PAK vs NED Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report ODI World Cup 2023 Match 2 | PAK vs NED Dream11 Prediction Today Match | Hyderabad Pitch Report
Pakistan will take on the Netherlands in the second game of the 2023 World Cup. It will be the first game of the tournament for both teams, and they will look to start on a winning note.
While they have a quality squad, Pakistan still have plenty of concerns, as visible in the recently concluded Asia Cup. Their spinners haven’t taken wickets as consistently, and the injuries to key players haven’t helped them, either. However, Pakistan will still go in the rubber as the favourites.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands come into the World Cup after defeating some good sides in the qualifiers. They might be inexperienced, but the opponents can’t take them lightly. They have some good names on their side, and the Netherlands will definitely not be pushovers in this tournament.
ODI World Cup 2023 Match 2: PAK vs NED Possible Playing XIs
The injury to Naseem Shah means Hasan Ali might feature in the XI. Saud Shakeel impressed in the warm-ups, so it will be interesting to see whether Pakistan go in with Agha Salman or start with Saud Shakeel.
Pakistan: 1. Abdullah Shafique, 2. Imam-ul-Haq, 3. Babar Azam (c), 4. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 5. Saud Shakeel/Agha Salman, 6. Iftikhar Ahmed, 7. Shadab Khan, 8. Mohammad Nawaz, 9. Shaheen Afridi, 10. Hasan Ali, 11. Haris Rauf.
The return of the experienced Colin Ackermann and Roelof van der Merwe will boost the Netherlands. There are some hard calls to make for them.
Netherlands: 1. Vikramjit Singh, 2. Max O’Dowd, 3. Wesley Barresi, 4. Bas de Leede, 5. Colin Ackermann, 6. Scott Edwards (c & wk), 7. Roelof van der Merwe/Teja Nidamanuru, 8. Logan van Beek, 9. Aryan Dutt, 10. Shariz Ahmad, 11. Paul van Meekeren.
PAK vs NED Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Tips
Pakistan:
Imam-ul-Haq has been among the consistent run-scorers for Pakistan in this format. He has 448 runs at an average of 40.72 and struck at 78.73 in the ODIs this year. The southpaw also has five half-centuries.
Babar Azam doesn’t need any validation. He has 222 runs at an average of 74 and a strike rate of 80.72 in three ODI innings against the Netherlands. The Pakistan skipper has also amassed a half-century in each ODI innings against the Men in Orange.
Mohammad Rizwan scores runs for Pakistan consistently, irrespective of the format. He made a fine century against New Zealand in the warm-up fixture at the same venue. Expect another substantial knock from the experienced campaigner.
Shabad Khan has struggled with his form lately but is a skilled player. He will contribute with both bat and ball. Shadab can cause severe damage against an inexperienced Netherlands unit.
Shaheen Afridi is a monster with the new ball. He provides breakthroughs for fun. Shaheen has 24 wickets at 22.04 runs apiece in the ODIs this year.
Haris Rauf might be too hot to handle for the Netherlands. He is an enforcer in the middle overs for Pakistan, who cranks it up while bowling those shorter lengths. Haris has six wickets at 13.83 runs apiece in two ODIs against the Netherlands.
Netherlands:
Vikramjit Singh has 116 runs at an average of 38.66 and a strike rate of 62.36 in three ODI innings against Pakistan. This includes two fifties. Vikramjit can also bowl a bit if required.
Crucial player Bas de Leede has 110 runs at an average of 36.66 and a strike rate of 67.90 in three ODIs against Pakistan. He also has five wickets at an average of 24 in three ODI innings against them.
Colin Ackermann looked in fine touch in the warm-up games. He is a skilled player who can contribute with both bat and ball. Such players provide real value to fantasy teams.
Roelof van der Merwe is a shrewd operator with the ball. He bowls on the tight areas to stifle and dismiss the batters. Merwe is also a handy lower-order batter who can chip in with useful runs.
Logan van Beek has 12 wickets at an average of 30.16 and a strike rate of 36.16 in eight ODI innings this year. Logan is among the experienced bowlers for the Netherlands and will have to keep the Pakistani batters in check.
Other Stats and Facts
Head-to-head in ODIs: Played 6, Pakistan 6, Netherlands 0.
Mohammad Rizwan at No. 4 in ODIs: 1060 runs, avg. 44.16, SR 89.67 & two centuries.
Bas de Leede in ODIs in 2023: 285 runs, avg. 47.50, SR 101.06 & one century.
Haris Rauf in the middle overs in ODIs this year: 12 wickets, avg. 23.75, SR 25.66, econ. 5.55.
Babar Azam vs Aryan Dutt in ODIs: 37 balls, 24 runs, two dismissals. Watch out for this battle.
Imam-ul-Haq needs 24 more to complete 3,000 ODI runs.
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad, Pitch Report and Weather
The average first innings score in Hyderabad has been 288, with the teams batting first winning four of the seven games here. There will be some assistance for the spinners in the middle overs in both innings.
A temperature of around 31°C, with little chance of rain, is forecasted during the match hours.
