West Indies cricket icon Brian Lara has selected two teams he believes will reach the final of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, scheduled to be held in the United States of America (USA) and the West Indies from June 1.
As the countdown to the global showpiece event dwindles to just three weeks, anticipation is reaching a fever pitch with ticket sales already underway. A grand total of 55 matches are lined up across nine cities – three in the USA and six in the West Indies. This milestone event signifies a historic moment, as it marks the inaugural occasion where the United States has been bestowed the honor of hosting such a prestigious tournament.
The opening clash will take place between the USA and Canada at the Grand Prairie stadium in Dallas on June 1.
Brian Lara’s prediction for the finalist
Lara, currently lending his insights as a commentator for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, shared his thoughts on potential outcomes.
He hinted at the possibility of India‘s strong performance leading to a much-awaited final clash with the West Indies, which could serve as redemption for the disappointing 2007 ODI World Cup, where India’s campaign ended prematurely.
Lara highlighted the West Indies’ potential, citing their wealth of individual talent that often coalesces into formidable teamwork. Despite controversies surrounding team selection, India will find themselves among the top four contenders.
“The West Indies should do well. They have a lot of individual stars and when they come together as a team they do well. India, with all their cry over selection, they find themselves in the top four. India and West Indies final is going to make up for so much wrong that has happened in the past. India missing out in 2007 in second round, that killed us in the Caribbean. We don’t want that to happen again. So, India and West Indies in the final and may the best team win,” Lara was quoted as saying by the PTI.
Other potential contenders
Elaborating on his predictions, Lara suggested that England may thrive in the West Indies ambiance, potentially securing a spot in the final four alongside Afghanistan, a team he believes has the capability to advance deep into the tournament.
Lara concluded with his confident picks for the finalists, envisioning an India versus West Indies showdown.
“England they seem to enjoy Caribbean a lot, lay on the beach a lot. England will be there and fourth spot, Afghanistan, they are capable of getting into the four,” the 55-year-old concluded.