Australia and keep topping T20 Cup Super 8 groups With the first round of matches in the Super 8 phase of the ICC 2024 completed, Australia and India have taken early leads in their respective groups. In Group 1, Australia pulled off a crucial 28-run victory over Bangladesh thanks to a strong batting display. Opting to bat first, the Aussies amassed 179-7 on the back of half-centuries from skipper Aaron Finch and Glenn Maxwell.
Their inspired bowling then restricted Bangladesh to 151-9 despite a valiant 53 from Shakib Al Hasan. In the other Group 1 match, India beat Afghanistan by 47 runs in a rain-affected clash to top the standings with 2 points. Electing to bat after winning the toss, India posted a competitive 188-5 largely due to magnificent performances from Suryakumar Yadaz (62) and Hardik Pandya (64*).
Afghanistan were only able to manage 141-7 in their allotted 20 overs as top players like Rashid Khan failed to replicate their usual heroics. Meanwhile in Group 2, tournament favorites England began their Super 8 campaign in impressive fashion. Chasing 182 for victory versus hosts West Indies, opener Alex Hales smashed 79 to help England romp to an eight wicket win with 7.
3 overs to spare. In the other Group 2 fixture, debutants USA fought hard before going down by 18 runs against a clinical South African side led by QDK's 45. With pressure mounting as the competition progresses, all eyes will be on how the top teams perform in their upcoming fixtures and who emerges o.