World Cup 2023 Match 2: PAK vs NED Dream11 Picks
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 NED Dream11 Prediction – Ideal team combination: 1-3-3-4
Option 1:
Option 2:
World Cup 2023 Match 2: PAK vs NED Match Prediction – Who will win?
Pakistan look good enough to dominate the contest, but cricket is a funny game. The Netherlands are not that easy to lose without a fight, and Pakistan have been handed a few shocking defeats in the global events. But quality-wise, Pakistan are a formidable unit and will go as favourites in the game.
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: Chepauk Chennai weather forecast for IND vs AUS World Cup match | What is the Chennai weather for IND vs AUS?
The weather in India is in the spotlight after rain had a significant say in the warm-up matches. In fact, India had both their warm-up games abandoned without a ball bowled in Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram respectively.
So, what does Chennai have in store for the big India-Australia clash? Very hot conditions in the city has led to thunderstorms and heavy rain over the past week, but conditions look promising for Sunday.
What will the Chennai weather be for the India-Australia match?
Chepauk has organised for four new super-soppers to deal with any rain throughout the World Cup. Hopefully, they won’t be needed for the big showdown between two of the leading contenders for the 2023 title.
AccuWeather predicts mostly sunny conditions from Wednesday onwards in Chennai. Humidity will certainly test the players, with the RealFeel temperature expected to cross 40 degrees every day, including Sunday. As a result, dew is a possibility, which may tempt the captain who wins the toss to bowl.
However, fielding first in such conditions is a huge challenge.
What can we expect from the Chepauk pitch?
Chepauk typically suits the spinners as we see in the Indian Premier League (IPL). India and Australia met in an ODI back in March, where the Australians defended 269 thanks mainly to Adam Zampa’s excellent 4/45. In fact, spinners shared 11 of the 20 wickets to fall that day.
The average first innings in the last four ODIs at Chepauk is a solid 284. The team batting first won three of these matches.
Given Australia will field Adam Zampa and Glenn Maxwell as their key spinners, expect India to look to put pressure on these two to force Pat Cummins to look elsewhere for control. Also, the revival of Kuldeep Yadav, as well as the possible return of R Ashwin to his beloved Chepauk, gives Australia a big challenge to overcome.
Speaking exclusively to Online Cricket Betting, South Africa legend Lance Klusener, who had a magnificent tournament in 1999, doubts the Proteas will make it to the semi finals. He doesn’t think they will consistently score enough runs in the competition.
Also, he believes all-rounders are the glue in any cricket team and the nation doesn’t have enough of them. Ben Stokes looks good in any cricket set-up but thinks the knee injury is just for show.
Lance Klusener interview ahead of the 2023 World Cup
The Proteas won’t make it to the semi finals, Australia could be there though
LK: “I’m not sure if South Africa will get out of the group stages. I think if they get to the semi finals, they will have needed to have consistently scored enough runs in the competition. That is the challenge for them. I’m not too sure they’ll reach the semi finals.
“I think Australia will be there in the semi finals and maybe finals but I’m not so sure that South Africa will go as far as the semi finals but let’s see and let’s hope so.”
Lance Klusener is not sure South Africa will qualify to the semi finals.
Could we see another 1999 style finish?
LK: “Can’t really give you anything too definitive after ‘99. But yes, of course, there’s always upsets, and that’s why we all play the game and play sports. But yes, absolutely something along those lines can happen.”
There’s no unfinished business between Australia and South Africa
LK: “In terms of the South Africa and Australia series, I think the conditions are totally different. Players were rested, rotated, certainly from an Australian point of view so it’s difficult to draw any certain conclusions from. But Australia are a proper good force in World Cups. It’ll be interesting to see.”
I don’t think you can stop Heinrich Klaasen, just like Ben Stokes
LK: “How do you stop him [Heinrich Klaasen]? I think he’s one of those batsmen that needs to fire for South Africa to get out of those group stages. Like Ben Stokes, he’s vulnerable early. If there’s some decent fast bowling at him early on, there’s always an opportunity and it always gives you an opportunity during the course of his innings. Two very good batsmen. Lets see with them.
“Ben Stokes is a proper good player but there’s ten other guys in that England team that are pretty decent so I don’t think there’s any real reason to be too concerned about one player. Scoring runs consistently in a place like India and the team that can do that will go deep into the competition.”
Lance Klusener believes Heinrich Klaasen will be vital for the Proteas.
There’s some good match ups between England and South Africa
LK: “I think it’s more than that. Can South Africa as a group consistently score an excess of 300 consistently in the competition against good teams? But a couple of good match ups there, Shamsi and Rashid, but I think a guy like Mark Wood on his day is going to be a handful especially with Rabada being a little bit off his best. But Buttler and Miller, Klassen and Stokes just as a batting group, whichever group shines on the day will be the one to get through it and win.
After the SA series, AUS still favourites
LK: “It’s all guess work. Never discount your Sri Lanka’s, your Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, those subcontinent teams doing well and creating upsets in those Indian conditions.
“Australia have a good chance just like anyone, not forgetting New Zealand as well. Lots of teams there can cause an upset, lots of teams on South Africa’s plate can cause an upset.
