Cricket News: Twitter reactions to Suryakumar Yadav’s 100 (56) against South Africa | Fans react to brilliant century by Suryakumar Yadav at Johannesburg
Another day, another magnificent century by Suryakumar Yadav in T20 cricket. India’s dynamic batsman played a gem in Johannesburg after walking in to a hat-trick ball against Keshav Maharaj in just the third over.
Yadav combined with the talented Yashasvi Jaiswal (60 off 41 balls) to give the Indian innings lift-off after two early wickets. They put on 112 in just 11.3 overs to give India the momentum on the way to an imposing 201/7 that South Africa never got close to.
The day belonged to the captain Suryakumar along with birthday boy Kuldeep Yadav. India’s number four smashed seven fours and eight sixes in his 56-ball stay, displaying the kind of audacious and remarkable strokeplay we have become accustomed to in this format in recent years. Four of those sixes came courtesy of his trademark flick, part of an excellent control rate of 80% in such a swushbuckling innings.
In all T20s since 2022, Yadav has hammered 2,805 runs at an average of 45.98 and strike rate of 171.70. His latest gem set the game up perfectly for India’s bowlers, who dismantled the talented South Africa lineup for just 95 in 13.5 overs. Mohammed Siraj was brilliant early on and was unlucky not to get a wicket, before Kuldeep (5/17) continued his wonderful wicket-taking run in white-ball matches this year.
Twitter reactions to Suryakumar Yadav’s 100 and India’s big win to level T20I series
“It’s unbelievable how SKY finds a way regardless of the opposition & conditions in the T20 format. He now has a T20I hundred in India, England, NZ and South Africa. Just an outstanding T20 batter. Could end up as a T20 goat when he calls time on his career, if he isn’t already!” one fan tweeted.
Here are some reactions to a quality 100 (56) by Suryakumar plus India’s big win.
It's unbelievable how SKY finds a way regardless of the opposition & conditions in the T20 format. He now has a T20I hundred in India, England, NZ and South Africa. Just an outstanding T20 batter. Could end up as a T20 goat when he calls time on his career, if he isn't already!
Dear BCCI selectors, please don’t bench Rinku Singh for the majority of the T20 World Cup after you decide to recall some senior players out of the blue and also reshuffle the batting order after a month of the IPL. Thank you. #SAvIND#T20WorldCup
Phew! Now that’s a dominating win .. Still think if it wasn’t for the rain, India could’ve clinched the last one too.. Love this brand of cricket – Hope it stays that way.. #SAvIND
Cricket News: Perth crowd for day one of Australia-Pakistan Test: 16,259 | 16,259 fans turn up for the first day of the Pakistan Test at Perth Stadium
16,259 fans entered the gates for day one of the “West Test” between Australia and Pakistan at Perth Stadium. They witnessed a dominant day from World Test Champions Australia, led by David Warner who hit 164 off 211 balls, a satisfying innings in the context of the lead up to the series.
Australia ended the day 346/5, with Alex Carey (14*) and Mitchell Marsh (15*) combining for an unbroken 45-run stand after Pakistan clawed their way back into the contest after a poor first session thanks somewhat to some giveaways from the Australians.
In terms of the crowd, much was made of how many would flock through the gates in mid-December against a team who hasn’t won a Test in Australia since 1995. The re-branded “West Test” came as an attempt to boost crowds in the large 60,000-seat Optus Stadium following the 10,929 who came to see the first day of the Australia-West Indies Test last year.
Crowd of 16,259 for day one of the Perth Test between Australia and Pakistan
Last week, outgoing WA cricket CEO WA Cricket CEO Christina Matthews said she hoped for 25,000 fans on day one of the match. But, where does the crowd of 16,259 sit among other day one turnouts at Perth Stadium?
20,746 attended day one of the Australia-India Test in 2018, followed by 19,084 in 2019 against New Zealand, which was a day/night Test. As mentioned, 10,929 came through the gates for day one of the Windies Test, which puts this attendance against Pakistan at around average.
Interestingly, it is a record attendance for day one of a Perth Test against Pakistan. However, there were debates on social media. Some fans believed there should have been greater numbers given the year the Australian team has had, winning the World Test Championship, retaining the Ashes, and winning the World Cup. Others had the view that it was a decent turnout given work and school is still on, plus Christmas is around the corner.
Skipper Pat Cummins put it well before the match. He said the way Australians consume cricket means that engagement can’t only be measured by ticket sales.
“We’re still on a high from that [the World Cup victory],” said Cummins. “It’s not going to get much better from that. But I’m sure it’s going to be well-supported here. Some of the Test matches you play in Australia, I think school might still be in here, you might not get the packed stadium, but you know there’s going to be millions of people watching.
