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Renowned Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist suggests that Nepal and the Netherlands might spring surprises on teams such as Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the forthcoming T20 World Cup.
Nepal and the Netherlands find themselves grouped with Bangladesh, South Africa, and Sri Lanka in Group D. Gilchrist points out that the international experience garnered by the emerging talents in the Nepalese squad led by Rohit Paudel has bolstered their prowess, rendering them a formidable force.
Regarding the Netherlands, Gilchrist noted their historical resilience in ICC events and their determination to capitalize on the limited chances they have to face prominent teams.
“I think Nepal would be a team that might be able to fire a shot,” Gilchrist told SEN Radio on Saturday.
“They’ve got a couple of young players who have been in all the big leagues for a number of years now,” he said.
Nepal, on the other hand, faces a significant setback ahead of the World Cup, as their key leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane has been sidelined after his US visa application was denied for the second time.
Considering the Netherlands’ upset victory against South Africa in the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, Gilchrist believes they will undoubtedly pose a formidable challenge.
“The Dutch always seem to ruffle a few feathers, they always seem to get under the skin, and they’re drawn in the same pool as South Africa again. They nailed them in the T20 World Cup last time in Australia in Adelaide. So, it might be the Dutch,” he said.
Referring to the recent three-match T20 series where the USA surprised Bangladesh with a 2-1 victory, Gilchrist emphasized how lesser-known cricket-playing nations are eager for chances to defeat more established teams.
He highlighted the financial aspect, where such victories provide a boost, but also underscored the importance of gaining experience. According to Gilchrist, the T20 format offers these nations an opportunity to not only challenge bigger teams but also strengthen cricket programs within their countries.
“Have a look at the results of the USA against Bangladesh in the last few weeks, the US have fired a few shots, they’ve beaten them a few times.
“It’s about allowing them to get a platform and a chance to shine. Hopefully that firms up the cricket programs in more nations around the world,” felt Gilchrist. Both the teams face each other on Tuesday to begin their campaign in the T20 global showpiece.
