Players to watch at the 2016 World T20

The eyes of the cricket world will be on India for the next month as the World T20 unfolds. The cream of international cricket will compete in the game’s most exciting format, in what promises to be a tournament filled with thrills. Follow this link to keep up to date with all the fixtures. 

And of course, there are plenty of star names looking to take centre stage. Here is just a selection of players to look out for.

Virat Kohli – The key to the hosts’ success

As always, India will be under pressure to succeed. However, as hosts, failure is not much of an option. And if they are to fulfil the expectations of a nation, then much will depend on Virat Kohli. The 27-year-old player is one of the world’s most explosive batsmen and was player of the tournament two years ago. Meanwhile, although he captains the Test side, Kohli will not be leading the India team in this tournament, which may give him more opportunity to focus on his destructive stroke play. 

Chris Gayle – The ultimate entertainer?  

West Indies might not be among the tournament favourites. Yet, you can be assured that one of the tournament’s favourite players will be their leader Chris Gayle. The “Gayleforce” is 6ft 4in of batting power. He is the only player ever to score a triple century in Test cricket, a double century in an ODI and a century in T20. You can expect plenty of big hitting and big talking with Gayle, making him quite the entertainer. Meanwhile, he has huge experience of the IPL, making him extremely familiar with the Indian conditions.

Jos Butler – England’s new T20 machine

During the past year or so, England have developed a brand new, aggressive T20 style of play. They have encouraged batsmen to truly express themselves. And none more so perhaps, than wicket-keeper Jos Butler. His team-mates Joe Root and Ben Stokes might grab more of the headlines, but Butler hit England’s fastest ever ODI century against Sri Lanka off just 46 balls. On several occasions, he has come to the crease and pushed England over the line to victory, demonstrating brave and creative batting. 

Lasith Malinga – Can he swing it for Sri Lanka?

If Sri Lanka are to make a real impression on the tournament, then veteran bowler Malinga will likely need to be on top form. The 32-year-old has hinted that he may retire after this tournament, having captained Sri Lanka to victory in the 2014 T20. The pace bowler would love nothing more than to go out in with a bang. His unorthodox style has its critics, but it has proven extremely effective during Malinga’s long career. Few get the ball to swing like Malinga and if he picks up the wickets, it would be a brave bet against Sri Lanka.

Mohammed Amir – All eyes on Pakistan’s returning star

It has been a long 5 years for Amir, who was banned as a promising 18-year-old following a spot fixing scandal while playing for Pakistan in England. Making a long-awaited return to international cricket, the World T20 provides the perfect platform for the left-armer to show what he can really achieve in the game. He gave some indication last month, removing both Indian opening batsmen in his first over. Pakistan will be hoping he can re-produce that kind of excitement during the coming month of action. 

---

Matt Geens.

The above article is an sponsored content. In case if someone has objection with the content copyright or facts presented in the article, please write us @ [e-mail]