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HEA vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2023/24 Qualifier

Charbel Coorey
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HEA vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2023/24 Qualifier

HEA vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2023/24 Qualifier | HEA vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today | Carrara Pitch Report

After an excellent BBL league stage headlined by strong crowds and ratings, it’s time for the playoffs. While a number of star players, including Colin Munro, have headed off to the UAE for the second ILT20 season, there should still be some interesting player battles that could make for a fascinating Qualifier.

However, Brisbane Heat need to find a way. Their Test players are currently on duty and they have lost Munro and Sam Billings. One feels they need their top order to set a platform for Paul Walter and Michael Neser to finish strongly with the bat. Indeed, after such a strong league stage where they lost just one match, the Heat will want to keep the momentum going.

Yet again, Sydney Sixers are here at the business end. Despite some challenges throughout the season, they managed to get into the top two courtesy of a thrilling, memorable win in Perth a few days ago. James Vince is no longer available, but as the Sixers have always shown, there is a player or two who will put their hand up to deliver when they need it most.

The winner of this match will go straight to the final.

BBL 2023/24 Qualifier: HEA vs SIX Possible Playing XIs

Brisbane Heat confirmed a much-changed squad on Twitter. Charlie Wakim is in the squad with Colin Munro off to the UAE ILT20. Sam Billings has also left.

Brisbane Heat: 1. Josh Brown, 2. Max Bryant, 3. Nathan McSweeney (c), 4. Matt Renshaw, 5. Jimmy Peirson (wk), 6. Paul Walter, 7. Michael Neser, 8. Xavier Bartlett, 9. Matt Kuhnemann 10. Mitch Swepson, 11. Spencer Johnson

Sydney Sixers have confirmed their squad. James Vince has departed for the UAE ILT20. Expect Josh Philippe and Daniel Hughes to open.

Sydney Sixers: 1. Daniel Hughes, 2. Josh Philippe (wk), 3. Kurtis Patterson, 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Jack Edwards, 7. Hayden Kerr, 8. Ben Dwarshuis, 9. Sean Abbott, 10. Jackson Bird/Todd Murphy, 11. Steve O’Keefe

BBL 2023/24 Qualifier: HEA vs SIX Fantasy Cricket Tips – Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Brisbane Heat:

  • Josh Brown has a strike rate of 167.95 in four matches against the Sixers (131 runs). He has hit 12 runs off five balls against Jackson Bird (no dismissal) and 18 off 11 against Ben Dwarshuis (one dismissal).
  • Nathan McSweeney will be key in holding the innings together for the Heat. He has struck 139 runs in four innings against the Sixers at an average of 69.50 and strike rate of 133.65.
  • Michael Neser is playing outstanding cricket. He is just about a must-pick in Dream11 fantasy cricket teams. He has taken five wickets in his past three matches and also hit 64* recently against the Scorchers.
  • Since the start of 2022, Neser has belted 97 runs at a strike rate of 176.36 against the Sixers. He has also picked up eight wickets in four matches in this period (avg. 14.75, econ. 8.43).
  • Tall Paul Walter is also vital for the Heat. He scored 23* and took 2/25 against the Sixers earlier this season. In fact, Walter is the Heat’s second-highest wicket-taker in BBL 2023/24 (13).
  • Xavier Bartlett is the Heat’s leading wicket-taker this campaign with 16. He has dismissed Josh Philippe once in 13 balls (15 runs) and Jordan Silk once in 15 balls (16 runs).

Sydney Sixers:

  • Daniel Hughes hit 74 (43) in his last outing against Perth Scorchers. Hughes has the most runs in SIX-HEA matches (356) at an average of 27.38 and strike rate of 123.18. Hughes has scored 52 off 35 against Neser in T20s without dismissal.
  • Josh Philippe is yet to score a half-century this season (229 runs, avg. 25.44). He has very similar numbers against the Heat (255 runs, avg. 28.33), including 31 off 19 against Swepson without dismissal.
  • Moises Henriques is coming off a superb 47* off 20 balls against the Scorchers. He averages a modest 22.54 in 15 innings against the Heat (293 runs), but he is a big-game player and can also contribute with the ball.
  • Henriques has scored 60 off 42 against Swepson (no dismissals).
  • BBL 2023/24 has been a below-par season by Sean Abbott’s standards. But, this is the game he could deliver. He has taken 28 wickets in just 14 matches against the Heat.
  • Abbott has dismissed Jimmy Peirson three times in 31 balls (46 runs) and Max Bryant three times in 18 balls (22 runs).
  • Steve O’Keefe continues to deliver. He has taken 12 wickets in 12 matches vs the Heat, including Jimmy Peirson three times in 19 balls (14 runs). He has also dismissed Josh Brown twice in 22 balls (33 runs).

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 21, Heat 6, Sixers 13, N/R 2.
  • Matt Renshaw is key for the Heat. He is averaging just 18.83 this season. With a number of Heat players no longer available, Renshaw (197 runs, avg. 32.83, SR 135.86 vs Sixers) must step up.
  • Mitchell Swepson vs Daniel Hughes: 36 balls, 33 runs, one dismissal.
  • Ben Dwarshuis vs Brisbane Heat: 15 inns, 16 wickets, avg. 27.25, econ. 8.69.

Carrara Oval Gold Coast Pitch Report and Weather

There has been a lot of rain in southern Queensland in recent days. This may lead to a slow pitch at Carrara Oval. Also, there is a chance of rain on gameday, but bom.gov.au forecasts most of the rain to fall in the late morning.

Last season, Sydney Thunder (182/6) beat Brisbane Heat (171/9) on this ground. Earlier that season, West Indies (145/9) came very close to defending the modest score against Australia (146/7 off 19.5 overs).

BBL 2023/24 Qualifier: HEA vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today Match

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:

HEA vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Possible Playing 11: BBL 2023/24 Qualifier | HEA vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today | Carrara Pitch Report
BBL 2023/24 Qualifier: HEA vs SIX Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

HEA vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Possible Playing 11: BBL 2023/24 Qualifier | HEA vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today | Carrara Pitch Report
BBL 2023/24 Qualifier: HEA vs SIX Dream11 Prediction

HEA vs SIX Match Prediction – Who will win?

The Sydney Sixers’ squad is less decimated by departures. For that reason, we pick the Sixers to win, weather permitting.

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.

Did Rohit Sharma retire hurt or retire out against Afghanistan?

Charbel Coorey
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Did Rohit Sharma retire hurt or retire out against Afghanistan?

Cricket News: Did Rohit Sharma retire hurt or retire out against Afghanistan? | Controversial moment in thrilling IND vs AFG 3rd T20I

The third T20I between India and Afghanistan will go down as one of those bilateral T20s that will be remembered for years to come. Rohit Sharma, after two ducks in the opening two matches, came back to form in the most stunning way possible. He smashed 121* off 69 balls in India’s 212/4 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, followed by further big hits in the Super Overs.

Afghanistan were outstanding, with Gulbadin Naib (51 off 23 balls) and Mohammad Nabi (34 off 16 balls) spearheading the chase. They tied the match and came close to defending 17 in the first Super Over. In the end, Rohit and India prevailed in the second Super Over, leaving the Afghans waiting further for a landmark first international win over India.

However, should Rohit have been allowed to bat again in the second Super Over? He seemed to have retired out in the first to allow for Rinku Singh – deemed to be a faster runner – to enter the game in a tactical move. Rohit then came out in the second and hit a four and six.

Did Rohit Sharma retire out or retire hurt?

Given Rohit came back out to bat soon after retiring, the general consensus is he retired out first time around. However, there has been no official word from the umpires as yet.

According to the ICC’s rules, “[a]ny batsman dismissed in any previous Super Over shall be ineligible to bat in any subsequent Super Over.” Retired out is a method of dismissal. So, if Rohit wasn’t injured or ill, it is then an umpiring error to have allowed the Indian captain to bat again.

If Rohit retired hurt, he would have been eligible to come out to bat a second time. However, India coach Rahul Dravid suggested that Rohit had chosen to retire out. He likened incident to Ravichandran Ashwin for the Rajasthan Royals in the 2022 Indian Premier League season.

