Preview of Group A: India and Pakistan Set to Clash in Thrilling Neighborhood Showdown

Group A in the T20 World Cup promises an electrifying encounter as traditional rivals India and Pakistan prepare to battle it out on the cricket field. Adding to the excitement, two neighbouring teams will join them, along with a talented European side, setting the stage for a fiercely contested group stage.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 is fast approaching, featuring 20 teams vying for the prestigious title in T20I cricket. In Group A, fierce competition awaits as Asian rivals India and Pakistan, alongside co-hosts USA, Canada, and Ireland, prepare to battle it out on the field. Let's take a closer look at the lineup and what Group A has in store for the upcoming tournament.

India

India is poised to make a resolute entry into the T20 World Cup, fueled by an intense desire to break their streak of near misses in global events. Despite coming tantalisingly close in recent tournaments, they have faltered at the final hurdle.

With a robust squad at their disposal, India is now poised to reclaim the elusive T20 World Cup title they last secured in the inaugural edition back in 2007.

Under the seasoned leadership of Rohit Sharma, who embarks on his second stint as captain in the T20 World Cup, the team boasts a formidable top-order lineup featuring the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar Yadav.

The team management faces a pleasant dilemma in selecting the wicket-keeper for the World Cup campaign, with both Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson in scintillating form.

India's all-round capabilities are further enhanced by the presence of Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Shivam Dube, providing depth and versatility to the squad. The bowling department is equally formidable, with talents like Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Kuldeep Yadav ensuring a well-rounded lineup.

India kicks off their tournament against Ireland on June 5 before the much-anticipated clash against Pakistan on June 9 in New York.

Squad

Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

Fixtures

• vs Ireland – Wednesday, 5 June 2024, New York, 10:30 AM local time

• vs Pakistan – Sunday, 9 June 2024, New York, 10:30 AM local time

• vs USA – Wednesday, 12 June 2024, New York, 10:30 AM local time

• vs Canada – Saturday, 15 June 2024, Florida, 10:30 AM local time

Key Player – Jasprit Bumrah

The return of Jasprit Bumrah, who missed the previous T20 World Cup in 2022 due to injury, is set to provide a significant boost to India's bowling lineup.

Since his comeback, Bumrah has showcased his value to the team by claiming 20 wickets in 11 matches at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023, held in India, underscoring his bowling prowess.

Despite the Mumbai Indians' challenges in the Indian Premier League, Bumrah has excelled in T20 cricket, evidenced by his 20 wickets in 13 games for the franchise.

With India set to play their group stage matches in the unique conditions of the USA and the Windies, Bumrah's adaptability as a bowler will be a crucial asset to the team's campaign.

Pakistan

Pakistan, much like their arch-rivals India, have been on the cusp of ICC glory in recent T20 World Cup editions, reaching the semi-finals and final in the last two tournaments.

Driven by the heartbreak of those close encounters, Babar Azam leads Pakistan into the upcoming tournament with an unwavering determination to break their trophy drought.

Babar, alongside the dependable Mohammad Rizwan, forms the backbone of Pakistan's batting lineup, supported by the likes of Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, and Iftikhar Ahmed.

In the bowling department, Pakistan boasts a formidable array of spin options, including Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, and Abrar Ahmed, complemented by a wealth of talent in the pace department.

Led by the dynamic Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan's pace battery features the likes of Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Amir, and Abbas Afridi, offering a formidable challenge to their opponents.

Pakistan kicked off their campaign against co-hosts USA in their opening encounter on 6 June, followed by the highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals India on 9 June.

Squad

Babar Azam (c), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan

Fixtures

• vs USA – Thu, 6 June 2024, Texas, 10:30 AM local time

• vs India – Sun, 9 June 2024, New York, 10:30 AM local time

• vs Canada – Tue, 11 June 2024, New York, 10:30 AM local time

• vs Ireland – Sun, 16 June 2024, Florida, 10:30 AM local time

Key Player – Babar Azam

Babar Azam has faced challenges recently, especially after Pakistan's disappointing performance in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023. With just four wins in nine games, Pakistan exited the tournament early during the group stages. Following this, Babar experienced changes in his captaincy role, being removed and then reinstated, now leading Pakistan's charge at the T20 World Cup under new leadership.

As a pivotal figure in Pakistan's batting line-up, Babar has maintained consistency, amassing 3987 runs in 118 matches with an impressive average of 41.10 and a strike rate of 129.91. He brings valuable experience to the table, having led Pakistan to the semi-final and final in the last two ICC events under his captaincy.