“In terms of batting, I’m not so sure South Africa can be consistent enough, some questions still need to be answered there.
“And I think India is a pretty solid team.”
Australia need to look at their bowling options
LK: “If there’s no spinner for Australia, no quality spinner, are you better off choosing a fast bowler. They might be lacking one quality spinner but they’ve proved in South Africa they’ve got more than enough weapons in terms of slower bowling and full pace when it comes to doing what they need to do in the World Cup.”
Adam Zampa will be key for Australia.
South Africa might shock us all and go all the way
LK: “South Africa seem to never get over the line in big competitions due to bad luck, or down to rain, or bad running or whatever reason, but I’m sure at some point they will. Maybe this year when no one really, certainly not me, is giving them much of a chance, maybe they’ll surprise us all, which would be fantastic!”
No West Indies is weird
LK: “It’s a little bit weird not having the West Indies there. They’re going through a transition at the moment, failing to qualify in Zimbabwe. Bit of a shame, it’s always nice to have them in any World Cup.”
Joe Root might shine or might not
LK: “It’s hard to say what Joe Root’s form will be like in this World Cup. He’s a quality player, someone who’s performed around the world, he’s got a good as chance as anyone to get runs.”
Can the Proteas’ all-rounders step up?
LK: “In terms of all-rounders from South Africa, I think Marco Jansen is someone that’s going to be fantastic. I’m sure Keshav Maharaj could do pretty much what Nicky Boje could do for us. We’ve had some good all-rounders for us in the past and even before my time, in terms of Adrian Kuiper, Brian McMillan, Clive Rice.
“I think it goes in cycles really, nothing at the moment to write home about but Marco Jansen is going to grow and get better. I think a guy like Aiden Markram as well, let’s not forget him. But I think it does help, I think your all-rounders are like your glue, they seem to help with your balance so they might be missing an all-rounder or two but it is what it is.”
Can Aiden Markram have a big tournament?
Who knows where 50-over cricket might beafter this World Cup
LK: “It’s hard to say what will happen in 50-over cricket, but it is the benchmark of white ball cricket so hopefully it doesn’t come under pressure but we’ve all seen the love and support that T20 gets. Let’s see what happens.”
Virat Kohli isn’t done yet
LK: “Virat Kohli, retirement? Probably not. He’s absolutely quality. He’ll be playing in his home conditions. He’ll probably be the leading run scorer if India go all the way.”
Stokes’ knee is just for show
LK: “Always looks like he’s carrying an injury. Never misses a game. I don’t know what to make of it. Someone with a hunger for the game. Always nice to see him in any set up, the extent of his knee injury; looks more for show than really anything. I haven’t seen him miss anything because of it. I think if it was a concern, they’d probably ask him to stop playing Test cricket and preserve him in some sort of way.”
Cricket News: Australia fans rejoice at Michael Vaughan’s World Cup prediction | Michael Vaughan sets his prediction for the 2023 WC
Former England captain Michael Vaughan has predicted India, England, Pakistan and South Africa will qualify for the semi finals of the 2023 Cricket World Cup.
“Can’t wait for the World Cup to start this week .. My 4 semi finalists will be … England, South Africa, India and Pakistan,” tweeted Vaughan.
The prediction created quite the stir on social media, with his omission of five-time champions Australia in the spotlight. However, rather than criticise Vaughan for leaving Pat Cummins’ team out, many celebrated given Vaughan’s history of jinxing teams on social media.
With Australia’s joy comes concern from other fans. India fans, among others, have sarcastically (or not) congratulated Australia on their sixth World Cup title.
Australia’s World Cup campaign will begin with a blockbuster against India at Chennai on October 8. Before then, England will take on New Zealand in the tournament opener, followed by Netherlands vs Pakistan on October 6 and Afghanistan vs Bangladesh and South Africa vs Sri Lanka on October 7.
ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – World Cup 2023 Match 1 | ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | Ahmedabad Pitch Report
Here we go. Cricket’s biggest carnival is all set to get underway, with the finalists of the 2019 World Cup to lock horns in the first game. England and New Zealand will face each other in the world’s largest ground, Narendra Modi Stadium, in Ahmedabad on Thursday (October 5), in what promises to be a blockbuster clash.
England are one of the tournament’s favourites, with plenty of quality players in their ranks. From top to bottom, they have an explosive batting lineup that can hit the big shots straightaway. Their bowling will also be bolstered by including Mark Wood and young sensation Gus Atkinson. Also, the likes of Chris Woakes and Sam Curran also have vast experience playing on Indian soil.
Meanwhile, New Zealand will also hope to continue their good work in ICC tournaments. While Kane Williamson will miss the opening game, the Kiwis still have a solid batting unit, with most being quality players of spin. The return of Trent Boult boosts the bowling lineup significantly, but the Black Caps would be concerned with the fitness of Tim Southee, who dislocated his thumb last month.
One thing is guaranteed – entertainment. Be prepared for some exhilarating action for a month and a half, and maybe some heartbreaks as well. A good start will be key for both these contenders.