“Taking himself out was Ashwin-level thinking,” Dravid said. “That’s Ash-level thinking.”

India will now prepare for a five-match Test series against England kicking off later this month. Afghanistan will play a rare Test in early February against Sri Lanka before three T20Is and three ODIs in the Island Nation.

SL vs ZIM 2nd T20 Reactions – Luke Jongwe and Craig Ervine help seal great win

Charbel Coorey
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SL vs ZIM 2nd T20 Reactions – Luke Jongwe and Craig Ervine help seal great win

Cricket News: SL vs ZIM 2nd T20 Reactions – Luke Jongwe and Craig Ervine help seal great win

Zimbabwe, courtesy of Craig Ervine’s 70 and wonderful hitting from their lower order, sealed a terrific victory in the second T20I against Sri Lanka at Colombo. Luke Jongwe was awarded man of the match after taking 2/32 and hitting 25* off 12 balls, including 16 off the first three balls in the final over to all-but-seal the win.

The Sri Lankans, with 20 to defend in the last over, handed the ball to Angelo Mathews. It didn’t turn out as planned, with Mathews overstepping on the first delivery and conceding a six to give Zimbabwe a huge chance. Jongwe then hit another four and six, before a dropped catch from Maheesh Theekshana allowed the also-excellent Clive Madande to get on strike. He then hit a six of his own to seal victory.

Earlier, Craig Ervine (70 off 54 balls) set up the chase after Sri Lanka posted 173/6 after an awful start. Each of the Lions’ top three were dismissed for single figures as they slumped to 27/4, before Charith Asalanka (69 off 39) and Angelo Mathews (66* off 51) sparked a recovery.

SL vs ZIM 2nd T20 Reactions – Fans react to thrilling win for Zimbabwe

Fans took to social media to share their thoughts on the match. Sri Lanka would be disappointed to lose a match they had in their hands. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, can enjoy this moment ahead of the decider.

The victory is a deserved one for Zimbabwe given they have shown promising signs on this tour. The third and deciding T20I will be played at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Thursday.

What is Cameron Green’s record when batting at number 4 in the Sheffield Shield?

Charbel Coorey
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What is Cameron Green’s record when batting at number 4 in the Sheffield Shield?

Cricket News: What is Cameron Green’s record when batting at number 4 in the Sheffield Shield? | Cameron Green to bat at four for Australia

Steve Smith’s move to the top of the order has opened the door for Cameron Green to return to the Australian Test team. Green, who has batted 28 times at number six and eight times at number seven in Tests, will now bat at number four in a position he deems to be his strongest.

His Sheffield Shield numbers attest to that. In 25 innings batting at number four for Western Australia, Green has scored 1,413 runs at an average of 64.22. This includes six fifties and four hundreds, with a top score of 251. If he can replicate those sort of numbers for Australia in addition to his bowling, the team will enjoy the best of one of the most talented all-rounders going around.

Cricket News: What is Cameron Green's average when batting at number 4 in the Sheffield Shield? | Cameron Green to bat at four for Australia

Cameron Green’s record batting at number four: All-rounder excited by opportunity

Speaking to the media before the first Test against West Indies, Green said he was expecting to come into the team as opener. But, he is thrilled to be batting in his preferred position where he has more time to get set compared to number six.

“I thought I was about a 95 per cent chance of opening, so that’s where my head went for a couple of weeks and I’m grateful to be at four,” Green said.

“What I like is I’ve got a bit of time. I’ve always felt a touch rushed at six, especially after ‘Heady’ who makes it look a bit too easy at number five.

“So I’ve always felt like I’ve had to push the game along, whereas I feel like number four is my natural game where I can take my time and get settled in.”

Green slots into a settled Australian lineup that is fresh off a 3-0 triumph against Pakistan. David Warner’s retirement is the big change, but the home side is still heavily favoured to beat the West Indies who tour with a number of inexperienced players. Also, the Windies have not won a Test in Australia since 1997.

