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NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Eden Park Auckland Pitch Report

After a memorable clash on Wednesday, the action moves to Eden Park in Auckland for a Friday night showdown. Given the ground dimensions and usually-excellent batting pitch, we could be in for another high-scoring thriller. After all, Australia did chase 244 here back in 2018.

Two nights ago, Tim David sent a timely reminder of his matchwinning ability. With Australia needing 32 off nine balls, David went into overdrive, sealing the win with a last-ball four.

What it did highlight is New Zealand’s need to get their death-bowling right. They bowled too many slot deliveries when it mattered most, and the return of Trent Boult may assist in their efforts to thwart Australia’s strong batting lineup. That being said, Australia too are leaking plenty with the ball. They have now conceded four 200+ totals in a row, which is something to rectify as the T20 World Cup nears.

NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 2024 Possible Playing XIs

Trent Boult is available for the final two games of this series and should slot into the XI.

New Zealand: 1. Finn Allen, 2. Devon Conway (wk), 3. Rachin Ravindra, 4. Glenn Phillips, 5. Mark Chapman, 6. Josh Clarkson, 7. Mitchell Santner (c), 8. Tim Southee/Adam Milne, 9. Ish Sodhi, 10. Trent Boult, 11. Lockie Ferguson

Australia could look to rotate. Spencer Johnson is available for the Auckland games and could play. There is likely to be no room for Steve Smith once again.

Australia: 1. David Warner, 2. Travis Head, 3. Mitchell Marsh (c), 4. Glenn Maxwell, 5. Josh Inglis (wk), 6. Tim David, 7. Matt Short, 8. Mitchell Starc, 9. Pat Cummins/Spencer Johnson, 10. Adam Zampa, 11. Josh Hazlewood/Nathan Ellis

NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 Fantasy Cricket Tips: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

New Zealand:

  • Devon Conway enjoys playing against Australia. The left-hander now has three half-centuries in seven matches (347 runs, avg. 69.4, SR 143.98), including 63 off 46 in the 1st T20I.
  • Finn Allen also has a liking to the Australian bowling. The dynamic opener, who smashed 275 runs in five T20Is against Pakistan recently, has hit 74 runs in two matches against the Australians at a strike rate of 224.24.
  • Rachin Ravindra struck his first T20I fifty two nights ago. If he gets through the first 5-10 deliveries, watch out. The all-rounder has had a superb last six months across formats.
  • Tim Southee has the most wickets of any bowler in T20s at Eden Park (23) at an average of 20.70 and strike rate of 14.22. Lockie Ferguson also fares well here, with 16 scalps in seven T20s at a strike rate of just 9.31.
  • Trent Boult has 14 wickets in ten T20Is against Australia. He has excellent numbers against David Warner in all T20s: 82 balls, 77 runs, three dismissals.

Australia:

  • Mitch Marsh averages 42.66 with a strike rate of 139.13 in T20Is against New Zealand (256 runs). The skipper is coming off an excellent 72* off 44 balls in the opening match.
  • Watch out for Glenn Maxwell on a ground with small boundary dimensions. He has 51 runs off 31 balls so far in T20s at Eden Park.
  • Overall against the Black Caps, Maxwell has hit 287 runs at an average of 31.88 and strike rate of 159.44.
  • David Warner has scores of 70, 22, 81 and 32 in his last four T20Is. He has struck 84 runs in two matches at Eden Park at a strike rate of 178.52, including 59 off 24 balls in 2018.
  • Tim David in T20Is in 2024: 37* (17), 31* (14), 41* (19) and 31* (10). The finisher will be very dangerous with the small boundaries.
  • Spencer Johnson can offer a point of difference. He is often difficult to get away in the powerplay and death overs. In 30 T20s, the left-armer has taken 35 wickets at a strike rate of 17.8 and impressive economy of 7.42.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 17, New Zealand 6, Australia 11.
  • Finn Allen in T20s at Eden Park: 2 inns, 105 runs, avg. 52.50, SR 238.64.
  • Adam Zampa vs. Devon Conway in T20Is: 39 balls, 53 runs, no dismissals.
  • Mitchell Santner vs. David Warner in T20Is: 19 balls, 24 runs, two dismissals.
  • Lockie Ferguson vs. Glenn Maxwell in all T20s: 16 balls, 23 runs, two dismissals.

Eden Park Auckland Pitch Report and Weather

Eden Park is typically a graveyard for bowlers. A flat pitch and short boundaries is often on the menu.

Earlier this year, New Zealand smashed 226/8 and beat Pakistan by 46 runs. Last year, New Zealand and Sri Lanka played out a thrilling Super Over after both sides hit 196.