World Cup 2023 Match 1: ENG vs NZ Possible Playing XIs
England will have to make some tough calls given the quality of their squad. Dawid Malan will open the innings. However, Ben Stokes reportedly could miss this match.
Liam Livingstone has been terrific in ODIs this year. He has 186 runs at an average of 62 and a strike rate of 110.05 in four ODI innings in 2023. Livingstone’s spin bowling will also be handy throughout this World Cup.
England: 1. Jonny Bairstow, 2. Dawid Malan, 3. Joe Root, 4. Ben Stokes/Harry Brook, 5. Jos Buttler (c & wk), 6. Liam Livingstone, 7. Moeen Ali, 8. Chris Woakes, 9. Adil Rashid, 10. Mark Wood, 11. Gus Atkinson/Reece Topley.
Kane Williamson will miss the first game. Tom Latham will lead in his absence. Tim Southee is also unavailable due to his thumb injury.
New Zealand: 1. Devon Conway, 2. Will Young, 3. Mark Chapman, 4. Daryl Mitchell, 5. Tom Latham (c & wk), 6. Glenn Phillips, 7. Jimmy Neesham, 8. Mitchell Santner, 9. Matt Henry, 10. Trent Boult, 11. Lockie Ferguson.
ENG vs NZ World Cup 2023 Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Tips
England:
Jonny Bairstow has 546 runs at an average of 54.60 and a strike rate of 110.08 in 11 ODI innings against New Zealand. He has amassed a fifty and three centuries against them.
Joe Root has 971 runs at an average of 46.23 and a strike rate of 88.83 in 25 ODI innings against New Zealand. He has hit three fifties and five centuries against them. Despite poor recent form, Root is a fine player of spin and will have to keep the innings stable.
Ben Stokes recently smashed a memorable 182 against New Zealand. Overall against the Black Caps, Stokes has smashed 661 runs at an average of 55.08 and strike rate of 97.92.
Jos Buttler is among the best white-ball batters in world cricket. He has 738 runs at an average of 41 and a strike rate of 127.24 in 21 ODI innings against New Zealand. The English skipper has hit four half-centuries and a century against them.
Adil Rashid has 18 wickets at an average of 41.22 in 14 ODI innings against New Zealand. He has experience bowling in Indian conditions and will have the onus of leading the spin department.
Mark Wood has all the ingredients to be successful in Ahmedabad. He has pace and generates ample bounce in the middle overs. Wood will act as an enforcer for England in this World Cup.
New Zealand:
Devon Conway has 141 runs at an average of 47 and a strike rate of 80.57 in four ODI innings against England. The southpaw has also amassed a century against them. Conway will have to weave long innings, as he can play an all-round game against the slow bowlers.
Daryl Mitchell is among the best Kiwi batters in this World Cup. He has 652 runs at an average of 43.46 and a strike rate of 92.61 in 16 ODI innings this year. This includes a half-century and three centuries.
Tom Latham is among the finest players of spin in the ODI format. He has 321 runs at an average of 32.10 and a strike rate of 83.59 in 10 ODI innings against England. This includes three fifties.
Mitchell Santner can stifle the batters with his immaculate lines and lengths. He will be a giant in this World Cup and will look to make a significant impact in the tournament. Santner can also score a few runs consistently.
Santner has good numbers against Ben Stokes (67 balls, 62 runs, two dismissals) and a decent matchup against Joe Root (142 balls, 127 runs, three dismissals).
Trent Boult has 27 wickets at an average of 26.85 and a strike rate of 28.70 in 14 ODI innings against England. He is known for his threatening bowling in the powerplay, as he can move the new ball at will.
Boult has dismissed Jonny Bairstow four times in 112 balls in ODIs (81 runs). He also has a good record against Joe Root (104 balls, 90 runs, five dismissals).
Other Stats and Facts
Head-to-head in the ODIs: Played 95, England 45, New Zealand 44, Tied 2, NR 4.
Jos Buttler has struggled in ODIs in India. In seven innings, he has scored just 83 runs off 94 balls at an average of 11.85.
Tom Latham has excellent numbers in ODIs in India: 11 inns, 475 runs, avg. 52.77, SR 85.89.
Jonny Bairstow vs left-arm pacers in ODIs since 2021: 22 runs, 32 balls & three dismissals.
Trent Boult needs three more scalps to complete 200 ODI wickets.
Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, Pitch Report and Weather
A good batting track with some extra bounce will be on offer in the maiden game of the World Cup 2023 in Ahmedabad. The pacers can have a major say in the bowling department. A total of around 280 can be a fighting one.
The temperature will rise to 33°C during the match hours with clear skies.
ENG vs NZ World Cup 2023 Dream11 Picks
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 NZ Dream11 Prediction – Ideal team combination: 3-3-2-3
Option 1:
Option 2:
World Cup 2023 Match 1: ENG vs NZ Match Prediction – Who will win?
Both teams have a quality squad and are expected to put some quality cricket in the tournament opener. However, England are slightly stronger and might start the tournament on a winning note.
