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Australia unwilling to go toe-to-toe with us – Ollie Robinson

Charbel Coorey
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Australia unwilling to go toe-to-toe with us – Ollie Robinson

Cricket News: Australia unwilling to go toe-to-toe with us – Ollie Robinson | Ollie Robinson believes England had the better of the first Test

The war of words in the ongoing 2023 Ashes series has continued, with seam bowler Ollie Robinson claiming Australia were not willing to go toe-to-toe with England in the first Test at Edgbaston.

In his column for Wisden.com, Robinson touched on Brendon McCullum’s words after the two-wicket defeat. The coach was full of praise for his players, saying that Australia would not have won had it not been for England’s positive approach.

“Lads, I’m immensely proud of the efforts that you’ve put in, we’ve made the game what it was,” Robinson quoted McCullum as saying. “We were so close to pulling off an unbelievable victory. We played all the cricket in the game. If it wasn’t for us, the Australians wouldn’t have even had a chance to win.”

‘”We’re trying to create memories and be that team that everyone still speaks about in 20-30 years’ time. We’ve entertained the world, and we’ve put the Aussies on the back foot.”‘ For him to say that after a loss is quite significant for us,” said Robinson.

ALSO READ: 6 reasons why Australia won the first Test at Edgbaston

Seaming pitch will suit England over Australia – Robinson

Robinson himself echoed McCullum’s thoughts. The bowler wrote about how surprised he and his teammates were at Australia’s defensive approach, amplifying their belief that they can come back in this series.

“We were surprised by how defensive Australia were and how unwilling they were to go toe-to-toe with us. Obviously it’s worked for them this Test match,” he said.

“But, we feel that with the way they’re playing at the moment, a pitch with a bit more movement would benefit us hugely.”

Such a statement can come as a surprise. England’s attacking style of play under Stokes and McCullum has been successful on good batting pitches, so a surface with movement will put their approach of driving on the up and reverse scoops under the microscope.

Robinson’s words come after Fox Cricket described him as Australia’s new number one villain. His expletive-laden send off of Usman Khawaja was not received well, doubling down in the press conference following day three.

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden went in particularly hard. Speaking to SEN radio, Hayden didn’t miss, claiming that Robinson’s talent does not match his words.

“He’a forgettable cricketer. A fast bowler that is bowling 124kph nude nuts and he’s got a mouth from the south,” Hayden said. “Someone like him, you can just go, ‘Brother, I’m coming at ya’. Davey Warner can do that, right. He can just say, ‘You’re bowling 120′.”

“But, we feel that with the way they’re playing at the moment, a pitch with a bit more movement would benefit us hugely.”

Ollie Robinson

However, Robinson does have 71 Test wickets at 21.15. His ability to move the ball on a good length will make him a factor for the rest of the series, and he promised England fans the team will “come harder and harder” at Australia.

“It’s not just the game and the result on the line, but also the faith that we’re asking the English public to have in us for playing in this new way,” Robinson added. “I have faith in this team that, even if we went 2-0 down, we could still win 3-2, because of the style of cricket that we’re playing.”

The second Test begins at Lord’s on Wednesday June 28.

Australia’s possible playing XI for Lord’s Test

Charbel Coorey
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Australia’s possible playing XI for Lord’s Test

Cricket News: Australia’s possible playing XI for Lord’s Test | Will Mitchell Starc play in the 2nd Ashes Test?

Australia prevailed in one of the great Ashes Test matches at Edgbaston. Now, attention turns to Lord’s, where Australia, with a victory, will take a huge step towards retaining the coveted Ashes urn.

However, there is a key question to answer from an Australian perspective: Will Mitchell Starc be brought back into the playing XI? The left-arm quick was left out in favour of both Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland, with the latter struggling for impact on a slow Edgbaston surface.

Ashes 2023 2nd Test: Australia’s possible playing XI for Lord’s Test

1. Usman Khawaja, 2. David Warner, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Steve Smith, 5. Travis Head, 6. Cameron Green, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Pat Cummins (c), 9. Mitchell Starc, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Josh Hazlewood

Australia’s top seven looks settled. David Warner, whose place was under the brightest spotlight, contributed to the cause at Edgbaston in a 61-run stand for the opening wicket in the chase of 281. The opener looked as good as he has in England in recent trips, so the visitors will be hoping he can build on it.