There is a chance of morning and afternoon showers in Auckland, but AccuWeather forecasts a clear evening.

NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction: Captaincy, vice-captaincy, team combination

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams.

Option 1:

NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Eden Park Auckland Pitch Report
NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Eden Park Auckland Pitch Report
NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction

NZ vs AUS 2nd T20 2024 Match Prediction – Who will win?

One feels a score of 200+ batting first is vital. Australia start as favourites and are our pick once again due to their strong depth.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes, with the stats and writer’s views in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

Ranchi pitch report for 4th IND vs ENG Test: Turner expected

Charbel Coorey
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Ranchi pitch report for 4th IND vs ENG Test: Turner expected

Cricket News: A look at the Ranchi pitch report for the 4th Test between India and England

There is a good chance spin may play an even bigger role in the fourth Test between India and England that kicks off on the 23rd of February in Ranchi. Captain Ben Stokes described the pitch as “very dark and crumbly and quite a few cracks in it,” indicating the surface could take turn quite early in the game.

“It looked interesting, didn’t it? I don’t know, I can’t say much,” said Stokes.

“I don’t know. I’ve never seen something like that before so I have got no idea [how it might play]. I don’t know what could happen.”

Ranchi pitch report: What does the surface look like before the game?

Stokes then described the surface, saying it looks different to what he’s used to in India. “If you looked down on side of opposite ends it just looked different to what I am used to seeing, especially out in India,” said the England captain.

“It looked green and grassy up in the changing-rooms, but then you go out there, it looked different. Very dark and crumbly, and quite a few cracks in it.”

Eyes will be on how quickly the pitch takes spin. Conditions are forecast to be in the mid-late 20s with sunshine throughout the match, which could widen any cracks that appear.

“The top layer looked crusty. The cracks in the wicket aren’t just cracks, there are separate bits of ground that could open up with a lot of sun on them. The ball could deviate more off them if they open up like we expect them to,” said batsman Ollie Pope.

Ranchi has played host to two Test matches. The first, in 2017, was a high-scoring draw between India and Australia. Two years later, Rohit Sharma struck 212 as the hosts knocked South Africa off by an innings and 202 runs.

So, it will be interesting to see how the surface plays in the upcoming Test. Interestingly, Akash Deep is likely to make his Test debut in place of the rested Jasprit Bumrah, which suggests that India may feel the pitch won’t be the raging turner some expect.

“It looked green and grassy up in the changing-rooms, but then you go out there, it looked different. Very dark and crumbly, and quite a few cracks in it.”

England captain Ben Stokes on the Ranchi pitch.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan shared his thoughts on X, formerly Twitter. He believes a turning track, along with Bumrah’s absence, gives England a chance.

“I hear the pitch in Ranchi will be like the first Test,” wrote Vaughan. “Lots of spin & a shorter game. Brings Englands spinners into the game. One seamer & Dan Lawrence to play is my guess. England will a good chance with No Bumrah as well.”

England must win this Test to keep the series alive. No team has won a Test series in India since 2012, and this England team had dreams of doing so after a superb win in Hyderabad.

But, two defeats – the latest a 434-run hiding – has left England needing a huge turnaround to achieve victory.

NZ vs AUS 1st T20 Reactions: Mitch Marsh 72 (44) & Tim David 31 (10) seals thrilling win for Australia

Charbel Coorey
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0
NZ vs AUS 1st T20 Reactions: Mitch Marsh 72 (44) & Tim David 31 (10) seals thrilling win for Australia

Cricket News: NZ vs AUS 1st T20 Reactions: Mitch Marsh 72 (44) & Tim David 31 (10) seals thrilling win for Australia

The three-match T20I series between New Zealand and Australia got off to the most thrilling of starts. The visitors, courtesy of an unbelievable finish from Tim David, achieved their third-highest successful chase in T20Is, running down New Zealand’s 215 thanks to a four off the very last ball.

Australia kept up with the rate for the most part after a few slow overs to begin with. Mitchell Marsh, who played superbly for his 44-ball 72*, took control after Travis Head and David Warner struggled to find early momentum. Then, Glenn Maxwell (25 off 11 balls) kept things ticking.

However, Maxwell’s dismissal in the 11th over brought about a change in momentum. Josh Inglis supported Marsh, but the rate ballooned to over 14 an over with three left. A few deliveries later, Australia found themselves needing 32 off nine balls and were quickly heading into miracle territory.