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: Former Netherlands cricketer Tim de Leede shares lovely story on Sachin Tendulkar | Sachin Tendulkar 2003 World Cup story
Former Netherlands cricketer Tim de Leede, father of star all-rounder Bas de Leede, has shared a lovely story on cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar.
Speaking to BBC, de Leede recalled the 2003 World Cup match against India, where he finished man of the match with 4/35. This included the dismissal of Tendulkar, who went on to score the most runs in that tournament with 673.
However, the joy didn’t end there for de Leede. Not only did he receive the match ball, but he was able to get a special signature years later.
Tim de Leede recalls lovely Sachin Tendulkar moment
“I took four wickets against India in the 2003 World Cup. Umpire Peter Willey gave the ball to me as a momento,” de Leede recalled. “I wanted Sachin to sign it, but by the time I’d done media duties, the India team had left.
“Some years later, Tendulkar was in the Netherlands getting some treatment on an elbow injury and a physio friend tipped me off. He was gracious, remembered the game and kindly signed it for me.”
In the 2003 meeting at Paarl, de Leede led an inspired bowling display. The Dutch knocked over a class Indian batting lineup that included Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid and Yuvraj Singh for just 204 in 48.5 overs.
The Indian attack was too strong in the second-half of that match, dismissing the Netherlands for 136 despite Daan van Bunge’s 62. Javagal Srinath (4/30) and Anil Kumble (4/32) took eight of the ten wickets.
“Some years later, Tendulkar was in the Netherlands getting some treatment on an elbow injury and a physio friend tipped me off. He was gracious, remembered the game and kindly signed it for me.”
Tim de Leede on Sachin Tendulkar
Fast forward to 2023, and the two teams will meet for just the third time in ODI cricket. They will clash at Bengaluru in the final match of the league stage on 12 November.
The Netherlands pulled off a remarkable effort in the Qualifier tournament in Zimbabwe earlier this year, where they managed to seal their passage to the World Cup despite missing a host of key players. Tim’s son, Bas, produced one of the all-time great performances, taking 5/52 and scoring a 93-ball 123 to enable the Dutch to qualify after a classic against Scotland.
Cricket News: “Suryakumar hasn’t done anything big yet in ODI cricket”- Virender Sehwag | Sehwag shares thoughts on India middle order
Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag does not see dynamic hitter Suryakumar Yadav featuring in the first choice XI in the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
Speaking to CricBuzz Live following the end of the third ODI between India and Australia, Sehwag said that the T20 specialist had not done anything of note to warrant an automatic place in the first XI for the World Cup.
Yadav redeemed himself in the recent series against Australia by smashing a couple of half-centuries, including a whirlwind 37-ball 72 in the second ODI at Indore.
But, his issues as an ODI batter again came to the fore in the final match in Rajkot as he struggled to come to terms with the slowness of the surface and arrest the collapse.
”He only bats in those final 15-20 overs”- Virender Sehwag on Suryakumar Yadav
With Shreyas Iyer smashing a hundred in the second ODI, the former opener said that he has confirmed his place at the number four spot, and with KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya set to bat at five and six respectively, Sehwag does not see how SKY can sneak into the XI
Though he acknowledged Surya’s game-changing ability with the bat in the final 15 overs, he also asserted that the likes of KL or Hardik can also nail that role, but the reverse cannot be said about Suryakumar Yadav.
Here’s what Virender Sehwag said:
“Suryakumar hasn’t done anything big yet in ODI cricket. He only bats in those final 15-20 overs where he utilises his T20 abilities which undoubtedly is important as well. But Hardik, Ishan and Rahul can all do that same job as well. So Iyer is confirmed for No. 4. Suraykumar will have to wait and if he does get a chance at No. 4 he has to score a big hundred and show that he can also score a ton as well,” he told CricBuzz Live.
“At No. 6 and 7 KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya will be there. So Suryakumar won’t be there at either of those positions. There is No. 5 though. But if Hardik Pandya is your sixth bowler then Rahul will bat at No. 5, and Hardik at No. 6, then comes the bowlers. We thought Ishan Kishan could fit in somewhere in the line-up, but that hundred which Shreyas Iyer scored, if he plays at No. 4 then it will be Iyer, Rahul and Hardik at No. 4, 5 and 6 respectively,” he added.
Surya is set to retain his place in the final 15-member WC squad that the BCCI will announce on Thursday, September 28.
India will play a couple of warm-up games against defending champions England and the Netherlands before opening their campaign against five-time winners Australia in Chennai on October 8.
Cricket News: Is Marnus Labuschagne in Australia’s final World Cup squad? | Australia confirm final World Cup squad
Marnus Labuschagne has been named in Australia’s final World Cup squad. The classy batsman has replaced Ashton Agar, who will miss the tournament due to a troublesome calf injury.
Also, Australia have picked Travis Head. Such has been Head’s impact in ODIs over the past year-and-a-half, the Australian selectors have faith that he can deliver when he eventually returns from his fractured hand injury at around the midway point of the World Cup.
Australia’s final World Cup squad: Marnus Labuschagne selected
Here is Australia’s squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa.
Labuschagne’s excellent run of form since the start of the South Africa series has won him a place. He has scored 421 runs at an average of 60.1 and strike rate of 97.7 in this period.