The big question for Australia is the make up of the bowling attack. Ultimately, it could depend on the conditions. The think tank preferred the consistency of Hazlewood and Boland at Edgbaston, but one feels Starc could return after the latter went for nearly six an over. Also, Starc provides important batting depth and the Lord’s slope could assist his left-arm angle.

However, if the Lord’s pitch assists seam bowling, it will be interesting to see which way Australia go.

“We’d seen the way they go about it, they are ultra-aggressive,” Australia coach Andrew McDonald said. “But I think Scott Boland, that match-up probably surprised us how aggressive they were against Scott. So that’s something we can look at and find better ways through.”

Also, one thing to keep an eye on is Josh Hazlewood’s fitness. He bowled just ten overs in England’s second innings. If he does have a niggle, expect Australia to go with Starc and Boland along with Pat Cummins and Cameron Green to form the pace attack.

ALSO READ: Check out CricBlog’s Ashes 2023 coverage:

6 reasons why Australia won the 1st Ashes Test

Charbel Coorey
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6 reasons why Australia won the 1st Ashes Test

Cricket News: 6 reasons why Australia won the 1st Ashes Test | A look at 5 key reasons why Australia beat England at Edgbaston

When this was touted as an Ashes series that could be the best since 2005, we meant it. In a contest that ebbed, flowed, and lived up to its billing, Australia prevailed at Edgbaston to take an all-important 1-0 series lead heading into the second Test at Lord’s. Pat Cummins took 4/63 and scored 44* to own the latter part of the game, contrary to Kevin Pietersen’s words.

In the 21st century, only once has a team came back from 1-0 down to win an Ashes series. Interestingly, it was the England side of 2005. Given how closely fought the first Test of this series was, no one can confidently rule out an English fightback in what shapes to be an all-time classic.

Why Australia won the 1st Ashes Test

However, Ben Stokes and England will need to take some key learnings from the Edgbaston Test as a 2-0 series deficit at Lord’s is pretty much lights out. Here are six reasons why Australia won the first match.

1. England’s declaration let Australia off the hook

No one can deny this England team delivers great talking points for Test cricket. Their approach in Pakistan last year, where they won 3-0 on three highways, is testament to their mindset. Also, their ability to score so quickly will almost always give them enough time to win matches.

However, their declaration at 393/8 on the first evening let Australia off the hook. They had the foot on the throat, and lifted it slightly. It is a decision that would have had Pat Cummins and his team relieved as a bigger score beckoned, with the visitors looking bereft of ideas after an intense day in the field.

Had England won, the decision would have been vindicated as brave and bold. But, Joe Root, England’s best player, was on a rampage and Australia didn’t have many answers. His masterclass was cut short on 118, while Ollie Robinson looked untroubled in his 31-ball stay. The pair had added 43 in 7.2 overs before Stokes called them in, leaving all to wonder what England may have finished up with.

Sure, both David Warner and Usman Khawaja had poor records in England leading up to the Test, so a crack at them does make sense. However, it was a flat surface and only four overs were possible.

Also, there was rain forecast throughout the Test, so the declaration did give England more time to push for a win. However, a total of 450 was not out of the equation given how well Root and Robinson were playing. Plus, the scoring rate meant England would not have needed to bat much longer to get those extra crucial runs on the board.

2. Usman Khawaja

Usman Khawaja won man of the match and deservedly so. Without Khawaja’s fighting ton in the first innings, there would not have been a match to win for Australia. The visitors were reduced to 67/3 with Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne both dismissed, and fell into further trouble at 148/4 after Travis Head miscued one to midwicket.

Khawaja stood tall. His 321-ball 141 helped put Australia on par with England in the first innings. It certainly didn’t deserve the send off he received from Ollie Robinson, but Khawaja finished the happier on the winning side in the end.

His second innings vigil of 65 at a strike rate of 32.99 came in for some criticism. However, he held an end and allowed Australia to accumulate towards the target as wickets fell. In the end, he was dismissed 72 runs short of the target, but his efforts gave his team a genuine shot at victory.

