Navjot Singh Sidhu the exIndian opener was disheartened by the pitch selection for the 2024 T20 World Cup semifinal showdown between South Africa and Afghanistan in Trinidad on Wednesday June 26th. Afghanistan were restricted to a paltry 56 runs on a pitch that heavily favored the bowlers presenting a daunting challenge for the batsmen to navigate the unpredictable bounce.
Navjot Singh Sidhu explained how similar pitches were available in the New York leg of the T20 World Cup. He said that it was the primary reason why one-sided games like the semifinal between Afghanistan and South Africa were played.
Navjot Singh Sidhu, speaking on Star Sports, said:
“This is not just one instance. I can understand if you get an odd wicket (because of the irregularity of the pitch). But if you see, some balls have jumped off a length and hit the batters. This happened in the Nassau County as well. The pitch is the only factor that has marred this T20 World Cup. Whatever has happened has happened, but this should not happen in the future. Such pitches dent the thrill of a game of cricket.”
Navjot Singh Sidhu
South Africa captain Aiden Markram and Afghanistan’s head coach Jonathan Trott both criticized the pitch. Even cricket commentators such as Michael Vaughan expressed their displeasure with the pitch and the schedule of the semifinal.
Navjot Singh Sidhu on India vs England semifinal
The second semifinal between India and England, scheduled for Thursday, June 27, in Guyana, faces a significant rain threat. With no reserve day available, India will go to the final if there is a washout, as they placed first in their group.
Navjot Singh Sidhu discussed his expectations for a full game and why he doesn’t want the rain to ruin it. He said:
“I hope we get a full game of cricket in Guyana. Either that or the rain completely washes the game off and India qualifies. We don’t want to see a rain-curtailed game of 5-7 overs. The ball will turn and remain low in Guyana and a game of 140-150 score could be an interesting one.”
Navjot Singh Sidhu
The last confrontation between India and England in the T20 World Cup semifinal took place a couple of years ago with England thrashed the Men in Blue by ten wickets. However during interactions with the media English coach Matthew Mott openly acknowledged the altered mindset within the current Indian team emphasizing the increased effort required for success.