The ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 has commenced in Muscat, Oman. This prestigious tournament provides a platform for young cricketers from across Asia to showcase their skills and compete against their peers.
Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024: Groups
Eight teams are participating in the competition, divided into two groups. Each side will play three games within their group, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals. The winners of the knockout stage will then face off in the final on October 27.
Group A includes Afghanistan A, Sri Lanka A, Bangladesh A and Hong Kong. Group B features India A, Oman, UAE and Pakistan A. Historically, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have dominated this tournament, each securing two titles. India, with one title to their name, will also be aiming to make a strong impression.
Here’s a look at the best playing XI for India A, along with the strengths and expectations for each player:
1) Abhishek Sharma
- Strengths: Abhishek is an explosive left-handed batsman and a slow left-arm orthodox bowler. He has made headlines with his aggressive batting style, particularly in the IPL, where he scored 484 runs in the 2024 season at a strike rate over 180. His ability to score quickly makes him a key asset at the top of the order.
- Expectations: Given his recent form and experience in domestic cricket, Abhishek is expected to provide a solid start and contribute significantly with both bat and ball.
2) Prabhsimran Singh
- Strengths: Prabhsimran is known for his attacking batting style and has shown promise as a wicketkeeper. His ability to play big innings makes him a valuable player in the T20 format.
- Expectations: As the wicketkeeper-batsman, he will be crucial in stabilizing the innings while also providing quick runs.
3) Tilak Varma
- Strengths: The young left-handed batsman has been impressive in domestic circuits, showcasing maturity beyond his years. His ability to anchor the innings while accelerating when needed is vital.
- Expectations: As captain, Varma is expected to lead from the front, guiding his team with both bat and leadership skills.
4) Ayush Badoni
- Strengths: Badoni has demonstrated his capability as a reliable middle-order batsman. His adaptability in various situations makes him an essential part of the lineup.
- Expectations: He is expected to stabilize the innings during crucial phases and accelerate towards the end.
5) Nehal Wadhera
- Strengths: Known for his powerful hitting, Wadhera can change the game in a matter of overs. His ability to score quickly makes him an exciting prospect.
- Expectations: Wadhera is anticipated to play a pivotal role in finishing games, especially in high-pressure situations.
Also READ: Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 Schedule – Date, Squads, Match Time, Broadcast & Live Streaming details
6) Ramandeep Singh
- Strengths: An all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball, Ramandeep adds depth to the squad. His experience in various formats enhances his utility.
- Expectations: He will be expected to chip in with crucial runs and provide valuable overs when needed.
7) Hrithik Shokeen
- Strengths: Shokeen is an effective off-spinner who can also contribute down the order with his batting. His bowling skills are particularly useful in T20 matches.
- Expectations: He is expected to take key wickets and maintain pressure on opposing batsmen.
8) Sai Kishore
- Strengths: A left-arm spinner known for his control and variations, Sai Kishore can be a game-changer on turning tracks.
- Expectations: He will be relied upon to break partnerships and contain runs during crucial overs.
9) Anshul Kamboj
- Strengths: Kamboj is an emerging fast bowler with pace and bounce, capable of troubling batsmen early on.
- Expectations: He is expected to provide breakthroughs with the new ball and maintain pressure throughout his spell.
10) Rahul Chahar
- Strengths: Chahar brings experience as a leg-spinner who can also contribute with lower-order batting. His ability to take wickets at crucial moments makes him invaluable.
- Expectations: He will be looked upon to exploit any spin-friendly conditions and provide key wickets during middle overs.
11) Vaibhav Arora
- Strengths: Arora is known for his pace and ability to swing the ball, making him a potent threat with the new ball.
- Expectations: He is expected to lead the bowling attack, aiming for early breakthroughs that can set the tone for the match.