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The ICC T20I World Cup 2024 is set to be the premier event in the cricketing calendar, featuring 20 teams and taking place in the USA and West Indies. The West Indies, two-time champions, will aim to reclaim their former glory after a few years out of the spotlight. Papua New Guinea (PNG) will be participating in their second T20I World Cup, eager to secure their first win after three defeats in the 2021 edition. This match promises an exciting contest between the explosive Caribbean team and the determined PNG squad.
Teams Preview
West Indies Preview
The West Indies will be led by Rovman Powell in this T20 World Cup. The opening pair of Brandon King and Johnson Charles will set the tone, with Shai Hope or Roston Chase likely to bat at No. 3. The middle order boasts formidable power hitters, including Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Shimron Hetmyer, and captain Rovman Powell. Sherfane Rutherford and Romario Shepherd will compete for the all-rounder slot.
Pace bowling responsibilities will be handled by Obed McCoy and Alzarri Joseph, supported by all-rounders. Gudakesh Motie will be the primary spinner, with Roston Chase providing additional spin options. The team features a balanced mix of experience and youth in the bowling department.
Key Players: Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran
West Indies Predicted Playing XI: Rovman Powell (c), Brandon King, Johnson Charles, Nicholas Pooran, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Andre Russell, Obed McCoy, Alzarri Joseph, Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie
Papua New Guinea Preview
PNG’s batting lineup has struggled in practice games, scoring below 140 runs in both matches. Lega Siaka, Assad Vala, and Tony Ura will form the top order, with Sese Bau, Kiplin Doriga, and Charles Amini playing crucial roles in the middle order.
Kabua Morea and Alei Nao will spearhead the pace attack, supported by Sema Kamau and Chad Soper. The spin department will be led by Assad Vala, John Kariko, and Charles Amini.
Key Players: Assad Vala, Charles Amini, Sese Bau
Papua New Guinea Predicted Playing XI: Lega Siaka, Assad Vala (c), Tony Ura, Sese Bau, Kiplin Doriga (wk), Charles Amini, Kabua Morea, Alei Nao, Sema Kamau, Chad Soper, John Kariko
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Weather Conditions: Guyana is expected to have a hot and humid climate, with a slight chance of dew later in the match. Light rain showers are possible, particularly in the evening.
Pitch Report: The Providence Stadium pitch is expected to be slightly slow, with early moisture potentially aiding bowlers. Average scores are likely to range between 160-180 runs.
Toss Prediction: Both teams will likely prefer to bowl first, aiming to restrict the opposition to a manageable score before chasing under the lights.
Winning Prediction
The West Indies, despite their recent decline, are a formidable team with a balanced squad and powerful hitters. PNG, while less experienced, have shown promise but face a daunting task against the Caribbean side. We expect the West Indies to start their campaign with a win in this match.
Prediction: West Indies to win the match.