Australia’s playing XI for first Test against West Indies: 1. Usman Khawaja, 2. Steve Smith, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Cameron Green, 5. Travis Head, 6. Mitchell Marsh, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Pat Cummins (c), 9. Mitchell Starc, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Josh Hazlewood

“So I’ve always felt like I’ve had to push the game along, whereas I feel like number four is my natural game where I can take my time and get settled in.”

Cameron Green

The first Test kicks off in Adelaide on Wednesday January 17. The series will then move to the Gabba on January 25 for the day/night Test.

Steve Smith not the right replacement for David Warner – Graeme Smith

Charbel Coorey
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Steve Smith not the right replacement for David Warner – Graeme Smith

Cricket News: Graeme Smith believes Steve Smith is not the right replacement for David Warner

Former South Africa captain and opening batsman Graeme Smith believes Steve Smith is not the right replacement for David Warner as Australia Test opener. Australia opted to make the call following their 3-0 series win over Pakistan, where Warner went out as a winner in the eight-wicket win at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

Steve Smith has never opened in Test cricket, but those in the thinktank believe a move away from number four can revitalise him. Since the start of 2023 Ashes, Smith has scored 567 runs at an average of 37.8, representing a lean patch for the typically prolific batter.

Not sure if Steve Smith is the right replacement for David Warner – Graeme Smith

However, Graeme Smith has doubts over whether the move will work. In an interview with Betway, the SA20 commissioner pointed to Warner’s ability to put pressure on the bowlers as a trait Steve Smith will struggle to replicate.

“Those types of players [like Warner] are like an engine room in terms of energy and the intensity,” Smith said.

“Having played against David, he was always at the forefront with setting the tone in the field. He comes with an immense amount of experience, travelling around the world and knowing what it requires to be successful playing in other people’s backyards, which is not easy.

Warner was the guy that took the game on and was able to apply pressure onto opposition attacks from the word go. He took a lot of the limelight and, when you lose a player like that, the pressure shifts to other people. How that impacts the team is always interesting to watch.”

Graeme Smith went on to say he was surprised by Australia’s call to move a player who did so well at number four for so long. Also, he wonders whether Steve Smith can succeed regularly against the new ball.

“Steve Smith is clearly keen to open, but I’m surprised that Australia have opted to give him a crack against the West Indies later this month,” said Smith.

“He’s an incredible player, so you would expect that he’d be able to adapt, but I worry that the new ball will potentially expose him to too much.”

Australia’s two-match series against West Indies begins on January 17 at Adelaide Oval. West Indies have not won a Test in Australia since 1997. Also, the Australians have won 11 of their past 13 home Tests, with only India tasting success against them on Aussie soil since 2016 where South Africa won 2-1.

A big series for Steve Smith should set him up nicely for the challenges ahead. Following the West Indies series, Australia will embark on a tour of New Zealand where they will play two Tests.

Then, India tour later in 2024 for a blockbuster five-match series.

Strong crowds & ratings mark Australia 2023/24 cricket season

Charbel Coorey
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Strong crowds & ratings mark Australia 2023/24 cricket season

Cricket News: Strong crowds & ratings mark Australia 2023/24 cricket season | Australian summer sees good crowds and ratings

The Australian 2023/24 season has been one for strong crowds and ratings. Last season, debates rung around as to whether the Australian public still loved cricket as low crowds – particularly during the T20 World Cup – were considered cause for concerns. This season, cricket fans rushed through the gates, and have been engaged both on TV and digital platforms.

Pakistan, who haven’t won a Test in Australia since 1995, was considered likely to be an easy series win for Australia. But, competitive performances by Pakistan in the MCG and SCG Tests saw excellent viewing figures in the stadium, on broadcasts,and social media.

Also, the move back to a shorter Big Bash League (BBL) season seems to have worked nicely for Cricket Australia (CA). Crowds in particular have been strong during the January peak period, where engagement typically picks up after Christmas.

Australia 2023/24 season: Pakistan Tests see strong engagement figures

The first Test at Perth was cause for contention among the public. 16,259 was the highest crowd across the four days, but it must be noted the match was held in mid-December.

