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The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier B 2024 kicks off with a first-ever T20 encounter between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bhutan at the University of Doha for Science and Technology ground. UAE, one of the stronger sides in this tournament, will be looking to dominate right from the outset. Meanwhile, Bhutan, considered an underdog, will aim to punch above their weight and test their skills against a formidable opponent.
| Tournament: | ICC Mens T20 World Cup Qualifer B |
| Format: | T20 |
| Venue: | University of Doha for Science and Technology in Doha, Qatar |
| Toss Prediction: | To Bat |
Teams Preview
United Arab Emirates Preview
The UAE team, led by Muhammad Waseem, comes into this tournament with high expectations. Having narrowly missed out on a berth in the 2024 T20 World Cup, they are eager to set the record straight and finish at the top of the table in this qualifier. The UAE has been in fine form, winning four out of their last five matches, including a convincing 55-run victory over Oman in the ACC Premier Cup final.
Batting Strengths:
- Top Order Firepower: Captain Muhammad Waseem is the linchpin of the UAE batting lineup, known for his explosive starts. His century against Oman is a testament to his form and ability to take on opposition bowlers.
- Depth in Batting: The inclusion of Vishnu Sukumaran at the top bolsters their batting strength. Asif Khan, Alishan Sharafu, and Basil Hameed add depth to the middle order, capable of accelerating when needed.
Bowling Attack:
- Pace and Spin Combination: Muhammad Jawadullah has been impressive with the ball, delivering fiery spells, especially in their recent T20 series win in Windhoek. He will be supported by the spin duo of Basil Hameed and young sensation Aayan Afzal Khan, whose right-left combination has been tough for opponents to handle.
- Emerging Talent: Ali Naseer is another exciting prospect, having delivered a match-winning four-wicket haul in recent outings. His economical spells will be crucial in keeping the pressure on Bhutan.
Key Players:
- Muhammad Waseem: The captain’s form with the bat at the top will be vital for UAE’s success.
- Basil Hameed: A reliable all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
- Muhammad Jawadullah: A promising fast bowler capable of delivering early breakthroughs.
UAE Predicted Playing XI:
Muhammad Waseem (c), Aryansh Sharma, Vishnu Sukumaran, Rahul Chopra, Asif Khan, Syed Haider Shah (wk), Basil Hameed, Ali Naseer, Aayan Afzal Khan, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Jawadullah.
Bhutan Preview
Bhutan enters this tournament with a lot to prove, having shown glimpses of promise in the recent Quadrangular tournament held at home. They won three out of five matches, securing victories over Indonesia and Maldives, but will face a much sterner test against UAE.
Batting Department:
- Key Batters: Bhutan will rely heavily on Ranjung Dorji, who has been their most consistent performer with the bat, scoring 143 runs in 5 games. Tenjin Rabgey, another vital player, has contributed 120 runs at a steady strike rate.
- Captain’s Challenge: Thinley Jamtsho, who leads the side, will need to overcome his recent struggles and guide his team with a solid performance.
Bowling Attack:
- Bowling Strength: Bhutan’s bowling will be spearheaded by Sonam Yeshey, whose off-spin has troubled batters in recent matches. Suprit Pradhan and Ranjung Dorji will handle the medium-fast bowling duties, aiming to contain UAE’s powerful batting lineup.
- Support from All-Rounders: Players like Jigme Singye and Namgay Thinley can chip in with crucial overs in the middle phase of the game.
Key Players:
- Ranjung Dorji: The mainstay of Bhutan’s batting, capable of playing a pivotal role in anchoring the innings.
- Sonam Yeshey: His off-spin could be crucial in applying pressure on the UAE batters.
- Tenjin Rabgey: Needs to deliver a strong performance at the top to give Bhutan a fighting chance.
Bhutan Predicted Playing XI:
Suprit Pradhan, Tenjin Rabgey, Thinley Jamtsho (c), Jigme Singye, Namgay Thinley, Dawa Dawa, Tenzin Wangchuk, Gakul Ghalley, Tshering Tashi (wk), Ranjung Mikyo Dorji, Sonam Yeshey.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
- Pitch Report: The University of Doha for Science and Technology ground is relatively new, with only one T20I match held here previously. The pitch offers good bounce and pace, making it ideal for fast bowlers early on. As the match progresses, the pitch may slow down, making run-scoring slightly challenging. Spinners could play a vital role in the middle overs.
- Weather Forecast: The weather in Doha is expected to be sunny and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 25°C to 30°C. There are no chances of rain, ensuring a full match without any interruptions.
- Toss Prediction: Given the conditions and limited data available for this venue, both captains may prefer to bat first, aiming to put runs on the board and apply pressure on the chasing team. The chasing side lost in the only previous T20I held here, so batting first could be advantageous.
Winning Prediction
On paper, the United Arab Emirates are the stronger team with more experience and depth in their squad. Their recent form, combined with the quality of players like Muhammad Waseem and Muhammad Jawadullah, makes them the favorites to win this contest. Bhutan, while capable of springing a surprise, will need to produce a near-perfect performance to challenge the UAE.
Prediction: United Arab Emirates to win comfortably.
Fantasy Cricket Tips
- Captain: Muhammad Waseem
- Vice-Captain: Ranjung Dorji
- Top Picks: Muhammad Jawadullah, Basil Hameed, Tenjin Rabgey, Ali Naseer
- Differential Picks: Sonam Yeshey, Asif Khan, Aayan Afzal Khan
Suggested Fantasy XI:
- Muhammad Waseem (C)
- Aryansh Sharma
- Ranjung Dorji (VC)
- Tenjin Rabgey
- Asif Khan
- Basil Hameed
- Muhammad Jawadullah
- Ali Naseer
- Sonam Yeshey
- Aayan Afzal Khan
- Suprit Pradhan
Expect an exciting clash as UAE looks to start their campaign on a winning note, while Bhutan aims to create an upset and gain valuable experience against a higher-ranked side!
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