The much-anticipated Men’s T20 World Cup final between India and South Africa will be broadcast live on Sky Sports from 3pm on Saturday (3:30pm first ball). Both teams enter the final unbeaten, with South Africa making their first World Cup final appearance and India seeking their first title since 2011.
Ahead of the match, Sky Sports pundits Nasser Hussain, Michael Atherton, and Eoin Morgan provide their insights on where the game could be decided.
Is the Pressure on India?
Sky Sports Cricket’s Nasser Hussain believes India may feel the weight of expectations. He notes that India have proven their adaptability, winning on various surfaces, including a bouncy pitch against Australia in St Lucia. With a formidable batting lineup, pace attack, and spinners, India have all bases covered. Having played a game in Barbados already, they have a slight edge over South Africa, who are yet to experience the conditions there.
Hussain also points out that South Africa has finally overcome their semi-final jinx after seven unsuccessful attempts. If they can play without pressure, it may shift the burden onto India, who haven’t won a major title in a long time. India, with their abundant resources and talented players, are expected to win, making the stakes incredibly high.
‘Hopefully the Pitch Has Pace’
Sky Sports Cricket’s Michael Atherton hopes for a pitch with pace, which would bring South Africa’s formidable pace battery into play. Atherton highlights the prowess of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, and Marco Jansen, who have shown their effectiveness on favorable pitches. However, he also acknowledges Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional performance throughout the tournament. Despite not being the leading wicket-taker, Bumrah’s impact during crucial overs has been significant.
‘South Africa Must Go Blow for Blow with India’
Sky Sports Cricket’s Eoin Morgan suggests that South Africa must match India’s aggression with the bat. India, experienced in handling finals pressure, might outscore South Africa if they fail to keep up. Rohit Sharma’s aggressive mindset has been pivotal for India, and they are used to quick turnarounds from their IPL experience. Although South Africa had an easier semi-final, Morgan believes India will manage any fatigue due to their familiarity with intense schedules.
Catch the thrilling T20 World Cup final between India and South Africa at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, live on Sky Sports Cricket from 3pm on Saturday (3:30pm first ball).
Credit: Sky Sports
