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Will Travis Head play vs Netherlands? A look at Australia’s possible XI

Travis Head is considered a chance of featuring in Australia’s crucial World Cup clash against the Netherlands on Wednesday (October 25). Head, who suffered a fractured hand in Australia’s tour of South Africa last month, has now joined the squad and is in contention for selection given he has been training in the nets.

However, whether Head plays depends on how he pulls up from Monday’s net session. He faced pace and spin as per normal after facing sidearm throw downs from coaches in the nets at Delhi over the weekend. Cricbuzz journalist Bharat Sundaresan said that Head looked pretty comfortable.

“I could bat for a whole session against quicks and spin and feel a million bucks, or I could hit the first ball and not feel great,” Travis Head said earlier in the week.

“I’ve got confidence in the medical staff to be told that the bones are healed. There’s stiffness and some of the pain. You can deal with it as long as I’m not doing any damage to it and I’ve got the confidence to know that I’m not doing damage to it, so a little bit of pain is OK.”

Australia’s possible XI vs the Netherlands: Travis Head is a chance of playing, but Australia cautious of rushing him back

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

Travis Head’s inclusion depends on how he pulls up from Monday’s net session. If he is cleared to play, he will open the batting despite Australia’s record opening stand against Pakistan, as confirmed by selector George Bailey. In that case, Marnus Labuschagne is most likely to make way, with Mitch Marsh to move to three and Steve Smith to four.

Bailey also said that while Head is chance of playing, Australia will be cautious. “If it works out that it’s the Dutch game, great. If it’s a little bit further on, then that’s okay,” he said.

Coach Andrew McDonald, however, said the team management is optimistic Head will play. “We’re really optimistic that Travis Head will be available should all things go well today [Monday] and as I said, most importantly, the way he pulls up tomorrow will be a key factor,” said McDonald.

“We’ll just wait and see what it looks like in terms of the Netherlands, if Head is fit.”

Head has been outstanding in ODIs since the start of 2022. He has made the opening position his own in this period, smashing 791 runs at an average of 60.8 and strike rate of 119.8. This includes an impressive five fifties and two hundreds in 15 completed innings (excluding his 17* retired hurt against South Africa).

The rest of Australia’s XI is set, pending any injury or illness concerns. Adam Zampa, who was battling back spasms last week, produced two outstanding performances against Sri Lanka and Pakistan respectively, taking four wickets in both matches.

If Australia beat the Netherlands, it will mark their third-straight victory after a horror start where they lost convincingly to India and South Africa.

Virat Kohli’s incredible record in ODI run chases

Virat Kohli and run chases in ODIs. Is there a more suitable pairing in the history of white-ball cricket?

Virat’s latest masterclass, a glorious 95 against New Zealand in India’s 2023 World Cup encounter at Dharamsala, is another example of his excellence millions have been blessed to witness over the past 15 years. New Zealand had an opening with India 76/2 chasing 274 after Lockie Ferguson dismissed both Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill in quick succession, but Kohli, as he often does, took control of chase to lead India to a position of safety.

As was the case against Bangladesh, he went for a big shot to seal both the winning runs and an ODI century, but he fell short against the Black Caps. However, the nature of the innings, where he kept things ticking with a dot-ball percentage of just 45.2, meant that he set up the game nicely for his team once again.

Virat Kohli’s numbers in ODI run chases

India can often count on Virat in run chases. In 152 innings batting second in ODIs, Kohli has scored 7,794 runs at an average of 65.5 and strike rate of 93.6. An incredible 27 off his 48 centuries have come when chasing, ten more than the next best – Sachin Tendulkar with 17.

However, it’s in successful run chases where the numbers truly amaze. In Indian victories, Kohli has scored 5,691 runs at an average of 90.3 and strike rate of 97.3. He has finished unbeaten 32 times out of the 95 such innings.

In the history of ODI cricket, just nine players have scored more than 22 centuries in total. In successful chases alone, Kohli has 23. It’s such numbers over an extended period of time that puts India’s number three well and truly in the conversation when discussing the best one-day batsman of all-time.

Indeed, critics will point to Kohli’s performances – or lackthereof – in knockout matches of ODI World Cups. However, his excellent performances in big games in T20 World Cups holds him in good stead to turn the ODI numbers around in 2023.