Cricket News: 6 reasons why Australia won the 1st Ashes Test | A look at 5 key reasons why Australia beat England at Edgbaston
6 reasons why Australia won the 1st Ashes Test: Usman Khawaja was outstanding.

3. Pat Cummins standing up

Pat Cummins’s tactics as captain are cause for debate. His approach to sit back and wait for England to make the mistakes is frought with risk. However, there is no debate around Cummins the player. He stood tall in the second innings, picking up crucial second innings wickets – including the dangerous Ben Stokes – before showing ice in his veins for his unbeaten 44* to seal victory.

4. England’s selections

England announced their playing XI 48 hours before the match. Ben Foakes, arguably the best wicket-keeper in the world, was controversially left out of the squad altogether. Jonny Bairstow, short on cricket, was asked to don the gloves.

The decision backfired as Bairstow missed crucial chances throughout the Test that cost England dearly.

Also, England’s bowling attack looked a tad light with Moeen Ali selected as the specialist spinner. Moeen had not bowled in Test cricket since 2021, and it showed, suffering a nasty blister to his finger after an extended spell of bowling on day two. As a result, England had to rely on Joe Root’s offspin for impact on the final day with the three seam bowlers working hard to extract movement on a docile pitch.

Cricket News: 6 reasons why Australia won the 1st Ashes Test | A look at 5 key reasons why Australia beat England at Edgbaston
6 reasons why Australia won the 1st Ashes Test: Ben Stokes tried hard as captain, but England ran out of steam.

5. Decision to keep Joe Root bowling on the fifth evening

Cummins, during his innings of 44, took advantage of England’s decision to delay taking the new ball. Yes, Joe Root had just dismissed Alex Carey, but Australia’s best hope of scoring runs was against the offspinner rather than Broad and Anderson with the new ball under fading light.

In the end, Australia prevailed against the new ball, but not before Cummins swung the momentum rapidly in the 83rd over. The Australian captain hit a crucial 14 runs, including two sixes, to bring the target below 50.

England allowed Cummins and Lyon to score 25 off 25 balls before taking the new ball, with a mad rush to try and take the final two wickets. After a few close misses, Cummins eventually sealed the winning runs down at third man.

6. Crucial contributions from Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon

After the first innings, Ollie Robinson said Australia have three number 11’s after Pat Cummins. Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon took that personally. They combined for 36 crucial runs in Australia’s second innings, with both looking assured in difficult circumstances.

Boland came in as the nightwatchman after the great Steve Smith was dismissed late on the fourth evening. He held his own, combining for 32 runs with Khawaja. Lyon walked to the crease with 55 still needed, but he had nerves of steel with his shot over mid on the highlight.

Attention now moves to the Lord’s Test, which begins on June 28. How each team responds after an all-time classic Ashes match will be interesting to see, with England needing to bounce back at the home of cricket.

“Cumball” does the rounds in hilarious Twitter trend

Charbel Coorey
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“Cumball” does the rounds in hilarious Twitter trend

Cricket News: “Cumball” does the rounds in hilarious Twitter trend | Cumball trends on Twitter, sparking widespread memes and reactions

Move aside Bazball, “Cumball” is here. Well known Twitter personalities Heisenberg and Mufaddal Vohra sent fans into meltdown by summarising Australia’s excellent victory in the first Test as Cumball getting the better of Bazball.

Cummins was outstanding. When the game was there to be won in the second innings, the Australian captain stood up, taking 4/63 with the ball before scoring a magnificent 44* under pressure to seal victory. In the process, Australia broke their run of failing to chase a 250+ score since 2011, and achieved the third-highest successful run chase at Edgbaston.

Term “Cumball” trends on Twitter

In the process, the visitors, looking to retain the urn, took a 1-0 lead over England’s Bazball style of play. Australia’s version has previously been referred to Ronball for Andrew “Ron” McDonald, the team’s head coach. However, a new (and questionable) name has emerged in Cumball, and there were certainly mixed reactions.

The second Test at Lord’s begins on Wednesday 28th June. England may make at least one change. Moeen Ali suffered a nasty blister on his spinning finger, but only Dan Lawrence is a capable replacement from a spin perspective after Jack Leach’s injury. So, England could choose to go with Mark Wood at Lord’s and leave any spin duties to Joe Root.

