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Travis Head fractures hand; in doubt for World Cup

Cricket News: Travis Head fractures hand; in doubt for World Cup | Travis Head suffers fractured hand in South Africa ODI

Australia all-rounder Travis Head has suffered a fractured hand, putting his participation in the upcoming World Cup in doubt. Head suffered the injury during the seventh over of Australia’s mammoth and unsuccessful run chase off 417, where he was struck on the left glove by a delivery from Gerald Coetzee.

After receiving medical attention, the left-hander went on to face another three deliveries before walking off the field in visible pain and discomfort.

Australia coach Andrew McDonald confirms Travis Head has a fractured hand

Speaking to the media post-match, coach Andrew McDonald confirmed the news. He said there is a fracture, but Head will be assessed with further scans on Saturday.

“At this stage, it‘s a confirmed fracture and how long that time frame is, we’re yet to determine that, so fingers crossed clearly with the World Cup fast approaching,” McDonald said.

“I‘m not a medical person, but I think it’s a little bit higher up than the actual (index) finger itself. But I don’t know the actual terminology. It’s in a joint somewhere, so I won’t go into the medical specifics.

“A confirmed fracture and to be assessed again tomorrow with another scan.”

Travis Head has been excellent for Australia over the past couple of years. Since the start of 2022, Head has struck 791 runs at an average of 60.8 and strike rate 119.8 in ODIs.

His injury is another worry for Australia ahead of the World Cup. He joins Glenn Maxwell (ankle), Cameron Green (concussion), Pat Cummins (shoulder), Steve Smith (wrist), Mitchell Starc (groin) and Ashton Agar (soreness) on the injury list. If Head is indeed ruled out, Mitchell Marsh will likely move to opener, with Marnus Labuschagne to be drafted into the squad.

In some better news, Steve Smith recently shared a positive update and Cameron Green is expected to be available for the fifth ODI.

“He‘s [Cameron Green] been cleared by the medical team,” McDonald said.

”So he’s just working away getting prepared. Hopefully, he’s available for game five. That’s the plan at this stage. We’ll be able to have some training tomorrow, assess that and there will be some forced changes and we’ll have some guys potentially a little bit sore. We’ll have to manage those guys as well.”

The fifth and final ODI against South Africa will be at Johannesburg on Sunday. Australia, who led 2-0, will be aiming to bounce back and seal the series after copping an Heinrich Klaasen-led 164-run battering at Centurion on Friday.

Jay Shah upset? Hilarious reactions to no IND-PAK Final

Cricket News: Jay Shah upset? Hilarious reactions to no IND-PAK Final | Fans react to no India-Pakistan final in Asia Cup

Yet again, there will be no India-Pakistan final in an Asia Cup tournament. Sri Lanka pulled off an excellent victory over Pakistan in the early hours of Friday in front of a raucous Colombo crowd, sending them into their second-straight Asia Cup final in the process.

It was a disappointing result for Babar Azam’s team, who leave the Asia Cup with form and injury concerns to key players including Naseem Shah.

But, Naseem is not the only Shah having a bit of a tough day. Or so fans think. Spare a thought also for Jay Shah, whose desire for three India-Pakistan matches to satisfy the broadcasters did not come to fruition once again. Earlier in the tournament, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) set a reserve day only for the India-Pakistan Super Four clash, with the organisation avoiding disappointment from the broadcasters as a result was achieved on the second day.

However, that move left a sour taste in the mouth. Fans were quick to react on Twitter (or X), and below are some of the best.

Sri Lanka will host India in the 2023 Asia Cup Final on Sunday. India will be gunning for their eighth title, with the Lions are aiming for their seventh, which would be two straight after winning the 2022 edition.

Naseem Shah may miss start of World Cup

Cricket News: Naseem Shah may miss start of World Cup | Babar Azam says Naseem Shah may miss early games of World Cup

Pakistan captain Babar Azam has hinted that pace bowler Naseem Shah may miss the early stages of the World Cup due to a shoulder injury he sustained against India. Speaking to the media following his team’s disappointing exit from the Asia Cup, Babar said Haris Rauf’s injury isn’t bad, but mentioned “later on” when speaking about Naseem.

“I’ll tell you later,” Babar said when asked about backup pace bowling options. “Not telling you our Plan B now. But yes, Haris Rauf is not bad. He’s just got a little bit of a side strain, but he’s recovering before the World Cup,” the captain said.

