2024 ICC T20 World Cup Preview: England and Australia Favorites as Underdogs Eye Upsets

Excitement brews as the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup descends on the historic grounds of Kensington Oval, Barbados.

Defending champions England along with Australia stand as favourites to advance out of group B, but with the unpredictable nature of the T20 format, underdogs Scotland, Oman, and Namibia will all be vying to stir an upset and prove they belong on the big stage of world cricket.

All eyes will be on Barbadian born pacer Jofra Archer, who will be returning to high-level cricket after missing more than a year due to injuries. He will have to play a key role in the England lineup if they are to have a chance at lifting back-to-back T20 World Cup titles. England will have the option of pairing express pacers Mark Wood and Archer together, which can be a nightmare for the top order of any lineup.

World number two Australia will be looking to bring their exciting brand of cricket to the Caribbean with a lineup bolstered by IPL stars Pat Cummins, Travis Head and Mitchell Starc.

However, the group stage isn’t just about the heavyweight clashes; Scotland, Oman, and Namibia may be perceived as the underdogs, but they bring with them a tenacity and spirit that often transcends expectations. With nothing to lose and everything to gain, these teams are primed to upset the established order and leave their mark on the tournament.

Adding to the excitement is the influx of spectators from England, who are expected to flock to Barbados in droves. Their passionate support promises to create a vibrant atmosphere, turning the stands into a sea of English flags and loud cheers.

Oman and Namibia will open the tournament in Barbados under the bright lights of the Oval Sunday night. This matchup promises to be a nail biter between two nations who will be looking to start their World Cup campaign with a win. (ZM)