Former Indian batter Aakash Chopra believes Afghanistan‘s use of experienced, versatile short-format players has contributed to their stronger performance compared to Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. He drew a parallel between Afghanistan’s players and the West Indies’ approach of relying on seasoned and adaptable cricketers.

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign ended prematurely, as they were eliminated before the Super Eight stage. In contrast, Afghanistan have secured their place in the next round, currently leading Group C with a game left against the West Indies.

Chopra was asked why Afghanistan have fared better than Pakistan, despite lacking a proper domestic cricket structure.

“Afghanistan boast a unit of match-winning T20 specialists, including Mohammad Nabi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq, and Azmatullah Omarzai. The national team is stacked with experienced T20 specialists who play the format regularly,” remarked Chopra.

“Gulbadin Naib, who recently played for the Delhi Capitals, is an experienced T20 player. He and his teammates have played numerous T20 matches in various locations, giving them exposure to different styles of play just like the West Indies players. This experience helps them adapt when they come together to play as a team,” he continued.

“The national team does not face the same leadership challenges as the West Indies, which is composed of players from multiple Caribbean countries.Additionally, the team members are unified in their interests and motivations, unlike the diverse West Indies squad whose players come from the different countries that make up that regional team,” he explained.

The West Indies have qualified for the Super Eight alongside Afghanistan from Group C. The two sides will meet in their final group match on Monday, June 17 in Saint Lucia to determine the group winner.