Cricket News: Twitter reactions to India rolling South Africa for 55 | Fans react to South Africa bowled out for 55 at Newlands
India responded to their heavy defeat in the first Test in the best possible fashion, rolling South Africa for just 55 in the first session of the second match at Newlands in Cape Town. Mohammed Siraj was at his absolute best, producing one of his famous spells to finish with 6/15 off nine overs, with the Proteas batsmen having no answers against quality fast bowling on a challenging pitch.
Siraj partnered with Jasprit Bumrah (2/25) to deliver a devastating opening burst. South Africa were four down by the tenth over with just 15 on the board before David Bedingham and Kyle Verryenne attempted a reguard action. But, after Bedingham was out to rip-snorter of a delivery, the remainder of the session was simply a formality at Mukesh Kumar (2/0) also got in on the act amid wonderful slips catching by India.
That being said, some of the strokeplay would have disappointed the South African team, coaching staff and supporters. Numerous players were loose outside the off stump, most notably Dean Elgar and Kyle Verryenne, as the Proteas weren’t winning to let enough balls go. In the end, incredibly, they were out for 55 after choosing to bat.
Reactions to South Africa getting bowled out for just 55 at Newlands
Of course, fans were all over it on social media. Supporters took to Twitter to both analyse the situation as well as share some humorous takes. “No idea what Rohit told to his men in the dressing room, but this has been one hell of a performance from India,” one fan tweeted. “After being absolutely hammered in Centurion, the visitors have shown why they are the best Test team in the world.”
The great Sachin Tendulkar was thrilled, tweeting “Siraj weaving magic at Newlands! Impeccable length and a spellbinding display of seam bowling!” Here are some of the reactions to an utterly dominant first session by India, led by Siraj.
No idea what Rohit told to his men in the dressing room, but this has been one hell of a performance from India. After being absolutely hammered in Centurion, the visitors have shown why they are the best Test team in the world.
To say this performance from the Indian bowling unit is unexpected after the last 5 Tests in SENA is understating this effort. This has been a sensational bowling effort, completely worthy of going down in history books!
Outstanding display of seam bowling. Length, accuracy, movement everything just perfect. Well bowled Siraj 🙌🏽 To bowl the opposition out in first session when they've elected to bat first is crazy 🤯 #SAvINDpic.twitter.com/MEOuRe93eP
A breathtaking Siraj burst and the opposition rolled over for a score in the 50s is becoming common phenom.
India would have dreamt of better days than what they endured in Centurion. In their wildest imaginations though I wonder if they'd have envisioned this #SAvIND
Incredible show from bowlers led by Siraj ….55 all out SA…innings win is on..1-1 Rohit Sharma second Indian captain after Dhoni not to lose a Test series in South Africa Leader, legend @ImRo45
South Africa now have to produce a performance out of this world to come back from such a terrible position. Should India go on and win – which they should – they will leave the country with a drawn Test series, drawn T20I series, and ODI series win.
Cricket News: Fans unhappy with slow over rate by Australia at the SCG against Pakistan in 2024 New Years’ Test
In a welcome change, rain did not have a say on the first day of a New Years Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). However, the forecast suggests some rain may fall over the coming days, and matters weren’t helped by a very slow over rate on day one of the Test.
By tea, Australia had bowled just 48 overs. In the end, just 78.1 overs were bowled as Pakistan recovered to be bowled out for 313 thanks to Aamer Jamal’s magnificent 82 that took the visitors to a respectable score after falling to 227/9. Australia then faced just the one over, with David Warner, in his final Test, scoring an unbeaten six off six balls to get through to stumps.
Fans took to social media to voice their disappointment. Over rates continue to be a problem in Test cricket which hurts the format as the faster-paced T20 format continues to take preference around the world. Some called called for the captain to be suspended for a Test as the current system of docking World Test Championship points doesn’t seem to be making a difference.
Reactions: Fans disappointed at slow over rate by Australia on day one of New Years Test against Pakistan
“Don’t care how well we’ve bowled, only getting through 48 overs by Tea is embarrassing,” tweeted one fan. “Appalling but not enough is being done about it! 12th man running drinks out to the fielding team happens regularly. It shouldn’t be allowed,” tweeted another.
Here are some reactions to the slow over rate during the first day of the 2024 New Years Test at the SCG.
Appalling but not enough is being done about it ! 12th man running drinks out to the fielding team happens regularly. It shouldn’t be allowed
Pat Cummins on the eve of this series: “I think that the Ashes was such an anomaly, really. We've never really had over rate issues anywhere else in the world.” https://t.co/Wb8CBQhnyb
48 overs at tea. Barely half the overs bowled. Absolute disgrace. Breaks should be taken when they reach 30 overs for lunch, 60 overs for tea and stumps at 90. Set a time it should take and penalise accordingly how far behind bowling side are at breaks. #AUSvPAK
It’s a bit “old man yells at cloud”, but 48 overs bowled at Tea. Operating at 12 overs an hour. Snails pace, and not enough delays in the game to justify it. About time Test teams were penalised harsher to quicken up the pace of play. #AUSvPAK
The overrate penalty has to be one of the most biased rules of @ICC . I think there were no rain interruptions today and still Aussies have managed only 80 overs. They defaulted multiple times last test too but no fine. Let's see what happens this time #AUSvPAK#PAKvsAUS
Australia will begin day two no wicket for six after Pat Cummins took his third-consecutive five-wicket haul. The Australian captain’s career statistics took another boost, further enhancing his status as one of Australia’s greats.
