Misbah picks his top teams for T20 World Cup 2024

The T20 World Cup 2024 kicks off today with USA versus Canada, followed by India versus Ireland on June 5 and a highly anticipated India-Pakistan match on June 9.

Former players Harbhajan Singh, Irfan Pathan, and Misbah Ul Haq discussed the tournament, with Misbah highlighting Australia as the top contender due to their consistent performance, while finding it challenging to name a second strongest team. He stressed supporting Pakistan despite acknowledging India's strong team.

"The safest bet I think would be Australia. They know how to win. Whatever may be the condition. They come to Asia and win by playing with just one spinner. You can't write of Australia from any World Cup. The second team is very difficult. We have to live in Pakistan so will have to back Pakistan. Indian team is very strong as well," Misbah said on Star Sports. 

Meanwhile, Irfan Pathan weighed in on India's strategy, highlighting the roles of Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube.

"The good thing about the Indian team now is that they will get a chance to be in form before the Super 8, as we will play teams who are not at the top level apart from Pakistan. This will give us the opportunity to perform and start feeling good. Once on the big stage, if you start feeling good, it's a different ball game altogether. I hope this happens," Pathan said at the Star Sports Press Room.

Pathan also noted the advantage of facing less formidable teams before the Super 8 stage, giving India the chance to build momentum.

"Talking about the best finishing options for the Indian squad, I think Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube will play different roles. Hardik will have a set role to finish the game, and Shivam Dube will play as a floater, at least in the playoffs, acting as an enforcer against the spinners. He will play that kind of role," he added.