And it’s kind of the start of their summer, that first Test match. So we feel really supported whenever we play over here and probably after the last 12 months we’ve had, I’ve never felt the support like we have in the last month.”
Why do they hold Day 1 of tests on a Thursday? I can understand maybe Friday but on the 14th December most people still have to work. It's not the holidays yet.
The #WestTest is proof that Australia’s obsession with playing everything in big stadiums is misguided. This would look, feel and be way better at a spruced up WACA than a sparce Optus Stadium. Just admit it. #AUSvPAK
Cricket News: Why Usman Khawaja is wearing a black armband in the 1st Test against Pakistan | Usman Khawaja wears black armband vs Pakistan
Australia opening batsman Usman Khawaja is wearing a black armband in the first Test against Pakistan in Perth in solidarity with people suffering due to the war in the Middle East. Khawaja took to social media on the eve of the match to share his thoughts in the situation in Palestine in particular, with the message that “all lives are equal.”
“All Lives are Equal. Freedom is a Human right. I’m raising my voice for human rights. For a humanitarian appeal. If you see it any other way. That’s on you,” Khawaja wrote on social media.
Captain Pat Cummins was in full support of Khawaja taking a stance. “I think everyone in our team has their own individual thoughts and I love that. I think it’s one of our strongest points.”
All Lives are Equal. Freedom is a Human right. I'm raising my voice for human rights. For a humanitarian appeal. If you see it any other way. That's on you… pic.twitter.com/8eaPnBfUEb
Usman Khawaja wears black armband in solidarity with his social media post – Cricket Australia
Khawaja took to social media after some fans were against the messaging of “all lives are equal” seen written on his shoes in the leadup to the Test.
“I won’t say much, I don’t need to,” Khawaja said. “But what I do want is for everyone who did get offended, somehow, is to ask yourself these questions. Is freedom not for everyone? Are all lives not equal?
“To me personally, it doesn’t matter what race, religion or culture you are. Let’s be honest, if me saying ‘all lives are equal’ has resulted in people being offended to the point where they are calling me up and telling me off, isn’t that the bigger problem?
“What I’ve written on my shoes isn’t political. I’m not taking sides. Human life to me is equal. One Jewish life is equal to one Muslim life. Is equal to one Hindu life, and so on.
I’m just speaking up for those who don’t have a voice.”
Khawaja then expressed disappointment at the ICC’s stance that he can’t wear the shoes, hence why he has worn the black armband instead.
“The ICC have told me that I can’t wear my shoes because they believe it’s a political statement under their guidelines. I don’t believe this. It’s a humanitarian appeal. I will respect their view and decision, but I will fight it, and seek to gain approval.
“Freedom is a human right.”
Khawaja’s shoes. ‘All lives are equal’ statement had to be covered for the Test.
Khawaja starts the Australian Test summer off the back of two brilliant years back in the team. Since being recalled into the side in the 2021/22 Ashes, Khawaja has scored 2,117 runs at an average of 60.5. Against Pakistan, Khawaja averages a mammoth 100.40 with over 1,000 runs to his name.
STA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible 11 Pitch Report BBL 2023-24 Match 7 | MS vs PS Dream11 Prediction Today | MCG Pitch Report
Melbourne Stars will take on defending champions Perth Scorchers in the seventh match of the BBL 2023/24 season. It promises to be a tough test for the Stars who will be without Glenn Maxwell after the star all-rounder picked up a forearm injury in their heavy loss last week against Brisbane Heat. So, it’s important for others to step up and be counted.
The Scorchers will also be looking forward to this match. Their game against Melbourne Renegades was abandoned in extraordinary circumstances on Sunday due to an unsafe pitch. Their bowling attack will fancy themselves against an inconsistent Stars batting lineup, while their own batting looks strong yet again. However, the forecasts predicts rain on Wednesday evening in Melbourne, so hopefully it holds off.
Stars begin this match bottom of the league. Scorchers are on the single point from the no result against the Renegades. Here is a look at the possible playing XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, MCG pitch report and Dream11 Prediction for this clash.
As mentioned, Maxwell is out injured. Marcus Stoinis will captain. Nathan Coulter-Nile is also unavailable due to a calf injury.
In better news, Haris Rauf, Mark Steketee and Beau Webster are all available.
Melbourne Stars: 1. Tom Rogers, 2. Sam Harper (wk), 3. Hilton Cartwright, 4. Campbell Kellaway/Nick Larkin, 5. Marcus Stoinis (c), 6. Beau Webster, 7. Liam Dawson, 8. Usama Mir, 9. Mark Steketee, 10. Haris Rauf, 11. Joel Paris
Perth Scorchers have named an unchanged squad. They may stick with the same team that was named against the Renegades.
