The Cricket World Cup is heating up as the tournament reaches its crucial phase. The significance of each match has heightened, particularly with New Zealand’s recent three consecutive losses, which have opened up opportunities for other teams. One such team capitalizing on this opportunity is Pakistan, who now stand a chance to make it to the semifinals. However, another underdog, Afghanistan, is very much in the running. They have emerged as one of the top Asian teams in the competition and are eyeing a spot in the semifinals, having already defeated three former champions.
Currently, Afghanistan holds six points with three wins and as many losses, placing them in sixth position. They have played one game less than Pakistan, who occupy the fifth spot with an equal number of points. If Afghanistan secures a victory in their upcoming match in Lucknow on Friday (November 3), they will be level with New Zealand. However, the Netherlands is not to be underestimated. With victories over South Africa and Bangladesh, they are eager to add more successes and prove that they are not merely making up the numbers in this World Cup.
Afghanistan’s strength lies in their ability to chase down targets. They have executed clinical run-chases against Pakistan and Sri Lanka, relying on traditional methods to approach their targets. However, if they are to chase or set big totals, they need to improve their strike rate, which currently stands at 81.72, the eighth lowest among all participating teams.
The Netherlands, on the other hand, have struggled with their top-order batting and have the lowest aggregate runs among all teams in the competition, with an average of 19.40 and a combined strike rate of 71.14. Their middle order, led by skipper Scott Edwards, has often rescued them, and they are hoping for an improved performance from their top order.
The upcoming match between Afghanistan and the Netherlands on November 3 at BRSABVE Cricket Stadium in Lucknow promises to be a significant showdown. The pitch conditions in Lucknow have generally favored the bowlers, making the first innings totals competitive. Weather-wise, teams can expect relatively mild conditions with afternoon temperatures around 30-31 degrees Celsius.
Team News:
Netherlands: Considering the recent success of pacers in Lucknow, the Netherlands might opt to bring in Ryan Klein in place of Shariz Ahmad.
Probable XI: Vikramjit Singh, Max O’Dowd, Wesley Barresi, Colin Ackermann, Scott Edwards (c & wk), Bas de Leede, Sybrand Engelbrecht, Logan van Beek, Ryan Klein, Aryan Dutt, Paul van Meekeren
Tactics & Strategy:
Scott Edwards, with an excellent record against spin in ODIs, will play a vital role for the Netherlands against Afghanistan’s spinners, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Rashid Khan.
Afghanistan: Ikram Alikhil is expected to return to wicket-keeping duties after recovering from an injury in the previous game.
Probable XI: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Tactics & Strategy:
Left-arm fast bowlers have troubled the Netherlands’ top order in recent years, and Fazalhaq Farooqi, who performed well in the last game, will be a key bowler for Afghanistan against the Dutch top order.
Notable Facts:
- Lucknow’s pitch has favored pace over spin in the CWC 2023, with the second-lowest average runs per wicket for pace and spin combined.
- The Netherlands has seen three scores of 50 or more from No. 7 or lower, a unique feat in this World Cup.
- Both Afghanistan and the Netherlands are the only teams in the World Cup without an individual century so far.
In the words of Colin Ackermann, “It just takes two guys to form a good partnership, and we’ll set up a very good score.” The Netherlands is looking to improve their top-order performance and strengthen their position in the race for the semifinals.
Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.
