01. Pakistan
This stellar opening partnership between skipper Babar Azam and keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan have scored the highest number of runs in the T20 cricket format. They were two of the three top most run scorers last year and are anticipated to lead Pakistan to victory this year. Despite this strong opening partnership, the middle order doesn’t look as promising for Pakistan though.
Babar Azam
ICC T20I batting ranking: 3
Strike rate: 130.03
Mohammad Rizwan
ICC T20I batting ranking: 1
Strike rate: 128.57
02. India
The power-packed opening duo of KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma have been absolutely devastating on field. This strong opening partnership has been constant for five years. The question that arises now is that will this determined duo defeat all odds and make a comeback this year? Especially with Rohit Sharma wanting to lead from the front as skipper. It will be an interesting tournament for sure!
KL Rahul
ICC T20I batting ranking: 14
Strike rate: 140.40
Rohit Sharma
ICC T20I batting ranking: 16
Strike rate: 140.59
03. New Zealand
Whilst many changed in the opening partnership for New Zealand, Martin Guptill remained constant, striking a remarkable partnership with many over the years. Guptill has now found a stable ground for partnership with keeper-batter Devon Conway who moved to the top of the order after the recent series with West Indies. It will be interesting to watch this partnership take form in the upcoming tournament.
Devon Conway
ICC T20I batting ranking: 7
Strike rate: 138.28
Martin Guptill
ICC T20I batting ranking: 10
Strike rate: 135.8
04. Australia
The infamous Warner-Finch partnership is unmatched when it comes to the reigning champions Australia. The two have been in reasonable form and will probably be geared to display some really good cricket on field as openers.
Aaron Finch
ICC T20I batting ranking: 6
Strike rate: 144.88
David Warner
ICC T20I batting ranking: 48
Strike rate: 141.18
05. Sri Lanka
Oh, what miracles have we not witnessed unfold in the field with this devastating opening partnership between Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis. The duo batted heavily during the Asia Cup and there is much anticipation to see what they display on field during the World Cup.
Pathum Nissanka
ICC T20I batting ranking: 8
Strike rate: 115.58
Kusal Mendis
ICC T20I batting ranking: 56
Strike rate: 126.47