Perth Scorchers: 1. Stephen Eskinazi, 2. Cooper Connolly, 3. Aaron Hardie, 4. Josh Inglis (wk), 5. Ashton Turner (c), 6. Laurie Evans, 7. Nick Hobson, 8. Jhye Richardson, 9. Andrew Tye, 10. Hamish McKenzie, 11. Jason Behrendhorff
BBL 2023-24 Match 7: STA vs SCO Fantasy Cricket Tips – Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Melbourne Stars:
Marcus Stoinis has not scored a 50 in 13 innings against the Scorchers since the start of 2019. Now is a good time to change that record. The Stars captain does have the second-most T20 runs at the MCG (1,034) at an average of 33.35 and strike rate of 137.14.
Sam Harper recently scored one of the fastest Sheffield Shield centuries. In nine matches against the Scorchers, Harper has scored 205 runs at an average of 25.63 and strike rate of 134.87. He’s never been dismissed by Jason Behrendhorff (13 balls, 22 runs) or Andrew Tye (21 balls, 30 runs).
Hilton Cartwright looked in excellent touch against the Brisbane Heat. He has a strong record at the MCG (18 inns, 491 runs, avg. 44.64, SR 132.70).
Beau Webster can be a handy pick in Dream11 fantasy teams. He can roam around the batting order and is expected to bowl a few overs of his seam/offspin. Last season, he scored 274 runs and took seven wickets.
Haris Rauf has taken 15 wickets in nine T20s at the MCG at an average of 15.47 and strike rate of 13.20. Also, he has dismissed Laurie Evans twice for 27 runs in 18 balls in T20s.
Perth Scorchers:
Josh Inglis recently smashed the equal-fastest T20I century for Australia in the series against India. Against the Stars, Inglis has scored 203 runs at an average of 33.83 and average of 158.89.
Aaron Hardie hit the most runs in last season’s BBL (460). But, he will be looking to improve his record against the Stars: 5 inns, 69 runs, avg. 17.25, SR 118.97.
Ashton Turner vs Melbourne Stars: 13 inns, 325 runs, avg. 32.50, SR 163.32.
Turner when chasing in last year’s BBL: 10 inns, 315 runs, avg. 63.0, SR 155.9.
Jhye Richardson has dismissed Marcus Stoinis twice in 33 balls in T20s (29 runs). He has also dismissed Sam Harper once in 19 balls, conceding just 24 runs. Overall, Richardson has 12 wickets in ten matches against the Stars.
Andrew Tye usually enjoys his time against the Stars. He has taken 27 wickets in 14 matches against them (avg. 14.59, econ. 7.50). He has dismissed Stoinis four times in 45 balls, although Stoinis has scored 84.
Scorchers have won the past five matches between the teams.
MCG Pitch Report and Weather
Bowlers found joy in last year’s BBL, which was soon after the T20 World Cup where bowlers also had a say. In six matches in BBL 2022/23, the average first innings score was 147.17. The chasing team won the last four matches.
Unfortunately, rain is forecast tonight after a wild storm in Melbourne last night. A shortened match – if at all – is likely.
STA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction: Best picks, captaincy, vice-captain, team combinations
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.
Best probable Dream11 picks for THU vs HEA:
Best wicket-keeper:
Josh Inglis is in good form and has a strong record against the Stars.
Best batter:
Hilton Cartwright will have a key role to play. He comes into this match in good form.
Best all-rounder:
Aaron Hardie played well in last year’s BBL, will bat in the top order and may bowl as well.
Best bowler:
Andrew Tye has a terrific record against the Stars. Jhye Richardson is also a solid pick.
Option 1:
STA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction – BBL 2023-24 Match 7
Option 2:
STA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction – BBL 2023-24 Match 7
BBL 2023-24 Match 7: STA vs SCO Match Prediction – Who will win?
Weather permitting, Scorchers should 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.
THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report BBL 2023-24 Match 6 | ST vs BH Dream11 Prediction Today | Canberra Pitch Report
Sydney Thunder will finally get their campaign underway against the impressive Brisbane Heat in what promises to be a tough test straight away. The Thunder have watched on so far as the Heat put on a clinic to dismantle the Melbourne Stars on the tournament’s opening night last Thursday, before the Heat’s second match was washed out in Adelaide.
It remains to be seen how the Thunder perform this season. They have plenty of bowling options, but depth in batting looks to be a problem on paper. That being said, a strong start to their campaign will only boost confidence in the squad, that too against a well-rounded Heat attack.
