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TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report MLC 2023 Match 1

Charbel Coorey
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TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report MLC 2023 Match 1

TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report MLC 2023 Match 1 | TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction Today | Grand Prairie Pitch Report

“The growth progression for the sport [in the USA] is really strong,” said Justin Geale, tournament director of the Major Cricket League (MLC). The MLC, set to kick off between two stacked teams in Texas Super Kings and Los Angeles Knight Riders, is part of a plan to grow cricket in a market that has great potential. If this tournament proves to be a success – which it should given the calibre of players available – the sky is the limit.

For Texas and Los Angeles, the priority will be to get on the board with a win straight away. A sell-out crowd will greet the star-studded teams, with some of the world’s leading T20 talent set to light up the stage.

Faf du Plessis and Devon Conway can form a formiddable partnership for Texas. Also, they have experience in their bowling ranks. On the other side, Los Angeles have dynamic quality at the top and brute force in the finishing department, but how will they go in the middle? Also, can their balanced attack keep Texas’ deep batting lineup quiet?

These questions and more will be answered in what should be a cracking opening match.

MLC 2023 Match 1: TSK vs LAKR Possible Playing XIs

Each team can have six overseas players in their final XI. Domestic players are noted with (D) below.

Texas Super Kings: 1. Faf du Plessis (c), 2. Devon Conway (wk), 3. Saiteja Mukkamalla (D), 4. Cody Chetty (D), 5. David Miller, 6. Dwayne Bravo, 7. Mitchell Santner, 8. Daniel Sams/Imran Tahir, 9. Rusty Theron (D), 10. Cameron Stevenson (D), 11. Zia Shahzad (D)

Los Angeles Knight Riders: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Rilee Rossouw, 3. Unmukt Chand (D), 4. Gajanand Singh (D), 5. Jaskaran Malhotra (wk) (D), 6. Andre Russell, 7. Sunil Narine (c), 8. Adam Zampa, 9. Shadley van Schalkwyk (D), 10. Ali Khan (D), 11. Lockie Ferguson

TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Texas Super Kings:

  • Faf du Plessis will be aiming for the perfect start. In 27 T20s this year, du Plessis has smashed 1,139 runs at an average of 47.46 and strike rate of 149.67.
  • du Plessis has excellent numbers against Lockie Ferguson: 27 balls, 58 runs, no dismissals.
  • Devon Conway was key to CSK’s success in IPL 2023. The left-hander struck 672 runs at an average of 51.69 and strike rate of 139.71.
  • Conway was particularly strong against spin. He hit 290 runs at an average of 58.00 and strike rate of 136.8.
  • Since the start of 2022, David Miller has struck 728 runs at an average of 42.9 and strike rate of 136.8 when chasing (franchise T20 matches).
  • Imran Tahir, if picked, can be used a trump card against Andre Russell. The legspinner has dismissed the hard-hitting middle order batsman five times in 62 balls in all T20s, conceding just 77 runs.
  • Daniel Sams comes into this match on the back of excellent form. In the 2023 Vitality Blast, Sams has smashed 340 runs at an average of 30.91 and strike rate of 174.36 in 14 matches. He has also taken 22 wickets.

Los Angeles Knight Riders:

  • Jason Roy will be key up the order. In T20s this year, Roy has struck 729 runs at an average of 28.04 and strike rate of 139.66.
  • Will it be all or nothing for Rilee Rossouw? His last five matches in IPL 2023 read: 35*, 35, 5, 82*, 0.
  • Watch out for Andre Russell fireworks. He has smashed 320 runs off 153 balls in T20s against Dwayne Bravo (avg. 53.3, SR 209.2).
  • LA could look to use Sunil Narine early. He has dismissed du Plessis twice in 64 balls in T20s, conceding just 46 runs in the process.
  • Adam Zampa is one of the premier T20 bowlers. Since the start of 2021, the legspinner has taken 102 wickets in 82 T20 innings at an economy of just 7.18.
  • Zampa has dismissed du Plessis three times in 40 balls in all T20s, conceding just 47 in the process. He also has excellent numbers against Miller: 41 balls, 42 balls, three dismissals.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Faf du Plessis vs Andre Russell in franchise T20s: 32 balls, 58 runs, one dismissal.
  • Saiteja Mukkamalla comes into this tournament with some recent cricket under his belt. He struck 55 and 21 in his last two innings for USA in the ODI World Cup Qualifier.
  • Rusty Theron is three away from 150 T20 wickets (avg. 22.59, econ. 7.20).
  • Unmukt Chand will be looking to make an impression. He averages 21.53 with a strike rate of 114.87 in 81 T20 innings.

