ICC T20 World Cup 2024: 10 reasons why India found a place in the finals

India’s spectacular victory over England in the semi-finals of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 was a masterclass in strategy, skill, and execution. Chasing 172, England were all out for 103 in just 16.4 overs, handing India a commanding 68-run victory at the Guyana National Stadium.

Here are 10 reasons why, we think, India triumphed in this crucial match:

Rohit Sharma’s captaincy and batting prowess:

Sharma’s leadership and batting were pivotal. He judged the pace of the pitch well, playing crucial shots that disrupted England’s bowling attack. Rohit’s handling of Adil Rashid, a key bowler for England, was particularly notable. He greeted Rashid with a reverse sweep and followed it up with a conventional sweep, leaving the spinner rattled.

Strategic bowling changes:

India’s bowling changes were spot on. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh opened the attack with precision, applying early pressure. The introduction of spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel in the middle overs proved decisive.

Axar Patel’s brilliant performance:

He was crowned Player of the Match for his all-round performance. He took three crucial wickets, including the dangerous Jos Buttler, who was forced into an indiscreet reverse sweep. Axar’s ability to bowl wicket-to-wicket on a track where the balls kept low was instrumental in dismantling England’s batting line-up.

Kuldeep Yadav’s spin magic:

His spin bowling was lethal. He took three wickets, including key middle-order batsmen. His deliveries kept the batsmen guessing and contributed significantly to England’s collapse.

Jasprit Bumrah’s skillful bowling:

He showcased his experience and skill with the ball, taking two important wickets. His slower ball that deceived Phil Salt was a testament to his versatility and tactical acumen.

Early wickets in the power play:

India’s strategy to take early wickets paid off handsomely. England lost three crucial wickets in the power play, setting them back significantly in their chase. Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, and Jonny Bairstow were dismissed early, disrupting England’s momentum.

Effective fielding and run-outs:

India’s fielding was sharp and effective. The run-out of Adil Rashid by Axar Patel was a crucial moment that further demoralised the England team. Tight fielding and quick reflexes contributed to building pressure on the English batsmen.

Tactical decisions on display:

Rohit Sharma’s tactical acumen was on full display. His decision to bring spinners into the attack early and rotate the bowlers kept the England batsmen unsettled. His on-field adjustments and calm demeanour under pressure were instrumental in guiding the team to victory.

Balanced batting performance:

India’s batting line-up delivered a balanced performance, posting a competitive total of 171/7. Rohit Sharma’s half-century (57 off 39 balls) and Suryakumar Yadav’s 47 off 36 balls provided a solid foundation. Contributions from Hardik Pandya and lower-order batsmen ensured a challenging target for England.

England’s middle-order collapse:

England’s middle-order failed to build partnerships and succumbed to the pressure applied by the Indian bowlers. The dismissals of Harry Brook, Moeen Ali, and Chris Jordan in quick succession highlighted the effectiveness of India’s bowling attack and England’s inability to adapt to the conditions.