The Boxing Day Test was a terrific match and was well viewed. There was a total attendance of 164,835 across four days, including over 60,000 on Boxing Day when the forecast did not look promising. Also, 5.5 million Australians were reached across the Channel Seven and Fox Cricket broadcasts.

Here are some other Boxing Day Test highlights:

  • 250,000 fans attended Big Bash matches between 26-29 December.
  • 132 million video views across Cricket Australia’s social media channels for the Test.
  • Biggest-ever audience on Kayo Sports for day one of a Boxing Day Test.

The New Years’ Test at the SCG was also a success. There was a total attendance of 125,292 across four days of David Warner’s farewell match, which is the highest at the ground since the India Test in 2018/19. Also, 322,000 Virtual Pink Seats were purchased, helping fund 46 breastcare nurses as part of the McGrath Foundation.

Big Bash League sees a strong upturn

The BBL had suffered through a few difficult seasons crowd-wise. The move to a 61-game season led to viewer fatigue, forcing a move back to 44 matches. This reaped rewards, with crowds up 29 per cent on last season at the halfway point of the season. This includes 42,504 at Adelaide Oval for the New Years’ Eve match between Adelaide Strikers and Melbourne Stars.

Also, since the midway point, the crowds continued to grow. 41,207 fans watched Sydney Sixers take down Sydney Thunder on January 12. 32,583 fans braved the 41-degree heat at Optus Stadium on 13 January for the clash between Perth Scorchers and Brisbane Heat. 41,205 attended the Melbourne Renegades-Melbourne Stars clash at Marvel Stadium to farewell Aaron Finch.

In addition, TV ratings are regularly 400,000-plus each night across Channel Seven and Fox Cricket according to tvtonight.com.au. All in all, the summer has proven to be a pretty solid one for CA with Tests and limited-overs against the West Indies still to come. This sets things up nicely for what should be bumper summers in 2024/25 and 2025/26 with India and England touring respectively.

Reactions to David Teeger getting sacked as U-19 South Africa captain after pro-Israeli comments

Charbel Coorey
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Reactions to David Teeger getting sacked as U-19 South Africa captain after pro-Israeli comments

Cricket News: Reactions to David Teeger getting sacked as U19 South Africa captain after pro-Israeli comments | David Teeger removed as captain

Social media has erupted after Cricket South Africa (CSA) stripped David Teeger of the captaincy ahead of the U-19 World Cup which kicks off on January 19. Teeger, who is of Jewish heritage, praised Israeli soldiers fighting in Gaza at an award ceremony for Jewish achievers in October 2023. CSA then decided to remove him of the captaincy due to fears he could be targeted by protestors during the tournament.

“We have been advised that protests related to the war in Gaza can be anticipated at the venues for the tournament,” said CSA in a statement.

“We have also been advised that they are likely to focus on the position of the SA Under-19 captain, David Teeger, and that there is a risk that they could result in conflict or even violence, including between rival groups of protesters.

“CSA has a primary duty to safeguard the interests and safety of all those involved in the World Cup and must accordingly respect the expert advice of those responsible for the safety of participants and spectators.

“In all the circumstances, CSA has decided that David should be relieved of the captaincy for the tournament. This is in the best interests of all the players, the SA U19 team and David himself.”

South Africa as a nation is currently underaking a case against Israel at the United Nations’ International Court of Justice. They told judges that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza.

Interestingly, Teeger will remain with the squad which raises questions as to whether there would be any reduction in the threat of violence towards him. Debates were rife on X (formerly Twitter), with some in support of the decision and others against.

Reactions: David Teeger removed as South Africa U-19 captain due to Israel comments

Piers Morgan was particularly vocal of CSA’s decision. “WTF!? Have they sacked him because he’s Jewish? This is shameful moral cowardice by Cricket South Africa,” he tweeted.

Below are some of the reactions both for and against CSA’s move ahead of the World Cup.

Reactions against CSA’s decision:

Reactions in support of CSA’s decision:

Most expensive players in IPL 2024 & major squad changes

Charbel Coorey
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Most expensive players in IPL 2024 & major squad changes

Cricket News: A look at the most expensive players in the upcoming 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season + major squad changes

The 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) player auction saw franchises battle to secure the services of top domestic and international cricketers for the upcoming season. 