“Naseem Shah also… they will miss a couple of matches. I don’t know [how long] the recovery [is], but in my opinion, Naseem Shah also [will be] in the World Cup later on. But let’s see.”

Injury to Naseem Shah highlights Pakistan’s difficult finish to Asia Cup

Having entered the tournament as arguably the most settled team, Pakistan faltered away to miss the final. They fought hard to put themselves in a winning position against Sri Lanka, but fell short off the final delivery in a classic match.

Naseem Shah’s services would have been handy. He has been excellent across formats for Pakistan this year, with his accuracy a key feature of his bowling.

However, Naseem will need to be managed carefully given his injury history. He missed 14 months of action as a 17-year old due to a back injury. Six weeks following his return, he suffered a shoulder injury playing in county cricket

In ODIs in 2023, Naseem has picked up 22 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 19.6 and economy of 4.80. With question marks around Pakistan’s pace-bowling depth outside of their three main fast bowlers, the Pakistanis will be hoping the 20-year old will be fit in time for their World Cup opener against Netherlands on October 6.

SA vs AUS 4th ODI Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

SA vs AUS 4th ODI Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | SA vs AUS 4th ODI Dream11 Prediction Today | Centurion Pitch Report

Australia, who took a 2-0 series lead, suffered quite the setback in Potchefstroom. The heavy defeat could give South Africa great confidence, with the Proteas looking to build on momentum ahead of the World Cup.

Spinners Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj combined beautifully to further cast doubts over how well Australia start against spin in ODIs. After the initial David Warner onslaught, the South Africans settled in nicely after a big batting performance, where runs for Aiden Markram was welcome news for both he and all associated with the Proteas.

Now the series moves to Centurion. The last two matches have been one-sided either way. The team who has thrown the first punches have gone on to win well, so a good start in this clash could prove crucial to the result.

SA vs AUS 4th ODI Possible Playing XIs

South Africa could pick Wayne Parnell. He has an outstanding record at Centurion, with 23 wickets in nine innings at an average of 17.60.

South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Temba Bavuma (c), 3. Reeza Hendricks, 4. Aiden Markram, 5. David Miller, 6. Heinrich Klaasen, 7. Marco Jansen/Wayne Parnell, 8. Sisanda Magala/Kagiso Rabada, 9. Gerald Coetzee/Lungi Ngidi, 10. Keshav Maharaj, 11. Tabraiz Shamsi

Ashton Agar has returned to Australia due to the birth of his child.

Australia: 1. David Warner, 2. Travis Head, 3. Mitchell Marsh (c), 4. Marnus Labuschagne, 5. Marcus Stoinis, 6. Alex Carey (wk), 7. Tim David/Josh Inglis, 8. Michael Neser/Sean Abbott, 9. Nathan Ellis, 10. Adam Zampa, 11. Josh Hazlewood

SA vs AUS 4th ODI Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Tips

South Africa:

  • Quinton de Kock is finding form. He has struck 46 and 82 in his past two matches. Also, he loves batting at Centurion, where he has scored 721 runs at an average of 65.54 and strike rate of 114.44.
  • Temba Bavuma continues to impress in ODIs. This year, the Proteas captain has struck five 50+ scores in nine innings, totalling 637 runs at an average of 91.0 and strike rate of 104.4.
  • Aiden Markram is coming off an excellent ton. That was his first 50+ score against Australia in ODIs. However, Markram will be looking to overcome a poor record at Centurion: 5 inns, 69 runs, avg. 13.80.
  • Keshav Maharaj has taken six wickets in four ODI matches at Centurion. He averages 23.83 with a strike rate of 28.
  • If picked, Kagiso Rabada will be key in breaking Australia’s dangerous opening stand. He has dismissed Travis Head three times in 38 balls in ODIs (42 runs).
  • Tabraiz Shamsi is the leading wicket-taker this series (6). He is averaging 15 with a strike rate of 17.