The Heat welcome back players who featured for the Prime Minister’s XI against Pakistan last week. Matt Renshaw scored a patient century, and Nathan McSweeney was also in the runs. If they get going as a unit, they will be hard to beat, but the key is delivering across all three stages of the innings.
Sydney Thunder have named their squad. Jason Sangha is unavailable due to a wrist injury. Will Salzmann is out with illness and young gun Sam Konstas is currently with the NSW Second XI squad.
Alex Ross has scored 171 runs in seven innings against the Heat since the start of 2019, averaging 34.20 with a strike rate of 135.71. He is an important cog in the middle order.
Sydney Thunder: 1. Alex Hales, 2. Cameron Bancroft, 3. Matthew Gilkes (wk), 4. Ollie Davies, 5. Alex Ross, 6. Daniel Sams, 7. Chris Green (c), 8. Nathan McAndrew, 9. Gurinder Sandhu, 10. Tanveer Sangha, 11. Zaman Khan
Brisbane Heat have also named their squad. Matt Renshaw, Jimmy Peirson and Nathan McSweeney are available. Jordan Buckingham, who took five wickets last week against Pakistan, is also in the squad as a replacement player.
If Heat wish to play an extra bowler, they could shift either Nathan McSweeney or Matt Renshaw to open and leave both Josh Brown and Max Bryant out.
Brisbane Heat: 1. Colin Munro (c), 2. Josh Brown/Max Bryant, 3. Nathan McSweeney, 4. Sam Billings, 5. Matt Renshaw, 6. Jimmy Peirson (wk), 7. Michael Neser, 8. Paul Walter/Xavier Bartlett, 9. Spencer Johnson, 10. Matt Kuhnemann, 11. Mitch Swepson
BBL 2023-24 Match 6: THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Cricket Tips
Sydney Thunder:
Alex Hales is of great importance to this Thunder team and is a captaincy option in Dream11 fantasy teams. Hales strikes at 143.75 in nine matches against the Heat, and will be looking to build on his average of 26.29.
Hales has never been dismissed by Michael Neser in T20s: 28 balls, 36 runs.
Cameron Bancroft has an excellent record against Brisbane Heat: 10 inns, 342 runs, avg. 48.86, SR 128.57. He too has never been dismissed by Michael Neser in T20s (31 balls, 41 runs).
Ollie Davies is also a key player for the Thunder. He was their leading run-scorer in last season’s BBL with 333 at an average of 27.75 and strike rate of 133.73.
However, Davies will be looking to improve on his poor record on this ground: 6 inns, 97 runs, avg. 16.17, SR 161.67.
Daniel Sams is a must-pick in fantasy teams in BBL. He has the most wickets in THU-HEA matches (19) and strikes at an incredible 210 with the bat.
Sams also loves playing on this ground. He has scored 221 runs (avg. 24.56, SR 167.42) and picked up the most wickets (22) at a strike rate of 15.18.
Nathan McAndrew strikes every 14.57 on average on this ground (14 wickets). Tanveer Sangha also enjoys bowling at Manuka Oval, with 13 wickets in ten matches at an economy of 7.36 and strike rate of 16.31.
Brisbane Heat:
Colin Munro started BBL 13 in brilliant fashion, smashing 99* against the Stars. Last season, Munro hit scores of 98 and 43 in two matches against the Thunder at a strike rate of 141.00.
Munro will look to take on Sams early. The left-hander has belted 65 off 39 balls against him (two dismissals).
Sam Billings has performed well at Manuka Oval. In six matches, the Englishman has scored 216 runs at an average of 43.20 and strike rate of 144.00. This includes two fifties.
Michael Neser took 26 wickets in last season’s BBL and started this campaign with another two scalps. He has 13 wickets in 14 games against Thunder, but has the ability to build on that here.
Heat could look to bring Neser on early to Ollie Davies. The pacer has dismissed Davies once in four balls.
Xavier Bartlett has dismissed Alex Hales twice in 28 balls in the BBL (43 runs). Also, Bartlett is often a factor with the bat against the Thunder, with 96 runs without dismissal and a strike rate of 150.
Mitch Swepson has taken just seven wickets in nine matches for Heat vs Thunder at an economy of 10.27. But he has fared pretty well on this ground, taking four wickets in three matches at a strike rate of 15.00 (econ. 7.50).
In two BBL matches last season, the average first innings score was just 132. The chasing team won on both occasions.
A partly cloudy and warm evening is forecast. No rain is expected.
BBL 2023-24 Match 6: THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction – Captain, vice-captain, team combinations
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.