For Australia, Mitchell Starc could find his way back into the XI ahead of either Scott Boland or Josh Hazlewood.

Australia’s poor record chasing 250+ scores since 2011

Charbel Coorey
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Australia’s poor record chasing 250+ scores since 2011

Cricket News: Australia’s poor record chasing 250+ scores since 2011 | Australia have struggled when chasing more than 250 in Tests

The 2023 Edgbaston Ashes Test has lived up to its billing, ebbing and flowing magnificently across four days to leave the match tantalisingly poised ahead of the final day. Australia, after a strong start to their 281-run chase, lost three relatively quick wickets to leave them tottering at 107/3, still 174 away from the target.

The match has eerie similarities to the classic 2005 Test. Australia needed 282 to win on that occasion after 407 runs were also scored on day one. Shane Warne, Brett Lee and Michael Kasprowicz nearly pulled off an incredible win from a losing position, but eventually fell short by two runs in a heartbreaking defeat.

What will happen this time? A late Stuart Broad burst, including the crucial wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith, arguably makes England favourites heading into the final day. Another factor that could encourage England fans further is Australia’s poor record when chasing 250+ scores since 2011.

How many 250+ scores have Australia chased down since December 2011?

None.

In 22 such chases since the start of December 2011, Australia have lost 20 and drawn twice. Five defeats and a draw have come in the UK:

  • 347-run loss at Lord’s 2013 (target 583)
  • 169-run loss at Cardiff 2015 (target 412)
  • 135-run loss at The Oval 2019 (target 399)
  • 14-run loss at Nottingham 2013 (target 311)
  • 74-run loss at Chester-le-Street 2013 (target 299)
  • 154/6 in a draw at Lord’s 2019 (target 267)

Conversely, Australia won 16 of 17 when required to chase less than 250 in the same period. It’s another narrative that adds to the drama in a cracking Test match.

Also, only twice has a 280+ total been successfully chased down at Edgbaston. England made a mockery of the 378-run target against India last year, which is the highest successful chase after South Africa chased 283 against England in 2008.

However, one hopes the weather will be kind. Heavy rain is forecast for Tuesday morning in Birmingham, which could see a delayed start. But, the hope is the conditions will clear by the afternoon to provide enough time for Australia to chase the remaining 174 or England to take seven wickets.

NEP vs USA Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 6

Charbel Coorey
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0
NEP vs USA Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 6

NEP vs USA Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 6 | NEP vs USA Dream11 Prediction Today | Harare Pitch Report

Match six of the 2023 ODI World Cup Qualifier tournament is a crucial one. Both Nepal and USA lost their respective first games, making this a must-win clash if either side is to have a realistic shot at qualifying for the super six stage.

That being said, it is not as if both sides didn’t have their moments. Nepal started in brilliant fashion against Zimbabwe, posting 171 for the first wicket. However, they couldn’t take advantage, falling short of 300; a total that the hosts chased with ease.

For USA, they will take heart in the fact they made some inroads into the West Indies lineup, as well as Gajanand Singh’s century. But, one feels they really missed Ali Khan’s presence, so victory here can hold the USA in good stead with Khan set to return from a two-match ban in the next game.

ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 6: NEP vs USA Possible Playing XIs

Nepal: 1. Kushal Bhurtel, 2. Aasif Sheikh (wk), 3. Kushal Malla, 4. Rohit Paudel (c), 5. Aarif Sheikh, 6. Gulsan Jha, 7. Dipendra Singh Airee, 8. Bhim Sharki, 9. Karan KC, 10. Sompal Kami, 11. Sandeep Lamichhane

USA: 1. Steven Taylor, 2. Sushant Modani, 3. Monank Patel (c & wk), 4. Aaron Jones, 5. Saiteja Mukkamalla, 6. Gajanand Singh, 7. Shayan Jahangir, 8. Jessy Singh, 9. Nosthush Kenjige, 10. Kyle Phillip, 11. Saurabh Netravalkar

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Nepal:

  • Kushal Bhurtel fell agonisingly short of what would have been a terrific century against Zimbabwe. He was dismissed for 99.
  • Bhurtel has scored 149 runs in four ODIs against USA at an average of 37.25.
  • Aasif Sheikh was Nepal’s leading run-scorer in their successful CWC League 2 campaign. He scored 934 runs at an average of 33.35 and strike rate of 80.58. He scored a half-century last game vs. Zimbabwe.
  • Rohit Paudel has struck two fifties in four matches against USA (142 runs, avg. 47.33, SR 75.13).
  • Karan KC has taken nine wickets in six ODIs against USA at an average of 22.33 and economy of 5.26.
  • Sandeep Lamichhane has the most wickets in NEP-USA ODIs. The legspinner has picked up 15 scalps in just six matches at a superb average of 12.80 and economy of 3.52.