But Tim David delivered. The right-hander has made a name for himself around the world thanks to his magnificent finishing ability and sent a timely reminder to those who continue to doubt his place in the Australian T20I lineup. He hit Tim Southee for a four and two sixes to bring the equation down to 16 to win off the last over, before holding his nerve to hit six off the final two balls – including a last-ball four past a full-length Glenn Phillips – to seal a memorable win.

NZ vs AUS 1st T20 Reactions: Australia chase 216 in front of big Wellington crowd

Earlier, New Zealand would have thought they had enough, ammassing their second-straight 200+ score against Australia in T20Is. Finn Allen (32 off 17) set the tone, before Rachin Ravindra overcame a scratchy start to post 68 off 35 balls.

Devon Conway (63 off 46) returned to form, before Glenn Phillips and Mark Chapman took the Black Caps to 215 with a 41-run stand in 23 balls. But, it was to no avail in the end, with the Australians pulling off what seemed to be an improbable win.

Here is a look at some of the reactions to what was a thrilling T20I between the trans-tasman rivals.

Most valuable IPL teams 2024: Which team is the most expensive?

Charbel Coorey
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Most valuable IPL teams 2024: Which team is the most expensive?

Cricket News: Most valuable IPL teams 2024: Which team is the most expensive? | IPL teams valuation: Who comes out on top?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) continues to go from strength-to-strength. Record-breaking broadcast deals, arguably the greatest ever season in 2023, and endless digital advertising opportunities for brands sees IPL franchises continue to grow in value.

In this article, we will look at the most valuable franchise brands in the IPL based on a report by Brand Finance. All franchises are branching out into other leagues across the world, but this report looks at the IPL itself.

Most valuable IPL teams 2024:

Mumbai Indians: Rs 725 crore (approx. US$87 million)

Five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) top the list once again. Their brand value has increased by 5% compared to last year, up to US$87 million. The franchise has enjoyed strong growth in recent years off the back of their on-field success, signing a record Rs 100 crore sponsorship agreement with digital payments company Slice.

In 2024, MI will be aiming to get their hands on the IPL trophy once again with Hardik Pandya returning to the franchise as captain.

Chennai Super Kings: Rs 672 crore (approx. US$80.6 million)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) had a year-on-year brand value increase of 9%. They won their fifth title in thrilling fashion in 2023, with Ravindra Jadeja hitting a six and four off the final two balls to seal victory against Gujarat Titans.

In terms of sponsorship, CSK landed a deal with Etihad Airways for the 2024 season. This, in addition to MS Dhoni remaining strong at the helm, CSK continue to be one of the top IPL brands. Like MI, the Yellow Army are aiming to seal a record-breaking sixth title in 2024.

Kolkata Knight Riders: Rs 655 crore (approx. US$78.6 million)

Two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) come in at third. KKR last won the IPL back in 2014, but their brand value remains solid due to their strong following.

Also, last season, KKR landed a major sponsorship deal with online sports fantasy company MyFab11. In 2024, the franchise will be hoping their brand value translates into on-field success after big purchases in the auction; most notably the record deal for Mitchell Starc.

Royal Challengers Bangalore: Rs 582 crore (approx. US$69.8 million)

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) may not have an IPL title to their name, but they remain one of the strongest brands in the league. Their incredibly passionate fanbase stretches around the globe, and they have in their ranks one of the most celebrated and talked about players in Virat Kohli.

Last year, RCB landed a three-year sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways.

Gujarat Titans: Rs 545 crore (approx. US$65.4 million)

Gujarat Titans (GT), who won a title and came within a whisker of winning another in their first two seasons, have enjoyed a 38% increase in their brand value since last year. They have captured the imagination with their style of play, but it will be interesting to see how they cope with losing Hardik Pandya.

GT signed 26 sponsors before the 2023 season and will field a new front-of-shirt sponsor in 2024.

Delhi Capitals: Rs 537 crore (approx. US$64.1 million)

Delhi Capitals’ (DC) brand value increased by 3% year-on-year, but they have shifted one place down to sixth. Like RCB, DC don’t have an IPL title to their name, but their resurgence in recent years has contributed to their growth.

In terms of sponsorship, NueGo, India’s leading intercity electric AC bus service from GreenCell Mobility, has collaborated with DC for the 2024 season.

Rajasthan Royals: Rs 521 crore (approx. US$62.5 million)

Rajasthan Royals (RR), 2008 champions and 2022 finalists, come in at seventh position. The franchise saw a 2% year-on-year increase in brand value, with the upcoming season a good opportunity to break their trophy drought with plenty of talent in their squad.

RR extended their sponsorship with Luminous Power Technologies ahead of IPL 2024.