Indeed, Labuschagne’s form has been a positive in what has been a tricky little period for Australia. Injuries and lack of form hampered Australia in a run of five straight defeats, but the return of Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Starc to fitness is a big boost.
After their welcome win in the third ODI against India, the Australians will play two warm up games – one against Netherlands on Saturday, followed by Pakistan on Tuesday.
Then, it’s all eyes on Chennai on October 8 for the huge showdown against the Indians once again, where Australia will be aiming to make the perfect start in the quest for a sixth ODI World Cup title.
Cricket News: Steve Harmison exclusive interview – Andrew Flintoff, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley and why India are favourites for the WC
Speaking exclusively to Online Cricket Betting, England legend Steve Harmsion says how good it is to see Flintoff back with the England team and that he really is a national treasure, India could still lose the World Cup, despite them playing it in their back garden and how Harry Brook reminds him of Ian Bell in the Ashes.
It’s so good to see Andrew Flintoff back, he’s a national treasure
I was very worried about his crash last year
After Field of Dreams he might go into coaching, who knows, the man loves cricket
The World Cup is India’s to lose, but New Zealand will be a force with Williamson back in the squad
Seeing Jofra Archer and Andrew Flintoff together has been amazing, the World Cup could be cruel
The World Cup could be good for his own rehabilitation
Harry Brook was always going to go to the World Cup but he should never have been named that early
Zak Crawley’s head could be turned by franchise cricket, the ECB need to sort their central contracts out
Eoin Morgan must have struggled playing against Ireland, the man was Irish
India can do what they want really but I quite like it
Steve Harmison exclusive interview: Flintoff, Brook, World Cup and more
It’s so good to see Andrew Flintoff back, he’s a national treasure
SH: “It’s brilliant. I think he loved being back and he said he was a bit overwhelmed with the love and affection he got from everybody. Andrew really is a national treasure. I think he realises how much people all over the world, especially in this country, love him.
“He’s received a lot of messages from overseas from those who were so glad to see him in public again. By all accounts, the England lads loved him – who wouldn’t? Having spent the best part of 15 years in the dressing room with him, I know. The only reason he didn’t go into coaching or commentating was because he was so good at other things. Things which made him a lot more money. You couldn’t get him back into cricket!
“Now, if he decides to do that, I’d love to see it. It’d be great to have him in commentary as he’s very funny, he also has a lot to give in the coaching side due to his knowledge of the game. He says he’s a daft boy from Preston – but he’s definitely not. His understanding of cricket is ridiculous. I think he’d be a very, very good coach – but the TV stuff always paid him more.
It was great to see him back on the field, smiling, and sharing jokes with Joe Root and Ben Stokes. Stokes got a chance to sit with Andrew – and that’s unbelievable. Andrew Flintoff never had the chance to sit with the great Ian Botham, but Stokes and Flintoff having a conversation over a cup of coffee would be great to listen to. What they’ve both had to go through on and off the field is extraordinary, and I’m sure they’ll enjoy each other’s company.”
I was very worried about his [Flintoff] crash last year
SH: “Very. I’m not going to hide it. When I saw some of the pictures, I was upset. I saw him during his rehab and his son and my son played cricket together and Andrew was just starting to come out of the house and back into the world. We all knew the love and affection for him would be there, but it’s easier said than done for someone in his position.
“For me, that was the hardest part – everybody said it would be great to see him in cricket again, but he didn’t want to come out in public. The minute he did, we knew that he really wanted to. It was about his own confidence, and it was great to see him back with a smile on his face. He’s gone through a hell of a lot, he really has. It was a huge ordeal and nobody can understand what somebody goes through inside. Having suffered from mental health issues, I know that people who don’t understand will try to give advice, and that can cause more harm than help.
“Andrew has probably had loads of people wishing him well and asking how he is, but sometimes that’s harmful. Andrew needed his own time, he’s taken it, and now he’s back. It’s brilliant to see. Some of the injuries he had were pretty horrific.”
After Field of Dreams he might go into coaching, who knows, the man loves cricket
SH: “I’m not so sure. I think whilst Rob Key is at the helm, he’ll be pushing Andrew to get involved in anything he possibly can do. Who wouldn’t want Andrew Flintoff in the dressing room? I can’t understate how good he is in a dressing room, from his ability to relax, the ability to say the right thing at a tense time, the ability to realise the moment when someone might need a kick up the backside, and his all-round charisma, which you’ve seen on TV, it’s a package that nobody wouldn’t want.
“It’s up to him. I know he loves cricket and he always has. He’s a larger-than-life character who might clown around sometimes, but his ability to switch on to a serious cricketer was always evident. When he was on the field, he stood up 9 times out of 10. Especially under pressure. We’ll have to see where he goes from a TV point of view. I’m sure there’ll be another series of Field of Dreams because he’s passionate about cricket and helping people – and that was a great help to a lot of people who were less fortunate than those who play cricket for a living. I wouldn’t be surprised to see the show back. I haven’t spoken to him about it, but I think he loved it – especially when two or three of the lads were recognized in the professional game.