Grand Prairie Stadium Texas Pitch Report and Weather

The Grand Prairie Stadium is formerly baseball ground now transformed into a cricket field. Lots of work has gone into preparing the stadium for the tournament, with an Australian company preparing the pitch.

So, there may be even carry in the first match of the tournament. Because there has been no match previously played on the ground, expect the captain who wins the toss to choose to bowl to see how the surface behaves.

Very hot conditions are forecast, with temperatures touching 40 degrees at 7:30pm.

MLC 2023 Match 1: TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction Today Match 13 July

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.

TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction: Ideal team combination

  • 1 wicket-keeper
  • 4 batsmen
  • 3-4 all-rounders
  • 2-3 bowlers

Option 1:

TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report MLC 2023 Match 1 | TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction Today | Grand Prairie Pitch Report
MLC 2023 Match 1: TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction Today Match 13 July

Option 2:

TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report MLC 2023 Match 1 | TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction Today | Grand Prairie Pitch Report
MLC 2023 Match 1: TSK vs LAKR Dream11 Prediction Today Match 13 July

MLC 2023 Match 1: TSK vs LAKR Match Prediction – Who will win?

An exciting match is in store. LA, with their well-rounded bowling attack, could prevail in a close contest.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes, with the stats and writer’s views in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

How many overseas players are allowed in a playing XI in Major League Cricket?

Charbel Coorey
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How many overseas players are allowed in a playing XI in Major League Cricket?

Cricket News: How many overseas players are allowed in a playing XI in Major League Cricket? | MLC 2023 – number of overseas players in playing XI

Up to six players are allowed to feature in the playing XI for the first ever season of Major League Cricket (MLC). A number of top class overseas players will be participating in the tournament, including Faf du Plessis, Rashid Khan, and Andre Russell. Fans will get the chance to witness these players and others regularly given the higher number of overseas players allowed in the final XI compared to other leagues.

Only the International T20 League (9) and Caribbean Premier League (5) allows more than the usual four in other leagues. The Indian Premier League (IPL) and Pakistan Super League (PSL) allows for four, while the Big Bash League (BBL) places a higher emphasis on domestic talent with a maximum of three foreign players in the XI.

Overseas players set to light up first season of MLC

Texas Super Kings (TSK) and Los Angeles Knight Riders (LAKR) will kick off the inaugural MLC season. TSK are one of the favourites for the title, boasting the likes of Faf du Plessis, Devon Conway David Miller, and Dwayne Bravo.

LAKR also have excellent talent, with the likes of Rilee Rossouw, Jason Roy, Martin Guptill, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Lockie Ferguson and Adam Zampa making up the core of what looks to be a very strong squad.

Check out all the squads for MLC 2023 season

How India is helping to drive cricket’s growth in the USA

India can drive the growth of cricket in the USA. The MLC secured $120M in funding from a suite of investors, and four of the six teams in the tournament now have owners from the IPL. In fact, MI New York is affiliated with Mumbai Indians, whose owner – Mukesh Ambani – is the world’s richest sports owner.

A tournament of this magnitude can help the sport gain a foothold in the country and attract a new generation of supporters in the quest to make cricket a truly global game. With a population of around 335 million, the United States has immense potential, and the entertainment that T20 provides can create positive experiences for new fans.