Australia:

  • David Warner has smashed 184 runs in the passt two ODIs at a strike rate of over 120. He has an outstanding record against Kagiso Rabada in this format: 138 balls, 176 runs, no dismissals.
  • Travis Head is striking at 153.40 in this series. Overall in ODIs since the start of 2022, Head has scored 774 runs at an average of 59.5 and strike rate of 119.3.
  • Mitchell Marsh is yet to fire in this series. The captain has struck just 46 runs in three games, but he did look in good touch for his 29 (26) in the third ODI.
  • Marnus Labuschagne is the leading run-scorer in this series (219). Overall in South Africa, Labuschagne has hit 368 ODI runs at an average of 73.60 and strike rate of 100.
  • Adam Zampa took five wickets in the first two ODIs in this series. Since the start of 2022, Zampa has taken 39 wickets in 17 ODIs at an average of 18.1 and economy of 4.95.
  • Josh Hazlewood is yet to dismiss Quinton de Kock this series (45 balls, 30 runs). But, overall in ODIs, Hazlewood has dismissed de Kock six times for 87 runs in 133 balls.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: South Africa 52, Australia 50, tied 3, N/R 1.
  • Kagiso Rabada has historically struggled in ODIs at Centurion. He has taken 11 wickets at an average of 45.54 and economy of 5.65.
  • David Warner’s career ODI record vs South Africa: 26 matches, 1,191 runs, avg. 45.80, SR 103.11.
  • Marcus Stoinis has scored just 247 ODI runs at an average of 17.6 since the start of 2021.

SuperSport Park Centurion Pitch Report and Weather

A warm and clear day is forecast in Centurion. The average first innings score in the past five matches is 267.6. Teams batting first and second won two matches each, with a no-result as well.

Since the start of 2017 at Centurion, left-arm chinaman bowlers have conceded runs at an average of over 50 at an economy of 5.7. Fast bowlers have the best average in this period (just under 30), with left-arm orthodox boasting the best economy (5.15).

SA vs AUS 4th ODI 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.

SA vs AUS 4th ODI Dream11 Prediction – Ideal team combination: 1-4-3-3

Option 1:

SA vs AUS 4th ODI Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | SA vs AUS 4th ODI Dream11 Prediction Today | Centurion Pitch Report
SA vs AUS 4th ODI 2023 Dream11 Picks

Option 2:

SA vs AUS 4th ODI Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | SA vs AUS 4th ODI Dream11 Prediction Today | Centurion Pitch Report
SA vs AUS 4th ODI 2023 Dream11 Picks

SA vs AUS 4th ODI Match Prediction – Who will win?

South Africa start as favourites. They should win this game against an Australia team missing key players.

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.

IND vs BAN Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – Asia Cup 2023 Match 12

IND vs BAN Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – Asia Cup 2023 Match 12 | IND vs BAN Dream11 Prediction Today | Colombo Pitch Report

In the context of the Asia Cup, this match has no significance. India are in the final and Bangladesh cannot make it. However, there is a World Cup just weeks away, so form and continuity remains important.

This is especially the case for Bangladesh. Their batting has left a lot to be desired in this tournament. They have been bowled out three times in four matches, including twice below 200. Here is an opportunity to finish this competition on a high, with any victory against India always valued by the Bangladesh players and fans.

For India, the pieces of the puzzle are starting to come together. KL Rahul has made a superb return from injury. Kuldeep Yadav has taken us back to 2017 and 2018 where he was outstanding in ODIs. The pace bowlers are averaging just 21 in ODIs this year, and here is an opportunity to perhaps test bench strength.

Asia Cup 2023 Match 12 – IND vs BAN Possible Playing XIs

Shreyas Iyer was back training in the nets. Mohammed Shami could come in for Jasprit Bumrah. Also, India may persist with Axar Patel given the Colombo surface aids spin.

India: 1. Rohit Sharma (c), 2. Shubman Gill, 3. Virat Kohli, 4. Shreyas Iyer/Ishan Kishan, 5. KL Rahul (wk), 6. Hardik Pandya, 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. Shardul Thakur/Axar Patel, 9. Kuldeep Yadav, 10. Mohammed Siraj, 11. Mohammed Shami/Jasprit Bumrah

Bangladesh are depleted. Mushfiqur Rahim is unavailable as his wife recently gave birth to their second child.

