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ICC T20 World Cup 2024: Group C - Team Overview, Key Players, Matches, and Predictions

Jun. 7, 2024

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Group C of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 brings together a diverse array of cricketing talent, featuring powerhouse teams like the West Indies and New Zealand alongside spirited challengers such as Afghanistan, Uganda, and Papua New Guinea. As the cricketing world converges to witness this spectacle, each team carries its unique legacy, strengths, and aspirations onto the field. From the explosive hitting of the Windies to the spin wizardry of Afghanistan, and the determined spirit of Uganda and Papua New Guinea, Group C promises a captivating display of cricketing prowess and fierce competition. In this comprehensive overview, we delve into the team dynamics, key players to watch, predictions, and potential upsets, setting the stage for an exhilarating journey through the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 Group C encounters.

West Indies Team Overview: ICC T20 WC 2024

The West Indies cricket team, known as the "Windies," represents a dozen English-speaking Caribbean countries and British dependencies. Their cricket history dates back to the 1890s, and they were granted Test status in 1928. The team has a rich legacy, particularly noted for their dominance in the 1970s and 1980s, led by a formidable pace attack and legendary batsmen. Despite a decline in recent years, they have found success in T20 cricket, winning the ICC T20 World Cup twice (2012 and 2016). They failed to qualify for the Group Stage in the last T20 World Cup after losing to Ireland and Scotland. However, they turned the tide after that and are currently the 4th ranked T20I team in the world. Strengths:
  1. Power-Hitting: With batsmen like Shimron Hetmyer, Nicholas Pooran, and Andre Russell, West Indies can unleash explosive hitting, capable of posting or chasing big totals.
  2. All-round Depth: The presence of players like Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, and captain Andre Russell provides balance to the team, contributing with both bat and ball.
  3. Pace Battery: West Indies possesses a formidable pace attack led by Alzarri Joseph, with support from Sheldon Cottrell and Obed McCoy, which can trouble opposition batsmen with sheer pace and bounce.
Weaknesses:
  1. Batting Inconsistency: While they have power-hitters, West Indies' batting lineup can be inconsistent, prone to collapses if early wickets fall or under pressure situations.
  2. Spin Bowling: The spin bowling department might be a concern, as they lack a frontline spinner, relying more on part-time options like Roston Chase.
  3. Fielding Standards: Despite their athleticism, West Indies may struggle with fielding consistency, which could cost them crucial runs in tight matches.

West Indies Squad 2024

Number Player Name Player Role
1 Rovman Powell (c) Middle order Batter
2 Johnson Charles (†) Wicketkeeper Batter
3 Shimron Hetmyer Top order Batter
4 Shai Hope (†) Wicketkeeper Batter
5 Brandon King Top order Batter
6 Nicholas Pooran (†) Wicketkeeper Batter
7 Sherfane Rutherford Middle order Batter
8 Roston Chase Allrounder
9 Andre Russell Allrounder
10 Romario Shepherd Bowling Allrounder
11 Alzarri Joseph (vc) Bowler
12 Akeal Hosein Bowler
13 Shamar Joseph Bowler
14 Obed McCoy Bowler
15 Gudakesh Motie Bowler
† - Denotes wicketkeeper

Team Schedule for West Indies : ICC T20 2024

  • West Indies vs. Papua New Guinea, June 02, 2024, Venue: Providence, Match Time: 6:00 AM
  • West Indies vs. Uganda, June 08, 2024, Venue: Providence, Match Time: 6:00 AM
  • West Indies vs. New Zealand, June 12, 2024, Venue: Tarouba, Match Time: 6:00 AM
  • West Indies vs. Afghanistan, June 17, 2024, Venue: Gros Islet, Match Time: 6:00 AM

