Although Twenty20 (T20) has received criticism from cricketing purists and oftentimes been referred to as an exhibition – the competitiveness, passion and entertainment on display at this year’s World Cup in Australia has dispelled any misgivings previously raised about the short form of the game.
Not only has there been a plethora of incredibly close games throughout this tournament to date, we have also been treated to some jaw-dropping individual performances that has had fans and pundits alike watching on in awe.
With that in mind, read on as we analyse the standout performers from the tournament thus far.
Virat Kohli
This man needs no introduction. Arguably one of the greatest players of the modern generation, Virat Kohli’s presence, flair and technical prowess at the crease has made him one of the most successful players in history across all three formats of the game. Although his résumé speaks for itself, the 34-year-old entered this year’s World Cup in less than stellar form. Having registered just one century across One-Day International, Test and T20 matches since 2020 – many felt the mystique of Kohil was rapidly waning.
That was until the current World Cup, with the Indian icon returning to exceptional form on one of the sport’s biggest stages. As of the time of writing, Kohli has recorded the most runs (220) and has the highest batting average (220) at the tournament. No innings was more important than his 82 not out against subcontinent rivals Pakistan. Needing 28 runs from the final eight deliveries, Kohli hit three sixes en route to a famous and unlikely victory on the final ball of the match.
Due to Kohli’s play and his team’s success as a result, every major cricket betting site has India as the favourites to win the T20 World Cup.
Sam Curran
After a back injury kept England’s Sam Curran out of the last T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates, it appeared as though the left-armed fast bowler’s long-term place in the national team could be in jeopardy. However, 12 months on and Curran is establishing himself as one of the key men in England’s attempt to win their second T20 World Cup gong. His bowling figures have been nothing short of exceptional thus far, having taken nine wickets in three matches at a bowling average of 7.44.
Curran’s figures against Afghanistan were particularly impressive, with the 24-year-old registering 5/10 off just 3.4 overs. If Curran can continue to take wickets at such an economical clip – England have a real shot of challenging in the latter stages of the tournament.
Glenn Phillips
In what is a star-studded line-up that includes the likes of Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, Tim Southee and Trent Boult – it has been Glenn Phillips who has performed the best for the Black Caps through three games. After registering a low score of 12 against Trans-Tasman rivals Australia, Phillips delivered enormously in back-to-back innings. With a century against Sri Lanka (104) and a hard-fought 62 against England – Phillips is proving to be an integral part of New Zealand’s middle order.
Currently atop Group 1 of the Super 12 standings, Kiwi fans will be hoping Phillips can continue his consistent form with the bat and help lead his team to their maiden T20 World Cup win. It’s imperative they challenge for this year’s title, as this is arguably the golden generation of New Zealand cricket. If they are to yet again fall short in a major tournament – they are in danger of becoming one of cricket’s biggest ‘what ifs’ in recent memory.