Bangladesh: 1. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 2. Tanzid Hasan/Mohammad Naim, 3. Litton Das (wk), 4. Shakib Al Hasan (c), 5. Towhid Hridoy, 6. Afif Hossain, 7. Shamim Hossain, 8. Nasum Ahmed, 9. Taskin Ahmed, 10. Shoriful Islam, 11. Hasan Mahmud

IND vs BAN Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Tips

India:

  • Rohit Sharma is in fine form. The captain has struck three half-centuries in a row. Also, against Bangladesh, Rohit has scored 738 runs at an average of 61.50 and strike rate of 96.34.
  • Virat Kohli has the most runs in BAN-IND ODIs (807) at an average of 67.25 and strike rate of 101.25.
  • Kohli has an outstanding record on this ground: 10 inns, 644 runs, avg. 107.33, SR 98.47.
  • KL Rahul has made a strong return from injury. When batting at number five in all ODIs, Rahul has struck 781 runs at an average of 52.06 and strike rate of 98.73.
  • Rahul has scored 172 runs at an average of 43.00 and strike rate of 86.00 against Bangladesh in ODIs.
  • Kuldeep Yadav is in magnificent form. He has taken nine wickets in his past two matches. Expect him to be a factor once again on a spin-friendly pitch.
  • Jasprit Bumrah has taken ten wickets in four ODIs against Bangladesh at an average of 17.00 and economy of 4.51.

Bangladesh:

  • Shakib Al Hasan has the third-most runs (671) and most wickets (28) in BAN-IND ODIs. The skipper has dismissed Virat Kohli five times for 140 runs off 148 balls in one-day cricket.
  • Mohammad Naim has made three 20+ scores in four matches this tournament. But, his highest score is just 28.
  • Litton Das has a century against India but just 184 runs in his remaining eight innings against them. He is key with a few players out for various reasons.
  • Taskin Ahmed has taken 14 wickets in seven ODIs against India at an average of 21.07. He is also their leading wicket-taker in this Asia Cup with nine.
  • Shoriful Islam is Bangladesh’s second-highest wicket-taker this tournament with seven scalps at an impressive average of 18.71.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: India 31, Bangladesh 7, N/R 1.
  • Ishan Kishan belted 210 against Bangladesh towards the end of 2022.
  • Rohit Sharma has scored 56 off 60 balls against Taskin Ahmed in ODIs (one dismissal).
  • Ravindra Jadeja is one away from 200 ODI wickets.
  • Virat Kohli averages just 13.00 against left-arm fingerspinners in ODIs since the start of 2022. Shakib and Nasum Ahmed will be key for Bangladesh.

R Premadasa Colombo Pitch Report and Weather

Expect spin to play a key factor again. India’s spinners took six of the ten wickets to fall against Sri Lanka. This will be the fifth game on this ground in a week.

There is a possibility of rain at 5-7pm according to AccuWeather’s hourly forecast. Hopefully there should be enough play for a result.

Asia Cup 2023 Match 12 – IND vs BAN 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.

IND vs BAN Dream11 Prediction – Ideal team combination: 1-3-3-4 or 2-2-4-3

Option 1:

IND vs BAN Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report - Asia Cup 2023 Match 12 | IND vs BAN Dream11 Prediction Today | Colombo Pitch Report | IND vs BAN Super Four Dream11 | IND vs BAN Super 4
Asia Cup 2023 Match 12 – IND vs BAN Dream11 Picks

Option 2:

IND vs BAN Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report - Asia Cup 2023 Match 12 | IND vs BAN Dream11 Prediction Today | Colombo Pitch Report | IND vs BAN Super Four Dream11 | IND vs BAN Super 4
Asia Cup 2023 Match 12 – IND vs BAN Dream11 Picks

Asia Cup 2023 Match 12 – IND vs BAN Match Prediction: Who will win?

India 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 Australia makes neck guards compulsory from October 1

Cricket News: Cricket Australia makes neck guards compulsory from October 1 | Australian players must wear neck guards from October 1

Cricket Australia (CA) will make neck guards compulsory for all Australian players – international and domestic – from October 1. Steve Smith, David Warner and Usman Khawaja have been among those who have chosen not to wear the protector, but CA are standing firm in their position.

CA head of cricket operations Peter Roach said that the neck protector has come a long way in recent years. The decision to make them mandatory comes off the back of various discussions with different stakeholders, with player safety at the forefront of the decision-making process.

“Protecting the head and neck is extremely important in our sport,” Roach said. “The neck protector has come a long way in recent years and the decision to make them mandatory comes off the back of a lot of advice and consultation with a wide range of experts and stakeholders.”

Australian players must wear neck guards from October 1, 2023

CA introduced neck guards in 2015 in the aftermath of Phillip Hughes’ tragic death. However, some Australian players – namely Steve Smith and David Warner – have chosen against wearing them for comfort reasons.