If he does, India will be even harder to stop and will be well on their way to a third ODI World Cup title. The men in blue have been superb in the 2023 edition so far, winning five from five to sit pretty atop the table.

India are yet to concede 300, with their bowling across all stages producing the goods in conjunction with the excellent form of Virat and Rohit Sharma. Even in the New Zealand game where Daryl Mitchell and Rachin Ravindra took Kuldeep Yadav on, the pace bowlers, led by Mohammed Shami’s five-wicket haul on his return to the team, restricted the Black Caps brilliantly in the final ten overs.

Next up for India is strugglling England on October 29 at Lucknow.

Reece Topley ruled out of the World Cup due to broken finger

Reece Topley has suffered yet another injury setback. The left-arm seamer has been ruled out of the remainder of the World Cup due to a broken finger he picked up in the early stages of South Africa’s innings at Mumbai on Sunday, October 22.

In his fourth over, he attempted to stop a Rassie van der Dussen straight drive off his own bowling. The ball flicked the top of his left index finger in a painful blow that forced Topley off the field soon after.

He then bravely came back later in the Proteas’ innings against the likes of Heinrich Klaasen and Marco Jansen hitting the accelerator to propel South Africa to a mammoth 399/5.

Broken finger rules Reece Topley out of the World Cup

England Cricket confirmed the news on Sunday evening, tweeting “News we didn’t want to bring you. Reece Topley has been ruled out of the rest of #CWC23. We’re all with you, Toppers.”

Topley’s reaction when walking off the Wankhede outfield indicated he suffered a serious injury. He pushed over a chair and kicked out at a box behind the boundary boards.

Indeed, his reaction is understandable. The latest setback marks another injury episode for Topley, who has had rotten luck over the past seven years. In 2016, Topley suffered a stress facture in his back that kept him out of action for four years. Just before last year’s T20 World Cup in Australia, he was ruled out of the tournament after twisting his ankle on a boundary marker before a warm-up match. Earlier this year, he suffered a dislocated shoulder in his first match the 2023 Indian Premier League with Royal Challengers Bangalore.

“I thought Reece Topley going back out to bowl with a broken finger showed great spirit,” said England coach Matthew Mott following England’s defeat. Now, England have to find a replacement, and it won’t be Jofra Archer confirmed Mott. According to ESPNCricinfo, Archer will leave India to continue his rehabilitation from another elbow injury. “Jof is actually not going to be considered for selection,” Mott said. “He’s come out, he’s reported to the medical staff, but he’s not going to be able to play a part in the end of this campaign.”

PAK vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XI Pitch Report: ODI World Cup 2023 Match 22

PAK vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XI Pitch Report: ODI World Cup 2023 Match 22 | Chennai Pitch Report

There is sure to be drama whenever Pakistan and Afghanistan meet in World Cups. And this promises to be no different.

In fact, this has the potential to be one of the games of the tournament so far, with so much on the line for two flawed but exciting teams. Babar Azam’s Pakistan, who were in many pundits’ top four before the start of this World Cup, need to get moving. Two straight defeats have left them in a challenging position, with their bowling in particular under the microscope after conceding another big score last time out against Australia.

For Afghanistan, they have a golden chance to break their duck against Pakistan in ODIs. They have come so close on a number of occasions, including the 2019 World Cup classic as well as a one-wicket defeat back in August. However, consistency is the key for the Afghans, which was on display in their last two games as they succumed meekly to New Zealand after a magnificent victory against England.

The question is – which of the two unpredictable teams will deliver when it counts on the day? In this article, we will look at the key players to watch, stats, pitch report and Dream11 prediction as part of our World Cup fantasy cricket tips for this crucial match.

ODI World Cup 2023 Match 22 – PAK vs AFG Possible Playing XIs

A key question for Pakistan is Shadab Khan or Usama Mir. Mir had some promising moments with the ball against Australia, and will enjoy bowling at Chennai more than Bengaluru. However, Shadab provides that extra batting depth.

Pakistan: 1. Imam-ul-Haq, 2. Abdullah Shafique, 3. Babar Azam (c), 4. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 5. Saud Shakeel, 6. Iftikhar Ahmed, 7. Mohammad Nawaz, 8. Shadab Khan/Usama Mir, 9. Hasan Ali, 10. Shaheen Shah Afridi, 11. Haris Rauf

Afghanistan could stick with the same playing XI.

