Rain threat looms over India-Australia Super 8 clash in St Lucia

NEW DELHI: St Lucia experienced heavy rainfall prior to the Super Eights match between India and Australia in the T20 World Cup 2024, which is set to take place at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium on Monday, ANI reported.
Rohit Sharma-led the Indian team currently occupies the top position in Group 1 of the Super Eights, having secured victories in their previous two matches against Afghanistan and Bangladesh.
The Indian team is determined to perform well in the Super Eights stage of the prestigious tournament, aiming to secure significant wins and qualify for the semifinals.
Their ultimate goal is to end India’s ICC trophy drought, which has persisted since the 2013 Champions Trophy, and clinch their first T20 World Cup title since the inaugural edition in South Africa in 2007.
India enter this match following a commanding 50-run victory over Bangladesh at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. On the other hand, Australia, led by Mitchell Marsh, suffered a disappointing 21-run defeat against Afghanistan in their previous match of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024.
In the previous encounter between India and Bangladesh, the latter won the toss and opted to field first.
India’s innings was bolstered by Hardik Pandya‘s unbeaten 50 runs off just 24 deliveries, which included 4 fours and 3 sixes. His brilliant performance helped India reach a total of 196/5 despite losing several wickets in quick succession.
Rishabh Pant’s 36 runs from 24 balls, featuring 4 fours and 2 sixes, and Shivam Dube’s 34 runs from 24 balls, including 3 sixes, also contributed significantly to India’s total.
Bangladesh’s batting lineup struggled against India’s bowling attack during their chase. Najmul Hossain Shanto was the lone warrior for Bangladesh, scoring 40 runs from 32 balls with “1 four and 3 sixes”, but his efforts were not enough to help his team reach the 197-run target.
Kuldeep Yadav spearheaded the Indian bowling attack, claiming three wickets while conceding only 19 runs in his four-over spell. Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah also played crucial roles, picking up two wickets each in their respective spells. Their combined efforts helped India secure a convincing 50-run victory over Bangladesh.