“I do not and will not wear them,” Warner wrote in the New South Wales coroner’s inquest into Hughes’ passing. “When I turn my head wearing a StemGuard, it impedes my neck and restricts the movement of my neck when I turn around to face bowlers. I have tried a StemGuard and it digs into my neck. It is uncomfortable and a distraction.”

Smith has had similar views. “I’ve tried them before and I tried them the other day when I was batting [in the nets] and I reckon my heart rate went up about 30 or 40 straight away. I just feel claustrophobic.”

“They’re probably going to become mandatory,” he continued, “so I’m going to have to get used to them. I’m sure the more I wear them, the more I practice with them, my heart rate will come down and everything will be okay.”

And mandatory it has become. Australian players must wear the neck guard against all fast and medium-fast bowling. It does not apply to facing spinners or for wicketkeepers and close-in fielders.

Also, the October 1 date means every player must wear the guard when facing pace in the upcoming World Cup.

Will Steve Smith be fit for the World Cup?

Cricket News: Will Steve Smith be fit for the World Cup? | Steve Smith back batting in the nets ahead of the World Cup

In exciting news for Australia fans, Steve Smith posted footage of his first net session since being sidelined by a wrist injury sustained during the 2023 Ashes series.

Smith, whose ability against spin makes him a vital cog in Australia’s lineup, took to Instagram to share the update from NSW’s Cricket Central facility at Sydney Olympic Park. “A good first hit out today in the nets, finally my wrist is starting to feel good,” he wrote.

“It’s [the wrist] been annoying for a while. I hit them good today so hopefully some positive signs for what’s coming up.”

Steve Smith vital to Australia’s hopes in the upcoming World Cup

While Australia’s defeat in the third ODI against South Africa on September 12 is not cause for panic, it served as a reminder of Smith’s importance. A big question mark around Australia’s credentials is how their middle order in particular starts against spin, which will no doubt come under the microscope in the upcoming World Cup in India.

Australia, who were 140/1 in the 15th over in pursuit of 339 at Potchefstroom, went on to lose 9/87 in less than 20 overs. Spinners Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj took a combined 4/68 off 17 overs.

“Hopefully we learn a lot from it,” said stand-in captain Mitchell Marsh at the post-match presentation. “There’s no doubt we’ll be exposed to those conditions throughout the World Cup and we’ll have to be better. But I think the last 12 to 18 months, it’s our second loss of that period and we have generally played spin really well. It’s an area that we’ve thoroughly improved in. So tonight may be a little slip-up and hopefully we can rectify that in the next game.”

Smith is crucial to Australia’s play against spin. In 11 ODIs in India, Smith has scored 421 runs at an average of 42.10 and strike rate touching 90.

Should he hold the fort, Australia will be a tough beat in the World Cup given the powerful players in the squad. This also enhances the case for Marnus Labuschagne – another technically superior player who could provide some stability to the lineup.

In terms of what’s to come ahead of the World Cup, Australia play two more ODIs in South Africa before three ODIs against India. They will then play Netherlands in a warm-up match on September 30 before meeting Pakistan in their second and final warm-up on October 3.

Australia’s World Cup schedule

  • 8th October: v India, Chennai
  • 12th October: v South Africa, Lucknow
  • 16th October: v Sri Lanka, Lucknow
  • 20th October: v Pakistan, Bengaluru
  • 25th October: v Netherlands, Delhi
  • 28th October: v New Zealand, Dharamsala
  • 4th November: v England, Ahmedabad
  • 7th November: v Afghanistan, Mumbai
  • 11th November: v Bangladesh, Pune

SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – Asia Cup 2023 Match 11

SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – Asia Cup 2023 Match 11 | SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Today | Colombo Pitch Report

There is no official semi-final in the Asia Cup schedule. However, here is effectively a semi-final. Sri Lanka and Pakistan do battle for a shot at meeting India in Sunday’s final.

Pakistan, highly rated heading into this Asia Cup, had the horror to end all horror shows against India. Their 228-run defeat to India was not only a blow to the morale of the team, but some injury worries have emerged to the pace bowlers. Babar Azam’s team now have to pick themselves up quickly for this do-or-die clash in Colombo.

Sri Lanka came into the tournament with their own injury concerns. But, they have fought hard, winning three of their four matches to date and giving India a tough run last time out. The performance of the talented Dunith Wellalage is cause for huge optimism, and the Lions have an opportunity to reach the final where they would have a shot at a second-straight title.