Cricket News: Most wickets by Australia fast bowlers: Where does Pat Cummins rank? | Pat Cummins Test strike rate
Australia has a rich history of producing high quality fast bowlers. Two of the very best in history – Dennis Lillee and Glenn McGrath – greaced Test cricket from the 1970s through to the 2000s, with numerous others making a mark in the country’s proud cricketing story.
Including Lillee and McGrath, five Australian fast bowlers have taken more than 300 Test wickets. There is one bowler – Pat Cummins – who is set to join them, with his numbers putting him among the greatest pacers Australia has ever produced.
Most wickets by Australia fast bowlers
Bowler
Wickets
Average
Strike rate
Glenn McGrath
561
21.64
51.95
Dennis Lillee
355
23.92
52.01
Mitchell Starc
344
27.55
48.60
Mitchell Johnson
313
28.40
51.12
Brett Lee
310
30.81
53.32
Craig McDermott
291
28.63
56.99
Pat Cummins
256
22.10
46.30
Graham McKenzie
246
29.78
71.87
Josh Hazlewood
245
26.22
56.16
Ray Lindwall
228
23.03
59.86
Pat Cummins, as of January 3 2024, has the best strike rate among any Australia fast bowler with at least 250 Test wickets. In fact, only John James Ferris (48 wickets, strike rate 42.29), Frederick Spofforth (94 wickets, strike rate 44.52) and John Victor Saunders (79 wickets, strike rate 45.12) have better strike rates than Cummins among all Australians who have played Test cricket.
However, both Ferris (1887-1890) and Spofforth (1877-1887) played in the 1800s. Saunders played in the first decade of the 1900s (1902-1908). So, Cummins has the best strike rate of any Australian bowler since 1909. Remarkable.
There is certainly an argument that Cummins is Australia’s third-best fast bowler of all-time behind McGrath and Lillee, especially among the top ten wicket-takers as fantastic as they all were and are. Cummins’ current average of 22.25 sits him in the middle of McGrath (21.64) and Lillee (23.92), and he is showing no signs of slowing down.
In terms of Test opponents, Cummins averages below 30 against every team he’s played against. He also averages under 30 in every country he’s played in except India (four Tests, 11 wickets, avg. 32.81) and Sri Lanka (two Tests, two wickets, avg. 60.00). One remarkable performance in Cummins’ career was his 2022 display on some of the flattest pitches in recent memory in Pakistan, where he finished with 12 wickets in three Tests at an average of 22.50.
Most wickets by fast bowlers for Australia: Pat Cummins has been outstanding around the world.
Pat Cummins’ Test numbers against all teams
Opponent
Matches
Wickets
Average
Strike rate
Economy
Bangladesh
2
6
29.00
63.0
2.76
England
19
91
24.10
45.7
3.16
India
13
50
26.18
54.0
2.90
New Zealand
3
12
18.75
50.8
2.21
Pakistan
8
36
19.75
44.1
2.68
South Africa
8
41
19.31
41.8
2.77
Sri Lanka
4
16
14.31
35.1
2.44
West Indies
1
3
11.33
40.6
1.67
Where Cummins sits in the history of Australia fast bowlers is up for debate. However, it’s clear that the team currently has one of the all-time greats in their ranks. His ability to bowl memorable deliveries and get the better of some of the world’s best batsmen has been a delight to watch, along with his relentless consistency.
He has also well and truly found his feet as captain, leading Australia to the 2023 World Test Championship and Cricket World Cup titles. One can only wonder where he’d be now given all those years he lost through injury after a memorable debut as an 18-year old against South Africa in 2011.
But, it will be a career well worth remembering regardless.
BBL 2023-24 Match 23: STA vs REN Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible 11 Pitch Report | STA vs REN Dream11 Prediction Today | MCG Pitch Report
A few days ago, the Melbourne Derby did not look like an enticing contest as both teams are struggling. However, Melbourne Stars have found their groove, winning their past three games, including a superb 200+ run chase against Adelaide Strikers on New Years’ Eve. Melbourne Renegades also have more to be optimistic about after also beating the Strikers in their last game by four wickets last week.
This game has such importance in the playoffs race. The Stars have moved into fourth while the Renegades can move into the top five with victory. The BBL 13 table is so tight that a couple of results can shift positions so quickly, so it will certainly be a test of resolve in front of what should be a good crowd despite rain in Melbourne during the day.
BBL 2023-24 Match 23: STA vs REN Possible Playing XIs
Stars have confirmed their squad. Dan Lawrence has made an immediate impact. They may stick with the same team that beat the Strikers.
Melbourne Stars: 1. Tom Rogers, 2. Dan Lawrence, 3. Beau Webster, 4. Glenn Maxwell (c), 5. Marcus Stoinis, 6. Hilton Cartwright, 7. Imad Wasim, 8. Sam Harper (wk), 9. Joel Paris, 10. Corey Rocchiccioli, 11. Mark Steketee
Joe Clarke picked up an injury in the last game. Englishman Jordan Cox may open. Also, Nic Maddinson has been named in the squad, but he may not find a place once again.
