T20 World Cup 2024 Top 5 Underdog Teams, The T20 World Cup is set to be one of the most thrilling editions of the tournament, with powerhouse teams like India, Australia, and England entering as favorites. However, cricket has always been a game of surprises, and history has shown that underdog teams can rise to the occasion and stun the world.
In this article, we’ll analyze the top 5 underdog teams that could pull off major upsets in the T20 World Cup 2024, their key players, strengths, and why they might just defy expectations.
1. Afghanistan – The Dark Horse of T20 Cricket
Why Afghanistan Could Be a Threat?
Afghanistan has rapidly emerged as one of the most exciting T20 teams in recent years. With a mix of explosive batters and world-class spinners, they have the ability to dismantle even the strongest opponents.
Key Players to Watch:
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Rashid Khan (Best T20 spinner in the world)
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Mohammad Nabi (Experienced all-rounder)
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Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Aggressive opener)
Recent Performances:
Afghanistan has defeated top teams like Pakistan, West Indies, and Sri Lanka in recent T20Is. Their spin-heavy attack can exploit slow pitches, making them a dangerous side in the T20 World Cup 2024.
Can they reach the semi-finals? If their batting clicks, Afghanistan could be the surprise package of the tournament.
2. Netherlands – The Giant Killers
Why Netherlands Could Cause an Upset?
The Dutch team has a history of shocking big teams in ICC events. They famously defeated South Africa in the 2022 T20 World Cup and England in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Key Players to Watch:
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Max O’Dowd (Consistent opener)
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Bas de Leede (Rising all-rounder)
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Logan van Beek (Death-over specialist)
Recent Performances:
T20 World Cup 2024 Top 5 Underdog Teams, Netherlands has improved significantly in T20 cricket, with strong performances in qualifiers and associate nation tournaments. Their fearless approach makes them a team to watch.
Will they knock out a top team again? If they play with the same aggression, another upset is possible.
3. Ireland – The Fighters with Big-Match Temperament
Why Ireland Could Be Dangerous?
Ireland has produced several close contests against top teams, including their famous win over England in the 2022 T20 World Cup. They have a balanced squad with experienced players.
Key Players to Watch:
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Paul Stirling (Destructive opener)
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Josh Little (Left-arm pace threat)
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Harry Tector (Middle-order anchor)
Recent Performances:
Ireland has been competitive in T20Is against Full Member nations, and their ability to handle pressure makes them a potential giant-killer.
Can they make it to the Super 12? With a bit of luck, Ireland could advance further than expected.
4. Scotland – The Underrated Contenders
Why Scotland Should Not Be Underestimated?
Scotland has been one of the strongest Associate teams in T20 cricket. They have beaten Bangladesh and West Indies in recent years and play fearless cricket.
Key Players to Watch:
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George Munsey (Aggressive batsman)
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Mark Watt (Smart left-arm spinner)
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Chris Greaves (Handy all-rounder)
Recent Performances:
Scotland performed well in the 2022 T20 World Cup, nearly defeating Zimbabwe and West Indies. Their disciplined bowling and attacking batting make them a tricky opponent.
Will they surprise a big team this time? If they get favorable conditions, Scotland could pull off a shocker.
5. Zimbabwe – The Comeback Kings
Why Zimbabwe Could Be a Surprise Package?
After years of struggle, Zimbabwe has made a strong comeback in T20 cricket. They reached the Super 12 in the 2022 T20 World Cup and have match-winners in their squad.
Key Players to Watch:
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Sikandar Raza (MVP all-rounder)
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Blessing Muzarabani (Tall fast bowler)
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Craig Ervine (Dependable captain)
Recent Performances:
Zimbabwe has defeated Pakistan and Australia in recent T20Is, proving they can compete with the best. Their spin attack and Raza’s brilliance make them a threat.
Can they repeat their 2022 success? If they maintain consistency, Zimbabwe could be the dark horse of T20 World Cup 2024.
Read More: Rishabh Pant’s Emotional Comeback: How He Performed in His First Match Back After the Accident
Final Thoughts: Who Will Be the Biggest Underdog Story?
T20 World Cup 2024 Top 5 Underdog Teams, The T20 World Cup is not just about the usual favorites—underdog teams like Afghanistan, Netherlands, Ireland, Scotland, and Zimbabwe have the talent and spirit to cause major upsets.
If these teams play to their potential, we could witness some of the most thrilling matches in T20 World Cup history.
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