Background
Afghanistan, who only won one game in their first 17 CWC matches, have now won 3 of their last 4 games at the grandest stage. Afghanistan is clicking in the fields now. The batters won them the game against Pakistan and the bowlers won the one against England. They seem to be a perfect unit and can upset more teams in the tournament. It looks pretty one-sided competition if you look at the standings, but Australia are about to face three quality spinners which always cause challenges. Australia on the other hand are a spinner short, but still, they have managed as Head has also returned in the mix from injury.
Team Preview:
Australia- Australia has all but certainly cemented their spot in the semi finals with matches against Bangladesh and Afghanistan. With all due respect, they should fancy themselves to win against these teams. Head and Warner will be the key here for them and Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis and Josh Inglis will look to get into the rhythm as they have gone through a horrific tournament as of now. Captain Cummins is doing a decent job but Mitch Starc has to pull up his socks now in the remaining tournament. The bowling is being dominated by Adam Zappa and Mitch Starc, so hopefully Cummins and Hazlewood can find some form leading into the semis! Selection will become an issue as Maxwell looks to return, but Marsh’s return remains uncertain.
Afghanistan- A team which always finds itself on the wrong side of close encounters, their opening game loss against Bangladesh had convinced many that it will be yet another below-expectation ICC tournament for Afghanistan. But wins against England, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, now mean Afghanistan have an outside shot of making it to the top 4! Their middle order, which is arguably their biggest weakness before the tournament, has stepped up on the big stage, playing a huge role in their previous 2 victories.Their encounter against Australia will be crucial but to ensure they are in the hunt when that match takes place!
Match prediction
Australia will come out on top and win in a slightly comfortable manner. Hopefully big scores from Stoinis and Smith and wickets to Hazelwood and Cummins.
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