Sunrisers Hyderabad: Rs 401 crore (approx. US$48.2 million)

The only franchise to see a year-on-year decline is Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Their US$48.2 million brand value is 1% lower than last year, with their disappointing on-field performances something the franchise is desperate to rectify this season.

SRH have plenty of talent for IPL 2024 with arguably the best overseas pool of any team. FanCraze is SRH’s principal sponsor.

Lucknow Super Giants: Rs 392 crore (approx. US$ 47 million)

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) may be coming in ninth position, but they enjoyed the largest year-on-year increase in brand value. They grew by 48% compared to last year, with two playoff appearances a solid effort in their first two seasons.

Fantasy sports platform My11Circle is the franchise’s principal sponsor.

Punjab Kings: Rs 377 crore (approx. US$45.3 million)

Punjab Kings (PBKS) come in tenth with a brand value of US$45.3 million, up 1% on last year. PBKS are desperate to make a mark in 2024, having not qualified for the playoffs since 2014 despite a few close calls in recent seasons.

EBIXCASH is the principal sponsor of the Kings, among others.

NZ vs AUS 1st T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
NZ vs AUS 1st T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

NZ vs AUS 1st T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | NZ vs AUS 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Wellington Pitch Report

Australia’s long-awaited tour of neighbours New Zealand kicks off with the first of three T20 Internationals. Sky Stadium in Wellington hosts the series opener and it promises to be a fascinating showdown between two teams who have aspirations of going far in this year’s T20 World Cup.

The Australians prevailed 2-1 in their recent series against West Indies. New Zealand were far too strong for Pakistan earlier this year, winning 4-1. However, the black Caps will have to do without Daryl Mitchell (foot injury), Matt Henry (hip soreness), Tim Seifert (torn adductor), James Neesham (Bangladesh Premier League), and Kane Williamson (paternity leave). But, there is still quality talent in the ranks, especially in the form of Finn Allen who had a dream outing against Pakistan.

Given the absence of ODIs on this tour, this series will be played for the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy. A good start to the series for both sides is key not only to get a hand on the trophy, but to also firm preparations for the upcoming World Cup in West Indies and USA.

NZ vs AUS 1st T20 2024 Possible Playing XIs

Trent Boult is available for this series. He could partner Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson and Mitchell Santner as the core of the attack. Also, all-rounder Josh Clarkson could make his debut.

Rachin Ravindra can play a role with bat and ball. He had a breakthrough ODI World Cup in 2023 (578 runs), and will now be hoping he can make a mark in T20s – a format where he averages just 15.12 with the bat in 47 innings.

New Zealand: 1. Finn Allen, 2. Devon Conway (wk), 3. Rachin Ravindra, 4. Mark Chapman, 5. Glenn Phillips, 6. Josh Clarkson, 7. Mitchell Santner (c), 8. Tim Southee, 9. Ish Sodhi, 10. Trent Boult, 11. Lockie Ferguson

For Australia, Marcus Stoinis (injured) and Matthew Wade (parental leave) will miss this match. Also, Spencer Johnson will join the squad in Auckland later this week.

Australia: 1. David Warner, 2. Travis Head, 3. Mitchell Marsh (c), 4. Steve Smith, 5. Glenn Maxwell, 6. Josh Inglis (wk), 7. Tim David, 8. Pat Cummins, 9. Mitchell Starc, 10. Adam Zampa, 11. Josh Hazlewood

NZ vs AUS 1st T20 Fantasy Cricket Tips: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

New Zealand:

  • Finn Allen recently smashed 275 runs at a strike rate of 195.03 in five matches against Pakistan. He also hammered 42 off 16 balls in the 2022 T20 World Cup against Australia.
  • Devon Conway vs. Australia in T20Is: 6 inns, 284 runs, avg. 71.00, SR 145.64. This includes scores of 99* and 92*.
  • Glenn Phillips can also fetch fantasy points with his all-round ability. He averages just 19.33 in seven T20Is to date against Australia, but that can change quickly.
  • Phillips scored 147 runs at an average of 36.75 and strike rate of 134.86 in the T20I series against Pakistan.
  • Mitchell Santner has a good record against Australia (12 wickets, avg. 19.16, econ. 7.15) and on this ground (11 wickets, avg. 14.81, econ. 5.62).
  • Ish Sodhi has the most wickets in NZ-AUS T20Is (17) at an average of 18.82 and strike rate of 14.47. The legspinner also has 17 wickets on this ground at an average of 14.76 and strike rate of 10.94.
  • Trent Boult has a fine record against David Warner in all T20s: 82 balls, 77 runs, three dismissals.

