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ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – ODI WC 2023 Qualifier Match 1

Charbel Coorey
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ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – ODI WC 2023 Qualifier Match 1

ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report: ODI WC 2023 Qualifier Match 1 | ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction Today | Harare Pitch Report

Five years on from total heartbreak at home, Zimbabwe embark on another mission to qualify for the ODI World Cup. In 2018, on this ground, they were beaten narrowly by UAE to miss out on the showpiece tournament in what was a huge blow for the team and their fans.

Once again, ten teams battle it out for just two spots, with West Indies and Sri Lanka favoured to qualify. However, the Zimbabweans are a team that could have a say, but must ensure they have no early slip ups against a Nepal side that will give it their all.

Nepal qualified in superb fashion, winning 11 of their last 12 matches in the Cricket World Cup (CWC) League 2 tournament. Such a run can give them confidence that they can perform under pressure, and an upset win will give their passionate team and fans a huge boost indeed.

Match Details

  • Date: June 18 2023.
  • Location: Harare Sports Club.
  • Time: 10am (local), 12:30pm (IST).

ODI WC 2023 Qualifier Match 1: ZIM vs NEP Possible Playing XIs

Zimbabwe: 1. Innocent Kaia, 2. Craig Ervine (c), 3. Wessley Madhevere, 4. Sean Williams, 5. Sikandar Raza, 6. Ryan Burl, 7. Clive Madande (wk), 8. Wellington Maskadaza/Brad Evans, 9. Luke Jongwe/Richard Ngarava, 10. Trendai Chatara, 11. Blessing Muzarabani

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

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Zimbabwe:

  • Sikandar Raza is crucial to Zimbabwe’s hopes of qualification. He belted 123 (66) and took 3/48 against Nepal in the 2018 World Cup Qualifier.
  • Raza has scored the most runs of any current player at Harare Sports Club (1,547) at an average of 40.71 and strike rate of 84.48. He also has 28 wickets.
  • Sean Williams and Craig Ervine will be key with their experience. Williams has played 52 ODIs on this ground, scoring 1,254 runs at an average of 29.85, along with 25 scalps. Ervine has struck 917 runs at an average of 32.75 in 34 ODI innings at Harare Sports Club.
  • If Zimbabwe bats first, Ryan Burl can certainly be a danger when finishing. He hit 68 off 52 balls in the recent warm up game against Oman when setting a total.
  • Blessing Muzarabani can test the Nepalese with his height. On this ground, he has taken 15 wickets in 12 ODIs at an average of 28.73.
  • Tendai Chatara is the highest wicket-taker among current players at Harare Sports Club (37) at an average of 33.45 and strike rate of 40.89.

Nepal:

  • 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.
  • Sheikh comes into this game having struck 76 (104) and 23 (24) in the warm up games against UAE and Oman respectively.
  • Rohit Paudel was Nepal’s next-highest run-scorer in CWC League 2 with 909 at an average of 33.66 and strike rate of 75.56.
  • Opener Kushal Bhurtel struck a 94-ball 101 in Nepal’s win over Oman on June 15.
  • Sandeep Lamichhane is key. He is Nepal’s leading wicket-taker in the past year, with 46 scalps in just 17 innings at a superb average of 14.97.
  • Overall in CWC League 2, Lamichhane took 72 wickets at an average of 15.86 and economy of 4.04.
  • Karan KC took 50 wickets in 30 matches in the CWC League 2 tournament at an average of just 22.06.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Zimbabwe (380/6) beat Nepal (264/8) by 116 runs in the 2018 ODI WC Qualifier.
  • Sikandar Raza smashed 110 off 67 balls in the warm up match against Oman on June 13.
  • Wessley Madhevere averages just 16.00 in 15 ODIs on this ground (240 runs).

Harare Sports Club Pitch Report and Weather

Typically, the best time to bowl at Harare at this time of year is the early morning. Conditions usually become excellent for batting in the afternoon, so expect the captain who wins the toss to bowl first.