New Zealand Team Overview: ICC T20 WC 2024

The New Zealand cricket team, also known as the Black Caps, played its first Test in 1929-30 against England and won their first Test against the West Indies in 1955-56. The team has produced top-class international cricketers, including Sir Richard Hadlee, one of the world's best all-rounders. Under captains like Stephen Fleming and Kane Williamson, New Zealand has achieved significant success, including reaching the finals of the 2015 and 2019 World Cups. New Zealand has named an experienced squad for the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, with Kane Williamson as captain. This marks Williamson's sixth T20 World Cup appearance and his fourth as skipper. The squad includes veteran fast bowlers Tim Southee and Trent Boult, making their seventh and fifth appearances respectively. Strengths:
  1. Experienced Core: Led by Kane Williamson, New Zealand boasts a squad with seasoned campaigners like Tim Southee, Trent Boult, and Mitchell Santner, providing stability and leadership.
  2. Depth in All-rounders: With players like James Neesham, Daryl Mitchell, and Mitchell Santner, New Zealand has a strong contingent of all-rounders who can contribute with both bat and ball.
  3. Tactical Acumen: New Zealand's strategic approach to the game, combined with Kane Williamson's astute captaincy, makes them adept at adapting to various match situations.
Weaknesses:
  1. Middle-order Dependency: New Zealand's batting lineup heavily relies on Kane Williamson and Devon Conway, and they might face challenges if their middle-order collapses under pressure.
  2. Limited Spin Options: While they have spinners like Ish Sodhi and Mitchell Santner, New Zealand's spin department might lack depth compared to other teams.
  3. Inconsistent Form: Some players, like Finn Allen and Rachin Ravindra, are relatively inexperienced at the international level and might struggle to perform consistently under pressure.

New Zealand Squad 2024

Number Player Name Player Role
1 Kane Williamson (c) Top order Batter
2 Finn Allen Top order Batter
3 Devon Conway (†) Wicketkeeper Batter
4 Michael Bracewell Batting Allrounder
5 Mark Chapman Allrounder
6 Daryl Mitchell Batting Allrounder
7 Jimmy Neesham Batting Allrounder
8 Glenn Phillips Allrounder
9 Rachin Ravindra Batting Allrounder
10 Mitchell Santner Bowling Allrounder
11 Trent Boult Bowler
12 Lockie Ferguson Bowler
13 Matt Henry Bowler
14 Ish Sodhi Bowler
15 Tim Southee Bowler
† - Denotes wicketkeeper

Team Schedule for New Zealand: ICC T20 2024

  • Afghanistan vs. New Zealand, June 07, 2024, Venue: Providence, Match Time: 5:00 AM
  • West Indies vs. New Zealand, June 12, 2024, Venue: Tarouba, Match Time: 6:00 AM
  • New Zealand vs. Uganda, June 14, 2024, Venue: Tarouba, Match Time: 6:00 AM
  • New Zealand vs. Papua New Guinea, June 17, 2024, Venue: Tarouba, Match Time: 8:00 PM

Afghanistan Team Overview: ICC T20 WC 2024

The Afghanistan cricket team has made rapid progress since its ICC affiliate membership in 2001 and achieved ODI status in 2011. Known for their passionate and talented players, Afghanistan has made notable strides in international cricket, including their first Test win in 2019. The team is led by Rashid Khan, one of the world's premier spinners, and has a strong contingent of spinners and young talents. Afghanistan has unveiled its 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, with Rashid Khan appointed as the captain. The squad features a mix of experienced players and promising young talents. Strengths:
  1. Spin Bowling Mastery: With world-class spinners like Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Afghanistan possesses a potent spin attack capable of stifling opposition batting lineups on turning tracks.
  2. Explosive Batting: Afghan batsmen like Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Najibullah Zadran can provide quick runs, giving the team impetus in the middle overs.
  3. All-round Talents: Afghanistan has a balanced squad with players like Mohammad Nabi and Karim Janat, who can contribute significantly with both bat and ball.
Weaknesses:
  1. Middle-order Vulnerability: Afghanistan's middle-order batting might lack experience, and they could face challenges if early wickets fall, exposing the lower order to pressure situations.
  2. Limited Pace Options: Afghanistan's fast bowling resources might be limited, which could make them overly reliant on their spinners, especially in conditions less favorable to spin.
  3. Fielding Standards: While they have improved over the years, Afghanistan's fielding standards might not match those of more established cricketing nations, potentially costing them runs in the field.

