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The high-stakes encounter is a rematch of the memorable 2016 T20 World Cup semifinal, and conditions in Kolkata could once again play a decisive role. Bavuma, speaking ahead of South Africa’s fixture against Zimbabwe, highlighted that while the West Indies can match any side in pure hitting power, India’s depth in bowling gives them an edge.
He pointed out that India’s attack — featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, and Kuldeep Yadav, along with all-round options like Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya — offers greater variety and control. Bavuma also suggested that India typically find a way to stretch their totals. “I think India as well, you know, you kind of always add an extra 20 runs to their score,” he said, underlining their ability to squeeze out match-winning margins.
A key subplot revolves around spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who represents Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL and knows Eden Gardens well. Though Varun has endured a slight dip in the Super Eight phase, Bavuma believes the surface could assist him. “It is in Kolkata. Look, when we played there, the test match, I mean, it spun quite a lot,” Bavuma observed, adding that while T20 pitches may not turn as sharply, the potential remains.
With West Indies boasting dangerous left-handers like Shimron Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford, the contest between power-hitting and mystery spin could define the night. As Bavuma concluded, despite the excitement and unpredictability, he sees India progressing to the semifinals.
Source: Times of India
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