Major League Cricket MLC 2023 squads

Shahryaar Mirza
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Major League Cricket MLC 2023 squads

Cricket News: Major League Cricket MLC 2023 squads | List of squads for the MLC 2023 season

The inaugural season of the Major League Cricket is set to commence on Thursday, July 13, 2023.

The T20 format guarantees entertainment as well as some exciting cricketing action. This league will be the first of its kind as the United States of America will now be home to franchise T20 cricket, something that has never happened before.

Although the league aims to grab eyeballs primarily through the presence of several renowned global superstars who will be participating in the league, one of its objectives remains to be able to promote the sport in the country. It also provides a platform for the local players to showcase their talent, whilst improving their game by playing against some of the best in business.

Squads for the MLC 2023 season

The official squads of the six teams are as follows:

Los Angeles Knight Riders

Batters: Unmukt Chand, Martin Guptill, Nitish Kumar, Jaskaran Malhotra, Rilee Rossouw, Jason Roy, Saif Badar, Gajanand Singh

All-rounders: Sunil Narine (c), Andre Russell

Bowlers: Ali Khan, Lockie Ferguson, Spencer Johnson, Adam Zampa, Ali Sheikh, Corné Dry, Shadley van Schalkwyk, Bhaskar Yadram

MI New York

Batters: Tim David, Hammad Azam, Monank Patel, Nicholas Pooran, Shayan Jahangir, Steven Taylor

All-rounders: Dewald Brevis, Kieron Pollard (c), Rashid Khan, David Wiese

Bowlers: Jason Behrendorff, Trent Boult, Ehsan Adil, Nosthush Kenjige, Sarabjit Ladda, Kyle Phillip, Kagiso Rabada, Saideep Ganesh

San Francisco Unicorns

Batters: Finn Allen, Aaron Finch (c), Mackenzie Harvey, Smit Patel, Matthew Wade

All-rounders: Corey Anderson, Chaitanya Bishnoi, Shadab Khan, Marcus Stoinis, Tajinder Singh

Bowlers: Amila Aponso, Brody Couch, Haris Rauf, Lungi Ngidi, Liam Plunkett, Qais Ahmad, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Carmi le Roux, David White

Seattle Orcas

Batters: Aaron Jones, Quinton de Kock, Shimron Hetmyer, Heinrich Klaasen, Nauman Anwar

All-rounders: Imad Wasim, Shehan Jayasuriya, Nisarg Patel, Angelo Perera, Dwaine Pretorius, Shubham Ranjane, Dasun Shanaka, Sikandar Raza

Bowlers: Cameron Gannon, Wayne Parnell (c), Andrew Tye, Hayden Walsh, Harmeet Singh, Phani Simhadri, Matthew Tromp

Texas Super Kings

Batters: Faf du Plessis (c), Devon Conway, Lahiru Milantha, David Miller, Saiteja Mukkamalla, Sami Aslam

All-rounders: Dwayne Bravo, Milind Kumar, Mohammad Mohsin, Daniel Sams, Mitchell Santner

Bowlers: Gerald Coetzee, Rusty Theron, Cody Chetty, Calvin Savage, Cameron Stevenson, Zia Shahzad

Washington Freedom

Batters: Sujith Gowda, Mukhtar Ahmed, Josh Philippe, Glenn Phillips, Saad Ali

All-rounders: Moises Henriques (c), Marco Jansen, Obus Pienaar, Wanindu Hasaranga

Bowlers: Ben Dwarshuis, Adam Milne, Saurabh Netravalkar, Anrich Nortje, Dane Piedt, Usman Rafiq, Akhilesh Reddy, Justin Dill, Andries Gous

EN-W vs AU-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
EN-W vs AU-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

EN-W vs AU-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | ENG-W vs AUS-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Today | Bristol Pitch Report

England, who rallied hard in the T20I series to eventually win 2-1, are still alive in this Ashes series. On the back of Alice Capsey’s whirlwind knock in the third match, the hosts have a chance of regaining the Ashes for the first time since 2015, and they will surely believe no matter how difficult the task may seem.