Best probable Dream11 picks for THU vs HEA:
Best wicket-keeper:
Sam Billings has an excellent record at Manuka Oval. Cameron Bancroft is also a solid pick given his record against the Heat.
Best batter:
Colin Munro started the BBL in superb fashion. Alex Hales also has plenty of experience.
Best all-rounder:
Daniel Sams has a great record against the Heat and loves playing at Manuka Oval. Michael Neser can also fetch plenty of fantasy points.
Best bowler:
Mitch Swepson started BBL 13 well and should enjoy bowling on the slower Canberra pitch.
Option 1:
BBL 2023-24 Match 6 – THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
BBL 2023-24 Match 6 – THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction
BBL 2023-24 Match 6: THU vs HEA Match Prediction – Who will win?
Another game that can go either way. However, Brisbane Heat, with their greater depth, should win.
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.
Cricket News: Mohammad Hafeez critical of Canberra pitch for Pakistan’s warmup match | Hafeez has his say on Canberra pitch
Pakistan coach Mohammad Hafeez has taken aim at the pitch dished out for his team’s tour match against Prime Minister’s XI at Manuka Oval in Canberra. Just 13 wickets fell in three days of play, before the match was abandoned after a storm blew the covers off the square.
Pakistan, batting first, scored 391/9, led by Shan Masood’s unbeaten 201. Jordan Buckingham impressed with 5/80 off his 23 overs, but it was tough work for the bowlers where four bowled in excess of 20 overs.
Pakistan then had five bowlers deliver more than 20 overs on the flat surface. Matt Renshaw sucked the life out of the attack with an unbeaten vigil of 136* off 337 balls. Test hopefuls Cameron Bancroft (53), Marcus Harris (49) and Cameron Green (46) were also in the runs as the PM’s XI fought to 367/4 off 141 overs.
Speaking to reporters at the WACA in Perth, Hafeez said it was the slowest pitch a team could expect when playing in Australia. He was pleased with his team’s effort, but was expecting more in the pitch in the lead up to the Tests.
“We ticked most of the boxes as a team, but obviously really surprised and disappointed with the arrangements in Canberra,” he said. “The pitch we received for the practice (match in Canberra), that was the slowest we can ever, ever play on as a visiting team in Australia.”
Maybe it was tactical – Mohammad Hafeez on the Canberra pitch
Hafeez suggested that “some of it was maybe tactics” as the team is set to play the first Test at the fast and bouncy Optus Stadium pitch in Perth. “Everyone knew, so there’s no point saying it again and again. The disappointment was really high because we were not expecting these kinds of arrangements.
“Some of it was maybe tactics. But we were ready for that. We’re not using it as an excuse, we’re absolutely ready for the challenges coming up.”
However, Canberra copped 120mm of rain in the week leading up to the tour match, which made the pitch preparation a challenge for the curators.
“The match was played on a safe surface, but with little life in the pitch for the players. It was disappointing but exceptional circumstances did present leading into the match which made getting pace and bounce challenging,” said Peter Roach, Cricket Australia’s head of cricket operations.
Hafeez also told reporters he is confident his team can not only compete with Australia, but beat them. Pakistan have lost 14 consecutive Test matches in Australia dating back to 1995, but the settled nature of the team encourages Hafeez.
“This Test team is really settled, they have done a great job for Pakistan cricket in this format and everyone is excited to take the challenge,” said Hafeez.
“That is the most encouraging thing. Performing in Australia would be great for them. As they always believe as a Pakistan team, we are here to beat Australia, not (just) to compete here.
“We have great talent within the team who can win within Australia. Preparation-wise we have ticked most of the boxes. The guys are really hungry to play against Australia … they want to beat Australia here this time.”
The series will kick off at Perth on December 14. The second Test will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground starting on Boxing Day, followed by the New Year’s Test starting on January 3 in Sydney.
Cricket News: Perth Stadium pitch report for 2023 AUS vs PAK Test | A look at the pitch ahead of the 1st Test between Australia & Pakistan
The Perth Stadium pitch will “push the limits of grass coverage” for the upcoming first Test between Australia and Pakistan. That is according to curator Isaac McDonald, who is after a better balance between bat and ball after last year’s pitch for the Australia-West Indies Test was quite flat.
The surface is set to have extra mositure given there are five consecutive days of 30-plus degrees heat in Perth in the leadup to the Test. This will likely enable early movement, but the surface should harden up further and aid more bounce.
Curator McDonald said that the moisture will ensure the pitch doesn’t deteriorate too quickly. “That’s everyone’s aim,” he said. “You’ve got to have in the back of your mind that it will last the whole game.”