Kane Richardson, who missed the last game with injury, has trained with the team and is likely to play.
Melbourne Renegades: 1. Jordan Cox, 2. Quinton de Kock (wk), 3. Jake Fraser-McGurk, 4. Shaun Marsh, 5. Jonathan Wells, 6. Mackenzie Harvey/Nic Maddinson (c), 7. Will Sutherland, 8. Tom Rogers, 9. Adam Zampa, 10. Peter Siddle, 11. Kane Richardson
STA vs REN Fantasy Cricket Tips: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Melbourne Stars:
In 2023, Dan Lawrence belted 587 T20 runs at an average of 29.35 and strike rate of 158.65. He made an excellent start to his BBL campaign, hitting 50 off 26 balls on New Years’ Eve.
Beau Webster is in fine touch. He has two fifties in four innings this season. He may also be called on to bowl with the make up of the Stars team. A good captaincy option for fantasy cricket.
Glenn Maxwell has smashed 519 runs in 19 innings against the Renegades at an average of 37.07 and strike rate of 144.97. He also has the most runs of any player in T20s at the MCG (1,345) at an average of 36.35 and strike rate of 146.83.
Marcus Stoinis found form in the last game. He smashed 55* off 19 balls in the New Years’ Eve clash. When playing for the Stars against the Renegades, Stoinis has scored 418 runs at an average of 52.25 and strike rate of 121.16. He also has 11 wickets in nine innings at an average of 15.27.
Mark Steketee has picked up 12 wickets in eight matches against the Renegades. Steketee has dismissed Shaun Marsh once in 16 balls, conceding just 15 in the process.
Melbourne Renegades:
Jake Fraser-McGurk is enjoying a breakout BBL season. He is currently the fifth-highest scorer in BBL 13 with 175 at a superb strike rate of 198.86. He scored 70 off 37 balls in his last match.
Shaun Marsh has scored an incredible 26 half-centuries in 76 BBL matches. Since the start of 2020, Marsh has struck 191 runs in seven matches against the Stars at an average of 27.29 and strike rate of 120.89. He will be aiming to build on this.
Will Sutherland can contribute with bat and ball. He has taken seven wickets so far this season and has 86 runs at a strike rate of 165.38.
Sutherland has kept Marcus Stoinis relatively quiet in the BBL. He has conceded just 26 off 21 balls against him (one dismissal).
Kane Richardson will be key against Glenn Maxwell. He has dismissed the Stars captain three times in 50 balls, conceding 70 runs in the process.
Since the start of 2018, Richardson has taken 14 wickets in 11 matches against the Stars (avg. 20.86, econ. 6.82). Also, he has picked up 18 wickets in 12 matches at the MCG at a strike rate of 14.83.
Adam Zampa has the most wickets of any bowler at the MCG (52) at an average of 18.44 and strike rate of 16.29.
Other Stats and Facts
Head-to-head: Matches 24, Stars 15, Renegades 9.
Renegades have won four of their last five matches against the Stars.
Adam Zampa has conceded just nine runs off 17 balls against Beau Webster with one dismissal. Zampa has also dismissed Maxwell once in nine balls (6 runs).
Hilton Cartwright has a strike rate of 164.10 this season. He will likely be needed to come in late and strike lusty blows.
BBL 2023-24 Match 23: STA vs REN Dream11 Prediction
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 23: STA vs REN Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
BBL 2023-24 Match 23: STA vs REN Dream11 Prediction
MCG Pitch Report and Weather
There has been plenty of rain during the day in Melbourne. Hopefully it will clear by the evening as per the weather forecast.
Earlier this season, Stars were rolled for 101 but they were without Glenn Maxwell. 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.
BBL 2023-24 Match 23: STA vs REN Match Prediction – Who will win?
A good game is in prospect. Stars, at home, are favourites to 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: SCG weather forecast for 2024 AUS vs PAK New Year’s Test | What is the weather forecast at the SCG?
The New Year’s Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is upon us once again. However, when it comes to this match, the focus is on the weather as much as the action on the field. Rain has often played a factor in Tests at the SCG in recent years, and the hope is that we can get a rain-free third Test between Australia and Pakistan after an excellent Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
The match will be played from January 3-7 2024. Here is a look at the weather forecast across the five days at the famous SCG in what will be David Warner’s final Test.
SCG weather forecast for 3rd AUS vs PAK Test: Will rain have a say?
The Bureau of Meteorology (bom.gov.au) forecasts 0-1mm of rain to fall on day one of the Test. “High chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon,” says the platform. AccuWeather predicts similar conditions – “mostly cloudy and humid with a thunderstorm around; breezy in the afternoon,” with about two millimetres of rain forecast to fall during the day. So, there is the possibility of having one of those frustrating on-off days often seen at the SCG in recent seasons.
Unfortunately, more rain is expected on day two. Bom.gov.au forecasts up to 6mm to fall, with a high (70%) chance of showers and chance of a thunderstorm. AccuWeather predicts a 55% chance of precipitation on Thursday, January 4.
Similar conditions are then forecast for the rest of the match. Showers are a possibility once again from days three to five, but the hope is there will be enough play to force a result.
Rain has been a common feature in Sydney in recent weeks. Humid conditions during the day have been followed by late afternoon rain and thunderstorms. Close to 100mm fell in the city in December.