Afghanistan: 1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 2. Ibrahim Zadran, 3. Rahmat Shah, 4. Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), 5. Azmatullah Omarzai, 6. Ikram Alikhil (wk), 7. Mohammad Nabi, 8. Rashid Khan, 9. Mujeeb Ur Rahman, 10. Naveen -ul-Haq, 11. Fazalhaq Farooqi

PAK vs AFG Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Cricket Tips

Pakistan:

  • Babar Azam must step up. His numbers in the last four white-ball events have been poor. The Pakistan captain has struck three fifties in five ODIs against Afghanistan, with a total of 224 runs at an average of 44.80.
  • Mohammad Rizwan is a must-pick in Dream11 fantasy teams. He in excellent touch. The keeper-batsman is Pakistan’s leading run-scorer in this World Cup with 294 at an average of 98.00 and strike rate of 96.39.
  • Imam-ul-Haq is the highest run-scorer in AFG-PAK ODIs (281) at an average of 56.20 and strike rate of 73.17. How he deals with the short ball will be key, but the slower Chennai surface should make shorter pitched deliveries to deal with.
  • Iftikhar Ahmed can play a role with bat and ball on the Chennai pitch. The offspinner has been solid for Pakistan, where he threatened to go big agaisnt Australia (26 off 20) after a solid spell in great batting conditions at Bengaluru (0/37 off eight overs).
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi was magnificent against Australia, taking 5/54. He is a great pick for fantasy teams given he bowls in the crunch powerplay and death overs. Also, Shaheen has the most wickets in PAK-AFG ODIs (12) at an average of 15.25 and economy of 4.19.
  • Shaheen vs Ibrahim Zadran will be a key battle. Ibrahim has been dismissed five times for 58 runs in 110 balls against left-arm seam in ODIs.

Afghanistan:

  • Rahmanullah Gurbaz is key to Afghanistan’s chances. He hit 151 against Pakistan earlier this year and 80 two games ago against England.
  • Azmatullah Omarzai is Afghanistan’s second-highest run-scorer in this World Cup (130). He also has three wickets.
  • Can Mohammad Nabi improve on his numbers against Pakistan? He has scored 114 runs at an average of 16.28 and taken six wickets at an average of 41.00.
  • Mujeeb Ur Rahman is crucial. Expect Mujeeb to test Babar Azam on a good length with a midwicket in place. In fact, he has conceded just 31 off 56 balls against the Pakistan captain in ODIs (one dismissal).
  • Overall, Mujeeb has taken nine wickets in five matches against Pakistan at an average of 21.66 and economy of 3.90.
  • Rashid Khan has dismissed Babar Azam twice in 53 balls in ODIs (48 runs). He should enjoy bowling at Chepauk, where he has taken eight wickets in T20 cricket an economy of 6.89 and strike rate of 21.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 7, Pakistan 7, Afghanistan 0.
  • Fazalhaq Farooqi has dismissed Babar Azam twice in eight balls in white-ball internationals (once in ODIs, once in T20Is).
  • Abdullah Shafique has struck scores of 113, 20 and 64 in this World Cup.

MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chepauk, Chennai Pitch Report and Weather

This promises to be a fascinating matchup on what should be a slow pitch that offer some spin. In three matches in this World Cup, the average first innings score has been 244, with the chasing team winning twice. Despite that, the team who wins the toss may choose to bat and set a score in a pressure match.

A hot and mostly clear day is forecast with a top of about 34 degrees.

PAK vs AFG 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.

PAK vs AFG Dream11 Prediction – Ideal Team Combination: 2-3-2-4

Option 1:

Option 2:

PAK vs AFG Match Prediction – Who will win?

This has the makings of a classic. This could be the time that Afghanistan finally beat Pakistan, especially if they bat first.

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.

It’s time for Babar Azam to step up & own the 2023 World Cup

Cricket Opinion: It’s time for Babar Azam to step up & own the 2023 World Cup | A look at Babar Azam’s worrying numbers in multi-nation tournaments since 2022

There is sure to be quite the introspection in the Pakistan camp. Their 2023 World Cup campaign hangs in the balance after two straight defeats to India and Australia, with their overall performances leaving plenty to be desired thus far.