Asia Cup 2023 Match 11 – SL vs PAK Possible Playing XIs

Sri Lanka could stick with the same team that lost to India.

Sri Lanka: 1. Pathum Nissanka, 2. Dimuth Karunaratne, 3. Kusal Mendis (wk), 4. Sadeera Samarawickrama, 5. Charith Asalanka, 6. Dhananjaya de Silva, 7. Dasun Shanaka (c), 8. Dunith Wellalage, 9. Maheesh Theekshana, 10. Kasun Rajitha, 11. Matheesha Pathirana

Pakistan have confirmed their XI.

Pakistan: 1. Mohammad Haris, 2. Imam-ul-Haq, 3. Babar Azam (c), 4. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 5. Saud Shakheel, 6. Iftikhar Ahmed, 7. Shadab Khan, 8. Mohammad Nawaz, 9. Shaheen Shah Afridi, 10. Mohammad Wasim Jr, 11. Zaman Khan

SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Tips

Sri Lanka:

  • Dunith Wellalage is coming off one of the memorable all-round performances. He won man of the match for his 5/40 and 42* against India.
  • Charith Asalanka bowled beautifully against India. He took a remarkable 4/18 off nine overs. With the bat, he averages 49.20 in 11 innings at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
  • Sadeera Samarawickrama is Sri Lanka’s leading run-scorer in this Asia Cup. He has struck two half-centuries in four matches, totalling 167 runs at an average of 41.75 and strike rate of 88.82.
  • Kusal Mendis is next-highest for Sri Lanka with 162 runs at 40.50 in this Asia Cup. He has also scored two half-centuries.
  • Mendis has an excellent record on this ground in ODIs: 13 inns, 561 runs, avg. 51.00, SR 84.61.
  • Matheesha Pathirana will be key at the death. He is Sri Lanka’s leading wicket-taker in this tournament with eight. Maheesh Theekshana is next with seven scalps.

Pakistan:

  • Babar Azam has excellent numbers against Sri Lanka. The captain has scored 496 runs in nine innings at an average of 62.00. This includes three centuries.
  • Imam-ul-Haq has one century in four matches against Sri Lanka. The left-hander is seeking his best form in what has been a relatively quiet Asia Cup so far (3 inns, 92 runs).
  • Since the start of 2022, Mohammad Rizwan has scored 743 runs at an average of 46.4 and strike rate of 87.2 in ODIs.
  • Shadab Khan is in need of a bowling revival. The legspinner has struggled for rhythm in recent matches. Against Sri Lanka in ODIs, Shadab has taken 13 wickets in seven matches at an average of 22.23.
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi is Pakistan’s second-highest wicket-taker this tournament with eight (avg. 22.87).

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Sri Lanka 58, Pakistan 92, tied 1, N/R 4.
  • Pakistan have won the past eight ODIs against Sri Lanka. However, the two teams have not met in an ODI since 2019.
  • Maheesh Theekshana has taken 11 wickets in six matches at Colombo (avg. 22.72, econ. 4.72).
  • Mohammad Rizwan vs SL in ODIs: 4 inns, 136 runs, avg. 68.00, SR 106.25.
  • Dhananjaya de Silva in ODIs at Colombo: 15 inns, 343 runs, avg. 24.50, SR 75.38.

R Premadasa Colombo Pitch Report and Weather

There is the threat of thunderstorms once again at Colombo. According to the AccuWeather hourly forecast, conditions should be mostly cloudy in the afternoon and evening. Hopefully there should be a full match.

It’s spin to win on the Colombo pitch. India won with 213 on the board two days ago against Sri Lanka, with spinners taking 16 of the 20 wickets to fall.

Asia Cup 2023 Match 11 – SL vs PAK 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.

SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction – Ideal team combination: 2-4-2-3

Option 1:

SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report - Asia Cup 2023 Match 11 | SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Today | Colombo Pitch Report
Asia Cup 2023 Match 11 – SL vs PAK Dream11 Picks

Option 2:

SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report - Asia Cup 2023 Match 11 | SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Today | Colombo Pitch Report
Asia Cup 2023 Match 11 – SL vs PAK Dream11 Picks

Asia Cup 2023 Match 11 – SL vs PAK Match Prediction: Who will win?

Close contest. Bat first and 250 on the board can be a strong total. With Pakistan’s injury worries, Sri Lanka can prevail 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.