Australia:

  • David Warner is in excellent form. He is fresh off 173 runs in the three-match series against West Indies (avg. 57.66, SR 166.34).
  • Warner has a modest T20 record against New Zealand. He has scored 216 runs in nine matches at an average of 24.00 and strike rate of 148.96.
  • Travis Head took a liking to the New Zealand attack in the 2023 ODI World Cup. He smashed 109 off 67 balls.
  • Glenn Maxwell, who recently smashed 120* vs West Indies, strikes at 155.02 in 11 T20Is against New Zealand (262 runs). Also, he has a strike rate of 211.9 in three T20Is on this ground (89 runs). A must-pick in fantasy teams.
  • Josh Hazlewood has picked up five wickets in two T20Is against New Zealand. He has dismissed Finn Allen once in three balls (5 runs) and Glenn Phillips twice in six balls (5 runs).
  • Mitchell Starc, in his two T20Is against New Zealand, has conceded 96 runs in eight overs. The left-armer will be looking to hit his stride ahead of the IPL and T20 World Cup.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 16, New Zealand 6, Australia 10.
  • The last meeting was back in the 2022 T20 World Cup. New Zealand smashed Australia by 89 runs.
  • Ish Sodhi has dismissed David Warner twice in 17 balls in T20Is (30 runs). He has also conceded just 27 off 26 against Mitch Marsh (one dismissal).
  • Warner has great numbers against Tim Southee in all T20s: 62 balls, 114 runs, two dismissals.
  • Trent Boult in T20Is vs Australia: 10 inns, 14 wickets, avg. 19.21, SR 15.78.
  • Tim Southee strikes every 20.75 deliveries vs Australia and every 14.11 balls on this ground in T20Is.

Sky Stadium Wellington Pitch Report and Weather

A cool and windy evening is forecast with a top of 20 degrees during the day. No rain is expected. The average first innings score in the past five T20Is on this ground is 169.4 with the team batting first winning four times.

Orthodox finger spinners have the lowest economy rate in this period (7.1) closely followed by pace (7.3). Legspin has been more expensive at 8.6 per over.

NZ vs AUS 1st T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction: Team combinations, captaincy, vice-captaincy

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams.

Option 1 *Add Trent Boult for Ish Sodhi once Boult is available in Dream11*:

NZ vs AUS 1st T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | NZ vs AUS 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Wellington Pitch Report
NZ vs AUS 1st T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

NZ vs AUS 1st T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | NZ vs AUS 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Wellington Pitch Report
NZ vs AUS 1st T20 2024 Dream11 Prediction

NZ vs AUS 1st T20 2024 Match Prediction: Who will win?

An interesting match awaits. Australia, with their experience, start as slight favourites and are our pick to win this match.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes, with the stats and writer’s views in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

Australia holding all 3 major ICC trophies would be fitting for this group – David Warner

Charbel Coorey
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Australia holding all 3 major ICC trophies would be fitting for this group – David Warner

Cricket News: Australia T20 opener David Warner said it would be fitting for this team to hold all three ICC trophies at one time

No team has ever held the three major ICC trophies across formats. Australia’s men’s team has the opportunity to achieve a world-first in 2024 after a superb 2023 where they added two ICC trophies.

Opener David Warner believes the team is well-placed to add the 2024 T20 World Cup to their trophy cabinet. Speaking to the media ahead of the three-match T20I series in New Zealand, Warner said it will be fitting for this group of players to achieve further success.

“It would be very, very fitting for this group,” Warner said. “We’ve got a great balance at the moment with all three formats.

“It’s not just the men, it’s the women as well. We’re just doing a lot of things right, and everyone talks about Australia and winning titles.”

Squad has belief to win more trophies – David Warner

This core group of players have enjoyed success over the past decade, starting with the 2015 ODI World Cup at home. Since then, Australia won the T20 World Cup in 2021 followed by a stellar year in 2023 where they lifted both the World Test Championship mace and ODI World Cup trophy.

Warner believes Australia’s success comes down to the license to express themselves on the field. Also, the fact that the upcoming T20 World Cup is potentially the last major tournament a number of players will be involved in is added motivation.

“The coaching structure, the leadership structure allows us to express ourselves as we want, and I feel like the last 18-24 months has showcased that build-up,” Warner said.

“The character of guys we have in this group, we’re all really good mates, we’ve all pretty much come through all the grades and systems with each other so we know each individual’s game very well.”

The showpiece tournament, to be held in the West Indies and USA in June, will be Warner’s last assignment in Australian colours. Also, who knows how many more ICC tournaments Glenn Maxwell (35), Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc (both 34) and Josh Hazlewood (33) will play. So, Australia have focused on strong preparation, starting with sending a full-strength squad for the New Zealand series.