So, all eyes will be on the SCG pitch. The spotlight is certainly on the surface after a Sheffield Shield game between New South Wales and Tasmania earlier this season saw 24 wickets fall on the third day of that match. It prompted former Australia captain Tim Paine to label the circumstances “embarrassing” and an “absolute disgrace”, but Nathan Lyon believed the Test track will play differently.
The average first innings score at the SCG in the last five Tests is a high 461. Conditions typically flatten out after early movement, and similar can be expected for this Test with the centre surface set to be used according to ESPNcricinfo. However, four of those matches have ended in draws, with rain having a say in each of them.
In 2019, India were well in control after Cheteshwar Pujara (193) and Rishabh Pant (159*) took India to a mammoth 622/7d. Australia were forced to follow on after replying with 300, but rain had a say on the last three days, including washing out day five completely.
In 2021, rain caused a stop-start first two days in the Australia-India Test, before the tourists fought to secure an excellent draw. In 2022, just 46.5 overs were possible on day one of the fourth Ashes Test. Rain also had a say on days two, four and five as England held on for a draw with one wicket in hand. Last year, the Australia-South Africa Test finished as a draw after just 280.5 overs were possible across the five days.
Here is hoping the 2024 New Year’s Test at the SCG is different than recent editions.
THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible 11 Pitch Report – BBL 2023-24 Match 19 | ST vs SS Dream11 Prediction Today | Sydney Showground Pitch Report
The New Year period is always an exciting time, especially in the Big Bash League (BBL). It means the Sydney Smash is here, and this one is certainly important for Sydney Thunder. Chris Green’s team have endured an inconsistent season so far, currently sitting in second-last position, but a win will put them into fourth.
Sydney Sixers look as efficient as ever and start this match as favourites. They did lose their last match to Melbourne Stars, but they are well placed in third position. Also, they have beaten the Thunder four times in a row. A fifth will further cement their spot in the top five as the playoffs start to appear over the horizon.
There are a few key battles to look forward to, which the Thunder need to win. While defeat won’t be terminal, they can’t afford a defeat with teams like Melbourne Stars, Adelaide Strikers and Melbourne Renegades showing good signs in recent matches.
In this article, we’ll look at the possible playing XIs, Sydney Showground pitch report, Dream11 fantasy tips and more for this important THU vs SIX clash.
Match Details
Date: Saturday December 30, 2023.
Time: 7:15pm (local), 1:45pm (IST).
Location: Sydney Showground Stadium.
THU vs SIX Possible Playing XIs
Tom Kohler-Cadmore is available for selection after replacing Zaman Khan who has left for Pakistan duty.
Sydney Thunder: 1. Cameron Bancroft (wk), 2. Alex Hales, 3. Jason Sangha, 4. Oliver Davies, 5. Alex Ross, 6. Tom Kohler-Cadmore, 7. Daniel Sams, 8. Nathan McAndrew, 9. Chris Green (c), 10. Gurinder Sandhu, 11. Tanveer Sangha
Sydney Sixers have named an unchanged squad. They may play the extra spinner in this clash ahead of Joel Davies. Steve O’Keefe has taken 15 wickets in 12 matches against the Thunder at an average of 16.73 and economy of 6.03.
Sydney Sixers: 1. Josh Philippe (wk), 2. James Vince, 3. Daniel Hughes, 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Jack Edwards, 7. Sean Abbott, 8. Ben Dwarshuis, 9. Jackson Bird, 10. Todd Murphy, 11. Steve O’Keefe
THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fantasy Cricket Tips – Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Sydney Thunder:
Alex Hales is yet to get going in this BBL. Thunder needs him to now. He has hit 233 runs in seven matches against the Sixers at an average of 33.29 and strike rate of 171.32.
Hales has dominated Ben Dwarshuis in T20s. He has scored 58 runs off 29 balls against him without a single dismissal. He has also smashed 85 off 36 balls against Steve O’Keefe (two dismissals).
Cameron Bancroft is the second-highest run-scorer in BBL 13. He is just about a must-pick in fantasy teams as wicket-keeper. He has struck 175 runs at an average of 43.75 and strike rate of 132.57 this season.
Bancroft has struck an impressive 49 runs in 28 balls against Sean Abbott in T20s (one dismissal).
Tom Kohler-Cadmore can add important batting depth for the Sydney Thunder. He was in excellent form in the recent Abu Dhabi T10 tournament where he struck 68*, 42, 8, 35, 44*, 69*, 10, 43*, 36*, and 13 in his ten knocks.
Daniel Sams has taken the most wickets on this ground (31) at an average of 15.71 and strike rate of 11.90. He has good numbers against Josh Philippe (49 balls, 48 runs, two dismissals) and has also dismissed Moises Henriques twice in 19 balls (27 runs).
Sydney Sixers:
James Vince found form in the last game. He struck 83 (55) against the Strikers. Against the Thunder, Vince has scored 129 runs at an average of 25.80 and strike rate of 116.22.
Vince has a good record against Daniel Sams (21 balls, 41 runs, one dismissal). He has also scored 24 off 14 against Tanveer Sangha (one dismissal), 42 off 24 against Gurinder Sandhu (one dismissal), 35 off 27 against Chris Green (no dismissal) and 21 off 14 against Nathan McAndrew (no dismissal).
