The T20 World Cup match between USA and Ireland hangs in the balance due to a relentless tropical disturbance unleashing heavy rain across Florida. This unwelcome guest threatens to wash out the entire leg of matches scheduled for Central Broward Park, potentially turning the planned Friday fixture into a damp squib. However, for the USA camp, these dark clouds might just have a silver lining. A complete washout would automatically secure their passage to the Super Eight stage, alongside group leaders India. This turn of events would leave Pakistan heartbroken, having started the tournament with disappointing losses to both these teams.
Team overview:
The USA has a brighter chance to make it into the Super Eight over Pakistan. The side has won two games so far and even a washout on Friday will help their cause. Although they suffered defeat against India, their victories in the first two games will help them to enter the Super Eight stage. Saurabh Netravalkar will be the player to watch out for as his bowling has been the key factor for USA in the games against Pakistan and India. Netravalkar’s dream spell against India, where he dismissed the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in quick succession, has made him a household name.
Ireland, on the other hand, stares at a bleak scenario. After suffering morale-crushing defeats in their opening two games, including one against underdogs Canada, they desperately needed victories in their remaining matches, and with significant margins at that. But plotting strategies and team combinations might have to take a backseat as they find themselves glued to weather forecasts, praying for a miracle break in the relentless downpour.
Ireland captain Paul Stirling, however, is going through a lean patch. Scores of 2 and 9 in his first two outings are a far cry from his usual explosive batting. With a highest score of just 36 in his last seven T20Is, Ireland needs him to rediscover his touch if they are to even entertain thoughts of progressing further. Stirling, known for his ability to pull off giant-killing performances, might have his work cut out for him, weather permitting.
Pitch and weather report:
The relentless Florida rain throws a massive curveball at the USA-Ireland match. While a washout secures a Super Eight spot for USA, Ireland desperately needs wins. Key players like USA’s bowling hero Netravalkar and Ireland’s struggling captain Stirling are in focus. However, the actual pitch becomes a mystery as constant rain keeps it covered, and a state of emergency hinders ground staff access, leaving the playing surface a complete unknown.
Head-to-head record:
Both of the sides have played 6 games, Ireland stood victorious in 5 and USA won 1.
Prediction:
Although it is going to be a washed-out, but USA are strong contender to win this contest.
Where to watch:
Pakistan – PTV Sports, Ten Sports, Myco (Live streaming), Tamasha app (Live streaming), Tapmad (live streaming)
India – Star Sports
England – SkySport Network
USA and Canada (Willow TV)
Caribbean – ESPN Caribbean
New Zealand & Australia – Sky Sports NZ, Prime Video
UK & Northern Ireland – Sky Sports
Sri Lanka – Maharaja TV
Other regions – SuperSport, Sirasa, CricLife, STARZPLAY