Along with the concerns around the lack of threat in the bowling attack, the returns – or lackthereof – of number one ranked batsman Babar Azam has hurt Pakistan dearly.

Heading into the tournament, the Pakistani captain was earmarked as a player who needs to deliver big in a white-ball event. While he has been brilliant in bilateral white-ball internationals, the same cannot be said of his returns in multi-nation tournaments since the start of 2022.

Babar Azam’s stats in the last four white-ball events make for sorry reading

Babar Azam’s numbers in the last four white-ball events – including the 2023 World Cup – are not worthy of a player of his quality. The T20 Asia and World Cups in 2022 yielded poor returns, and the ODI numbers in 2023 don’t make for great reading either when you remove his 154 against the less experienced Nepal.

Key numbers:

  • Asia Cup 2022 (T20): 6 inns, 68 runs, avg. 11.33, SR 107.93, HS 30 (vs. SL)
  • T20 World Cup 2022: 7 inns, 124 runs, avg. 17.71, SR 93.23, HS 53 (vs. NZ)
  • Asia Cup 2023 (ODI): 4 inns, 207 runs, avg. 51.75, SR 97.64, HS 154 (vs. NEP)
  • ODI World Cup 2023: 5 inns*, 157 runs, avg. 31.40, SR 79.69, HS 74 (vs. AFG)

Babar has been a consistent force in bilaterals. In T20Is in 2022 outside the two multi-nation tournaments, he scored 543 runs at an average of 54.30. In bilateral ODIs in 2023, it’s a similar story. He has struck 538 runs at an average of 48.91.

Babar’s returns in bilaterals compared to multi-nation tournaments is a key factor when discussing his place among the game’s best currently. It’s fair to critique Babar’s returns when Pakistan need him most in these tournaments, with the skipper lacking the match-turning knocks that separate the good players from the greats. Also, his captaincy has been underwhelming, with his body language, field placements and use of his bowling attack under the spotlight.

Also, it must be noted that teams don’t often play full-strength teams in white-ball bilaterals, owing to packed cricketing schedules brought on by the proliferation of T20 leagues. Indeed, class players like Babar should score well against the likes of under-strength Australia and New Zealand at home, but more is needed in games of greater importance when the big trophies are up for grabs.

Take for example the Sri Lanka, India and Australia matches in the ongoing World Cup. Babar had the opportunity to own both 300+ chases, but was dismissed for less than 20 on both occasions. Against India, Babar hit 50, but was unable to go on and make an impact in the game as India went on to win with nearly 20 overs to spare. Against Afghanistan, he set things up well with a fine 74 on a slow pitch, but couldn’t get the big score.

Of course, others are also responsible for Pakistan’s performances in those matches. However, Babar is the player with the biggest pedigree in that team. It’s on him to own the situation. He currently averages a hefty and impressive 56.61 in 112 ODIs, but his team need him to turn those excellent numbers on the surface into impactful knocks on the world stage to propel Pakistan to bigger and better things.

Next up for Pakistan is a do-or-die clash against South Africa at Chennai on Friday. It’s on Babar, as captain and the team’s most prolific batsman, to lead the way in arresting his team’s slide in the race to the 2023 World Cup semi-finals.

If he doesn’t, Pakistan can surely kiss their hopes of a second ODI World Cup title goodbye.

ENG vs SA Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XI Pitch Report: ODI World Cup 2023 Match 20

ENG vs SA Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XI Pitch Report: ODI World Cup 2023 Match 20 | Wankhede Mumbai Pitch Report

One of the tournament’s most-awaited encounters is finally here. Two of the favourites – England and South Africa – will lock horns in a crucial game. Both sides lost their previous game in an unexpected series of events.

England are coming off a defeat against Afghanistan in Delhi. Their bowlers have been below-par throughout this tournament and conceded 284 against the Afghans after a flat start. Harry Brook played a terrific knock in the second innings, but no other batter could hang around him as the defending champions suffered their second defeat.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands stunned South Africa in Dharamsala. The Proteas’ death-overs bowling was troubling as they persisted with slower deliveries on a fast pitch to help the opponent post a fighting total out of nowhere. They lost wickets in regular intervals, mostly at the wrong time, as the Proteas never looked in the chase and suffered their first defeat.