Perth Stadium pitch report for AUS vs PAK Test: Spin to come into the game?
Warm and mostly sunny conditions are forecast for the entire Test, with temperatures around the 30-degree mark each day. While these conditions may not be enough to produce cracks in the surface, the sunny weather, plus 20-30km/h winds each day, is likely to dry the pitch out quite quickly as the game goes on.
“These wickets are a bit different – they’re in a tray and with the compaction are so much more squeezed in,” said McDonald. “The grass and healthy grass on top doesn’t aid it to crack massively.”
The fast bowlers should find asssistance – especially with the new ball – but that doesn’t mean the spinners won’t have a say. Nathan Lyon thrives in conditions such as those at the Gabba and Perth Stadium due to the bounce on offer. Also, with the possibility of quite a dry track by days three, four and five, the offspinner could be a central figure as Australia aim to go 1-0 up in the series.
In fact, Lyon has 22 wickets – the most of any bowler – in just three Tests at Optus Stadium at an average of 18.45. Last year, he took 6/128 in the fourth innings to help bowl West Indies out for 338 on what turned out to be an excellent batting pitch.
Mitchell Starc has the next-most with 18 at an average of 18.77. Among Australians, Pat Cummins (9 wickets, avg. 21.77) and Josh Hazlewood (7 wickets, avg. 27.85) also have solid numbers.
With the bat, Marnus Labuschagne has an incredible three centuries and half-century in four innings on the ground, totaling 501 runs. Steve Smith has the next-most runs with 279 in two Tests, bumped up by his classy 200* against West Indies last year.
The first Test against Pakistan begins on December 14.
Cricket News: Perth weather forecast for 1st AUS vs PAK Test | What is the Perth weather forecast for the 1st Test between Australia and Pakistan?
There will be excellent weather for Australia’s Test season opener against Pakistan at Optus Stadium in Perth. Conditions will hover around the late 20-degree mark right throughout the five days, providing a relatively comfortable experience for players and spectators alike.
The first Test kicks off on Thursday December 14 with sunny conditions and 29 degrees forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology (bom.gov.au). While there is quite a green tinge on the pitch in the leadup to the Test, conditions should make for good batting conditions especially as the ball gets older.
Perth weather could bring the spinners into the game later in the Test
Not only will conditions be mostly sunny throughout the match, but there will be wind speeds of 20-30km/h per hour on all days. These weather conditions could lead to quite a dry surface by the backend of the game, which could bring the spinners into the match.
Last year, Nathan Lyon starred in the fourth innings with 6/128 to break the West Indies’ resistance. In fact, Lyon has an excellent record at this ground, taking 22 wickets in three Tests at an average of 18.45. He enjoys the bounce, and will be looking forward to the possibility of picking up his 500th Test wicket during this game.
For Pakistan, the absence of Abrar Ahmed to injury is a blow given he offers a point of difference. He picked up a knee issue during the tour match against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra. Offspinner Sajid Khan has been drafted into the squad for this Test. Their other specialist spin option left-arm orthodox spinner Noman Ali along with all-rounder Agha Salman.
This will be the fourth Test match on this ground and Pakistan’s first. Australia have won all three matches previously against India (2018), New Zealand (2019) and West Indies (2022) respectively. If Pakistan are to win their first ever Test series in Australia, a strong start in the Perth Test is vital.
Australia vs. Pakistan 2023/24 Test series schedule:
1st Test: December 14-18 2023, Perth Stadium.
2nd Test: December 26-30 2023, Melbourne Cricket Ground.
3rd Test: January 3-7 2024, Sydney Cricket Ground.
HUR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2023/24 Match 5 | HH vs SS Dream11 Prediction Today | Launceston Pitch Report
After a very disappointing weekend where one match was washed out and the other was abandoned due to an unsafe pitch, BBL 13 is in need of a thriller. This Monday night clash has the makings of exactly that, with two genuine title contenders going head-to-head at Launceston.
The pitch, weather, and standard of cricket should all be good. Hobart Hurricanes, who have underachieved in recent seasons, have no excuses this time around. Not only do they have a quality squad once again, but they have added more experience to their squad in the form of Sam Hain, Corey Anderson and Chris Jordan. They have the balance and talent to go far this season, but the question will be whether they can piece it all together on the field.
Sydney Sixers rarely have issues when it comes to delivering out in the middle. They started another season with another victory, holding their nerve to beat the improved Melbourne Renegades a few nights ago. Their death-bowling under pressure was particularly impressive, and even with no Steve Smith this time around, their know-how and experience makes them hard to beat.