Daniel Hughes has an excellent record against the Sydney Thunder. He has struck 435 runs at an average of 48.33 and strike rate of 129.46.
Hughes has scored 37 off 24 against Sams without dismissal, 20 off 10 against Nathan McAndrew (one dismissal) and 20 off 10 against Tanveer Sangha (one dismissal).
Moises Henriques also has a terrific record against the Sydney Thunder: 18 inns, 492 runs, avg. 49.20, SR 138.20. Also, he has struck two 50+ scores in six innings on this ground, totalling 168 runs at an average of 42.00 and strike rate of 151.35.
Sean Abbott has taken the most wickets in SIX-THU matches. He has picked up 22 wickets in 16 matches at an average of 19.27 and economy of 7.88. He has completely dominated Alex Ross in T20s, conceding just 12 runs in 30 balls (two dismissals).
Ben Dwarshuis has kept Cameron Bancroft quiet in the past. He has conceded just 32 off 33 balls, dismissing him once. He has also dismissed Alex Ross once in 16 balls, conceding just 12 in the process.
Overall against the Thunder, Dwarshuis has picked up 16 wickets in 13 matches at an average of 20.81 and economy of 7.74.
Other Stats and Facts
Head-to-head: Matches 23, Thunder 7, Sixers 16.
Sean Abbott vs. Alex Hales: 22 balls, 42 runs, two dismissals.
Sean Abbott (bowling) vs. Daniel Sams (batting): 13 balls, 27 runs, two dismissals.
Jackson Bird vs. Alex Hales: 35 balls, 41 runs, three dismissals.
Oliver Davies has scored just three runs in four innings against the Sydney Sixers.
Nathan McAndrew vs. Sydney Sixers: 8 inns, 3 wickets, avg. 85.67, econ. 11.51.
Sydney Showground Pitch Report and Weather
The Sydney Showground pitch typically has assistance for both pace and spin bowlers. Fast bowlers often find movement upfront with the spinners settling in on the slower surface. Last season, the average first innings score in five BBL matches was 141.4, with the chasing team winning three times.
A clear and beautiful evening is forecast in Sydney with a top of about 27 degrees.
THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction – Picks, 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:
BBL 2023-24 Match 19: THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
BBL 2023-24 Match 19: THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction
BBL 2023-24 Match 19: THU vs SIX Match Prediction – Who will win?
Sydney Sixers to win. The Sydney Thunder may struggle with the departure of Zaman Khan.
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.
REN vs STR Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible 11 Pitch Report BBL 2023-24 Match 18 | MR vs AS Dream11 Prediction | Docklands Pitch Report
It’s desperation time for Melbourne Renegades. Sitting bottom of the table with four defeats and a no-result from five games, the time is now for the Renegades to get their season going.
Nic Maddinson’s team certainly had their chances on Boxing Day against Perth Scorchers. They finished well with the ball and had the chase in their hands, but they let things slip when it mattered most. Today, the key is holding their nerve in the big moments.
Adelaide Strikers also need a win. They are currently in fifth position and are also coming off a botched run chase against Sydney Sixers. They had the game in their hands back on December 22, so they’ve had a week to think things through ahead of this important clash.
In this article, we’ll look at the possible playing XIs, fantasy cricket tips, Dream11 prediction & Marvel Stadium pitch report.
Match Details
Date: Friday December 29, 2023.
Time: 7:15pm (local), 1:45pm (IST).
Location: Marvel Stadium, Docklands, Melbourne.
REN vs STR Possible Playing XIs
Melbourne Renegades: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Joe Clarke/Aaron Finch, 3. Jake Fraser-McGurk, 4. Shaun Marsh, 5. Nic Maddinson (c), 6. Jonathan Wells, 7. Will Sutherland, 8. Tom Rogers, 9. Kane Richardson, 10. Adam Zampa, 11. Mujeeb Ur Rahman
Adelaide Strikers: 1. Matthew Short (c), 2. D’Arcy Short, 3. Chris Lynn, 4. Jake Weatherald, 5. Adam Hose, 6. Jamie Overton, 7. James Bazley, 8. Harry Nielsen (wk), 9. Wes Agar, 10. David Payne, 11. Cameron Boyce
REN vs STR Dream11 Prediction – Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Melbourne Renegades:
Quinton de Kock in T20s this year: 26 inns, 860 runs, avg. 34.40, SR 151.40. He is a captaincy option in Dream11 fantasy cricket teams given the potential he has for a big score.
Jake Fraser-McGurk is in fine touch. He is striking at 205.88 so far this season.
Shaun Marsh is one of the BBL greats. He has struck 25 fifties in 75 BBL matches. He enjoys batting at Marvel Stadium, with 534 runs at an average of 48.55 and strike rate of 138.34.
Will Sutherland can fetch fantasy points with both bat and ball, especially given he is being trusted in the death overs. He has scored 12 runs off four balls against Cameron Boyce (no dismissal).
Kane Richardson has taken 16 wickets in ten matches for Renegades against Strikers at an average of 22.44 and economy of 9.45. Also, Richardson has the most wickets of any bowler in T20s at Marvel Stadium (37) at an average of 20.16 and strike rate of 15.89.
Richardson has dismissed Chris Lynn twice in 31 balls (46 runs) and Jake Weatherald twice in 24 balls (23 runs).
