As the IPL 2024 draws to a close, attention turns to the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, set to kick off on June 1 in the West Indies and the USA. Here, Indian bowlers face a test in spin-friendly Caribbean conditions and the relatively uncharted cricketing landscape of the USA, potentially yielding surprises for the Men in Blue.
India’s campaign commences on June 5 against Ireland at the newly erected Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. A highly anticipated India-Pakistan encounter is scheduled for June 9, followed by matches against co-hosts USA (June 12) and Canada (June 15) to conclude their Group A fixtures.
Ahead of the tournament, scrutiny falls on the form of India’s pace attack. With Mohammed Shami sidelined due to injury, the burden falls heavily on the experienced Jasprit Bumrah, a proven match-winner in his own right.
Bumrah’s resurgence in the IPL, following his absence in the previous season due to injury, has been remarkable. Amidst batting onslaughts and soaring records, Bumrah’s prowess reaffirms the enduring relevance of bowling in cricket. He ranks second in wicket-taking with 20 scalps at an average of 16.80 and a strike rate of 15.55, including a best of 5/21.
His exceptional first-half performance saw him claim 13 wickets in seven matches at a stellar average of 12.84 and a striking strike rate of 15.07, highlighted by a memorable five-wicket haul.
Other Indian pacers, including Mohammed Siraj, Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed, and Arshdeep Singh, have also made notable contributions, delivering match-winning performances throughout the tournament.
Siraj, often criticized for inconsistency, displayed a resurgence in the latter half of the IPL, mirroring his team’s turnaround. Avesh Khan, in his debut season with Rajasthan Royals, demonstrated improved sharpness and consistency in his bowling.
The all-rounder Hardik Pandya’s IPL performance was below par, despite a better showing in the latter half of the tournament. In the reserves, Khaleel Ahmed showcased consistency but lacked standout performances, while Avesh Khan proved sharper and more consistent following his move to Rajasthan Royals.