forced to play catch-up, under the pressure of needing four results and other matches going their way. They managed the four victories but it wasn’t meant to be in the end.

A look to the 2022 T20 World Cup

Performing admirably in slower conditions, South Africa should take solace in the fact that next year’s tournament in Australia should favour their fast bowling attack, and their top order yearning for pace onto the bat.

In saying this, the role of the No.7 batter, who will most likely be filled by an all-rounder, needs solidifying. On the bowling side of this particular role, Dwaine Pretorius showed the ability, and would be in the mix again at 33 years of age. A stronger player with the bat may bolster the side, and instil the top order with more confidence to play in a slightly more expansive manner.
SRI LANKA

Fourth in Super 12 Group 1 - four points - NRR -0.269

Highlights

Entering at the First Round in this year’s tournament, Sri Lanka weren’t among the favourites but there are signs that their re-build, particularly with the bat, may not take as long as some might think.

Through the emergence of Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka and Mickey Arthur have been rewarded for their no-stone-unturned approach to finding the next best thing. Pathum Nissanka, already making a name for himself at the Test level, also showed glimpses of better days to come in the format.

Wanindu Hasaranga lived up to the hype in his biggest test on the international scene yet, taking a tournament-best haul of 16 wickets, while the signs from Maheesh Theekshana are good, even if opposition batting line-ups now have a better look at his variation.What went wrong

There were serious improvements with bat and ball at this year’s edition but there is still room to grow.

With plenty of pace and a beguiling set of spinners, Sri Lanka often excelled with the ball through the early and middle overs but they’ll want to fine tune their approach at the death where opposition batters often found the rope with more ease.

With the bat, things never quite clicked at the top of the order, with Asalanka and Rajapaksa often required to rebuild and reignite the innings.

A look to the 2022 T20 World Cup

Having impressed so many, Sri Lanka will be buoyant going into their next 12 months of cricket.

It’s important they maintain that momentum through the year because they are likely to find things tougher in Australia, where conditions will not be as hospitable to their spinners.

The Sri Lankans will once again start the tournament in the first round as they are currently ninth on the MRF Tyres ICC T20I rankings with no matches left to play before the qualification cut-off date of November 15.WEST INDIES

Fifth in Super 12 Group 1 - two points - NRR -1.641

Highlights

It was a tough campaign for West Indies but there were signs of better things to come.

Making their tournament debuts, Evin Lewis (29), Nicholas Pooran (26) and Shimron Hetymyer (24) all had their moments. Hetmyer’s 81 in a losing cause against Sri Lanka, Pooran’s 46 in the same match and game-turning 50 against Bangladesh and Lewis’ 56 against South Africa were all serious innings.

While it was a lean farewell tour for Dwayne Bravo, he still left us with one more lasting memory with his glorious six over extra cover against Mitchell Starc. Chris Gayle too – if this is his last tournament – added one more moment to his legacy with the dismissal of Mitchell Marsh and subsequent hug of his victim.What went wrong

With just two fifties scored across the team and only three players passing one hundred runs for the tournament, many would point the finger at the batting for the West Indies struggles. However, with the exception of their first match aberration against England, decent totals were up regularly thanks to a deep line-up.

Making 157 against Australia, 169 in a chase to Sri Lanka, and posting scores in the 140s in slow conditions, the tribulations of top order players in their career twilight might be somewhat of a red herring, considering the bowling efforts.

With the ball there was little menace, with only 14 wickets taken by an attack who were expensive to boot. Of those who delivered more than 10 overs for Kieron Pollard’s team, none went for fewer than seven runs an over, with only Akeal Hosein (7.00 rpo) and Ravi Rampaul (7.53 rpo) boasting economies under eight.

A look to the 2022 T20 World Cup

One of the main talking points of next year’s tournament will be the West Indies beginning their campaign in the tournament’s first round. With a ranking outside the automatic spots for the Super 12s, a new-look West Indies will look at the two qualifiers next year with interest, learning of their opponents.

With Bravo leaving the international scene and Gayle seemingly still to follow, shuffles will be made. There is still more than enough individual talent in the group to deliver results.BANGLADESH

Sixth in Super 12 Group 1 - zero points - NRR -2.383

Highlights

Coming into the T20 World Cup off the back of series wins over Australia and New Zealand, expectations were high for Bangladesh so it was a surprise they almost missed out on the Super 12 stage and then failed to win a game once they were there.

Still, there were some major positives for Bangladesh.

Shakib Al Hasan enjoyed another monstrous tournament but it was the emergence of two names – one familiar and one fresh.

Having dropped off the radar for three years, Taskin Ahmed returned with a vengeance, flourishing for the Tigers with six wickets at 23.66 apiece and an economy of 6.5.