IND vs SL Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – Asia Cup 2023 Match 10

IND vs SL Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – Asia Cup 2023 Match 10 | IND vs SL Dream11 Prediction Today | Colombo Pitch Report

India will take the field for the third consecutive day as they take on Sri Lanka in their second game of the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup.

The Indians registered a convincing 228-run victory over Pakistan and showed their potential. They were clinical throughout, and despite so many breaks, they held on to the momentum to never give Pakistan any chance in the game.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka are also coming on the back of a victory against arch-rivals Bangladesh by 21 runs. The form of Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama was the biggest positive in the batting department. The bowlers also put on a complete performance to hand a crucial victory to the team. They would hope for a similar performance on a ground where they have played too much over the years.

It is a vital game in the context of the tournament, given the winner of this encounter will all but seal its place in the final scheduled next week. Expect a good game, with both teams giving their all.

Asia Cup 2023 Match 10 – IND vs SL Possible Playing XIs

India might look to rest a few players. Mohammed Shami could come in for Jasprit Bumrah. It remains to be seen whether Shreyas Iyer has recovered from his back spasm or not. If he is fit, Ishan Kishan will have to miss out.

India: 1. Shubman Gill, 2. Rohit Sharma (c), 3. Virat Kohli, 4. Shreyas Iyer/Ishan Kishan, 5. KL Rahul (wk), 6. Hardik Pandya, 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. Shardul Thakur, 9. Kuldeep Yadav, 10. Jasprit Bumrah/Mohammed Shami, 11. Mohammed Siraj

Sri Lanka might go unchanged from the previous game.

Sri Lanka: 1. Dimuth Karunaratne, 2. Pathum Nissanka, 3. Kusal Mendis, 4. Sadeera Samarawickrama, 5. Charith Asalanka, 6. Dhananjaya de Silva, 7. Dasun Shanaka, 8.Dunith Wellalage, 9. Maheesh Theekshana, 10. Kasun Rajitha, 11. Matheesha Pathirana

IND vs SL Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Tips

India:

  • Rohit Sharma has scored 1,807 runs at an average of 46.33 and strike rate of 93.96 in 48 ODI innings against Sri Lanka. The Indian captain has amassed six fifties and as many centuries, including a famous 264*. He looked in amazing touch in the previous game and can play a fine knock again.
  • Shubman Gill has scored 207 runs at an average of 69 and strike rate of 122.48 in three ODI innings against Sri Lanka. He has also hit a fifty and a century each against them. With the kind of form Gill is in, expect another mighty innings.
  • Virat Kohli likes batting against Sri Lanka, especially in Colombo. He has 2503 runs at an average of 64.17 and struck at 94.23 in 49 ODI innings against them, including 11 fifties and 10 centuries. He also made a century against Pakistan yesterday.
  • KL Rahul was back to business in his comeback game, scoring a fine 111* to help India post a massive total. Overall, Rahul has 249 runs at an average of 41.50 and a strike rate of 84.69 in seven ODI innings against Sri Lanka. Another fine outing can not be ruled out.
  • Kuldeep Yadav was unplayable against Pakistan yesterday. The track is expected to be on the slower side, and he can wreak havoc again. In eight ODI innings, Kuldeep has 14 wickets at an average of 24.35 and a strike rate of 31.14 against Sri Lanka.
  • Mohammed Siraj has nine wickets at 10.22 runs apiece in three ODI innings against Sri Lanka. The track has generated enough movement for the pacers, and Siraj can extract it again to stifle the Lankan batters, as he has previously done.

Sri Lanka:

  • Pathum Nissanka made 72 in his only ODI outing against India. He has got starts in the tournament but has failed to convert them into big scores. Nissanka would hope to score big in this crucial game.
  • Kusal Mendis has 147 runs at an average of 49 in three innings this tournament. Mendis has been in fantastic form of late and will look to continue the good run. However, his ODI record against India isn’t great, as he averages a mere 20.77 in nine innings.
  • Dhananjaya de Silva is a crucial player for Sri Lanka. He will contribute in all departments. Dhananjaya is a fine batter, and his off-spin will be more than handy on a sluggish Colombo track. Expect him to do well in this game.
  • Maheesh Theekshana has six wickets at an average of 25 and a strike rate of 27 in three innings this tournament. Don’t be surprised if Theekshana has a fantastic match, given the nature of the pitch and his vast experience bowling here. He will be the biggest threat to India in this game.
  • Matheesha Pathirana has been Sri Lanka’s leading wicket-taker (7) in this Asia Cup. Pathirana has taken a wicket every 22.86 ball so far and will look to build on this record. His performance will be vital to stop the in-form Indian batters, especially at the death.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in the ODIs: Played 165, India 96, Sri Lanka 57, Tie 1, NR 11.
  • Virat Kohli at R. Premadasa Stadium in the ODIs: 641 runs, avg. 128.20, SR 99.84 & 4 centuries.
  • Maheesh Theekshana in ODIs in 2023: 29 wickets, avg. 15.79, SR 21.10 & econ. 4.49.
  • Dasun Shanaka has only scored 247 runs at a mere average of 19 in 15 ODI innings this year.
  • Rohit Sharma needs 22 more to complete 10,000 ODI runs.

R Premadasa Stadium Colombo Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score in Colombo in ODIs is 262, with the spinners snaring 57.47% of wickets. The track might be on the slower side in this game, and the key for the pacers will be to bowl off-pace deliveries to get some grip.

A temperature of around 28°C, with scattered thunderstorms, is forecasted for this game.

Asia Cup 2023 Match 10 – IND vs SL 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.

IND vs SL Dream11 Prediction – Ideal team combination: 2-4-3-2

Option 1:

IND vs SL Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report - Asia Cup 2023 Match 10 | IND vs SL Dream11 Prediction Today | Colombo Pitch Report | IND vs SL Dream11 picks
Asia Cup 2023 Match 10 – IND vs SL Dream11 picks

Option 2:

Asia Cup 2023 Match 10 – IND vs SL Dream11 picks

Asia Cup 2023 Match 10 – IND vs SL Match Prediction: Who will win?

Both teams have played good cricket throughout the tournament, and another fiery contest can be expected. However, India are a stronger side and might win 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.

If Australia picks Marnus Labuschagne in the World Cup squad, who misses out?

Cricket News: If Australia picks Marnus Labuschagne in the World Cup squad, who misses out? | Will Australia pick Marnus Labuschagne in the WC?

No one does concussion substitute like Marnus Labuschagne. A little over four years after he took his opportunity in Test cricket as Steve Smith’s substitute at Lord’s, Labuschagne has found a new lease of life in ODI cricket after Cameron Green suffered a nasty blow in the first ODI against South Africa at Bloemfontein.

Coming in to bat with Australia at 103/6 chasing 223 with an average of 31.4 in 28 ODIs, Labuschagne went on to produce two man-of-the-match performances to put himself firmly in the selectors’ radar ahead of the final World Cup squad announcement on September 28.

Should Australia pick Marnus Labuschagne in their final ODI World Cup squad?

The classy right-hander backed up his unbeaten 80 with a swushbuckling 99-ball 124 in Australia’s huge 392/8 in the second ODI. On current form, Labuschagne can be a huge asset in the squad in an intense World Cup. Should there be an injury or loss of form to another player in the top five, Labuschagne can slot in relatively well.

However, the key question is: who misses out?

Here is Australia’s provisional World Cup squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa

Unless there is an injury, none of the specialist batsmen or bowlers can make way. Namely, these are David Warner, Travis Head, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa and Josh Hazlewood. Also, Josh Inglis is the reserve wicket-keeper to Alex Carey, and Ashton Agar has a vital role to play as the second spinner.

So, it will need to be an all-rounder. Cameron Green is highly rated. Mitchell Marsh is in career-best touch. Marcus Stoinis may be left out of the Australia XI at stages in the World Cup, but leaving a player of his impact out of the squad altogether is unfathomable.

And, Glenn Maxwell is Glenn Maxwell.

So, that leaves Sean Abbott. However, he’d (rightly) feel hard done by. The right-arm seamer has been solid for Australia in recent times, but it will be rare for Australia to play three specialist seamers at any stage of a World Cup in India, let alone four.

Cummins, Starc and Hazlewood are ahead of him in the pecking order. Only injuries may see Abbott feature at all. As a result, Australia may wish to bring in Labuschagne as an extra batting option, especially given as they have a few question marks regarding how their middle order will start against spin.

All eyes will be on the remaining three ODIs in South Africa ahead of the September 28 deadline. Will Labuschagne continue his red-hot form?

We shall see.