Afghanistan Squad 2024

Number Player Name Player Role
1 Rahmanullah Gurbaz (vc) Wicketkeeper Batter
2 Ibrahim Zadran Opening Batter
3 Mohammad Ishaq (†) Wicketkeeper Batter
4 Najibullah Zadran Middle order Batter
5 Rashid Khan (c) Bowling Allrounder
6 Azmatullah Omarzai Allrounder
7 Gulbadin Naib Batting Allrounder
8 Karim Janat Bowling Allrounder
9 Mohammad Nabi Allrounder
10 Nangeyalia Kharote Allrounder
11 Fareed Ahmad Bowler
12 Fazalhaq Farooqi Bowler
13 Mujeeb Ur Rahman Bowler
14 Naveen-ul-Haq Bowler
15 Noor Ahmad Bowler
† - Denotes wicketkeeper

Team Schedule for Afghanistan: ICC T20 2024

  • Afghanistan vs. Uganda, Jun 03 2024, Venue: Providence, Match Time: 5:00 AM
  • Afghanistan vs. New Zealand, June 07, 2024, Venue: Providence, Match Time: 6:00 AM
  • Afghanistan vs. Papua New Guinea, June 13, 2024, Venue: Tarouba, Match Time: 6:00 AM
  • Afghanistan vs. West Indies, June 17, 2024, Venue: Gros Islet, Match Time: 6:00 AM

Uganda Team Overview: ICC T20 WC 2024

Uganda's affiliation with cricket expanded regionally, with participation in the East Africa team alongside Kenya and Tanzania, and globally, becoming an ICC Associate Member in 1966. Their recent milestone, qualifying for the 2024 T20 World Cup after defeating Zimbabwe in 2023, symbolizes not just sporting achievement but also resilience and unity. Led by captain Brian Masaba, the Cricket Cranes carry the hopes of a nation as they prepare to compete fearlessly in Group C, showcasing Uganda's unwavering commitment to the sport's growth and success on the global stage. Strengths:
  1. Emerging Talent: Uganda has a squad filled with young and talented players eager to make a mark on the international stage, which could bring energy and enthusiasm to their cricket.
  2. Spin Bowling Potential: With bowlers like Frank Nusbuga, Uganda has the potential to utilize spin effectively, especially on pitches that assist spinners.
  3. Resilience: Ugandan cricket is characterized by its resilience and fighting spirit, with players willing to give their all on the field, making them a challenging opponent to face.
Weaknesses:
  1. Lack of Big-match Experience: Uganda's players may lack exposure to top-level cricket, which could affect their decision-making and composure in crucial moments.
  2. Batting Depth: The Ugandan batting lineup might lack depth and experience, making them vulnerable to collapses if early wickets fall.
  3. Fielding Standards: While they have talent, Uganda's fielding standards might not match those of more established cricketing nations, potentially costing them runs in the field.

Uganda Squad 2024

Number Player Name Player Role
1 Fred Achelam (†) Wicketkeeper Batter
2 Roger Mukasa Batter
3 Robinson Obuya Batter
4 Ronak Patel Batter
5 Simon Ssesazi (†) Wicketkeeper Batter
6 Riazat Ali Shah (vc) Batting Allrounder
7 Dinesh Nakrani Allrounder
8 Frank Nsubuga Allrounder
9 Alpesh Ramjani Allrounder
10 Kenneth Waiswa Allrounder
11 Brian Masaba (c) Bowler
12 Bilal Hassan Bowler
13 Cosmas Kyewuta Bowler
14 Juma Miyagi Bowler
15 Henry Ssenyondo Bowler
† - Denotes wicketkeeper

Team Schedule for Uganda: ICC T20 2024

  • Afghanistan vs. Uganda, June 04, 2024, Venue: Providence, Match Time: 5:00 AM
  • Papua New Guinea vs. Uganda, June 06, 2024, Venue: Providence, Match Time: 5:00 AM
  • West Indies vs. Uganda, June 09, 2024, Venue: Providence, Match Time: 6:00 AM
  • New Zealand vs. Uganda, June 15, 2024, Venue: Tarouba, Match Time: 6:00 AM

Papua New Guinea Team Overview: ICC T20 WC 2024

The Papua New Guinea cricket team, also known as the Barramundis, has been an Associate Member of the ICC since 1973. Despite facing setbacks, including the loss of ODI and T20I status in 2018, they have persevered. Notably, they hold a remarkable record for the highest one-day score, having achieved 572/7 against New Caledonia in 2007. With this history of achievement, the Barramundis are poised for their second appearance at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Led by Assad Vala, their experienced squad is ready to compete in Group C, aiming to make their mark on the global stage. Strengths:
  1. Youthful Energy: Papua New Guinea boasts a young and energetic squad, filled with players eager to prove themselves on the international stage, which could give them a fearless approach to their cricket.
  2. Agile Fielding Unit: Papua New Guinea typically fields a team of agile and athletic players capable of stopping boundaries and creating run-out opportunities.
  3. Emerging Talent: Papua New Guinea cricket has been on the rise in recent years, with promising young players showing potential to make significant contributions with both bat and ball.
Weaknesses:
  1. Lack of Big-match Experience: Papua New Guinea's players may lack exposure to high-pressure situations and top-level cricket, which could affect their performance in crucial matches.
  2. Batting Fragility: The Papua New Guinea batting lineup might lack depth and experience, making them susceptible to collapses under pressure.
  3. Limited Spin Options: Papua New Guinea's spin bowling resources might be limited compared to other teams, which could be a concern on pitches that offer assistance to spinners.