In 22-year-old Mohammad Naim, Bangladesh seem to have found a player with a bright future. The southpaw was Bangladesh’s highest run-scorer with 174, notching two half-centuries.What went wrong

Bangladesh’s fate throughout the tournament was seemingly tied to the performances of Shakib Al Hasan’s.

In both of their wins the all-rounder was Player of the Match and Bangladesh went winless after his campaign ending injury midway through the Super 12 stage.

It was a lean campaign on the whole for Bangladesh’s batters, with none averaging in excess of 30, leaving them consistently vulnerable to collapses.

A look to the 2022 T20 World Cup

Sneaking into an automatic Super 12 spot by virtue of their T20I team ranking, Bangladesh avoid another tricky First Round start, though improvements must be made if they are going to leave their mark on the 2022 tournament.

Conditions in Australia will be less favourable to them than the ones they had in Oman and the United Arab Emirates.

Still, it is Down Under that the Tigers enjoyed one of their most momentous moments, qualifying for the knockout stages of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015.

Many of the players from that campaign are still around and will be intent on making more happy memories in Australia.Group 2
INDIA

Third in Super 12 Group 2 - six points - NRR +1.747

Highlights

Having lost their opening two games in the Super 12, India fought back strongly and registered emphatic wins over Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia, ending up with the highest net run rate in Group 2.

India finally came to the party against Afghanistan, picking the bowlers apart enroute to 210. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul set the tone with a 140-run partnership before Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya added 63 runs in 3.3 overs.

They followed that up by beating Scotland with 13.3 overs to spare to bolster their net run rate.

Unfortunately, it was too little too late for India as even a victory with 27 balls to spare in their final game against Namibia took them to only six points, two points short of the required number to be in contention for a spot in the semi-finals.What went wrong

India’s World Cup dreams came crashing down as New Zealand beat Afghanistan to go to eight points, making it impossible for the Men in Blue to qualify.

Despite winning their final three matches, India couldn’t recover from the two massive losses against Pakistan and New Zealand. In both games, the batters had a nightmarish start, losing three and two wickets in the Powerplay while the rest of the batting fell short. The bowlers never really had enough runs on board to make a game out of it but didn’t cause any trouble to the opposition batters.

Apart from the losses, India couldn’t quite find the right combination in the first two games. With Hardik Pandya not bowling, India were forced to go with five bowling options in their first two games, even though Hardik did roll his arm over once the game was out of India’s reach.

A look to the 2022 T20 World Cup

The 2021 World Cup was Virat Kohli’s last tournament as India’s T20 captain and Ravi Shastri’s last as the head coach. India will go into the T20 World Cup next year in Australia with a new captain and with Rahul Dravid at the helm.

Though there are no obvious chinks in India’s armour, the lack of the sixth bowling option is something they would want to rectify ahead of the tournament next year. However, if Pandya can keep his fitness in check, the pre-tournament favourites of this year will carry the tag into the next year as well.

Under the new leadership group, India will be hoping to end the ICC trophy drought that began after India’s win in the 2013 Champions Trophy.AFGHANISTAN

Fourth in Super 12 Group 2 - four points - NRR +1.053

Highlights

Afghanistan made a statement of intent in the first game against Scotland, skittling them out for 60 in their chase of 190, registering the joint-second highest margin of victory in T20 World Cup history. Mujeeb Ur Rahman ran riot in the Powerplay before returning to pick a five-for, while Rashid Khan ripped through the lower order.

Against Namibia too, they secured a convincing win, registering another massive win by 62 runs.

Another massive positive for Afghanistan was the bowling outside of the Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Mohammad Nabi. The usual suspects were at the top of their game but it was fast bowlers – be it Naveen Ul Haq or Hamid Hassan – that added another dimension to Afghanistan’s bowling attack.What went wrong

Afghanistan had a topsy-turvy World Cup campaign in UAE. Unfortunately for them, there were more downs than ups as they crashed out after losing their final game to New Zealand.

Though they performed well against Scotland and Namibia, they struggled against stronger opponents in the form of Pakistan, India and New Zealand.

Losing Mujeeb to injury, especially after fantastic Powerplay performances from him in the opening two games, was obviously going to be a huge blow to them, especially against India, who, at the time, were coming into the game low on confidence.

Afghanistan are a team that prefers to bat first and having done so in four out of the five games, the openers, who have been sensational for their team in the past, failed to stamp their authority. Mohammad Shahzad and Hazratullah Zazai scored just 171 runs between themselves in the five games together, putting pressure on the middle and lower order to do the bulk of the scoring.

A look to the 2022 T20 World Cup

Afghanistan have qualified for the Super 12 of the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia on the virtue of their position at seventh spot in the ICC Men’s T20I Rankings for teams.