Location: University of Tasmania Stadium, Launceston.
HUR vs SIX Possible Playing XIs
Nathan Ellis will lead a strong-looking Hurricanes lineup. Depending on team combinations, the Hurricanes may go with Nikhil Chaudhary given he can bat down the order in addition to his offspin.
Hobart Hurricanes: 1. Ben McDermott, 2. Matthew Wade (wk), 3. Caleb Jewell, 4. Sam Hain, 5. Corey Anderson, 6. Tim David, 7. Chris Jordan, 8. Nikhil Chaudhary/Peter Hatzoglou, 9. Nathan Ellis (c), 10. Riley Meredith, 11. Paddy Dooley
Steve Smith is not available for this game as the first Test against Pakistan begins this week. Kurtis Patterson or Daniel Hughes may open.
Sean Abbott will not play as he has remained in Sydney for family reasons.
Sydney Sixers: 1. Kurtis Patterson/Daniel Hughes, 2. Josh Philippe (wk), 3. James Vince, 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Jack Edwards, 7. Tom Curran, 8. Ben Dwarshuis, 9. Steve O’Keefe, 10. Mitch Perry, 11. Jackson Bird
BBL 2023/24 Match 5: HUR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Cricket Tips
Hobart Hurricanes:
Can Ben McDermott deliver after a promising tour of India? The Hurricanes star has a poor record against Sixers since the start of 2018: 7 inns, 119 runs, avg. 17.00, SR 106.25.
On the other hand, Matthew Wade has a brilliant record against the Sixers in the same period (8 inns, 348 runs, avg. 43.50, SR 153.30). He has never been dismissed by Steve O’Keefe (30 balls, 35 runs).
Wade has the most runs of any male player in T20s at Launceston. He has scored 202 runs in seven innings at an average of 28.86 and strike rate of 136.49.
Sam Hain comes into this BBL on the back of an outstanding year in T20 cricket. The England batsman has hammered 794 runs in 24 innings in 2023 at an average of 61.08 and strike rate of 148.13.
Since the start of 2022, Tim David has smashed 1,053 runs between overs 17-20 in all T20s at a strike rate of 204.47.
Nathan Ellis has dismissed Dan Hughes once in 14 balls (13 runs). He has also dismissed James Vince once in 21 balls (28 runs) and Moises Henriques once in 26 balls (36 runs). Also, Ellis has taken eight wickets on this ground at a strike rate of 14.75.
Paddy Dooley was one of the stars of last year’s BBL. He took 19 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 12.78 and strike rate of 11.68. Five of these wickets came in two matches against the Sixers, including Jordan Silk twice in three balls.
Sydney Sixers:
Moises Henriques, who started the season with 40 against Renegades, has the most runs for Sixers against Hurricanes (319) at an average of 29.00 and strike rate of 129.15.
Henriques has scored 32 runs off 17 deliveries against Riley Meredith without dismissal.
Josh Philippe also had good numbers against Riley Meredith: 30 balls, 43 runs, no dismissals. Overall against the Hurricanes, Philippe averages 29.89 with a strike rate of 140.10 (269 runs).
James Vince missed out against the Renegades, but he has the quality to bounce back. He has scored 223 runs in eight matches vs. Hurricanes at an average of 37.17 and strike rate of 133.53.
Ben Dwarshuis starred for the Sixers, taking 3/36 against the Renegades. He has an expensive economy rate historically against the Hurricanes (9.11), but has 11 wickets in nine matches.
Jackson Bird has a good record against Matthew Wade. He has dismissed the Hurricanes batsman three times in 35 balls (45 runs).
Tom Curran has taken eight wickets in five matches against the Hurricanes.
Steve O’Keefe has dismissed Ben McDermott twice in 15 balls in the BBL (9 runs).
Tom Curran vs. Matthew Wade could be an interesting matchup. Curran has picked him up three times in 43 balls, but Wade has smashed 76 runs.
Corey Anderson had a solid Major League Cricket campaign earlier this year where he scored 190 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 145.03.
University of Tasmania Stadium Launceston Pitch Report and Weather
A partly cloudy evening is forecast with no rain expected. In the WBBL in October, Perth Scorchers (186/4) and Hobart Hurricanes (174/3) both won after posting big scores batting first.
In two matches in last year’s BBL, the team batting first also won twice. Hurricanes scored 172 against the Scorchers and then remarkably won against the Heat after scoring 120 on a slowish pitch. Expect an easy paced surface in this match with some possible assistance for the spinners.