Indeed, beating this Australia team 3-0 seems out of this world. However, victory in this first ODI will increase the pressure ever so slowly on the great Australian team, who simply aren’t used to losing. So, expect the visitors to come out firing at Bristol in the quest to retain the Ashes.

The last time these two teams played in an ODI was in last year’s World Cup Final. Alyssa Healy went on a rampage before Nat Sciver-Brunt responded with her own glorious century. Here is a chance for England to show how far they have come since April 2022 in front of what is expected to be a big crowd.

EN-W vs AU-W 1st ODI Possible Playing XIs

According to ESPNcricinfo, seam bowler Lauren Filer could make her ODI debut.

England: 1. Danni Wyatt, 2. Tammy Beaumont, 3. Sophia Dunkley, 4. Nat Sciver-Brunt, 5. Heather Knight (c), 6. Alice Capsey, 7. Amy Jones (wk), 8. Sophie Ecclestone, 9. Charlie Dean, 10. Lauren Filer/Lauren Bell, 11. Issy Wong/Danielle Gibson

Beth Mooney batted at three for Australia in last year’s ODI World Cup. Phoebe Litchfield may be given the task of replacing Rachael Haynes.

Australia: 1. Alyssa Healy (c & wk), 2. Phoebe Litchfield, 3. Beth Mooney, 4. Ellyse Perry, 5. Tahlia McGrath, 6. Ashleigh Gardner, 7. Grace Harris, 8. Annabel Sutherland, 9. Jess Jonassen, 10. Darcie Brown/Megan Schutt, 11. Georgia Wareham/Alana King

EN-W vs AU-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction: Key players to watch/key stats

England:

  • Nat-Sciver Brunt hit a superb 148* in her last ODI against Australia. Overall, the all-rounder has struck 727 runs at an average of 51.92 and strike rate of 87.37 against the world champions.
  • Danni Wyatt was named player of the series in T20Is after scoring 109 runs across the three matches. Whether she can bring this form across to the ODI format will be interesting to see as she has scored just 171 runs in 15 innings against Australia (avg. 11.40).
  • The talented Alice Capsey turned the third T20I in England’s favour with her 23-ball 46. She will be key as one of England’s finishers.
  • Sophie Ecclestone continues to amaze. She took the most wickets in the T20I series (5) and has taken 12 wickets in her past nine ODIs at an economy of just 3.91.
  • Ecclestone can keep Ellyse Perry quiet. In 103 balls in ODIs, she has conceded just 55 runs with the one dismissal.
  • Lauren Filer could be an X-Factor player. She took four wickets in the Test match and impressed with her pace of around 75mph.

Australia:

  • Alyssa Healy smashed a memorable 170 in her last ODI against England. Overall, she has struck 658 runs in 20 innings at an average of 36.55 and strike rate of 95.77.
  • Should Healy get through the powerplay, she can go big. The Australia captain has a good record against Sophie Ecclestone in ODIs: 103 balls, 83 runs, one dismissal.
  • Beth Mooney vs England in ODIs: 7 matches, 280 runs, avg. 56.00, SR 88.32.
  • Ellyse Perry will be keen for a big series. The great all-rounder averages 43.20 with the bat (864 runs) and 27.41 with the ball (39 wickets) in 33 ODIs against England.
  • Ashleigh Gardner averages just 16.75 in nine ODI innings against England. However, the star all-rounder can influence the game with bat and ball at any moment.
  • Annabel Sutherland is coming of age. She hit a century in the Test, conceded just seven per over with three wickets in the T20Is and took excellent catches in the hotspot fielding positions. One to watch.
  • Jess Jonassen has taken 32 wickets in 21 ODIs against England at an average of 23.06 and economy of 4.51.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Australia have won the past five ODIs against England.
  • Megan Schutt has dismissed Danni Wyatt three times in 36 balls in ODIs (28 runs). She has also dismissed Tammy Beaumont three times for 87 runs in 147 balls.
  • Heather Knight averages 28.88 and strikes at 66.54 in 27 ODIs against Australia.
  • Beth Mooney scored the most runs in the recent T20I series: 3 inns, 115 runs, avg. 57.50, SR 116.16.

