T20 World Cup 2012 live: Sri Lanka overpowers Zimbabwe, India take on Afghanistan today

Sep 19,2012 - by Mark Jensen 1

Ajantha Mendis took a record 6 wickets for 8 runs

The T20 World Cup 2012 started with the hosts, Sri Lanka comprehensively defeating Zimbabwe in the tournament opener. Sri Lanka posted an imposing total of 182 runs batting first as Zimbabwe crumbled to the magic of Ajantha Mendis.

Zimbabwe was bundled out at a meagre total of 82 runs. The other Mendis in the side, Jeevan Mendis contributed with the bat as Sangakkara top scored with 44 runs. Sri Lanka is among the favourites to win this edition of the T20 World Cup and with a opening game win, the Sri Lankan side will set their aspirations high.

In the second game of the world cup, Australia take on Ireland today at R Premadasa stadium, Colombo in a Group B encounter. Australia will be hoping for the likes of David Warner, Michael Hussey and David Hussey to fire and take the game away from Ireland. On the other side, Ireland will be praying for a repeat performance from Kevin O’ Brien and leading his side to an upset victory in the early stages of the tournament. In today’s second match, India take on Afghanistan in a Group A match.

Afghani captain Nawroz Mangal appeared optimistic about his side’s performance against the Asian contender. He said, “Everyone is saying Afghanistan is capable of creating an upset. We will put up a good show to prove that we belong to this stage.”

India will be looking to start its 2012 world cup expectations on a high with a comfortable win over Afghanistan. Indian captain MS Dhoni has stuck to the four bowler routine of the team. He said, “My ideal bowling combination will be three fast bowlers, one spinner and a few part-timers. It depends on the wicket, what kind of part-timers really suit the role and where you are playing.”

As the T20 World Cup increases its viewers base, the matches are bound to provide thrilling finishes in the shorter version of the cricket game.

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Tags: World T20

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Mark Jensen
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A Premier League football reporter for Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham and all the major clubs within the South East; delivering the latest team news, gossip, speculation and hearsay daily from the English top-flight football division. Follow me online for updates on match fixtures, previews and betting predictions, football feature specials and live commentary.