As India prepares to host Bangladesh for the second T20I match on October 9 in Delhi, the memory of two high-scoring games lingers in the minds of cricket fans. The Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium has historically been a batting-friendly venue, with an average run rate of 8.17 in seven T20Is. However, the recent IPL 2024 saw teams scoring at an even higher rate, with an average of 11.2.
The highest PowerPlay score in T20s was recorded here in 2024, when Delhi Capitals’ openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head smashed 125 runs in the first six overs. This trend continued throughout the IPL, with eight teams scoring over 200 runs and 134 sixes being hit in just five matches.
The Indian batting lineup has a strong record at this venue, with several players averaging over 50 in T20s. Abhishek Sharma, in particular, has been in exceptional form, scoring 176 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 217.28.
Bangladesh’s bowlers, however, have struggled to contain India’s batsmen. In the first T20I, India chased down 128 runs with seven wickets in hand and 49 balls to spare. While Bangladesh’s bowling unit has shown improvement in recent years, they will need to adapt quickly to the conditions in Delhi to challenge India’s formidable batting lineup.
Mahmudullah, who recently retired from T20Is, acknowledged the challenge of bowling on this pitch but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to adapt. “As a bowling unit, we have the variety to compete on any pitch,” he said.
Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the conditions. “We come with a neutral mindset and try to adjust according to the pitch,” he said.
The second T20I will be a crucial match for both teams, with the series on the line. Bangladesh will be hoping to capitalize on the batting-friendly conditions and secure a victory, while India will aim to maintain their dominance and clinch the series.