In this article, we will look at the key players to watch, stats, pitch report and Dream11 prediction as part of our World Cup fantasy cricket tips for this crucial match.

Match Details

  • Date: October 21, 2023.
  • Time: 2:00 PM (India), 9:30 AM (England), 10:30 AM (South Africa).
  • Location: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

ODI World Cup 2023 Match 20 – ENG vs SA Possible Playing XIs

Ben Stokes will return and might replace Harry Brook at number four. David Willey can also come in for an underwhelming Chris Woakes.

England: 1. Jonny Bairstow, 2. Dawid Malan, 3. Joe Root, 4. Ben Stokes, 5. Jos Buttler (c & wk), 6. Liam Livingstone/Harry Brook, 7. Sam Curran, 8. Chris Woakes/David Willey, 9. Adil Rashid, 10. Reece Topley, 11. Mark Wood.

South Africa shouldn’t panic. They are likely to retain the same XI. That’s the strongest available.

South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Temba Bavuma (c), 3. Rassie van der Dussen, 4. Aiden Markram, 5. Heinrich Klaasen, 6. David Miller, 7. Marco Jansen, 8. Gerald Coetzee, 9. Keshav Maharaj, 10. Kagiso Rabada, 11. Lungi Ngidi.

ENG vs SA Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Cricket Tips

England:

  • Jonny Bairstow has 233 runs at an average of 33.28 and a strike rate of 87.59 in seven ODI innings against South Africa. He also has two fifties against them. Bairstow is a possible captaincy option in Dream11 as he can thrive on a flat Mumbai track.
  • Dawid Malan has been England’s most consistent ODI batter this year. The southpaw has 189 runs at a strike rate of 102.71 in three ODI innings against South Africa. This includes one fifty as well as a century.
  • Joe Root has 681 runs at an average of 48.64 and a strike rate of 89.13 in 14 ODI innings against South Africa. This includes three fifties and two centuries.
  • Jos Buttler has to step up with the willow. He has an excellent record against South Africa, with 540 runs at an average of 49.09 and strike rate of 112.26 in 14 ODI innings. This includes two fifties and as many centuries.
  • Reece Topley will enjoy bowling in Wankhede, as it provides some movement early on. He has 12 wickets at 30.50 balls apiece in nine ODI innings against South Africa. Topley also has a four-wicket haul against them.
  • Mark Wood will fancy his chances in Mumbai. The track here always has additional bounce, and Wood can crank it up in the middle overs to dismiss a few batters. Expect a fine outing for the speedster.

South Africa:

  • Quinton de Kock has already amassed two centuries in three innings this World Cup. He has 902 runs at a tremendous average of 60.13 and a strike rate of 97.93 in 17 ODI innings against England. This includes four fifties and three centuries.
  • Temba Bavuma has 328 runs at an average of 54.66 and a strike rate of 102.50 in six ODI innings against England. He has also amassed one fifty and a century against them.
  • Rassie van der Dussen has 407 runs at an average of 50.87 and a strike rate of 93.34 in nine ODI innings against England. He also has a fifty and two centuries against them. Rassie will enjoy batting in Mumbai.
  • Aiden Markram will contribute with both bat and ball. He has 213 runs, averaging 35.50 and striking at 104.41 in seven ODI innings against England. Markram also has three wickets against them.
  • David Miller has 367 runs at an average of 91.75 and a strike rate of 125.68 in nine ODI innings against England. This includes five fifties.
  • Kagiso Rabada has 20 wickets at an average of 22.15 and a strike rate of 25.75 in nine ODI innings against England. He also has two four-wicket hauls against them.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in ODIs: Played 69, England 30, South Africa 33, Tie 1 & NR 5.
  • Quinton de Kock vs Sam Curran in ODIs: 37 runs, 46 balls, 80.43 SR & 2 dismissals.
  • Jos Buttler vs Kagiso Rabada in ODIs: 23 runs, 32 balls, 71.87 SR & 3 dismissals.
  • South Africa has the second-worst batting strike rate (74.44) in the powerplay this World Cup.
  • Joe Root in ODI powerplay since 2020: 45 runs, 5.62 avg, 39.13 SR & 8 dismissals. These are atrocious numbers.

Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score in Mumbai has been 234, but the pitch will play better for the batters. Expect a high-scoring game. The pacers will get some swing early on and extra bounce.