Adam Zampa has had the better of Chris Lynn in T20s. He has dismissed him four times in 87 balls, conceding just 74 in the process. Zampa will also look to test Matt Short’s deficiencies against spin, if he gets the chance.
Adelaide Strikers:
Matthew Short is a must-pick in fantasy teams. He has struck 208 runs at an average of 29.71 and strike rate of 155.2 against the Renegades. He also has four wickets.
Chris Lynn has an excellent career record against the Renegades. He has smashed 450 runs at an average of 37.50 and strike rate of 152.03. Also, he has a decent 48 off 39 balls against Mujeeb Ur Rahman in T20s (one dismissal).
Jamie Overton is also a must-pick in fantasy teams with his all-round abilities. He was player of the tournament in the 2023 Hundred with his strike rate of 181. Also, he has picked up five wickets in two innings so far in this tournament.
Adam Hose is a key player for the Strikers. So far in the BBL he has scored 312 runs at an average of 26.00 and strike rate of 127.87. How he speeds things up through the middle could help decide the result.
Wes Agar has taken 12 wickets in nine matches against the Renegades at an average of 17.83 and economy of 7.17. He has dismissed Nic Maddinson once in 13 balls (ten runs) and Will Sutherland once in one ball so far.
Wes Agar vs. Jake Fraser-McGurk: 14 balls, 15 runs, one wicket. Agar has also dismissed Shaun Marsh once in seven balls, conceding just one run in the process.
Kane Richardson vs. Matt Short: 20 balls, 30 runs, one wicket.
D’Arcy Short averages just 18.17 in six matches at Marvel Stadium. Chris Lynn doesn’t fare much better with an average of 19.50 in nine innings.
Adam Zampa vs. Jake Weatherald: 13 balls, 13 runs, two dismissals.
Tom Rogers strikes every 14.82 deliveries at this ground (17 wickets).
Marvel Stadium Docklands Melbourne Pitch Report and Weather
Chasing is usually the way to go on this ground. Brisbane Heat chased Melbourne Renegades’ 162 with 11 balls to spare earlier this campaign. Last season, the average first innings score in six games was 159.5, with the chasing team winning five times.
The weather in Melbourne is clear and mild, which could mean the roof won’t be used.
REN vs STR Dream11 Prediction – Picks, 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:
BBL 2023/24 18th match: REN vs STR Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
BBL 2023/24 18th match: REN vs STR Dream11 Prediction
REN vs STR Match Prediction – Who will win?
This could be the game where Melbourne Renegades get their first win of the season. Renegades to 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.
NZ vs BAN 2nd T20 2023 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | NZ vs BAN 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Mount Maunganui Pitch Report
Bangladesh’stour of New Zealand moves to Mount Maunganui after sealing an excellent win in the first T20I in Napier on Wednesday. The Tigers’ bowlers led the way, restricting the Black Caps to just 134/9 courtesy of a brilliant start where Mahedi Hasan and Shoriful Islam blew the New Zealand top order away. Litton Das and Mahedi then held their nerve to deliver victory with eight balls to spare.
Najmul Hossain Shanto’s team come into this game on the back of two straight wins on this tour. The key now is delivering with a rare away T20I series win beckoning. If the bowlers can produce the kind of returns they have done over the past few days, anything is possible.
For New Zealand, they need a better start up top. While they aren’t at full strength, there is still enough experience and quality to produce better than what they did in the first T20I. After all, you can’t win many games after falling to 1/3 within two overs.
Match Details
Date: Friday December 29, 2023.
Time: 7:10pm (local), 11:40am (IST).
Location: Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui.
NZ vs BAN 2nd T20 Possible Playing XIs
Rachin Ravindra was drafted into the squad as Kane Williamson’s replacement. He could play in this game.
New Zealand: 1. Finn Allen, 2. Tim Seifert (wk), 3. Daryl Mitchell, 4. Glenn Phillips, 5. Mark Chapman/Rachin Ravindra, 6. James Neesham, 7. Mitchell Santner (c), 8. Adam Milne, 9. Tim Southee, 10. Ish Sodhi, 11. Ben Sears
Bangladesh could look to stick with the same winning combination.
NZ vs BAN 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction – Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
New Zealand:
Tim Seifert has the most runs in T20s on this ground. He has scored 566 runs at an average of 35.38 and strike rate of 135.08 in 16 innings.
Glenn Phillips, who made a golden duck in the first T20I, also has excellent numbers on this ground: 6 inns, 208 runs, avg. 41.60, SR 184.07. This includes a century and half-century.
Phillips has been dismissed by Shoriful Islam twice in 19 balls in T20Is, but he has smashed 42 runs.
James Neesham gave the New Zealand innings life in the first T20I (48 off 29 balls). He can fetch fantasy points with both bat and ball.
Tim Southee has the most wickets in NZ-BAN T20Is (17) at an average of 13.23 and strike rate of 11.29. He has dismissed Soumya Sarkar twice in 11 balls in T20Is (22 runs).
Ish Sodhi enjoys bowling at this ground. He has the most wickets at Mount Maunganui (24) at an average of 25.00 and strike rate of 20.75. Also, Sodhi has picked up 14 wickets in eight matches against Bangladesh (avg. 16.07, SR 12.28).
Bangladesh:
Litton Das is Bangladesh’s leading run-scorer in T20Is this year (324). He is averaging 40.50 with a strike rate of 137.87.