The latest IPL auction took place on December 19, 2023, and it was held at the Coca Cola Arena in Dubai. The auction saw big-money deals and even surprises that many fans are hyped up about. In this article, we’ll look at the 2024 IPL auction results in some detail.

IPL 2024: Most expensive players – who got the big deals?

If Sam Curran was able to bag the biggest deal in the previous season, this year, Mitchell Starc was able to beat his record. The Australian left-arm pacer became the most expensive player in the IPL history when Kolkata Knight Riders purchased him for INR 24.75 crore (US$3.1 million). 

Another Australian player who secured a massive deal is Pat Cummins. Sunrisers Hyderabad purchased this pacer for INR 20.50 crore (US$2.6 million). New Zealand’s right-handed all-rounder was also notably purchased by Chennai Super Kings for INR 14.00 crore (around US$1.6 million).

Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bangalore added West Indian quick Alzarri Joseph to their roster, purchasing INR 11.50 crore (approximately $1.4 million). Punjab Kings was also another franchise that made a big purchase during the same auction. They were able to secure Indian cricketer Harshal Patel. 

Other players who were signed with contracts over INR 5 crore were Spencer Johnson (Gujarat Titans), Rovman Powell (Rajasthan Royals), Travis Head (Sunrisers Hyderabad), Umesh Yadav (Gujarat Titans), Shivam Mavi (Lucknow Super Giants), and Rilee Rossouw (Punjab Kings).

Major Squad Changes for IPL 2024

Most of the franchises retained many of their players. Gujarat Titans had a short list of players who left the team or were unavailable this year. That includes names like Shivam Mavi, Yash Dayal, and Pradeep Sangwan.

The same goes for Chennai Super Kings as some of the players they released for the upcoming season are Kyle Jamieson, Akash Singh, and Ambati Rayudu. 

It’s also worth noting that English cricket star Ben Stokes also had to be released because he’s still reconvening from multiple injuries. Stokes has undergone knee surgery after the ODI World Cup.

When it comes to retained players, Mumbai Indians is one of the franchises that have a lot of them. That includes Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya. This year, Sharma will no longer serve as the captain of the team as he was replaced by Pandya.

Pandya is making a comeback to MI after having played with Gujarat Titans. Last year, it was already a rumour that he’ll be returning to MI. However, reports suggested Pandya only wanted to do that if he was allowed to captain the team.

While many were surprised about this, it most likely isn’t a big issue. After all, Sharma has already led the team to multiple IPL championships. In addition, based on reports, Sharma left it to the management to decide on the matter.

MI’s head of performance, Mahela Jayawardene, said that appointing Pandya as the captain is simply part of the team’s legacy. It’s them staying true to the team’s philosophy. Mumbai Indians also had to bring in a new bowling coach as Shane Bond has already resigned. He’s replaced by former Sri Lankan cricketer, Lasith Malinga.

When it comes to support staff, Lucknow Super Giants sacked Andy Flower and replaced by Justin Langer. Gautam Gambhir also resigned as LSG’s mentor. There’s no update yet on who will be replacing him.

Sunrisers Hyderabad also decided to change their head coach this year. Brian Lara was sacked and replaced by New Zealand’s cricket coach, Daniel Vettori. Meanwhile, defending champions CSK don’t seem to have any changes on their supporting staff this year as they look to successfully defend their title.

The IPL 2024 promises to be an exciting tournament, with some of the best players in the world competing against each other. The tournament is set to begin on March 22, 2024, and will be played across various venues in India. That includes venues like the Wankhede Stadium, MA Chidambaram Chepauk Stadium, and the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. 

Fans can catch all the action live on Star Sports or stream it on Hotstar.

Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2024 T20I series schedule

Charbel Coorey
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Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2024 T20I series schedule

Cricket News: Pakistan tour of New Zealand T20I series schedule | NZ vs PAK 2024 series schedule

Pakistan are currently in New Zealand for a five-match T20I series that will kick off on January 12. The series serves as important preparation for both teams ahead of this year’s T20 World Cup, where both sides have aspirations of performing well in the tournament.