Papua New Guinea Squad 2024

Number Player Name Player Role
1 Fred Achelam (†) Wicketkeeper Batter
2 Roger Mukasa Batter
3 Robinson Obuya Batter
4 Ronak Patel Batter
5 Simon Ssesazi (†) Wicketkeeper Batter
6 Riazat Ali Shah (vc) Batting Allrounder
7 Dinesh Nakrani Allrounder
8 Frank Nsubuga Allrounder
9 Alpesh Ramjani Allrounder
10 Kenneth Waiswa Allrounder
11 Brian Masaba (c) Bowler
12 Bilal Hassan Bowler
13 Cosmas Kyewuta Bowler
14 Juma Miyagi Bowler
15 Henry Ssenyondo Bowler
† - Denotes wicketkeeper

Team Schedule for Papua New Guinea: ICC T20 2024

  • Papua New Guinea vs. West Indies, June 02, 2024, Venue: Providence, Match Time: 5:00 AM
  • Papua New Guinea vs. Uganda, June 06, 2024, Venue: Providence, Match Time: 5:00 AM
  • Afghanistan vs. Papua New Guinea, June 14, 2024, Venue: Tarouba, Match Time: 6:00 AM
  • New Zealand vs. Papua New Guinea, June 17, 2024, Venue: Tarouba, Match Time: 8:00 PM

Key Players to Watch in Group C

In Group C of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, several key players are expected to make significant impacts for their respective teams:
  • West Indies: Keep an eye on Andre Russell, whose explosive batting and effective bowling make him a game-changer. Brandon King's aggressive batting style and Akeal Hosein's crafty spin bowling add depth to the team.
  • New Zealand: Kane Williamson, the captain, brings his leadership and exceptional batting prowess to the forefront. Trent Boult's left-arm pace and Glenn Phillips' dynamic batting make them formidable opponents.
  • Afghanistan: Led by Rashid Khan, Afghanistan's spin bowling maestro, expect him to bamboozle batsmen with his variations. Rahmanullah Gurbaz's explosive batting and Mujeeb Ur Rahman's spin complement the team's strengths.
  • Uganda: Brian Masaba, the captain, anchors the batting lineup with his solid technique. Riazat Ali Shah's all-round abilities and Fred Achelam's promising talent provide crucial support to the team.
  • Papua New Guinea: Assad Vala's leadership and aggressive batting make him a key player. Sese Bau's consistency with the bat and Charles Amini's all-round skills are vital for PNG's success.

Predictions for ICC T20 WC 2024 Group C

Group C promises exciting matchups, with each team bringing its unique strengths to the table:
  • West Indies: With a potent combination of power hitters and experienced bowlers, West Indies are the favorites to dominate the group and secure a top spot.
  • New Zealand: The Black Caps' balanced squad and strategic depth give them a solid chance of advancing to the knockout stage, backed by their consistent performances in ICC tournaments.
  • Afghanistan: Known for their spin prowess, Afghanistan could be the dark horse of the group, capable of upsetting higher-ranked teams and securing a spot in the next round.
  • Uganda: As underdogs, Uganda may surprise opponents with their resilience and team spirit, but they face a tough challenge in advancing given the strong competition.
  • Papua New Guinea: Despite their fighting spirit, PNG's lack of experience against top-tier teams might hinder their chances of progressing further in the tournament.

Conclusion

Group C of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 features a mix of seasoned teams and promising underdogs. With powerful performances expected from West Indies, New Zealand, and Afghanistan, the group stage promises thrilling cricketing action. Uganda and Papua New Guinea will look to make their mark, potentially causing upsets. As the tournament unfolds, cricket fans can look forward to an exciting display of talent and competitive spirit.
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