Despite ongoing scrutiny regarding his strike rate, Babar's steadfast presence at the crease has often laid the foundation for Pakistan's successes in recent years, underscoring his significance to the team's overall performance.

Ireland

Ireland's qualification for the T20 World Cup marks their eighth consecutive appearance, showcasing the nation's growth in cricket over the years.

With a change in leadership, seasoned batsman Paul Stirling now leads the team, succeeding Andrew Balbirnie, who captained the side in the previous two editions.

The team's batting prowess revolves around the dynamic opening partnership of Stirling and Balbirnie, supported by Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ross Adair, and Curtis Campher.

In the bowling department, Mark Adair and Josh Little spearhead the pace attack, with support from Graham Hume, Campher, Barry McCarthy, and Craig Young. Additionally, the spin department is bolstered by Ben White and Gareth Delany, providing a balanced and diverse bowling unit.

Ireland's journey begins with a challenging encounter against India on 5 June. A victory in this match could serve as a significant morale boost for the team, igniting their hopes of advancing beyond the group stage, a feat they aim to achieve for the first time in their T20 World Cup history.

Squad

Neil Rock, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young, Andrew Balbirnie, Curtis Campher, Josh Little, Graham Hume, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Neil Stirling (c), and Gareth Delany

Fixtures

• vs India – Wed, 5 June 2024, New York, 10:30 AM local time

• vs Canada – Fri, 7 June 2024, New York, 10:30 AM local time

• vs USA – Fri, 14 June 2024, Florida, 10:30 AM local time

• vs Pakistan – Sun, 16 June 2024, Florida, 10:30 AM local time

Key Player – Paul Stirling

An important turning point in the distinguished career of Irish cricket legend Paul Stirling occurs when he assumes the leadership position for the first time in an ICC competition.

The 33-year-old has been a potent force at the top of the batting order since making his T20I debut in 2009. He has amassed 3589 runs at an astounding average of 27.60 and a striking rate of 135.43 in 142 appearances.

Due to his influence and consistency, Stirling has surpassed the 3000-run mark to become Ireland's top run scorer in Twenty20 Internationals.

Ireland has benefited greatly from his relationship with Balbirnie, as Stirling's aggressive batting approach sets the tone for the team. His efforts at the top order will be critical to Ireland's hopes as a cornerstone player.

USA

USA is set to embark on a historic journey as they step onto the global stage at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, marking their debut appearance as co-hosts of the tournament.

This momentous occasion marks USA's first participation in a major men’s ICC event since 2004 when they competed in the group stages of the Champions Trophy.

Monank Patel will lead USA's charge in this historic campaign, spearheading their batting line-up alongside Aaron Jones and Steven Taylor.

The addition of former New Zealand international Corey Anderson brings invaluable experience and depth to USA's middle order, bolstering their batting prowess.

The return of Ali Khan, a key figure in USA's bowling attack, provides a significant boost, supported by the likes of Saurabh Netravalkar and Milind Kumar.

USA kicks off their T20 World Cup journey against neighbouring rivals Canada on 1 June, aiming to set a strong foundation for a successful tournament with a victory in their opening match.

Squad

Ali Khan, Harmeet Singh, Jessy Singh, Milind Kumar, Nisarg Patel, Nitish Kumar, Noshtush Kenjige, Saurabh Nethralvakar, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Steven Taylor, and Shayan Jahangir. Monank Patel (c), Aaron Jones, Andries Gous, Corey Anderson, Ali Khan

Fixtures

• vs Canada – Sat, 1 June 2024, Dallas, 7:30 PM local time

• vs Pakistan – Thu, 6 June 2024, Texas, 10:30 AM local time

• vs India – Wed, 12 June 2024, New York, 10:30 AM local time

• vs Ireland – Fri, 14 June 2024, Florida, 10:30 AM local time

Key Player - Ali Khan

USA is happy to have Ali Khan back after an injury kept him out of the most recent five-match T20I series against Canada.

Khan's career on the franchise T20 circuit, which included spells in the Pakistan Super League and the Caribbean Premier League, has cemented his standing as a devastating bowler. His ascent to prominence began with his remarkable 2016 CPL debut with Guyana Amazon Warriors, where he took wicket of Kumar Sangakkara with his first ball.