Nabi, having taken over the captaincy from Khan just ahead of the World Cup, has done a splendid job at leading the side. Bowling has always been Afghanistan’s x-factor. Now, if the batters put their hands up, given the way they approach T20 cricket, Afghanistan can dream of going deep into the tournament.NAMIBIA


Fourth in Super 12 Group 2 - two points - NRR -2.000 (After India Game)

Highlight

A number of Namibia’s players have cited their nation’s 2003 Cricket World Cup appearance as inspiration to take up the sport, and given their success in UAE, it’s easy to see the next generation picking up the bat and ball.

On the whole, it was a hugely successful campaign for Gerhard Erasmus and his chargers, who leave UAE with three victories, one of which came over Full Member Ireland to secure a Super 12 spot and automatic qualification for next year’s tournament in Australia.

Rolling over Scotland open their Super 12 account, Namibia proved their mettle at the next level, despite four losses on the bounce.

Sharing the spoils in a number of their Super 12 matches, there was a lot to like about the Eagles and the way they took the game to their more-fancied opponents.

What went wrong

Strong with both ball and bat throughout the middle overs, it felt like Namibia, often fielding first, let the game go from their grasp with expensive overs at the death, and a slow start in reply.

That was underlined by their encounter with New Zealand. Smothering the Black Caps at 96/4 from 16 overs, the Namibians let their opponents escape their clutches, leaking 67 runs in the final five overs.

In response, Namibia’s opening pair struggled to bring their side back into the game, mustering only 36 in the Powerplay, allowing the required run rate to rise out of reach.

A look to the 2022 T20 World Cup

With a spot for the First Round in Australia sewn up, the Eagles will be relieved to avoid the T20 World Cup Qualifier next year, with a number of teams threatening to squeeze into the tournament’s 16 spots.

Meticulous in their in-house preparation and with a tight-knit group, the side will go back to the drawing board for their Australian assault, debriefing on the lessons from their successful run in 2021.

Should everyone return for next year’s tournament, and improvements are made in certain match situations, one feels Namibia can build on their three wins in UAE.SCOTLAND

Fifth in Super 12 Group 2 - zero points - NRR -3.543

Highlights

At 53/6 as the underdog against Bangladesh, many sides would have completely wilted in the heat of an Omani evening. Scotland the Brave lived up to the name.

Playing just his second ever international, Chris Greaves made a blistering 45 off 28 batting at No.7 to help pull Scotland to a total of 140/9. That proved six runs too many for Bangladesh, and the victory was the start of a golden First Round campaign in which they did not take defeat a single time.

They had a tougher time of it in the Super 12 stage, but having secured automatic qualification for next year’s event, they’ll be better for the experience.What went wrong

Having competed with New Zealand for most of their contest in Dubai, execution let the quicks down with Martin Guptill pouncing on late-over bowling in an assault of 93 off 56 balls.

That was the first match where they were missing the services of star fast bowler Josh Davey and his presence was felt. The seamer enjoyed a campaign to remember until a persistent groin injury put him out of commission, taking nine wickets at 13.66.

At times, Scotland’s batting was found wanting – an area where the injured Ollie Hairs could have come in handy.

A look to the 2022 T20 World Cup

With 37-year-old Kyle Coetzer hinting that he wants to play on until the 2023 Cricket World Cup campaign, every member of Scotland’s 2021 campaign should be available for Australia, carrying on from the successful campaign.

Through the final parts of this year’s campaign, Scotland’s players repeatedly spoke of the Super 12 stage showing them where they need to be to compete. Expect a wiser, battle-hardened Scottish outfit to turn up in Australia, building on the success and lessons of 2021.FIRST ROUND
Group A
IRELAND

Third in Round 1 Group A – two points – NRR -0.853

Highlights

Ireland’s tournament got off to a rollicking start in a seven-wicket win over Netherlands with 29 balls to spare. It was a victory spurred by Curtis Campher, who took a hat-trick and then picked up one more wicket to make it four in four balls. He’s the only player to have achieved that feat at a T20 World Cup.

Alongside Campher, Josh Little also thrived with the ball, taking five wickets at 11.80 and they’ll be hoping the pair of 22-year-olds can continue to develop from here.What went wrong

Ireland’s batting never truly kicked into gear, with Paul Stirling (75 at 37.5) the only player in the team to average more than 25.

After their confidence boosting win over Netherlands to start the tournament, they were put firmly on the backfoot by a 70-run defeat to Sri Lanka and failed to bounce back in their must-win game against Namibia.

A look to the 2022 T20 World Cup

Having finished amongst the four lowest sides in the 2021 T20 World Cup, Ireland will have to go through the Global Qualifiers in order to secure a place in Round 1 of the 2022 World Cup in Australia.