A temperature of around 34°C, with clear weather, is forecast.

ENG vs SA 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.

ENG vs SA Dream11 Prediction – Ideal Team Combination: 3-4-1-3

Option 1:

Option 2:

ENG vs SA Match Prediction: Who will win?

Entertainment is guaranteed more so after their previous loss against the lower-ranked teams. However, England will be more desperate to win and might prevail in the end.

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.

Top five highest individual scores for Australia in World Cups

David Warner dominates the highest individual scores list for Australia in men’s ODI World Cups. The left-hander notched his 21st ODI century – and fifth in World Cups – at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in the crucial clash against Pakistan.

He took advantage of early fortune on 10 courtesy of Usama Mir’s horror dropped catch, going on to make a superb 163 off 124 balls to set Australia up for a big score at Bengaluru.

But, where does the 163 rank among the highest individual scores for Australia in World Cups? Here is a look at the top five.

Top 5 highest scores for Australia in men’s ODI World Cups

5. 153 by Aaron Finch vs Sri Lanka, 2019

There were question marks around Aaron Finch’s form heading into the 2019 World Cup. However, the Australian captain put those doubts to the side with his 132-ball 153 against Sri Lanka at The Oval.

Finch struck 15 fours and five sixes, combining for a 173-run stand with Steve Smith (73 off 59 balls) to set up Australia’s total of 334/7. In the end, it was 87 too many for the Sri Lankans.

4. 158 by Matthew Hayden vs West Indies, 2007

Australia blew everyone away in the 2007 World Cup, including West Indies. The hosts had no answers to the great Matthew Hayden, who played a trademark innings of authority at Antigua.

Hayden’s 143-ball 158 set up Australia’s 322/6, a total the Windies didn’t get close to despite fifties from Brian Lara and Denesh Ramdin. Australia’s 103-run win was their 22nd victory out of their previous 23 World Cup matches dating back to 1999, confirming an incredible period of dominance.

3. 153 by David Warner vs Pakistan, 2023

Warner’s 153 comes in at third. As he launched sixes (nine of them), particularly in the midwicket region, the left-hander had visions of beating Shane Watson’s famous 185* in 2011, which remains the highest individual score by an Australian in all ODIs.

The innings came as welcome relief to Warner, who had made a slow start to the 2023 World Cup. His love affair with the M Chinnaswamy Stadium continued, taking advantage of magnificent batting conditions and some ordinary Pakistani bowling to register a big score.

2. 166 by David Warner vs Bangladesh, 2019

Warner again. Bangladesh were on the end of an onslaught in the 2019 tournament, with only Mehidy Hasan Miraz (0/59 off ten overs) conceding less than seven an over. Australia piled on 381/5, with Warner’s 147-ball 166 setting the foundation of the innings.

Warner combined with Aaron Finch (53) for a 121-run opening stand, followed by a mammoth 192-run stand with Usman Khawaja (89) to all but bat Bangladesh out of the contest. The Tigers did well in reply to notch up 333/8, but the result was never really in doubt.

1. 178 by David Warner vs Afghanistan, 2015

No other player has more than one 150+ score in men’s ODI World Cups. Warner has three. His 178 against Afghanistan in Perth in 2015 remains the highest for Australia, which set up a mammoth total of 417/6 where Steve Smith (95 off 98 balls) and Glenn Maxwell (88 off 39 balls) also delivered.

Warner and Australia showed no mercy to the World Cup debutants. The left-hander struck 19 fours and five sixes in his memorable innings, before Australia wrapped up a huge victory by 275 runs.

NED vs SL Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XI Pitch Report: ODI World Cup 2023 Match 19

NED vs SL Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XI Pitch Report: ODI World Cup 2023 Match 19 | Lucknow Pitch Report

The Netherlands lit the tournament by defeating one of the favourites, South Africa, in Dharamsala comprehensively. Now they will be up against Sri Lanka, who are the only winless team in the 2023 World Cup.