“I spoke about Jofra’s baby steps, and I think Andrew’s will need baby steps, too. I think Rob Key will be trying to get him involved wherever he can.”
The World Cup is India’s to lose, but New Zealand will be a force with Williamson back in the squad
SH: “I think England are in a good place. I do, however, fear that we’re not good enough numbers wise. We’re right to be loyal to our players who’ve taken us here, but they’re not getting any younger and I think the World Cup schedule could take its toll on the players. I think we’ve got an excellent 15 but we could have had one or two more good options.
“Brydon Carse could have filled that Liam Plunkett role, sacrificing more of the left arm bowlers in India. However, I think that it’s excellent all-in-all. I’m gutted for Jason Roy because I think he deserves his chance. Dawid Malan has taken his chance, though, and he deserves credit. Three weeks ago, he wasn’t in the squad as far as I’m concerned.
“When you’re picking teams, you have to go with what’s in front of you. Jason Roy’s back was playing up and Malan took his chance. He had to go. Harry Brook had to go as a spare batter as he covers a lot of bases. I think England are in a good place. I still think it’s India’s to lose, but they’re having it in their own back garden and that can put them under pressure. They have made mistakes in big tournaments in the knockout stages. England, along with Pakistan, are up there, and New Zealand will be a force with Kane Williamson back. Australia don’t look as if they’re at it, but we should never rule them out when it comes to World Cups. I think England look quite strong and balanced and out of all of that lot, they have the best chance.
“The bowlers have had a run-out, the batters are in decent form, and I think they can go to India with a decent amount of confidence. The only batter who hasn’t really performed in this New Zealand series is Joe Root, but we’re going to India – and I have no hang-ups about him whatsoever. This guy is the best player in the world and he’s going to be England’s most important player throughout this World Cup. He hasn’t scored any runs, but hopefully, he’s saving them for the big occasion – this World Cup.”
Seeing Jofra Archer and Andrew Flintoff together has been amazing, the World Cup could be cruel
SH: “It was brilliant! He’s been magnificent. To see Jofra bowling, and my big pal Andrew Flintoff was great. I think Jofra is amazing and if we talk about me being a big Harry Brook fan, I’m just as big of a Jofra fan.
“It was great to see him play with no pressure on his shoulders – and that’s not easy. I think it’d be cruel if he played in a World Cup having not played for almost two years. You can see why they’re doing it, though, as he’s so good and you can see the allure of taking him.
I understand his selection, but I think it’s best if he isn’t used. That way, you can work with the correct time frame and schedule. Last time, he was dropped into a franchise tournament and he was gone within a month. Fingers crossed that doesn’t happen again. It’s always a joy to see him bowling. That’s true irrespective of how talented they are – it’s always great to see a bowler back after a long absence. Hopefully, baby steps will be taken to return Jofra into the bowler we all know he can be. If he gets back to that level, what a proposition that is for England going forward!”
The World Cup could be good for his [Archer] own rehabilitation
SH: “I think you’d take him because the medical team is going out to India. If I couldn’t put him in a holding camp in Dubai or Abu Dhabi and get him up to speed, then I’d take him to the World Cup just for his own rehabilitation.
“However, I wouldn’t be taking him out to India to play cricket and play in a World Cup game. I think that’s unfair on the lad. Let’s hope that doesn’t happen and that he goes over to India, bowls his heart out in the nets, and gets back up to speed with the medical team. Fingers crossed that further down the line, we’ll be seeing Jofra playing cricket for England – whether that’s in the Caribbean, in India in a few months’ time, or in the IPL. I don’t care where he plays cricket – I just want to see the boy back.
“As a bowler myself, I find it tough to see him struggling. I know it’s been hard for the lad. I just want to see him playing cricket again. He’s a special talent.”
Harry Brook was always going to go to the World Cup but he should never have been named that early
SH: “It was inevitable. It’s not so much the selection, it’s the early selection at the World Cup which is a complete no-no. It really was. To pick your squad that far out, with games in between, I think the selection is always going to be made easy, but you know that with this New Zealand series, somebody was going to get injured and somebody was going to lose form. I don’t see why you’d pick your squad before then instead of waiting until the series finished. If you had, you would’ve seen Jason Roy’s issues.
“Harry Brook had to go to India. He might not play in the first eleven in the first game, but he will take part in the tournament – he’ll be a force whether it’s at the top or in the middle order. He’s a quality, quality player.
“I always said that, when Brook came in, he’d play forever and be around for a long, long time. You have to find a way to get him in the squad, keep him there, and build it around him because the others will drop off. I knew that Brook would be front and centre at the next World Cup and that he’d be our Joe Root-type figure. For that reason, you had to get him involved. It wasn’t a case of taking a young lad for experience, because he really was one of the best we had.
“When Ian Bell played in the 2005 Ashes, I don’t think there was any question about dropping him even if he didn’t score any runs. The simple fact was, we knew that he would play for a long time. He went on to win five Ashes series.