County Ground Bristol Pitch Report and Weather

Last year, Bristol played host to a women’s ODI between England and South Africa. England hammered 337 batting first, with Sophia Dunkley starring with 109 at number three. With the ball, Issy Wong (3/36), Charlie Dean (4/53) and Sophie Ecclestone (2/37) were too good.

Expect a good batting surface which is often the case on this ground. There is a chance of rain in the morning and early afternoon, but conditions should hopefully be clear by the time this day/night match starts.

EN-W vs AU-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Today Match 12 July 2023

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams.

Option 1:

EN-W vs AU-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | ENG-W vs AUS-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Today | Bristol Pitch Report
EN-W vs AU-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Today Match 12 July 2023

Option 2:

EN-W vs AU-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | ENG-W vs AUS-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Today | Bristol Pitch Report
EN-W vs AU-W 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Today Match 12 July 2023

EN-W vs AU-W 1st ODI Match Prediction – Who will win?

England are playing with great confidence. If they pick two fast bowlers in their attack, they may just prevail. But, Australia’s depth and great record over England in ODIs makes them the favourites to win.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes, with the stats and writer’s views in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

Will Australia pick both Mitch Marsh & Cam Green?

Tarkesh Jha
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Will Australia pick both Mitch Marsh & Cam Green?

Cricket News: Will Australia pick both Mitch Marsh & Cam Green? | Australia could pick Mitchell Marsh and Cameron Green for 4th Ashes Test

The make up of Australia’s team for the fourth Ashes Test at Old Trafford will be a talking point between now and the start of the match. Mitchell Marsh’s excellent Test at Headingley, where he scored a century and took two wickets, along with Cameron Green’s return to fitness, gives the Australian thinktank key decisions to make.

There is the possibility the visitors will play both all-rounders in the quest to retain the Ashes. Skipper Pat Cummins, speaking to Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) after the third Test, said there is a scenario where both make the playing XI.

“It could be, for sure,” Cummins said. “We’ll take a deep breath and come back in a few days and assess where everyone is at. But, the way Mitchy’s played, it’s hard to leave him out, it’s hard to leave Greeny out.

“You look at the other batters and they’ve all performed; it’s hard to leave anyone else out. We’ll work it out. I guess it’s a good problem for the selectors to have.”

If Marsh and Green play, who misses out? And who bats where?

Seasoned Australian opener David Warner has come under the spotlight. Warner was out cheaply twice at Leeds to nemesis Stuart Broad, raising further questions around his place in the team.

Interestingly, Warner posted an Instagram story of his Australian passport as he heads back home. The reason is unclear at this stage.

Warner has notched only 141 runs in six innings, averaging 23.50 with only one half-century to his name. Almost every other specialist batsman has outscored Warner in the series and as mentioned, skipper Pat Cummins entertained the idea of playing the duo of Marsh and Green together in the XI.

Warner fell to Broad in both the innings of the third Test, making it 17 times that he has been dismissed by the English pacer. The veteran opener has already disclosed that he plans to bring curtains down to his Test career in the forthcoming Australians summer but his exclusion from the red-ball squad could be fast-tracked by the looks of it.

However, how Australia rejigs their batting lineup to accommodate both Marsh and Green will be interesting to see. One option is to move Travis Head up to opener. However, that is a risk given how strong he has been at number five. Another option is to elevate Marnus Labuschagne to opener, but who then bats at three?

In such a big game, Australia may guard against drastic changes to the make up of their batting order. So, there is every chance that Todd Murphy, who bowled just two overs in the second innings at Headingley, may drop out for Green to strengthen the batting and provide a bowling option.

