India will take on Afghanistan in the ninth match of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Wednesday. India entered the contest with a victory, defeating Australia by six wickets.
The Indian team showcased their mettle in the clash against Australia, with Virat Kohli and KL Rahul delivering match-winning performances. Kohli notched up a brilliant 84, while Rahul remained unbeaten with a stellar 97*. Ravindra Jadeja proved his worth in the bowling department, picking up three crucial wickets, while Kuldeep Yadav contributed with two dismissals.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan aims to bounce back after a disappointing start to the tournament. In the opening match against Bangladesh, their batting lineup faltered, resulting in a meager total of 156 runs. Bangladesh efficiently chased down the target with six wickets to spare. Afghanistan's bowlers put up a spirited effort, but the batting department requires a turnaround.
As both teams gear up for this crucial clash, fans await to see if India can continue their winning momentum. There is a minor chance that Afghanistan can stage a comeback and make their mark in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. The Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi will buzz with excitement as cricket enthusiasts around the world tune in to witness this encounter.
Probable Playing XI
India
Rohit Sharma (c), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj
Afghanistan
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Mohammad Nabi, Najibullah Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Key Players
KL Rahul: He has been in superb batting form since his return from injury. Rahul delivered match-winning performances in the Asia Cup and ODIs against Australia. He started this World Cup campaign with an unbeaten 97 against the Aussies.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz: The Afghan opener played a good hand of 47 against Bangladesh. Also, he recently notched up his career-best ODI score of 151. His contribution will be crucial to Afghanistan's fortunes in this match.
Match Prediction
India are a much better team in terms of quality and experience than Afghanistan. They have a firing batting unit and equally good bowling attack, which is in form. The Afghan team will need help dealing with India. Rohit Sharma and Co enter this contest as the favourites.