Soumya Sarkar is in fine form. He belted 169 in the recent ODI series and got a start in the opening T20I with 22 off 15 balls. He can also bowl if Bangladesh need him.
Mahedi Hasan is coming off a man-of-the-match performance. He took 2/14 and hit an important 19* (16). He can contribute again in what are usually easy-paced conditions in Mount Maunganui.
Mustafizur Rahman is often in the wickets when it comes to T20Is against New Zealand. He has taken 16 scalps in nine matches at an average of 14.00 and strike rate of 12.87.
Other Stats and Facts
Head-to-head: Matches 18, New Zealand 14, Bangladesh 4.
Tim Seifert has made nine 30+ scores in 16 innings at Bay Oval.
Glenn Phillips T20I record vs. Bangladesh: 6 inns, 179 runs, avg. 59.66, SR 220.98.
Bay Oval Mount Maunganui Pitch Report and Weather
In three men’s T20s in 2022, the average first innings score was 159. The team batting first won twice. This ground is typically home to an easy-paced surface where the spinners can have a say in the middle.
Unfortunately, heavy rain is forecast throughout the day at Mount Maunganui. Rain is also expected for the night. AccuWeather has listed a heavy rain watch from 10:00am Friday to 8:00am Saturday.
NZ vs BAN 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction: Picks, 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:
NZ vs BAN 2nd T20 2023 Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
NZ vs BAN 2nd T20 2023 Dream11 Prediction
NZ vs BAN 2nd T20 2023 Match Prediction – Who will win?
The weather could have the final say. If a shortened or full match is possible, New Zealand should be able to bounce back.
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: Top 5 highest successful run chases in Tests at the MCG | What is the highest run chase at the MCG?
The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has played host to 117 Test matches in its proud history. There have been countless memorable performances spanning decades, with the Boxing Day Test one of the best occasions on the Australian sporting calendar.
Batting last at this ground has often proven to be tricky over the years. However, there have been some superb run chases at the famous MCG. In this article, we’ll look at the top five.
Top 5 highest successful run chases in Tests at the MCG
5. England 282/9 vs Australia, 1908
We have to go way back to 1908 for the fifth-highest successful run chase in Tests at the MCG. England won an absolute thriller, chasing 282 with one wicket to spare courtesy of contributions right down the batting order. In fact, only George Gunn (0) was dismissed for a single figure score, with Frederick Fane top scoring with 50. Then, the great Sydney Barnes (38*) and Arthur Fielder (18*) combined for 39 runs for the final wicket.
Earlier in the Test, Kenneth Hutchings’ 126 helped England gain a 116-run lead. Australia then had five half-centurions in their reply to leave the tourists with 282 to win.
4. Australia 287/5 vs England, 1929
Sir Donald Bradman struck one of his 29 total Test centuries during the 1929 MCG Test against England. After England hit a mammoth 519 in their first innings, Australia replied with 491 to stay in with a shout of victory. Led by Thomas Wall’s 5/66, the Australians then knocked England over for 257, leaving them with 286 to chase.
In the fourth innings, all of Australia’s seven batsmen hit double-figure scores, with John Ryder (57* off 172 balls) and Sir Donald Bradman (37* off 89 balls) putting on an unbroken 83-run stand to seal the five-wicket win.
3. South Africa 297/4 vs Australia, 1953
South Africa have blessed fans with magnificent players throughout their cricketing history. That was the case in 1953 as the tourists pulled off a superb chase of their 295-run target with a huge six wickets to spare.
The South Africans had contributions from their batting order right through this Test. They have five half-centurions in their first-innings total of 435 in response to Australia’s huge 520. Then, Edward Fuller (5/66) helped produce a third-innings heist by dismissing the Australians for just 209 which opened the door for a South Africa win. In the end, William Endean (70) and Roy McLean (76*) led the way to seal victory.
2. England 298/4 vs Australia, 1895
The fifth Test of the 1894-95 Ashes series belond to England. Yet again, a big first innings score ended up in defeat after Australia hit 414 with Joseph Darling (74) and Syd Gregory (70) the top-scorers. Archibald MacLaren (120) led the way in England’s response as they hit 385 to stay close to par on the first innings.
In the all-important third innings, Thomas Richardson (6/104) toiled effectively for 45.2 overs to help dismiss Australia for 267. In reply, Albert Ward (93) and John Brown (140) put on 210 for the third wicket to all but seal the chase.
1. England 332/7 vs Australia, 1928
The only successful run chase of over 300 at the MCG came way back in 1928. England took a 20-run lead in the first innings thanks to the great Wally Hammond’s 200 in their total of 417. Australia then responded with a solid 351 with William Woodfull (107) and Sir Donald Bradman (112) hitting tons. But, Herbert Sutcliffe had the final say, batting 462 balls in the fourth innings for his 135 to help seal the chase with three wickets to spare.
In terms of the most recent chases, India were the last team to win batting last at the MCG. They needed just 70 to win in 2020. The previous successful chase was by Australia in the 2013/14 Ashes, where they knocked off 231 with eight wickets to spare.
The highest since 1953? Australia’s 258/8 against West Indies in 1961.
HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible 11 Pitch Report BBL 2023/24 Match 17 | HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction Today | Hobart Pitch Report
Hobart Hurricanes will take on Melbourne Stars in a crucial match where the winner will move into the top five on the BBL 13 table. Both teams picked up much needed victories in their previous outing. The Hurricanes blew the Renegades away, while the Stars upset the fancied Sydney Sixers at the SCG two nights ago.
The key now for both teams is consistency. Matthew Wade found form and Macallister Wright has given the Hurricanes hope that they can nail that number three spot. If they can set a strong platform, there is enough power in the middle order to take advantage.
Similar applies to the Stars. They are still short of runs in their top order, so a good start here sets things up for the trio of Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis and Hilton Cartwright. Plus, Usama Mir will be looking to build on his excellent performance in Sydney earlier this week.
Match Details
Date: Thursday December 28, 2023.
Time: 7:15pm (local), 1:45pm (IST).
Location: Bellerive Oval, Hobart.
HUR vs STA Possible Playing XIs
Hurricanes may stick with the same XI that beat the Melbourne Renegades, but how they fit Ben McDermott will be interesting to see.
Hobart Hurricanes: 1. Matthew Wade (wk), 2. Caleb Jewell/Ben McDermott, 3. Mac Wright, 4. Sam Hain, 5. Tim David, 6. Corey Anderson, 7. Nikhil Chaudhary, 8. Chris Jordan, 9. Patrick Dooley, 10. Nathan Ellis (c), 11. Riley Meredith
Melbourne Stars have named their squad. It will be the final game for both Usama Mir and Haris Rauf.
Melbourne Stars: 1. Tom Rogers, 2. Sam Harper (wk), 3. Beau Webster, 4. Glenn Maxwell (c), 5. Marcus Stoinis, 6. Hilton Cartwright, 7. Imad Wasim, 8. Jonathan Merlo, 9. Usama Mir, 10. Joel Paris/Mark Steketee, 11. Haris Rauf
HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction – Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Hobart Hurricanes:
Matthew Wade played his most influential innings in this season’s BBL. He smashed 82 off 50 balls last game against the Renegades.
Against the Stars, Wade does have moderate numbers: 7 inns, 196 runs, avg. 28.00, SR 119.51.
Ben McDermott enjoys batting against the Stars. He has scored 414 runs in 12 matches at an average of 37.64 and strike rate of 133.12. Also, McDermott averages a very similar 37.54 in 29 innings on this ground (901 runs).
Tim David has a strike rate of 157.97 in 17 T20s at Bellerive Oval in Hobart (327 runs, avg. 36.33).
Nathan Ellis has picked up nine wickets in seven matches against the Stars at a solid average of 17.33 and economy of just 6.24. His matchup against Sam Harper (30 balls, 32 runs, one wicket) will be key.
Riley Meredith has the most wickets in HUR-STA matches (17) at an average of 16.06 and economy of 7.09. He has a good record against Stars’ key players. Meredith has dismissed Beau Webster four times in 21 balls (26 runs), Glenn Maxwell twice in 35 balls (45 runs), Marcus Stoinis once in 25 balls (28 runs), and Hilton Cartwright once in 25 balls (29 runs).
Melbourne Stars:
Is this the day Marcus Stoinis goes big? He loves playing against the Hurricanes. The all-rounder has smashed 371 runs at an average of 53.00 and strike rate of 144.92. This includes 54 off 33 balls against Nathan Ellis without dismissal.
Also, Stoinis has a liking to Chris Jordan. Stoinis has hammered an incredible 156 runs off just 64 balls in all T20s against Jordan.
Hilton Cartwright is in superb form. He is the Stars’ leading run-scorer this season with 126 at an average of 42.00 and strike rate of 168.00. He was player of the match against the Sixers last match (47* off 30 balls).
Glenn Maxwell has an outstanding record against the Hurricanes (13 inns, 491 runs, avg. 61.38, SR 180.51) and on this ground (9 inns, 359 runs, avg. 59.83, SR 163.18).
Sam Harper also has a fine career record against the Hurricanes: 10 inns, 298 runs, avg. 42.57, SR 150.51. He has smashed 76 off 43 balls against Riley Meredith in T20s (one dismissal).
Haris Rauf took a five-wicket haul in the single match he’s played against Hobart back in 2019. Usama Mir is coming off a three-wicket haul against the Sydney Sixers (3/19).
Other Stats and Facts
Head-to-head: Matches 19, Hurricanes 7, Stars 12.
Both teams have won four games each against each other on this ground.
Hurricanes could look to use Patrick Dooley early to Marcus Stoinis. The spinner dismissed Stoinis in the single delivery he bowled to him.
Beau Webster has scored 55 off 33 balls against Nathan Ellis (one dismissal).
Bellerive Oval Hobart Pitch Report and Weather
There is a chance of a shower or two, but there should be a full match. This ground is typically excellent for batting, as on show in the match on December 23 where Hobart Hurricanes chased the Renegades’ 183 with an over to spare. Also, seamers tend to have more success here, but Paddy Dooley (2/32 last game) has an impressive 11 wickets in five matches on this ground.
HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction – Picks, 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:
BBL 2023/24 Match 17: HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
BBL 2023/24 Match 17: HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction
BBL 2023/24 Match 17: HUR vs STA Match Prediction – Who will win?
A good game is in store. Hurricanes, at home, is our pick for the 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.