If Australia leave Murphy out and keep Warner, here is how the XI would look assuming Hazlewood comes back: 1. David Warner, 2. Usman Khawaja, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Steve Smith, 5. Travis Head, 6. Mitchell Marsh, 7. Cameron Green, 8. Alex Carey (wk), 9. Pat Cummins (c), 10. Mitchell Starc, 11. Josh Hazlewood

Should Australia be concerned about Marnus Labuschagne’s away Test record?

Shahryaar Mirza
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Should Australia be concerned about Marnus Labuschagne’s away Test record?

Cricket News: Should Australia be concerned about Marnus Labuschagne’s away Test record? | What is Marnus Labuschagne’s away record?

Not too long ago, Marnus Labuschagne was top of the tree in the ICC Men’s Test batting rankings. Following a lean run of form, he has now dropped down to third spot, with his overseas record in the spotlight.

Labuschagne’s career average stood at a whopping 60.82 halfway through December 2022. However, over the next seven months, he has endured a steep decline.

He currently averages 53.81 in Test cricket; still quite impressive but a fair drop in a short space of time. Scoring runs at close to 54 is praiseworthy, and more so when it is done 41 matches and 72 innings into a career. But, is Labuschagne the Test batting great he is already made out to be?

Statistics often tell the story. With some context applied to Labuschagne’s Test numbers, one can conclude he is not at an elite level yet. He is, indeed, an incredibly talented batter, but there is something missing that separates him from the top Test batsmen.

Marnus Labuschagne’s Test record away from home: Should Australia be worried?

Labuschagne has scored 3,605 runs in his career to date across six different countries, including Australia. 37 out of his 72 Test innings have come at home, with the remaining 35 away.

An astonishing 66.50% of his Test runs have come in Australia. Specifically, he has scored 2,397 runs at home, with just 1,208 runs in England, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates combined in almost as many innings.

Outside Australia, the 29-year old averages more than 41 only in Sri Lanka. In all overseas Tests, he averages a mere 36.61.

At home, his conversion rate is magnificent. In the 18 innings where he notched a fifty, he has gone on to score a century in exactly half of them. On the contrary, he has just the one Test ton away from home – against Sri Lanka at Galle.

The fact that Labuschagne has managed to convert only one of his seven away fifties brings light to a weakness. Apart from the overseas conditions being challenging and different from the Australian conditions, Labuschagne is more susceptible to making critical errors. Whether it’s playing back to full deliveries by Ravindra Jadeja in India or defending deliveries way outside offstump in England, Labuschagne does not yet seem to have the same composure he does at home.

Cricket News: Should Australia be concerned about Marnus Labuschagne’s away Test record? | What is Marnus Labuschagne's away record?

Why there is every chance Labuschagne can turn his numbers around

Marnus getting a start then throwing his wicket away has almost become a pattern this year. He has scored at least 25 runs in nine of his last 13 innings, but has crossed the 45-run mark just twice. Australia’s number three is able to get in even on challenging surfaces, with his ability to adjust to conditions relatively quickly a key strength of his.

However, his inability to keep at it and play out the vital phases of play is a matter of concern for Australia.

This is what separates Marnus Labuschagne from someone like Steve Smith or Joe Root. Such batters have proven themselves in all sorts of conditions and in different parts of the world.

There are not many better than Smith when it comes to away Tests. He averages close to a whopping 55 away from home in 96 innings, making him an absolute genius and one of the greatest players to ever have played this format. Root averages over 47 across the 120 innings he has played outside England.

Although it is something that comes with experience, not everyone is capable of making those minor adjustments to their technique to adapt to different conditions. Smith, for example, is so often seen modifying his trigger movements just to feel comfortable at the crease and tackle the challenging surfaces.

Labuschagne has shown immense promise so far. Him not being able to perform as consistently overseas might worry Australia. But, for all that he has done at home, plus his ability to still get in despite not being in great form, makes him one to persist with without question.

Labuschagne and Australia are certainly not at a stage where they need to consider the number three’s position in away Tests. He remains a lock in the XI.

However, while he has the potential to end up as one of Australia’s Test greats, he must improve his overseas record significantly. Old Trafford would be a great starting point.

