Moody singled out the performance of Fazalhaq Farooqi, particularly with the new ball, as a key factor in Afghanistan's success
20 June, 2024
PHOTO: AFP
The group stage of the T20 World Cup 2024 has concluded, making way for the Super 8 round where eight teams are now vying for a place in the semi-finals. The Super 8 teams are divided into two groups: Group 1 features India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Australia, while Group 2 includes the USA, England, West Indies, and South Africa.
Former Australian cricketer Tom Moody has shared his insights on Group 1, predicting that Bangladesh and Afghanistan will present significant challenges to the traditionally strong teams of India and Australia.
Speaking on ESPN Cricinfo, Moody emphasized that while India and Australia are generally seen as the favorites, they should not underestimate their upcoming matches against Afghanistan and Bangladesh.
“India and Australia are seen as favourites but both of them will be very cautious with their game against Afghanistan and Bangladesh,” Moody said.
Moody also expressed no surprise at Afghanistan’s advancement to the Super 8 stage, acknowledging their impressive performance during the group stage. Afghanistan secured three wins out of four games, only losing to the West Indies. Notably, they also managed to defeat New Zealand, leading to the Kiwis’ elimination from the tournament.
“I don’t think we should be surprised that Afghanistan is in the Super 8 stage and are going to give any team in that group a real headache because I think they have got the best bowling attack for these conditions or certainly if they are not the best then they are right up there with the best with the qualify of their spinners,” he further added.
Moody singled out the performance of Fazalhaq Farooqi, particularly with the new ball, as a key factor in Afghanistan's success. He described Afghanistan as a “genuine threat” in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024.
“The form of Fazalhaq Farooqi with the new ball is top-notch. They are a genuine threat," he concluded.
As the Super 8 stage unfolds, all eyes will be on these teams as they battle for a spot in the semi-finals. The competition is expected to be fierce, with no team willing to give an inch as they strive for glory in the T20 World Cup.