USA:

  • Skipper Monank Patel has the most runs in NEP-USA ODIs (235) at an average of 47.00. Steven Taylor is close in second place with 221 runs at an average of 44.20. Taylor’s strike rate is a brilliant 104.73.
  • Gajanand Singh is coming off a magnificent century against West Indies. Given Nepal struggled for penetration in the middle overs, another opportunity could await Singh.
  • Aaron Jones struck 1,184 in CWC League 2 at an average of 42.28. He will be key in helping USA get to a competitive total.
  • Saurabh Netravalkar will be key in making inroads in the early and late parts of the innings. The left-armer has 12 wickets in five innings against Nepal at an average of 13.58.
  • Kyle Phillip, who took a three-for against West Indies, took 3/43 in his only ODI against Nepal to date, back in 2021.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in ODIs: Matches 6, Nepal 3, USA 2, 1 tie.
  • In 2022, Nepal (274) and USA (274/6) played out a thrilling tie. Steven Taylor hit 114 after Aasif Sheikh and Rohit Paudel hit half-centuries.
  • USA have won two of the past three matches between the teams.

Takashinga Sports Club, Highfield, Harare Pitch Report and Weather

It was an easy-paced surface in the first ever ODI at Takashinga Sports Club in Harare. West Indies lost a couple early but settled in to make 297, before USA batted through their 50 overs. Expect a similar pitch where runs are on offer as the day goes on.

A clear day is forecast in Harare with a top of about 26 degrees.

ALSO READ: ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction, Possible XIs, Head-to-head stats and more

ODI WC Qualifier Match 6: NEP vs USA Dream11 Prediction Today Match June 20

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:

NEP vs USA Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report - ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 6 | NEP vs USA Dream11 Prediction Today | Harare Pitch Report

Option 2:

NEP vs USA Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report - ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 6 | NEP vs USA Dream11 Prediction Today | Harare Pitch Report

Qualifier 2023 Match 6: NEP vs USA Match Prediction – Who will win?

A tough match to predict. USA have had the better of Nepal in recent meetings, but this one could come down to which team chases. A score of 260-270 at least will be important batting 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.

ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 5

Charbel Coorey
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0
ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 5

ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – ODI WC Qualifier Match 5 | ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction Today | Harare Pitch Report

Zimbabwe made a dream start to their ODI World Cup Qualifier campaign, cruising past Nepal on Sunday to sit atop Group A. Next up is a Netherlands team who have what it takes to reach the Super Six stage, but will be missing key players who are on county cricket duty.

So, the hosts have an excellent chance to make it two from two. They made hay in the sun on a good batting surface at Harare, overcoming Nepal’s huge 171-run opening stand to eventually chase 292 with a huge 35 balls to spare. Skipper Craig Ervine (121*) was at the heart of it all, with Sean Williams’s magnificent 70-ball 102* giving the Zimbabweans an important net run rate boost.

For Netherlands, their experience lies in their batting. One feels their best chance is to bowl first and try take advantage of any morning movement before batting in pleasant conditions in the afternoon. Regardless, they need a complete performance to have a say against their confident hosts.

ODI WC Qualifier Match 5: ZIM vs NED Possible Playing XIs

Zimbabwe may stick with the same team unless they choose Brad Evans over Tendai Chatara, who went at 8.42 per over against Nepal.

Zimbabwe: 1. Joylord Gumbie, 2. Craig Ervine (c), 3. Wessly Madhevere, 4. Sean Williams, 5. Sikandar Raza, 6. Ryan Burl, 7. Clive Mandande (wk), 8. Wellington Masakadza, 9. Richard Ngarava, 10. Tendai Chatara/Brad Evans, 11. Blessing Muzarabani

Fred Klaassen, Paul van Meekeren, Colin Ackermann, Roelof van der Merwe and Brandon Glover are all unavailable for Netherlands. Shane Snater and Timm van der Gugten are also not participating in this tournament.