Possible playing XI for India in 1st Test against West Indies

Tarkesh Jha
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Possible playing XI for India in 1st Test against West Indies

Cricket News: Possible playing XI for India in 1st Test against West Indies | India possible playing 11 in 1st Test vs WI

India will get back on the cricket field for the first time since the loss in the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) to Australia at The Oval last month.

They will embark on a two-match series against West Indies with the first game starting at Dominica from July 12 onwards. The Indian side in the longest format has set into a transition phase with fresh faces like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Mukesh Kumar getting a look into the roster in this series.

Here, Cricblog takes a brief overview of what the Indian playing XI could possibly be for the inaugural game of the series.

India possible playing XI for Dominica Test against WI

Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Jaydev Unadkat

Jaiswal is being reportedly touted as the prospective number three going forward. This will mark a remarkable shift in India’s outlook in the future as Jaiswal and Pujara’s approaches towards the game are like chalk and cheese.

Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane retain their places in the following two spots but Ishan Kishan can spark an entry as the first-choice wicket-keeper.

KS Bharat hasn’t really made heads turn despite his tidy skills behind the stumps in the five games he has played so far. Kishan adds a different attacking element to the batting unit and the think-tank can give it a shot in the coming couple of games.

One can rest assured that Ravichandran Ashwin will find a place back in the XI after the controversy regarding his exclusion from the WTC final.

Logic says that the duo of Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Siraj should retain their spots so there will be a toss-up between Mukesh Kumar and Jaydev Unadkat for the third pacer’s role. Unadkat has been around for a greater extent of time and his consistent domestic performances should see him being rewarded with a couple of Tests in the Caribbean, at least.

Sourav Ganguly & others share thoughts on Test cricket

Tarkesh Jha
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Sourav Ganguly & others share thoughts on Test cricket

Cricket News: Sourav Ganguly & others share thoughts on Test cricket | Ganguly, Bhogle and others sing praises of Test cricket

Former Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly advocates for preserving Test cricket after the thrilling finish to the third Ashes Test at Headingley on Sunday. Chasing 251, the Three Lions got over the line courtesy impactful batting cameos by Chris Woakes and Mark Wood late in the game after Harry Brook’s solid effort.

This followed the fantastic final day conclusions to the opening couple of games of this series, which were won by Australia. Ganguly appreciated the ‘breath-taking’ nature of Test cricket and questioned the people who keep raising doubts over the future of the format.

Ganguly among many praising Test cricket during fascinating Test series

“People keep questioning test cricket .. the last 4 test matches ..hope have shown everyone why we need to keep playing it and preserving at its best .. it’s been just absolutely breathtaking to watch .. as good as any format any where in the world .. @ICC @bcci @MCC,” Ganguly tweeted.

Another facet that has drawn a lot of attraction during the Ashes is the incredible home support that England has managed to draw throughout the first three games. Despite the losses, the spectators have come out to in huge numbers to support Stokes’ men wherever they have played.

“We love to come here and play cricket for England. (On the Headingley crowd) Absolutely sensational. The Western Terrace is always amazing. This place has memories that people will always remember and we love playing here,” said Stokes, who had pioneered England to an emphatic victory on this ground in the Ashes 2019 in a do-or-die encounter.

“I must admit to being envious of the following Test cricket has in England,” noted cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle tweeted, echoing similar thoughts.

The fourth Test will kick off at Old Trafford from July 19 onwards.

Why did Todd Murphy bowl just two overs?

Charbel Coorey
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Why did Todd Murphy bowl just two overs?

Cricket News: Why did Todd Murphy bowl just two overs at Headingley? | Pat Cummins reveals why he barely used Todd Murphy

Pat Cummins’ use of off-spinner Todd Murphy on the final day of the Headingley Test came under the spotlight as England kept the Ashes series alive with a three-wicket victory.

Murphy, who came in for the injured Nathan Lyon, bowled just two overs in the fourth innings. One was the final over before lunch, while the other was almost as a last resort with the home side needing just 30 runs to win with four wickets in hand.

