Arshdeep chasing elusive record as India eyes World Cup glory

New Delhi: In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, Indian left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh is on the cusp of setting a new record for the most dismissals in a single edition, needing just three more wickets to achieve this milestone. Thus far, Arshdeep has scalped 15 wickets at an economy rate of 7.50, placing him fourth on the list of highest wicket-takers in a single T20 World Cup.

The current record-holder for most dismissals in this tournament edition is Afghanistan's Fazalhaq Farooqi, who surpassed Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga's previous record. Farooqi's exceptional performance saw him claim 17 wickets, securing the top spot. Hasaranga follows closely with 16 wickets from the 2021/2022 season, while Ajantha Mendis occupies third place with 15 wickets in the 2012/2013 edition.

In the upcoming final match at the Kensington Oval in Barbados, India, known as the Men in Blue, will face South Africa. The Indian team is determined to break their ICC trophy drought since their last triumph in the 2013 Champions Trophy and clinch their first T20 World Cup title since the inaugural edition in 2007 held in South Africa.

Both India and South Africa have displayed impressive form throughout the 2024 T20 World Cup, remaining unbeaten thus far. Led by Rohit Sharma, India has dominated every opponent they've encountered, including strong teams like Australia, Pakistan, and England. Their consistent performance has marked them as strong contenders for the title.

On the other hand, South Africa's journey to the final has been more challenging. They faced tough battles against Bangladesh and Nepal in the group stage and narrowly escaped elimination in their Super 8 match against co-hosts West Indies. Despite these close encounters, they have shown resilience and determination to reach the summit clash against India.

As the highly anticipated final approaches, both teams are poised for an electrifying contest, each aiming to etch their name in T20 World Cup history. The clash promises to be a thrilling culmination to what has been an exhilarating tournament, with India seeking redemption and South Africa aiming to create their own legacy. ANI