Mitchell Marsh will lead a squad consisting of Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, both of whom have not played a T20 International since the 2022 World Cup. Also, Australia are spoilt for batting options with Travis Head available, with decisions to be made on the make up of the order.

The first T20I will be played at Sky Stadium in Wellington on Wednesday February 21 at 7:10pm local time. Eden Park in Auckland will host the final two T20Is on Friday February 23 (7:10pm local time) and Sunday February 25 (1:00pm local time) respectively.

Australia squad for New Zealand T20I series: Mitchell Marsh (c), Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

England’s 434-run loss at Rajkot proves they have learnt nothing from the Ashes – Michael Vaughan

Charbel Coorey
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England’s 434-run loss at Rajkot proves they have learnt nothing from the Ashes – Michael Vaughan

Cricket News: Former captain Michael Vaughan believes England’s huge 434-run loss in Rajkot is a wake up call for Stokes & McCullum

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has criticised the team’s approach in the wake of their thumping 434-run defeat against India at Rajkot. Vaughan believes the Bazball style of play still has a way to go when it comes to playing the situation, which ultimately cost them a golden opportunity to push India harder in the third Test.

In his column for The Telegraph, Vaughan wrote that England have not learnt from their mistakes in the Ashes. In that series, the Ben Stokes-led side had their chances to seize the initiative in the first two Tests, but eventually lost both in a hammer blow to their hopes of regaining the urn.

“This England team are a bundle of energy and have already brought huge excitement and joy”, Vaughan wrote. “But surely their 434-run defeat to India in Rajkot has to be a wake-up call for captain Ben Stokes and his players.”

England need to learn how to play the situation better – Michael Vaughan

Vaughan singled out Joe Root’s shot on the third morning as a key turning point in the Test. England, sitting solid at 224/2 on a good batting surface in response to India’s 445, completely surrendered the opportunity to at least match the hosts’ first innings score and create a second innings shootout.

“The way they played in the third Test this week gifted India victory”, wrote Vaughan. “I couldn’t believe my eyes the way they batted on day three, especially Joe Root’s shot in the first innings.

“You are 230 behind on day three, thinking a brilliant bowler in Ravichandran Ashwin may play no further part in the Test, and Ravindra Jadeja is looking a bit stiff. It’s 1-1 in the series and you have your best player at the crease. From there, you can see a route to victory, and it involves batting all day.”

Cricket News: Former captain Michael Vaughan believes England's huge 434-run loss in Rajkot is a wake up call for Stokes & McCullum
Joe Root came under criticism for his shot selection on the third morning of the Rajkot Test.

Vaughan was particularly critical of Piers Morgan’s view of Root’s shot during the Test. Morgan said that because England fight fire with fire, fans need to accept when audacious shots go wrong. However, the former England captain was having none of it, calling Morgan’s view “utter rubbish.”

“Utter rubbish Piers,” tweeted Vaughan. “The skipper doesn’t Bazball.. he plays the situation. Joe is far too good to gift India such a cheap wicket 20 mins into a crucial day when they are down to 10 players. Sport is about changing styles at the right time.”

ALSO READ: England’s biggest defeats in Test cricket history (by runs)

Vaughan then echoed those thoughts further in his column. He acknowledged that Root has played such shots before under McCullum and Stokes, but the game situation was different.

“It was no time for extravagant risks, but Root took one. I hear people say “but he played it against Pat Cummins” and, yeah, he did. But England were on top when he did that. Here, they were 221 behind on day three in India, with the series finely poised,” said Vaughan.

“It’s a shot that really worries me,” he continued. “It shows England have learnt nothing from the Ashes. The collapse that followed was reminiscent of Lord’s, when Nathan Lyon hobbled off with England 1-182, and they gifted Australia all those wickets. That’s why they lost that Test, not because Jonny Bairstow was stumped.”

England’s defeat at Rajkot was their second-biggest in history in terms of runs. It is a bad turn of events for Stokes’ team after their magnificent come-from-behind win at Hyderabad at the end of January. Now, they face two must-win Tests if they are to become the first team since 2012 to win a series in India.

“Listen to them, and you would think nothing is ever wrong,” Vaughan continued. “Jimmy Anderson said they would chase 600 in Vizag. Ben Duckett said “the more the better” in terms of their target this week, but they fell 434 short. Duckett also reckons they deserve credit for the way Yashasvi Jaiswal is batting, as if no player in history has ever played an attacking shot.