Netherlands: 1. Vikramjit Singh, 2. Max O’Dowd, 3. Wesley Barresi, 4. Noah Croes, 5. Bas de Leede, 6. Scott Edwards (c & wk), 7. Teja Nidamanuru, 8. Logan van Beek, 9. Shariz Ahmad, 10. Clayton Floyd/Aryan Dutt, 11. Vivian Kingma

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Zimbabwe:

  • Craig Ervine comes into this match off the back of a century against Nepal. The Zimbabwe captain has scored 187 runs in five matches against Netherlands at an average of 37.40.
  • Sean Williams, who also struck a century against Nepal, won player of the series against the Dutch in March 2023. He scored 120 runs and took three wickets in the three-match ODI series.
  • Sikandar Raza had a quiet outing on Sunday, but he can fire at any moment. The star all-rounder has scored the third-most runs at Harare Sports Club (1,547) at an average of 40.71. He also has 28 wickets.
  • Blessing Muzarabani has dismissed Max O’Dowd once in 38 deliveries in ODIs, conceding just 23 in the process. Also, he has conceded just 13 off 39 balls against Vikramjit Singh, with one dismissal.
  • Richard Ngarava was excellent at the death against Nepal. The left-arm seamer mixed his lengths brilliantly, taking four wickets after the 42nd over.

Netherlands:

  • Max O’Dowd has hit three fifties in five ODIs against Zimbabwe. Overall, he has struck 284 runs against them at an average of 71.00.
  • Vikramjit Singh has struck 14 double-figure scores in 17 ODIs innings, including six 40+ scores. However, he has crossed 60 just once.
  • Bas de Leede is crucial with his all-round ability. He hit 85* in county cricket last week and took six wickets in the same game.
  • Scott Edwards was one of the strong performers in ODIs in 2022. The captain struck 619 runs at an average of 47.61, with eight half-centuries in 15 innings.
  • Edwards against Zimbabwe in ODIs: 4 inns, 121 runs, avg. 40.33, SR 95.27.
  • Talented spinner Shariz Ahmad took eight wickets in three matches against Zimbabwe earlier this year. This included 5/43 in the second ODI.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 6, Zimbabwe, Netherlands 3.
  • Sean Williams has the most wickets in ZIM-NED ODIs (9).
  • Vikramjit Singh scored 49 runs in three matches against Zimbabwe earlier this year.
  • Sikandar Raza vs Netherlands in ODIs: 5 inns, 136 runs, avg. 45.33, SR 102.25.
  • Teja Nidamanuru hit 110* in the first ODI against Zimbabwe earlier in 2023.

Harare Sports Club Pitch Report and Weather

Expect the captain who wins the toss to bowl. Conditions usually get better for batting as the day goes on in Harare. Another clear day is forecast with a top of about 26 degrees.

ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 5: ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction Today 20 June

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:

ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report - ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 5 | ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction Today | Harare Pitch Report
ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 5: ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report - ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 5 | ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction Today | Harare Pitch Report
ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 5: ZIM vs NED Dream11 Prediction

ODI WC Qualifier 2023 Match 5: ZIM vs NED Match Prediction – Who will win?

Zimbabwe should win given the players the Netherlands are without.

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.

Edgbaston Birmingham weather forecast for days 4 and 5

Charbel Coorey
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Edgbaston Birmingham weather forecast for days 4 and 5

Cricket News: Edgbaston Birmingham weather forecast for days 4 and 5 | Edgbaston weather forecast for last 2 days of 1st Ashes Test 2023

The 2023 Ashes has already delivered numerous talking points. Joe Root’s sublime century and England’s bold (or ridiculous) declaration headlined day one, before Usman Khawaja’s own fine hundred has helped keep the Test beautifully balanced.

However, will weather allow for a result? Only 32.4 overs were possible on day three, but Australia made inroads in the 22 balls sandwiched between the rain delay and stumps.

In a Test that has ebbed and flowed, all eyes will be on the heavens with the match so nicely poised.

