Dhaka, Feb 05 (V7N) — The tenth T20 World Cup has officially begun, with India entering as the hot favorite, hosting the tournament on home soil. With a formidable batting line-up featuring Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, and a world-class bowling unit including Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, and Kuldeep Yadav, Team India looks set to dominate in spin-friendly subcontinental conditions. India, the reigning T20 champions, have won 39 matches over the past two years and became the first team in history to defend their T20 crown successfully at home.

However, Australia, fresh from their triumphs in past ICC tournaments, are strong contenders. Their batting depth, led by Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Cameron Green, and Glenn Maxwell, along with a balanced bowling attack featuring Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Ellis, and Xavier Bartlett, makes them a serious threat to India’s title hopes. Australia’s strength lies in their experience and resilience, capable of turning games in high-pressure moments.

South Africa, finalists in the last edition, also remain in contention. Their pace attack of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, and Lungi Ngidi, backed by aggressive batsmen like Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram, and David Miller, ensures the Proteas will be tough opponents.

It is notable that Bangladesh will not participate in the tournament for the first time, leaving the field open for traditional powerhouses to compete for the trophy. Cricket experts predict a thrilling tournament with India, Australia, and South Africa vying for glory in this high-stakes T20 World Cup.

END/SMA/AJ