BBL 2023/24 Match 5: HUR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction – Captain, vice-captain, team combinations
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:
BBL 2023/24 Match 5: HUR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
BBL 2023/24 Match 5: HUR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction
BBL 2023/24 Match 5: HUR vs SIX Match Prediction – Who will win?
A genuine 50/50 match. Hobart Hurricanes at home might start as slight favourites, but ultimately a score around 170 batting first might be a winning one.
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.
SA vs IND 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XIs Pitch Report | SA vs IND 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Durban Pitch Report
After a riveting T20I series against Australia, India are set to play three T20Is as they prepare for the 2024 T20 World Cup. The first T20I will be played in Durban.
It will be South Africa’s first assignment after their heartbreaking loss against Australia in the World Cup. They have several names missing, with the likes of Quinton de Kock, Temba Bavuma and Kagiso Rabada unavailable for different reasons. However, the Proteas are still a strong team, with Aiden Markram leading the pack full of match-winners.
Meanwhile, India have continued with the youngsters, who have set the stage on fire in T20Is. Despite being a young side, they have shown immense calmness and maturity, which is an encouraging sign. It will be an arduous task for the Men in Blue, but expect them to be fearless with their approach.
SA vs IND 1st T20 2023 Dream11 Prediction: Fantasy Cricket Tips
South Africa:
Reeza Hendricks has 596 runs at an average of 45.84 and a strike rate of 150.12 in 13 T20I innings since 2022. He also has seven fifties.
Aiden Markram has 110 runs at a strike rate of 130.95 in four T20I innings against India. He also has a fifty. Not to forget, Markram can also contribute with the ball.
Heinrich Klaasen has been in sensational form this year. He has 210 runs at an average of 35 and a strike rate of 166.66 in six T20I innings against India. Klaasen has also hit two fifties.
Keshav Maharaj has bowled beautifully this year. He has 8 wickets at 19.50 balls apiece against India in T20Is. Maharaj troubled the Indian batters in the World Cup a month back.
Gerald Coetzee has been South Africa’s latest pace weapon in the white-ball formats. Coetzee can trouble the Indian batters at a venue where there is always some help for the speedsters. He took 20 wickets at 19 balls apiece in the World Cup in India.
India:
Shubman Gill is a terrific batter and will be crucial to counter the quality South African bowlers. His rise as a T20 batter has been immense, as visible from his batting in the IPL 2023. Gill has 304 runs at an average of 30.40 and a strike rate of 146.85 in 11 T20I innings this year.
Yashasvi Jaiswal has been absolutely brilliant in the powerplay this year. His intent has been top-notch, and Jaiswal is India’s second-leading run-scorer in T20Is in 2023. The southpaw has amassed 370 runs at a 33.63 average and a 163.71 strike rate, including two fifties and a century.
Suryakumar Yadav is a runaway match-winner in T20s. He has 577 runs at an average of 44.38 and a strike rate of 152.64 in 15 T20I innings this year. Suryakumar also has four fifties.
Rinku Singh is the latest sensation in India. The southpaw has 180 runs at an average of 60 and a strike rate of 187.50 in six T20I innings. Rinku also has 28 boundaries.
Ravi Bishnoi is India’s second-leading wicket-taker in T20Is this year. He has 18 wickets at an average of 17.61 and a strike rate of 14.66 in 11 T20I innings.
Mohammed Siraj will be back in the Indian T20I team. Siraj will enjoy bowling in Durban, especially with the new ball. There is always some movement available in the deck, and Siraj can exploit it to provide early breakthroughs for his team.
Other Stats and Facts
Head-to-head in T20Is: Played 24, South Africa 10, India 13 & NR 1.
Reeza Hendricks has the second-best average (45.84) among the openers in the top-ten teams since 2022 (min. 10 innings).
David Miller vs Mohammed Siraj in T20s: 3 runs, 6 balls, 50 SR & 2 dismissals.
Yashasvi Jaiswal has the best strike rate (161.96) among the Indian openers in the powerplay (min. 100 balls).
Suryakumar Yadav needs 15 more to complete 2000 T20I runs.
Kingsmead, Durban, Pitch Report and Weather
The average first innings score in Durban has been 153 in T20Is. Expect some new ball movement for the pacers before the track gets better for the batters.
There is some light rain predicted during the game, with the temperatures hovering around 20°C.
SA vs IND 1st T20 2023 Dream11 Prediction: Captaincy, vice-captaincy, team combinations
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:
SA vs IND 1st T20 2023 Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
SA vs IND 1st T20 2023 Dream11 Prediction
SA vs IND 1st T20 Match Prediction – Who will win?
While South Africa will be playing at home, they are missing several regular starters. Meanwhile, India are flying high and should win the contest.
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.