In T20Is for the USA, Khan has made a lasting impression despite injury setbacks. In just eight matches, he has taken nine wickets at an amazing economy rate of 7.69.

Khan, who is well-known for his lethal yorkers, will have the chance to star on the international front at the T20 World Cup, which will be held in his own land. He wants to show off his abilities and have a big impact on the competition while everyone is watching.

Canada

Similar to the USA, Canada is set to make its debut appearance at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, marking a historic moment for the nation in the cricketing world.

While this will be Canada's first appearance in the T20 World Cup, they bring a wealth of experience from their past performances in the 50-over World Cup. Having participated in multiple editions of the 50-over tournament, including their debut in 1979 and subsequent appearances in 2003, 2007, and 2011, Canada is no stranger to the global stage.

Leading the charge for Canada is the seasoned campaigner Saad Bin Zafar, who will captain the side comprising mostly experienced players, with a significant number of them over the age of 30.

The inclusion of uncapped batter Kanwarpal Tathgur adds an element of surprise to the team, while the return of pacer Jeremy Gordon and the presence of veteran all-rounder Junaid Siddiqui provide additional depth to Canada's squad.

Canada kicks off their T20 World Cup journey with a highly anticipated clash against co-hosts USA on 1 June in Dallas, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting campaign for the Canadian team.

Squad

Jeremy Gordon, Nikhil Dutta, Pargat Singh, Rayyankhan Pathan, Junaid Siddiqui, Dilpreet Bajwa, Shreyas Movva, Rishiv Joshi, Aaron Johnson, Saad Bin Zafar (c), Navneet Dhaliwal, Kaleem Sana, Dilon Heyliger, Jeremy Gordon

Fixtures

• vs USA – Sat, 1 June 2024, Dallas, 7:30 PM local time

• vs Ireland – Fri, 7 June 2024, New York, 10:30 AM local time

• vs Pakistan – Tue, 11 June 2024, New York, 10:30 AM local time

• vs India – Sat, 15 June 2024, Florida, 10:30 AM local time

Key Player - Saad Bin Zafar

With his multifaceted roles as captain, primary batsman, and front-line spinner, Saad Bin Zafar stands out as the cornerstone of Canada's T20 World Cup campaign.

Saad, who has played in the most Twenty20 Internationals for Canada, is a key member of the team and will be crucial in leading them on the biggest stage of the World Cup.

Saad, who is mostly recognized for his left-arm spin, is the top wicket-taker for Canada in Twenty20 Internationals with 43 wickets taken. Not to be understated are his achievements at bat, as well. In 19 innings, he amassed 272 runs with a strike rate of 133.99 and an acceptable average of 22.66.

Canada will largely rely on Saad Bin Zafar's all-around skill to produce memorable performances and guide the team's pursuit of victory in the renowned tournament as they prepare for their T20 World Cup debut.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which teams compete in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 in Group A?

In the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, India, Pakistan, the United States, Canada, and Ireland are in Group A.

2. What time and location will the Group A matches take place?

The Group A matches will take place across the United States. The following is the schedule:

• Ireland vs. India: Wednesday, June 5, 2024, 10:30 a.m. local time in New York

• USA vs Canada: Saturday, June 1, 2024, Dallas, 7:30 PM local time; USA vs Pakistan: Thursday, June 6, 2024, Texas, 10:30 AM local time

• Canada against Ireland: Friday, June 7, 2024, New York, 10:30 AM local time Pakistan vs. India: Sunday, June 9, 2024, New York local time

3. In Group A, who are the main players to keep an eye on?

Important participants in Group A are:

• Jasprit Bumrah, India

• Babar Azam of Pakistan

• USA: Ali Khan

• Saad Bin Zafar, Canada

• Paul Stirling, Ireland

4. How many times have Pakistan and India competed against one another in ICC events?

In multiple ICC competitions, such as the Champions Trophy, Cricket World Cup, and T20 World Cup, India and Pakistan have squared off. Because of the fierce rivalry between the two teams, their matches frequently garner a lot of attention.

5. When and where are Group A matches being held?

Beginning on June 1, 2024, the matches will take place in a number of US cities as well as in Florida.

6. Who is the T20 World Cup captain for the Indian cricket team?

The Indian cricket team's captain for the T20 World Cup is Rohit Sharma.

7. In the competition, which player is driving Pakistan's forward?

In the tournament, Babar Azam is spearheading Pakistan's offensive.