The team winning the toss in Wankhede has a strong chance of reaching the final.

India-England T20 World Cup semi-final: Preparations in full swing at Wankhede Stadium

Mumbai: Preparations for the final of the T20 World Cup are going on in full swing. The two finalist teams will be known today through the semi-final match between India and England. This title match will be held on March 8, but before that, the important semi-final will be played between India and England at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The pitch here will play an important role in the outcome of the match.

Effect of dew in Wankhede

Wankhede Stadium is located near the sea. As evening approaches, the temperature drops and the moisture coming from the Arabian Sea begins to subside on the plains. This causes the ball to start slipping, making it difficult for the bowlers to catch it. In this situation, spinners have difficulty in getting hold of the ball, while fast bowlers also have to face difficulty. Batsmen feel the ball coming onto the bat faster, which makes it easier to score runs.

A look at the statistics

Talking about the T20 history of Wankhede, the teams bowling first have achieved more success. Here in 123 matches, the teams chasing the target have won 92 times, while the teams batting first have won 92 times. However, in the seven matches played so far in this World Cup, the team batting in the first innings has successfully saved the score three times.

Pitch conditions and temperature

The weather in Mumbai has been somewhat hot in recent times. That is why to keep the pitch safe, light grass has been left and regular watering has been given. The grass will be cut at the last minute so that the pitch can be made fast and bouncy. The temperature here is expected to be around 35 degrees Celsius during the day, due to which the condition of the pitch will be strong in the first innings but there is a possibility of dew increasing at night.

spin vs fast bowling

Fast bowlers have dominated at Wankhede. Here fast bowlers have taken almost twice as many wickets as spinners. However, the figures of spin and pace are almost the same in this World Cup. The spinners have taken 40 wickets at an average of 24.65, while the fast bowlers have taken 43 wickets at an average of 27.

toss responsibility

The biggest challenge before both the captains will be to take the decision after the toss. Batting in the first innings can lead to a big score, while in the second innings the chase can become simple due to the effect of dew. Thus, Thursday’s semi-final will be a test for the players as well as the conditions. There is a possibility that the captain who wins the toss may decide to bat first.