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The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier B 2024 continues to heat up as Saudi Arabia takes on Thailand in the 16th match of the tournament on November 26, 2024, at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium, Doha. With both teams fighting for a spot higher up the table, this game is crucial for their qualification journey.
- Thailand has had a mixed campaign with 3 wins from 5 games, placing them in 3rd position.
- Saudi Arabia, with 2 wins in 4 games, sits close behind. Importantly, they remain unbeaten against Thailand in their previous two encounters.
The stage is set for an exciting contest as Saudi Arabia aims to maintain its dominance, while Thailand looks to break the streak.
Team Previews
Saudi Arabia Preview
Form: Building Momentum
After starting the tournament with narrow losses to Bahrain and UAE, Saudi Arabia rebounded strongly with dominant wins over Bhutan and Cambodia. Their confidence is growing, and their net run rate (NRR) has also benefited from these convincing victories.
Key Performances So Far:
- Faisal Khan‘s explosive century (101 off 42 balls) against Cambodia was a tournament highlight.
- Waji Ul Hassan‘s consistent contributions, including a quick 52 against Bhutan, have been crucial.
- Bowlers Ishtiaq Ahmad and Usman Najeeb have provided vital breakthroughs.
Predicted XI:
Abdul Waheed Ghaffar, Faisal Khan, Abdul Manan Ali, Abdul Wahid, Waji Ul Hassan (c), Sidharth Sankar (wk), Usman Khalid, Shahzaib, Usman Najeeb, Ishtiaq Ahmad, Zain Ul Abidin
Thailand Preview
Form: Inconsistent
Thailand’s journey in the tournament has been a rollercoaster. While they’ve managed three wins, their losses—particularly a massive 155-run defeat to UAE—highlight inconsistencies in both batting and bowling. Their morale-boosting win over Bhutan in their last outing may offer some momentum heading into this game.
Key Performances So Far:
- Austin Lazarus and Nitish Salekar have been key in stabilizing their batting lineup.
- Sarawut Maliwan has been Thailand’s standout bowler, providing control in otherwise expensive spells.
Predicted XI:
Akshaykumar Yadav (wk), Chaloemwong Chatphaisan, Yodsak Saranonnakkun, Austin Lazarus (c), Nitish Salekar, Sorawat Desungnoen, Satarut Rungrueang, Kamron Senamontree, Nopphon Senamontree, Sarawut Maliwan, Chanchai Pengkumta
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Venue:
The match will take place at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium, Doha. Known for favoring chasing teams, the venue offers a true surface for batting. Bowlers, especially spinners, may find some assistance later in the game.
Weather:
Expect warm and sunny conditions with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 24°C. Clear skies ensure an uninterrupted game.
Toss Prediction:
Teams winning the toss should bowl first. With 60% of T20Is won by chasing sides at this venue, opting to field initially could be a game-changing decision.
Winning Prediction
While Thailand has shown flashes of brilliance, their inconsistencies, particularly with the bat, leave them vulnerable. Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, has found form at the right time, with powerful performances from their top-order batters and disciplined bowlers. Their head-to-head record further tilts the balance in their favor.
Prediction: Saudi Arabia to win
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