The Netherlands handed a shock defeat to the Proteas by 38 runs in a 43-over encounter. Batting first, they made 245 – thanks to a terrific 78-run knock from their captain, Scott Edwards, whereas the lower order also contributed handsomely at the death. While bowling, the Men in Orange put on a collective show, with Logan van Beek taking three wickets, whereas three other bowlers dismissed two batters to script a historic victory.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka lost their last game against Australia in Lucknow. Batting first, they could assemble only 209 runs, with only their openers showing application. Dilshan Madushanka impressed with three wickets in the bowling department, but the other bowlers didn’t back his efforts, as Sri Lanka suffered their consecutive defeat in the tournament. It’s now or never to deliver for the Lions, whose campaign is well and truly on life support.

In this article, we will look at the key players to watch, stats, pitch report and Dream11 prediction as part of our World Cup fantasy cricket tips.

Match Details

  • Date: October 21, 2023.
  • Time: 10:30 AM (India), 7:00 AM (Netherlands), 10:30 AM (Sri Lanka).
  • Location: Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow.

ODI World Cup 2023 Match 19 – NED vs SL Possible Playing XIs

The Netherlands are unlikely to tinker with their winning combination. Aryan Dutt is one to watch on what could be a spin-friendly pitch.

Netherlands: 1. Vikramjit Singh, 2. Max O’Dowd, 3. Colin Ackermann, 4. Bas de Leede, 5. Sybrand Engelbrecht, 6. Teja Nidamanuru, 7. Scott Edwards (c & wk), 8. Logan van Beek, 9. Roelof van der Merwe, 10. Aryan Dutt, 11. Paul van Meekeren.

Sri Lanka don’t have too many options to choose from. Expect them to stick with the same team, unless they go for Kasun Rajitha over Lahiru Kumara.

Sri Lanka: 1. Pathum Nissanka, 2. Kusal Perera, 3. Kusal Mendis (c & wk), 4. Sadeera Samarawickrama, 5. Charith Asalanka, 6. Dhananjaya de Silva, 7. Chamika Karunaratne, 8. Dunith Wellalage, 9. Maheesh Theekshana, 10. Lahiru Kumara/Kasun Rajitha, 11. Dilshan Madushanka.

NED vs SL Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Cricket Tips

Netherlands:

  • Colin Ackermann will contribute with both bat and ball. He has 98 runs at an average of 32.66 in three innings this World Cup. Ackermann has also picked up three wickets.
  • Bas de Leede is a must-pick in fantasy cricket teams. Netherlands’ best player made 41 runs in his only innings against Sri Lanka. Bas also picked up three wickets in the same game.
  • Scott Edwards played a match-winning knock against a formidable South African bowling lineup in the previous game. He has 68 runs in two ODI innings against Sri Lanka. Expect him to add more runs in the lower order.
  • Logan van Beek has five wickets at an average of 13.20 and a strike rate of 22.80 in two ODI innings against Sri Lanka. He has four wickets at 22.50 runs apiece this World Cup. Also, he offers value to fantasy teams with his late-order runs.
  • Paul van Meekeren has five wickets at an average of 27.80 in three innings in World Cup 2023. He has bowled exceptionally well throughout this tournament and can again trouble the Lankan batters with his pace and bounce.

Sri Lanka:

  • Pathum Nissanka has been among the most consistent run-getters for Sri Lanka this World Cup. He has 112 runs at an average of 37.33 and a strike rate of 85.49 in three innings so far. This includes two fifties.
  • Kusal Mendis is a solid captaincy option in Dream11 leagues. He has been Sri Lanka’s best batter in the 2023 World Cup. He has 207 runs at an average of 69 and a strike rate of 156.81 in three innings. This includes one fifty and a century.
  • Sadeera Samarawickrama has 139 runs at an average of 46.33 and a strike rate of 119.82 in three innings this World Cup. He also has one century. Sadeera is a terrific player and can score big in the game.
  • Dhananjaya de Silva will contribute with both bat and ball. He has 97 runs at a strike rate of 81.51 in two ODI innings against the Netherlands. He can also trouble the batters with his useful off-spin.
  • Maheesh Theekshana has seven wickets at an average of 8.85 and a strike rate of 13.29 in two ODI innings against the Netherlands. Theekshana can wreak havoc against the Netherlands batters, who are not so compact against the spinners.
  • Dilshan Madushanka has been a consistent wicket-taker for Sri Lanka in World Cup 2023. He has seven wickets at an average of 26.28 and a strike rate of 24.28 in three innings so far. He picked up three wickets against Australia in the previous game.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in ODIs: Played 5, Sri Lanka 5, Netherlands 0.
  • Scott Edwards has the fourth-most 50+ scores (13) in ODIs since 2022.
  • Pathum Nissanka has 931 runs at an average of 44.33 and a strike rate of 86.44 in 23 ODI innings in 2023.
  • Kusal Mendis has the second-best strike rate (156.82) in the World Cup 2023, with a minimum of 100 balls faced.
  • Dilshan Madushanka has the most wickets (5) in the powerplay this World Cup.

Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow, Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score has been 226 in Lucknow, but the pitch is likely to play better than this. The teams batting first have won only three of the 11 matches here. The pacers may enjoy more help than the spinners with the newer ball, before the slower bowlers can get into the game as Adam Zampa did a few days ago.

A temperature of around 27°C, with no threat of rain, is forecast.

NED vs SL 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.

NED vs SL Fantasy Ideal XI: Kusal Mendis, Scott Edwards, Pathum Nissanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Colin Ackermann, Bas de Leede, Dunith Wellalage, Paul van Meekeren, Logan van Beek, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka.

Option 1:

Option 2:

ODI World Cup 2023 Match 19: NED vs SL Match Prediction – Who will win?

It will be a good contest as two evenly-matched teams will lock horns. However, Sri Lanka, with their spinners, 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.

Twitter reactions to Virat Kohli’s 48th ODI century

The great Virat Kohli has finished unbeaten in yet another successful chase, this time knocking off his 48th ODI century in India’s comfortable seven-wicket World Cup win over Bangladesh in Pune.

After Rohit Sharma (48) and Shubman Gill (55) put on an exhilarating 88-run opening stand in 12.4 overs, Kohli wasted no time in getting going. India’s number three hit 12 off his first three balls, displaying the immediate intent Bangladesh were hoping to avoid as they sought to get back in the game.

Kohli did not let the Bangladeshi bowlers settle. He was dominant on both front and back foot. Out of his 97 deliveries, just 37 were dots, with ten glorious boundaries.

Indeed, the way Kohli played in the other 47 deliveries is a hallmark of his ODI career. He always kept things ticking, giving the opposition no time to think. In the end, he motored to his century, hitting the winning runs in the process thanks to KL Rahul also helping the Indian legend reach the landmark.

Reactions to Virat Kohli’s 48th ODI century

There was some criticism leveled at Kohli and India due to the importance placed on reaching the milestone. However, the majority of fans were in support of the approach in the final overs, especially given India won so easily.

In fact, Kohli sped up with 26 runs needed, enabling the Indians to reach the target quicker.

“Virat Kohli now averages 58 in ODI cricket. After scoring 13,342 runs and playing 273 innings. No matter how many times I see them, I just can’t digest these numbers,” one fan tweeted. “What’s wrong in going for a hundred? It’s not that he slowed things down to get there. Yes he turned down a few singles but also hit boundaries to make it up,” said another fan.

https://twitter.com/on_drive23/status/1715044859143405808

Hardik Pandya injury update: India hold their breath

Cricket News: Hardik Pandya injury update: India hold their breath | Hardik Pandya injury update: When will the all-rounder return?

Hardik Pandya has been sent for scans following an awkward fall while attempting to stop the ball in his follow-through during the World Cup encounter against Bangladesh at Pune.

In the ninth over, Litton Das struck a straight drive that Hardik tried to stop with his right boot. The all-rounder landed awkwardly on his left leg, with his knee and ankle buckling under him.

He got up hobbling, barely able to walk, with Virat Kohli assisting him as the physio walked out to the field. There was a lengthy delay in proceedings as Hardik got his ankle strapped, but it made little difference as the seamer was unable to complete his over and had to leave the field.

Hardik Pandya injury update: All-rounder sent for scans

Hardik’s injury scare is a significant one. He was taken for scans during Bangladesh’s innings, where he will be assessed further.

“Hardik Pandya’s injury is being assessed at the moment and he is being taken for scans,” tweeted the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

India are holding their collective breath as Pandya is crucial to his nation’s hopes of lifting a third World Cup. He provides that crucial all-round ability that gives the side balance, allowing them to field six bowling options.

Should Pandya be ruled out for any length of time, India may need to resort to either Shardul Thakur batting at seven or picking an extra batsman with five specialist bowlers to bowl ten overs each.