1st Ashes Test 2023: Edgbaston weather forecast for final day

Day four was a pleasant one weather wise, with another riveting day of Test cricket on display. England attacked but Australia kept plugging away, with the hosts eventually securing a lead of 280. At stumps, Australia finished at 107/3 courtesy of three relatively quick wickets – one from Ollie Robinson and two from Stuart Broad.

Day five is much more ominous. According to BBC weather, heavy rain is forecast in the morning, with 89-100% chance of precipitation between 7am and 11am. AccuWeather also predicts rain for Tuesday morning, which is likely to see a delayed start.

However, conditions look more promising for Tuesday afternoon, with chance of precipitation falling sharply to below 20%. But, the overcast conditions will likely suit England’s seamers, arguably making them the favourites.

If two sessions of play are possible, we should see a result with Australia needing 174 and England seven wickets to win.

Cricket News: Edgbaston Birmingham weather forecast for days 4 and 5 | Edgbaston weather forecast for last 2 days of 1st Ashes Test 2023
Edgbaston Birmingham weather forecast for day 5

Ollie Robinson slammed for send off to Usman Khawaja

Charbel Coorey
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Ollie Robinson slammed for send off to Usman Khawaja

Cricket News: Ollie Robinson slammed for send off to Usman Khawaja | Reactions to Ollie Robinson giving Usman Khawaja a send off after scoring 141

England seam bowler Ollie Robinson has copped criticism online for his fiery send off to Usman Khawaja after dismissing the Australia opener.

Khawaja had hit 141 in an excellent show of patience and determination, but was ultimately undone by terrific captaincy by Ben Stokes and Robinson’s pinpoint execution. However, Robinson’s send off overshadowed the moment, with the seamer coming in for criticism for his send off against a player who hit an excellent century.

After day three, Robinson said he didn’t care what people thought, and emphasised that the Ashes is a very competitive environment. “I don’t really care how it’s perceived to be honest. It’s the Ashes, professional sport. If you can’t handle that, what can you handle?” he said.

Criticism for Ollie Robinson after his send off to Usman Khawaja

Fans online were quite scathing of Robinson, also suggesting those defending him would react differently if an England player was on the end of it. Below are some the reactions, both in defence and condemnation of Robinson’s send off.

Arguments in defence of Robinson:

Twitter reactions – Joe Root hits masterful century vs Australia at Edgbaston

Charbel Coorey
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0
Twitter reactions – Joe Root hits masterful century vs Australia at Edgbaston

Cricket News: Twitter reactions – Joe Root hits masterful century vs Australia at Edgbaston | Reactions to Joe Root century in 1st Test of 2023 Ashes

Joe Root has made the perfect start to the 2023 Ashes, hitting a sublime century on the opening day of the first Test at Edgbaston. England’s great batsman batted through some tricky periods, where the hosts, looking to stay true to their Bazball style of play, risked getting bowled out for a below-par total. However, Root stood tall, looking unflustered on his way to a 30th Test ton.

Hundreds at the start of a big series can set the tone. The 2023 edition of the Ashes has the potential to be the best since 2005, and Root has laid an immediate marker in his team’s quest to win back the Ashes.

His rotation of strike either side of the wicket was testament to his skill, as was his outrageous strokeplay, reverse scooping both Scott Boland and Pat Cummins over third man for six. Also, his footwork against Lyon was an exhibition in reading length quickly against spin, ensuring the offspinner couldn’t settle into a rhythm throughout the day.

Twitter reactions as Joe Root notches 30th Test ton, at Edgbaston

“This is Root’s 13th Test hundred in the last 34 Tests. He had scored another 17 hundreds in his first 97 Tests. This purple patch & his audacious strokeplay makes him almost the most influential Test batsman in the world right now,” one tweet read.

“He has turned into a mentality monster in the last couple of years. Has produced some really special knocks in this period and some pretty chanceless ones at that. Some player, Joe Root!” read another.

Below are more reactions to Joe Root’s terrific century – his 30th in Tests.

Soon after Joe Root brought up his century, Ben Stokes made a bold declaration on a good batting pitch at Edgbaston. England finished with 393/8, choosing to send Australia in to bat in the final half an hour on day one.

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