The 51st game of the T20 World Cup 2024 features a high-stakes clash between Australia and India at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in Gros Islet, St Lucia. The match is set to start at 8:00 PM IST on June 24, 2024.
India have been phenomenal throughout the tournament, remaining undefeated and nearly securing a spot in the semifinals. Their latest triumph came with a comprehensive victory over Bangladesh. With a strong net run rate, even a loss to Australia would likely still see them through to the semifinals.
Australia, however, find themselves in a precarious position after a surprising 21-run defeat to Afghanistan. This loss has placed their campaign in jeopardy, making it imperative for them to win against India. Failure to do so, combined with an Afghanistan win over Bangladesh, would see Australia exit the tournament.
Live Streaming and Broadcast
TV Channels: Star Sports, PTV, Ten Sports, Willow TV, ESPN Caribbean, Sky Cricket, Sky Sport NZ, SuperSport.
Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar, Myco, Tamasha, ESPN Play Caribbean, SkyGO, NOW TV, Prime Video, SuperSport.
Toss Prediction
Given the rain forecast in St Lucia, both captains might prefer to field first, keeping the Duckworth-Lewis method in mind, which often favors the chasing team in rain-affected matches.
Pitch Report
The pitch at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium is expected to be favorable for batting, but overcast conditions might offer some assistance to the pacers. As the ball gets older, spinners will also come into play. A par score on this surface would likely be between 170 and 180.
Weather Report
The weather forecast for St Lucia is not very promising, with rain expected during the match. Temperatures will range between 27°C and 32°C, and humidity will be high.
Team Previews
Australia Team News & Playing XI
After their defeat to Afghanistan, Australia are likely to bring Mitchell Starc back into the XI, replacing Ashton Agar. This will be a crucial change as Starc’s experience and skill will be vital against a strong Indian batting lineup.
Predicted Playing XI:
- Travis Head
- David Warner
- Mitchell Marsh (c)
- Glenn Maxwell
- Marcus Stoinis
- Tim David
- Matthew Wade (wk)
- Pat Cummins
- Mitchell Starc
- Adam Zampa
- Josh Hazlewood
India Team News & Playing XI
India might consider dropping Ravindra Jadeja, who hasn’t been in top form, and bring in Yashasvi Jaiswal, with Virat Kohli moving to number three. This adjustment could bolster their already formidable batting lineup.
Predicted Playing XI:
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Virat Kohli
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Shivam Dube
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- Arshdeep Singh
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
Match Prediction
India are the favorites going into this match, given their current form and historical dominance over Australia in T20Is. India’s bowling attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav, has been particularly effective. Additionally, with their semifinal berth nearly secured, India can play with a fearless approach, potentially putting Australia under significant pressure.
Prediction: India to beat Australia.
The upcoming clash between Australia and India promises to be an exciting and high-stakes encounter. With India aiming to maintain their undefeated streak and Australia fighting to stay in the tournament, expect a fiercely competitive match. India’s well-rounded performance and current momentum make them the favorites to secure victory.