NZ vs PAK T20I series 2024 series schedule:

  • 1st T20I: Friday January 12, 2024 at Eden Park, Auckland (7:10pm local, 11:10am PKT).
  • 2nd T20I: Sunday January 14, 2024 at Seddon Park, Hamilton (7:10pm local, 11:10am PKT).
  • 3rd T20I: Wednesday January 17, 2024 at University Oval, Dunedin (7:10pm local, 11:10am PKT).
  • 4th T20I: Friday January 19, 2024 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch (7:10pm local, 11:10am PKT).
  • 5th T20I: Sunday January 21, 2024 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch (1:00pm local, 5:00am PKT).

Shaheen Shah Afridi to captain Pakistan in their tour of New Zealand

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s reign as Pakistan captain will begin on this tour. The left-arm pacer was rested for the third Test in Australia last week, which brought about some criticism. But, with a World Cup on the horizon, Pakistan have viewed this series as an important step in their preparations of which Shaheen is a crucial piece in the puzzle.

Mohammad Rizwan is the vice-captain. “It is an honour to be named as the vice-captain of Pakistan Men’s T20I side,” Rizwan said. “I am thankful to the PCB for entrusting me with this responsibility. I am looking forward to working closely with the captain, coaching staff, and my team-mates to contribute to the team’s success.”

In terms of the squad, Shadab Khan is out with injury. Haris Rauf, who did not play in the Australia Test series, will return to Pakistan duty in this series.

Pakistan squad for New Zealand 2024 T20I tour: Shaheen Shah Afridi (capt), Aamer Jamal, Abbas Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Wasim, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Usama Mir, Zaman Khan.

Cameron Bancroft debate – Is the opener unlucky to miss out?

Charbel Coorey
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Cameron Bancroft debate – Is the opener unlucky to miss out?

Cricket News: Cameron Bancroft debate – Is the opener unlucky to miss out? | Cameron Bancroft misses out on Australia selection for West Indies series

Steve Smith will be Australia’s next Test opener after the selectors opted for the experienced batsman to replace David Warner. Cameron Green, who was also a strong contender for the opening slot, will return to the team and bat at number four.

In other changes, 27-year old Matt Renshaw has made the West Indies squad. This means Cameron Bancroft, who has been magnificent in Sheffield Shield cricket over the past two seasons, has missed out on selection altogether.

In the end, the selectors opted for a move for Smith in an attempt to rediscover his best form. Recent months have been lean pickings by Smith’s lofty standards. In fact, since the start of the 2023 Ashes, Smith has scored 567 runs at an average of 37.8.

However, it has prompted debate far and wide in Australia as to whether Bancroft has been hard done by. Some fans believe that Bancroft’s comments on the ball tampering scandal in 2021 has meant his chances of selection were always going to be slim. However, it has been reported that Pat Cummins rang Cameron Bancroft to let him know that his non-selection had nothing to do with Cape Town in 2018. Also, selector George Bailey denied that the ball tampering saga had anything to do with their decision.

After all, the opener’s numbers have been superb in recent times and he could not have raised his hand any higher. Since the start of the 2022/23 Shield season, Bancroft has struck 1,457 runs at an average of 58.28, leading the run-scoring chart in both campaigns.

That being said, Cameron Green’s inclusion at number four could also catapult the all-rounder’s Test career. In 15 Shield matches batting at four, Green has smashed 1,413 runs at a superb average of 64.22. This includes six fifties, four hundreds, and a top score of 251.

Fans weigh in on the Cameron Bancroft debate

Fans and pundits shared their thoughts on social media over recent days, sparking debates on whether Bancroft was hard done by. Former cricketer Tom Moody was particularly critical of Bancroft’s exclusion. Here is a look at some of the reactions.

Arguments for Cameron Bancroft’s inclusion:

Support of the Australian selectors’ decision:

Australia’s Test series against West Indies kicks off on January 17 at Adelaide. The second Test will begin on January 25 in a day/night Test at the Gabba. The last time West Indies won a Test in Australia was way back in 1997, with the Australians winning 14 of 16 Tests since.

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