“They have to be careful that people around don’t think they are smug, or above their station. Root’s shot was another reminder that they are in a bubble. All that matters is their dressing room, and fun. There is a bit more to Test cricket than that.”

Like the Ashes, it seems as though England have left themselves too much to do as a result of their own mistakes. If they are to bounce back and achieve a superb series victory, it will take smarter cricket in key moments.

Otherwise, India will run away with it in the final two matches.

Bazball trolled as England cop huge defeat by 434 runs against India at Rajkot

Charbel Coorey
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Bazball trolled as England cop huge defeat by 434 runs against India at Rajkot

Cricket News: Bazball trolled as England cop huge defeat by 434 runs against India at Rajkot

England’s tour of India, which began so promisingly after an Ollie Pope and Tom Hartley-inspired victory at Hyderabad, has gone pearshaped. Two Tests later, England copped one of their biggest-ever defeats in Tests, losing by 434 runs at Rajkot to go 2-1 down in the series.

Bazball has come under fire for a couple of key reasons. The first was Joe Root’s shot with England right in the contest early on day three. The second was on the back of Ben Duckett’s comments after Yashasvi Jaiswal played yet another blinder in this series. Both instances screamed of a side so in love with their style of play that reading the room is not always on the agenda.

Joe Root has ammassed over 11,000 Test runs due to his abundant skill and talent. Bazball has certainly seen some good from Root, but also the ugly, none more so than in this series. Their premier batsman has not made a mark, often the own architect of his dismissals rather than the bowler doing anything special.

After his ugly swipe in the second innings at Visakhapatnam, Root then reverse swept a Jasprit Bumrah delivery to second slip that he has caressed through the covers countless times throughout his superb career.

Yes, backing yourself is key. But, playing the situation is also vital to succeeding in big Test matches. Bumrah is one of India’s key bowlers, and even more so when R Ashwin wasn’t available. A huge opportunity was wasted.

The dismissal changed the game, with England collapsing from 224/2 to 319 to hand the advantage to India. Then, Jaiswal further drove home that advantage, which to which Ben Duckett claimed that England should take some credit for opponents playing in an aggressive style.

“When you see players from the opposition playing like that, it almost feels like we should take some credit that they’re playing differently than how other people play Test cricket,” Duckett said. “We saw it a bit in the summer and it’s quite exciting to see other players and other teams are also playing that aggressive style of cricket.”

Bazball trolled as England cop heavy defeat at Rajkot

The reactions came in thick and fast after the events of the past two days. England were right in the match, but were completely dominated from thereon as they suffered their second-largest defeat by runs in Test history.

England will need to bounce back quickly. The fourth Test begins at Ranchi on the 23rd of February, which is now a must-win match for England if they wish to regain The Pataudi Trophy.

England’s biggest defeats in Tests (by runs)

Charbel Coorey
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England’s biggest defeats in Tests (by runs)

Cricket News: List of England’s top 6 biggest defeats in Tests by runs | What is England’s largest defeat in Tests?

England’s 2024 Test against India at Rajkot began in promising fashion. They took the first three wickets within the first hour of the Test. However, from thereon, things went pearshaped.

After India recovered to post 445, Ben Stokes’ team collapsed in their first innings to hand the hosts a 126-run lead. Yashasvi Jaiswal, courtesy of his second double-century of the series, combined with Shubman Gill (91) and Sarfaraz Khan (68*) to pile on 430/4 and leave England needing an improbable 557 to win.

Worse, England collapsed to 122 all-out in the chase to raise questions of their biggest defeats in Tests. Here is a look at their top six.

England’s top 6 biggest defeats in Tests (by runs)

6. 405 runs vs Australia, Lord’s, 2015

England won the 2015 Ashes but suffered one of their biggest-ever defeats during that series. After losing the first Test by 169 runs at Cardiff, the Australians roared back at Lord’s courtesy of Steve Smith’s 215 that set up their huge first innings score of 566/8d.

England didn’t muster much in response, falling 254 short of Australia’s first innings score. The visitors then bludgeoned 254/2 at more than five runs per over to leave England needing 509. They only managed 103 in the chase.

5. 409 runs vs Australia, Lord’s, 1948

Australia again. Lord’s again. This time 67 years earlier. Sir Donald Bradman’s team thrashed England by 409 runs courtesy of a dominant third innings display (460/7d) that left the hosts with a mammoth 596 to chase.

Ernie Toshak (5/40), Ray Lindwall (3/61) and Bill Johnston (2/62) ensured England didn’t get close, knocking them over for 186 in 78.1 overs.

