India and Pakistan Secure Series Wins Ahead of T20 World Cup on Sky Sports
India and Pakistan are celebrating recent series victories as they prepare for the T20 World Cup. Both teams secured impressive wins against New Zealand and Australia, respectively, in the lead-up to the tournament, which runs from February 7 to March 8, 2024.
India Secures 4-1 Series Win Against New Zealand
India concluded their five-match series against New Zealand with a resounding 46-run victory in Thiruvananthapuram. The hosts posted a formidable score of 271-5, driven by standout performances from their players.
- Ishan Kishan scored 103 runs off just 43 balls, including 10 sixes.
- Captain Suryakumar Yadav contributed 63 runs from 30 deliveries.
- Hardik Pandya added 42 runs in 17 balls, while Abhishek Sharma chipped in with 30 runs off 16 balls.
New Zealand, whose only win came in match four held at Visakhapatnam, struggled to chase the target and was bowled out for 225 runs in 19.4 overs. Finn Allen was their top scorer, making 80 runs off 38 balls.
Pakistan Dominates Australia in Lahore
Pakistan also showcased their strength by defeating Australia by 90 runs in Lahore. The victory secured them a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Pakistan batted first, scoring 198-5.
- Captain Salman Ali Agha scored 75 runs off 40 balls.
- Usman Khan contributed 53 runs from 36 deliveries.
In response, Australia struggled, being dismissed for just 108 runs in 15.4 overs. Spinners Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan were key to Pakistan’s success, taking three wickets each.
T20 World Cup Developments
As co-hosts of the upcoming T20 World Cup, India will compete in Group A alongside Pakistan, Namibia, Netherlands, and the USA. Meanwhile, Australia finds themselves in Group B with Ireland, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, and Oman.
Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup remains uncertain. The Pakistan Cricket Board is considering pulling out after Bangladesh was withdrawn due to political tensions, affecting their decision. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that a final decision will be made after discussions with the government.
Australia’s T20 World Cup Squad Updates
Australia has announced its T20 World Cup squad, with fast bowler Pat Cummins ruled out due to a back injury. He will be replaced by Ben Dwarshuis. Steve Smith, who scored a century in the Big Bash League, was not selected, although Matt Renshaw replaced Matthew Short in the batting lineup.
The T20 World Cup will be broadcast live on El-Balad, with coverage available from February 7, 2024, through March 8, 2024.