On day two, England off-spinner Moeen Ali picked up the two big wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith to turn the match in his team’s favour. While Australia’s prolific duo have themselves to blame for the dismissals, Moeen found occasional turn and bounce, which meant that Murphy could be in the game in the final innings.

Former Australia captain Mark Taylor was quite ardent in his view on commentary that Cummins should have brought Murphy on earlier to get him in the game. At that point, England needed around 130 for victory, but the Australia captain stuck firm with the pace bowlers in the quest for victory.

Fans were unimpressed with Cummins’ treatment of the off-spinner who nearly had Stokes twice in the first innings after a magnificent performance in India earlier this year.

Pat Cummins reveals why Todd Murphy bowled just two overs in the 4th innings at Headingley

In an interview with Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) after the Test, Cummins revealed why he didn’t utilise Todd Murphy in the fourth innings.

When asked whether conditions were the key factor or whether Australia didn’t have enough runs to play with, Cummins said “mainly conditions. We knew that if they were going to chase down, it was going to be in 50 overs.

“The ball was still swinging and there was a little bit there for quick bowlers. I would have loved to bowl Toddy a bit more, but it’s probably not enough overs to get it to him.”

Murphy’s participation as a fielder, Scott Boland’s lack of penetration, Mitchell Marsh’s excellent performance, and David Warner’s continued struggles against Stuart Broad leaves Australia with decisions to make for Old Trafford next week.

“You keep all options open,” Cummins said in the post-match press conference. “We’ve got nine or 10 days now, so we’ll take a deep breath. We’ll go away for a few days.

“But everyone comes back into it. Greeny should be fit for Manchester. Josh [Hazlewood] will be back in there as well. So we should have a full roster and we’ll have a look at the wicket and have a chat and work out the best XI.”

Pat Cummins reaction to Australia’s defeat at Headingley

Charbel Coorey
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Pat Cummins reaction to Australia’s defeat at Headingley

Cricket News: Pat Cummins reaction to Australia’s defeat at Headingley | We didn’t grab the little moments – Cummins

England have kept their hopes alive of a stunning Ashes comeback after taking out the third Test by three wickets. Their pursuit of 251 is one of the highest successful run chases at the ground, testament to the determination of Ben Stokes’ team to come back from difficult positions throughout the Test.

Australian captain Pat Cummins echoed those sentiments. Speaking to Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) after the Test, Cummins said Australia didn’t grab the big moments which ultimately saw them fall short of a series-clinching victory.

“Another wonderful Test match, I think we had our chances throughout that we didn’t quite grab,” he said. “I think England played better this week, so yeah it’s a shame, but a great Test match.

“Little moments that we didn’t quite grab, which hopefully next time they present themselves, we take them. Bit with the bat, bit with the ball. A couple of times we could have been really clinical, and just weren’t.”

Cummins reaction to Headingley loss – batting stumbles key to the result

Asked by Bharat Sundaresan as to whether the dismissals of Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith turned the game, Cummins said the team missed an opportunity to take a huge foothold in the game in both innings with the bat.

“That certainly felt like an opportunity where we could have batted big and put a 300-plus total for England to chase, which would have been pretty tough I think,” said the captain.

“In the first innings, I’m as guilty as anyone, we lost six for 30 us tailenders. So, a few areas we can tidy up.”

Cummins also praised Mitchell Marsh who enjoyed a successful return to the Test team after four years. Marsh hit a superb century on the opening day and also took two important wickets as he got the ball swinging more than anyone else on the final day.

“So good to see big Mitchy back,” Cummins said. “Four years since his last Test, he’s had surgeries to try get himself right for red-ball cricket. He’s put so much time and effort. To see him get another chance and to show what he’s made of; as a really close mate, I couldn’t be happier for him and he was awesome even with the ball today.”

There is now a nine-day gap until the Old Trafford Test. The scenario remains the same for Australia – avoid defeat at Manchester and they will retain the Ashes.

However, England will be full of confidence and another potentially thrilling Test match awaits us next week.

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