“For me, Brook is in that mold. I feel sorry for Jason, but I think his race is run. He’s been a great servant and when England have played well and won, Jason always played a big role. I think England will have to change a little bit now as they haven’t got that 40 off 25 balls, which doesn’t sound like a big score, but it does set the tone and the impetus of the innings and gets the powerplay going. It gets your clutch players a chance to come in and give themselves a bit more time. That’s not there for England now, as they don’t have anyone in the top of the order. They’ll have to change a little bit, but I still think it’s a good squad.”
Zak Crawley’s head could be turned by franchise cricket, the ECB need to sort their central contracts out
SH: “I think it’s very hard to say that somebody’s going to win 50 or 100 caps. You identify players you think will get that far – players like Harry, Zak, and Ollie Pope – these players who you feel if they fit and their form is good, they can play for England for a long time.
“Zak is definitely one of them due to the way England play and the way they feel about him. If he does well, then franchise tournaments will be knocking on his door. England need to get these contracts right this time, or try and get a settlement which is a compromise to get them to the next stage. It’s going to be intriguing to see. I’m sure England will try to build their Ashes cycle around Zak, Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, Mark Wood, and Jofra Archer, and try to keep the franchise tournaments at bay by giving England players the right amount of money.
“England don’t need to try and control them, but they need to have the final say on where their next destination is. I think that’s important.”
Eoin Morgan must have struggled playing against Ireland, the man was Irish
SH: “I bet it was difficult as Eoin was Irish. A lot of Irish people have come over when they’re 5 or 6, but Morgan was Irish through and through. One of the greatest men I ever met was Jack Charlton, who was an English manager of the Irish football team, and he’d always look for English players who had a distant connection with Ireland through their grandparents.
“That wasn’t Eoin’s situation though, as he is a fully-fledged Irishman and that would’ve pulled on heartstrings – especially when he played against them when they were very successful against England.
“He’s a professional, though, and he was England captain. Once you cross that white line, it doesn’t matter who you’re playing against. The stumps don’t move and the ball stays the same whether you’re facing Ireland or Australia. You play the game accordingly, and that was probably what Eoin was thinking when he was facing Ireland. What happened before or after the game is one thing, but during it, it’s about 22 guys facing each other. What Ireland gave to him was amazing, and you celebrate afterward.”
India can do what they want really but I quite like it
SH: “I’m not so sure why India aren’t opening the tournament, but I like how they’ve done it. It is giving England and New Zealand respect for being the finalists four years ago. I don’t see any issue with that. I know the hosts tend to play the opener, but India can do what they’re most comfortable with as they’re controlling it.”
Cricket News: Why Tamim Iqbal was left out of Bangladesh’s World Cup squad | BCB call for emergency meeting
If there is anything we are never short of in Bangladesh cricket, it has to be the countless sparkling stories that happen off the field. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) faced quite a turn of events on the eve of the ICC’s deadline to announce the World Cup squad, with Tamim Iqbal at the heart of it all.
Till Monday morning, the only known reason for the delay in announcing the squad was that the board were deciding on the backup opener and number seven position in the side.
However, then came additional drama. A few renowned local media outlets in Bangladesh reported that Tamim Iqbal informed the BCB he won’t be able to play all the matches in the World Cup as he is still feeling pain due to his earlier injury.
The story behind why Tamim Iqbal was left out of Bangladesh’s World Cup Squad
Bangladesh’s 2023 World Cup squad: Shakib Al Hasan (c), Tanzid Tamim, Litton Das, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nasum Ahmed, Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib
According to reports, Tamim didn’t mention which matches he intended to play, but only stated that if the team management wants to take him to the World Cup, they have to accept that they are taking a half-fit player. In the end, the BCB made the call to exclude him from the squad.
The revelation shocked the BCB and team management, who faced a dilemma at the last hour before announcing the squad. It forced BCB President Nazmul Hossain Papon to call an emergency meeting on Monday night with Bangladesh’s ODI captain Shakib Al Hasan and head coach Chandika Hathurusingha at his residence.
Earlier, it was also reported that Tamim was present in that meeting. However, it was a misunderstanding from the media as Shakib and Tamim were not present together at the BCB President’s residence.
The meeting didn’t last for more than half an hour. Neither Nazmul nor Shakib addressed the media afterwards.
Shakib to lead Bangladesh, despite rumours he was to stand down from the captaincy
This story is almost like a soap opera filled with new twists and turns almost every hour. According to a report, a BCB official, who refused to reveal his name, told The Daily Star that Shakib wanted to step down as captain because he was against taking a half-fit cricketer in the World Cup squad.
Given that Tamim has been excluded, we perhaps may not know whether those rumours were indeed true. However, according to Cricfrenzy, Nafees Iqbal, Tamim’s elder brother, has been removed as Team Manager and will not be travelling to India for the World Cup.
As per Shakib Al Hasan's requirement, Nafees Iqbal has been removed as Team Manager and he won't be travelling to India for the World Cup. [Cricfrenzy] pic.twitter.com/2Pi4mqpexD
The whole episode has the potential to be quite the distraction for a Bangladesh side that needs to pick up its game after disappointing performances in recent times.
Otherwise, a disappointing World Cup campaign awaits.