Despite the disappointment of missing out on the Super 12 stage tis time around, they weren’t far off and will know their best cricket is good enough to get them back to the big dance.NETHERLANDS

Fourth in Group A – zero points – NRR of -2.46

The highlights

The biggest positive for Netherlands from the tournament was Max O’Dowd who flourished in his first global event.

O’Dowd averaged 41 for the tournament, notching half-centuries in each of their first two games.

The 27-year-old was particularly effective against Namibia, hitting six fours and a six on his way to 70 off 56. That performance came off the back of a gritty 51 against Ireland where he had the unenviable task of keeping the innings together as Campher took a hat-trick.

In a tough campaign for the Dutch, O’Dowd’s tournament is a serious positive.
What went wrong

Having won the qualifying event two years ago, bigger things were expected of Netherlands this tournament but they never quite found their rhythm.

It was largely with the bat that they were found wanting, with the lowlight coming in their final match when they were bundled out for 44 by Sri Lanka. O’Dowd was the only batter to average more than 20.

There was room for improvement with the ball too, with the attack only taking nine wickets across the three matches, but only once did they have a genuine target to protect.

A look to the 2022 T20 World Cup

Having finished amongst the four lowest sides in the 2021 T20 World Cup, Netherlands will have to go through the Global Qualifiers in order to secure a place in Round 1 of the 2022 World Cup in Australia.

The good news is, if they make it they’ll have had a better chance to build momentum going into the tournament.

The coronavirus pandemic saw a extended gap between the Qualifier tournament and the T20 World Cup this time around, but all going well that should not be the case this time around.Group B
OMAN

Third in Round 1 Group B - two points - NRR -0.025

Highlights

Having qualified for the T20 World Cup for the second time, Oman had the golden opportunity to play their games in front of their home crowd after the World Cup was shifted to the UAE and Oman.

Their tournament got off to a dream start, registering an emphatic 10-wicket win over Papua New Guinea in their opener, chasing down 130 in under 14 overs.

Unfortunately, that was their highest point in the tournament as they suffered back-to-back losses to crash out.

Oman’s bowling lived up to its billing in the three games, with four bowlers scalping four wickets or more. Skipper Zeeshan Maqsood led from the front with the bat and ball, scoring 34 runs in two innings and picking up 5 wickets at an economy of just 6.22.

What went wrong

After their thumping win over Papua New Guinea, Oman went on a decline - they put up a fight against Bangladesh but lost their way in between before Scotland beat them convincingly in the final game to knock them out.

Oman will view the Bangladesh game as a massive missed opportunity. Having restricted Bangladesh to 153 all out, Oman were well on course to a win at 90/3 at one point with in-form Jatinder Singh still at the crease.

However, his wicket proved to be the turning point in the game as Oman finished on 127/9 in 20 overs.

Apart from Jatinder and Aaqib Ilyas, no batter aggregated more than 50 runs in the three games.

A look to the 2022 T20 World Cup

Having finished amongst the four lowest sides in the 2021 T20 World Cup, Oman will have to go through the Global Qualifiers in order to secure a place in Round 1 of the 2022 World Cup in Australia.

Captain Maqsood has led by example for Oman but will be hoping that the rest of the team too can perform on the big stage.

Oman have a strong core in place, which includes the likes of the skipper himself, Jatinder Singh, Aqib Ilyas, Bilal Khan, Mohammad Nadeem, among others.

In the months to come, Oman will be hoping to find the missing pieces in the jigsaw heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup.PAPUA NEW GUINEA

The highlights

Assad Vala’s team made history the moment they stepped onto the field of play at Al Amerat, becoming the first Papua New Guinea side to ever play at an ICC World Cup for the first time.

There were no victories for the tournament but there was plenty to celebrate, with Vala and keeper Kiplin Doriga both enjoying themselves with the bat and Kabua Morea with the ball.

The closet they came to a momentous win was in their second match, falling 17 short against Scotland.What went wrong

Given they were playing at a World Cup for the first time, there is understandably room to improve for Papua New Guinea and that will come with time.

While Vala and Doriga each enjoyed themselves with the bat, it was lean through the rest of the batting order, with no one else averaging more than 20. If things improve here, then Papua New Guinea’s ceiling gets much higher.

Aside from their 10-wicket loss in the first match, Papua New Guinea’s attack gave a good account of themselves.

A look at the 2022 T20 World Cup

Having finished amongst the four lowest sides in the 2021 T20 World Cup, Papua New Guinea will have to go through the Global Qualifiers in order to secure a place in Round 1 of the 2022 World Cup in Australia.

Surprise packets at the Qualifier for the current T20 World Cup, Papua New Guinea will be a marked team this time around which could make for a tougher road to Australia.

Via https://www.t20worldcup.com/news/2346841