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The Cricket World Cup League 2 resumes as teams battle for crucial points in their quest for qualification. USA currently lead the standings, but with only a narrow margin separating the top five teams, the competition remains wide open.
Oman and Canada are level with USA at the top, while Namibia sit just four points behind, making this a must-win contest for both sides. A victory for USA will help them extend their lead, while Namibia can close the gap significantly with a strong performance.
With both teams boasting talented players and competitive squads, this promises to be an exciting encounter in Al Amerat.
MATCH DETAILS
| Fixture | USA vs Namibia |
|---|---|
| Date | February 3, 2025 |
| Time | 11:00 AM Local Time |
| Venue | Al Amerat Cricket Ground, Oman |
| Live Streaming | Available on official platforms |
TEAMS PREVIEW
USA
USA have been one of the strongest teams in this competition, leading the points table despite some closely contested matches. Their key to success has been a balanced squad with solid batting and a dangerous bowling attack.
With the bat, captain Monank Patel and Aaron Jones have been the standout performers. Monank provides stability at the top, while Aaron Jones can accelerate when required. Harmeet Singh, who impressed with 59 runs from just 44 balls in the previous match against Nepal, adds firepower in the middle order.
The pace attack will be led by Saurabh Netravalkar, who gained worldwide attention with his performances in the 2024 T20 World Cup. He continues to be a match-winner, as seen in his 4/47 spell in USA’s last ODI. Jasdeep Singh, Shadley van Schalkwyk, and Nosthush Kenjige provide further depth to the bowling unit, making USA a well-rounded team.
USA will look to dominate Namibia with an aggressive approach and capitalize on any weaknesses in their opponent’s lineup.
USA Predicted XI:
Shayan Jahangir (wk), Monank Patel (c), Aaron Jones, Saiteja Mukkamalla, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Harmeet Singh, Uktarsh Srinivastava, Shadley van Schalkwyk, Jasdeep Singh, Nosthush Kenjige, Saurabh Netravalkar
Namibia
Namibia have consistently been a strong competitor in associate-level cricket but have struggled to take the next step in major tournaments. However, their experienced squad ensures they remain a tough team to beat.
Batting will be key for Namibia, and they will rely heavily on their top three—Michael van Lingen, JP Kotze, and Gerhard Erasmus. The trio put on a strong partnership in their last game, adding 147 runs for the first two wickets. If they can replicate that performance, Namibia will have a solid foundation to build on.
Zane Green and Dylan Leicher provide support in the middle order, while JJ Smit and Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton add all-round depth.
In the bowling department, Bernard Scholtz will play a crucial role with his spin, while Tangeni Lungameni and Shaun Fouche will look to trouble USA’s batters with pace and movement. Controlling the scoring rate and taking wickets at regular intervals will be key to Namibia’s chances in this match.
Namibia Predicted XI:
Michael van Lingen, JP Kotze, Gerhard Erasmus (c), Zane Green (wk), Dylan Leicher, JJ Smit, Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Bernard Scholtz, Tangeni Lungameni, Ben Shikongo, Shaun Fouche
FANTASY XI
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Monank Patel (c) | Batter |
| Gerhard Erasmus | Batter |
| Aaron Jones | Batter |
| Michael van Lingen | Batter |
| Shayan Jahangir | Wicketkeeper |
| JJ Smit | All-rounder |
| Harmeet Singh | All-rounder |
| Saurabh Netravalkar | Bowler |
| Bernard Scholtz | Bowler |
| Jasdeep Singh | Bowler |
| Shaun Fouche | Bowler |
PITCH REPORT
The surface at Al Amerat Cricket Ground is expected to offer a balanced contest between batters and bowlers.
- Batting Conditions: The pitch won’t be overly challenging, but it won’t be a high-scoring paradise either. Batters will need to apply themselves, especially against spin.
- Bowling Assistance: Spinners will find turn, while pacers who use variations like cutters could be effective.
- Par Score: A target of 250+ should be competitive.
TOSS PREDICTION
With the surface likely to slow down as the game progresses, batting first could be advantageous. Expect the team winning the toss to choose to bat first and set a strong total.
MATCH PREDICTION
Namibia’s top order has the potential to put up a fight, but USA’s depth in both batting and bowling gives them the edge. If the American bowlers can break Namibia’s top three early, it will be difficult for their middle order to recover.
Prediction: USA to win
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