4. 423 runs vs New Zealand, Hamilton, 2024

England lost by 400+ runs twice in 2024, with the second coming in Hamilton. After bowling New Zealand out for 347 (after having them 231/7 and 272/8) on a relatively flat pitch, England completely imploded.

Ben Stokes’ team were rolled for 143 in 35.4 overs to hand New Zealand the advantage. Kane Williamson did not relent, striking his 33rd Test century en route for 156. The Black Caps’ second innings score of 453 set England a mammoth 658 to win.

With the pitch still good for batting, England’s batting effort was riddled with poor shots. They lasted 47.2 overs second time around, falling short by a huge 423 runs. Ben Stokes did not bat due to a hamstring injury, and while he has pulled off heists in his career, it is safe to say this one would have been a stretch.

3. 425 runs vs West Indies, Manchester, 1976

England dismissed the great West Indies side for what looked to be a modest total of 211 in their 1976 series. However, that’s where the good news ended.

From there, the Windies dominated. First, Andy Roberts (3/22), Michael Holding (5/17), and Wayne Daniel (2/13) wreaked havoc to roll England for 71. The visitors showed no mercy in their second innings, with tons to Gordon Greenidge (101) and Viv Richards (135) setting up their total of 411/5d.

Needing 552 to win, Andy Roberts (6/37) ripped through the England lineup once again to help bowl the hosts out for just 126. The West Indies went on to win the five-match series 3-0.

2. 434 runs vs India, Rajkot, 2024

Bazball has seen a revival in England’s Test cricket fortunes since its inception in 2022. Before Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes took over as coach and captain, England had won just one in 17 Tests, with the last being a 1-0 series defeat in the West Indies.

However, McCullum and Stokes have also overseen England’s second-biggest defeat in Test history. England, who were 224/2 in reply to India’s 445, collapsed to 319 before Yashasvi Jaiswal took over.

Chasing 557 to win, England were out of the contest very early, falling to 28/4. They were soon bowled out for 122 to lose by a whopping 434 runs.

1. 562 runs vs Australia, The Oval, 1934

Defeat by 562 runs against Australia in 1934 is a record that England may never break. Australia racked up a mammoth 701 in their first innings, with Sir Donald Bradman smashing 244 at a strike rate of 90.03. Bill Ponsford (266) also piled on the misery.

In reply, England’s 321 looked miniscule in comparison. Australia then decided to pile on further pain by batting again and hitting 327, leaving England with the small measure of 708 runs to win.

They may as well not have gone out to bat. Clarrie Grimmett (5/64) led the way as Australia knocked England over for 145 to seal the deciding Test of the 1934 Ashes in the most dominant fashion.

“One-in-a-million bowler”: Reactions to R Ashwin taking his 500th Test wicket

Charbel Coorey
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“One-in-a-million bowler”: Reactions to R Ashwin taking his 500th Test wicket

Cricket News: Fans, pundits, former players, and legends react to R Ashwin taking his 500th Test wicket for India

Ravichandran Ashwin has joined elite company, becoming the ninth bowler – and second Indian after Anil Kumble – to take 500 Test wickets. The offspinner brought up the milestone by dismissing Zak Crawley on the sweep on the second afternoon of the third Test against England at Rajkot, sparking widespread reactions of congratulations online.

Ashwin has been a standout performer spanning over a decade, underpinning India’s dominance at home in particular. He is the fastest Indian to all the major milestone up to the 500th scalp, reaching his 50th, 100th, 150th, 200th, 250th, 300th, 350th, 400th, 450th, and 500th quicker than anyone else.

Ashwin’s thinking and understanding of the game has captured millions worldwide. Not only does he possess the most beautiful of conventional offspin deliveries, skillful carrom and devastating arm balls, but he has the mind to go with it. An example was how he dismissed Marnus Labuschagne caught behind from around the wicket with a slight change in the seam, getting the ball to go across the right-hander after turning the previous delivery into the stumps.

With the offspinner still bowling nicely, who knows how many wickets he will end up with. For now, fans and Ashwin himself can revel in this terrific achievement.

IND vs ENG 2024: Reactions to R Ashwin taking his 500th Test wicket

“500 Test wickets for a one-in-a-million bowler!” tweeted legend Sachin Tendulkar. “In AshWIN the SpinNER, there was always a WINNER. 500 wickets is a huge milestone in Test cricket. Congratulations, Champion!”

“A champion bowler who never stops to learn. Congratulations @ashwinravi99 on this monumental achievement! Wonderful to see another Indian spinner joining the club.” tweeted Anil Kumble, who is currently India’s leading wicket-taker with 619.

Here are some of the reactions from fans, pundits and other former players to Ashwin’s superb achievement.

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