T20 WC 2021: Predicting the final team standings of Group 1

The wait is finally over. After 5 long years, 12 teams are under the spotlight as they will compete with each other to get into the top 4 of T20 WC 2021. This time, even the associate members are so competitive that they might pull off a few upsets.

Well, the format brings more seriousness into the mind of well-established teams. Over the years, we have seen minnows beating the Test-playing nations. Hence, the fans are in for a treat.

Group 1 of T20 WC 2021 is more like a “Group of Death”. It comprises giants along with former champions. Hence, there might be a situation in which the teams will proceed to the next round based on NRR. This will make each game more crucial. Let us predict the

Final team standings for the first group of T20 WC 2021

6. Sri Lanka

The 2014 champions had to play the qualifiers to get into the Super 12. Their captain Dasun Shanaka has been brilliant as they managed to win all their games in the qualifiers. But, they have a huge mountain to climb in Group 1.

They have to face Bangladesh, Australia, South Africa, England, and West Indies. Well, they might be able to grab some points but the scene of Sri Lanka getting into the Semi-Final is highly unlikely. Adding on, they have to bat exceptionally well to give their bowlers something to defend if they decide to bat first on a few occasions.

For the Lankans, their key players will be Wanindu Hasaranga. The second-best bowler in the format has been exceptional. Adding on, he can score quickly if required. Hence, other players should back him in both departments.

5. Bangladesh

Bangladesh is the dark horse in this group. They have managed to defeat the big bows in their backyard. Adding on, a format like T20 suits this young team. It will be interesting to see how they manage to restrict the teams which attack from the word go.

This time, they will be without Tamim. The veteran decided to make way for the youngsters to give them more exposure. Adding on, they have talented players who can turn the game on their day.

But, this time too, all eyes will be on Shakib. Being one of the greatest all-rounders from Bangladesh, he can anchor the innings with the bat. Apart from his batting, he has been the greatest wicket-taker in the format.

4. South Africa

South Africa is coming into this T20 World Cup along with some controversies. After overlooking Faf and Imran, they have chosen a relatively younger side for the T20 World Cup. Well, this might backfire in the longer run.

However, they have included de Kock, Miller, and Rabada. Adding on, they have the second most prolific fast bowling options in Group 1. Rabada, along with Nortje can decimate the top order of any team.

But, in spin-friendly conditions in UAE, their trump card will be Tabraiz Shamsi. The clever spinner is the best bowler in the format. In this calendar year, he has picked 28 wickets at an average of 12.85 with an economy of 5.53. His form will be vital for South Africa’s chances this year.

3. West Indies

Currently, West Indies are ranked 9th in the ICC T20 rankings. The two-time champions have a power-packed squad this time too. But, it is the form of the key players which might hurt them.

With Gayle, Pooran, Simmons, Russell, and Pollard at the top, they can destroy any attack. But, this year, they have been off-color. Adding on, their bowlers got too little to defend against England.

No one knows who might fire on all cylinders from the Windies’ side. But, consistency is a term that might hurt their chances this time. Because of their loss to England, they might fall short of qualifying to the next round.

2. Australia 

They might not have the strongest batting lineup. But, we have seen over the years that with the right strategy, one can go the distance. Yes, Australia is a team that is being underestimated.

Most of us have forgotten how destructive Warner could be. And if given constant support, he will fire one day. This will bring him back to form. Imagine a team with an in-form Warner, Maxwell, and Aaron Finch.

Talking about their bowling, they have the most complete fast bowling attack. Starc, Cummins, and Hazlewood can bowl 12 effective overs. Adding on, 4 overs from Zampa, and two each from Stoinis and Maxwell might do the trick. They should get into the semi-finals of this tournament.

1. England 

England is the number one team as per ICC T20 rankings. Even though they are without Stokes and Archer, their bench strength is strong enough to fetch them replacements. They thrashed the defending champions and they should make it to the knock-out stages comfortably.

 Eoin Morgan has stated that if he will be unable to find form, he will drop himself. Well, if this happens, things might change. This is because he is an excellent captain. Adding on, he is just one knock away from getting back into the form.

 But, their most valuable player is Moeen Ali. He is the first Englishmen to lift the IPL trophy. Apart from that, he can bowl four overs and bat at number three. Hene, he brings in a complete package.