In three ODIs between Zimbabwe and Netherlands in March, the average first innings score was 250.33. The chasing team won twice, with the other match decided by one run.

A top of 26 degrees is forecast with completely sunny skies.

ODI WC 2023 Qualifier Match 1: ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction Today Match 18 June 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:

ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report: ODI WC 2023 Qualifier Match 1 | ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction Today | Harare Pitch Report
ODI WC 2023 Qualifier Match 1: ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report: ODI WC 2023 Qualifier Match 1 | ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction Today | Harare Pitch Report
ODI WC 2023 Qualifier Match 1: ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction

ODI WC 2023 Qualifier Match 1: ZIM vs NEP Match Prediction – who will win?

Zimbabwe should win this match.

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

Ashes 2023 AUS vs ENG 1st Test Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
Ashes 2023 AUS vs ENG 1st Test Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Ashes 2023 AUS vs ENG 1st Test Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report | AUS vs ENG 1st Test 2023 Dream11 Prediction Today | Edgbaston Pitch Report

Let all the talking move to the side. It’s time for a highly anticipated Ashes series, one that could be the best of its kind since 2005. Such a call is a big one to make, but as they say, opposites attract.

It’s England’s brash, brave Bazball against the efficient machine that is Australia, the World Test Champions. Edgbaston was labelled as the ‘fortress’ pre-2019 Ashes, before Steve Smith and the Australians set down a marker at the start of that series. Indeed, the visitors will be aiming for the same in front of what will be a raucous crowd.

While both teams have their strengths, they also have key questions to answer. What England’s top three will produce is anyone’s guess, while Jack Leach’s injury creates concern as to the workload of the seam bowlers. From an Australian point of view, how proactive and brave Pat Cummins will be as captain will be key, as is Mitchell Starc’s control and effectiveness, plus the contributions of the openers.

Ashes 2023 1st Test: ENG vs AUS Possible Playing XIs

England have confirmed their XI.

England: 1. Zak Crawley, 2. Ben Duckett, 3. Ollie Pope, 4. Joe Root, 5. Harry Brook, 6. Ben Stokes (c), 7. Jonny Bairstow (wk), 8. Moeen Ali, 9. Ollie Robinson, 10. Stuart Broad, 11. James Anderson

Australia have a choice to make with two of Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland and Josh Hazlewood to make the XI. They may stick with the same team as the WTC Final.

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

ALSO READ: 3 predictions for the 2023 Ashes series

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

England:

  • Joe Root is vital for England. He averages 60.81 in seven Tests at Edgbaston, with 669 runs including four fifties and two centuries. He smashed 142* in the run chase of 378 against India last year.
  • Harry Brook is confident coming up against the Australian attack. In seven Tests in his career so far, he has scored 818 runs at an average of 81.80 and incredible strike rate of 99.03.
  • Ben Stokes is always a factor against Australia, especially in England. He averages 40.1 against the Aussies at home. Also, the England captain is expected to bowl.
  • Jonny Bairstow completes a dangerous middle order for England. The keeper-batsman had a dream 2022, where he struck 1,061 runs at an average of 66.31 and strike rate of 76.00. This includes 106 and 114* last year against India on this ground.
  • James Anderson has taken the most wickets at Edgbaston (51) at an average of 22.62. Stuart Broad dismissed Warner seven times for 35 runs in 104 balls in the 2019 series.

Australia:

  • Steve Smith, who is coming off a superb century in the WTC Final, averages a remarkable 60.70 in 17 Tests in England. He struck twin centuries in a memorable comeback at Edgbaston in 2019.
  • In England, Smith has been dismissed just once in 282 balls by James Anderson at an average of 152. Against Broad in England, Smith averages 45.00 with 315 runs.
  • Marnus Labuschagne impressed in the 2019 Ashes. He has struck four half-centuries in five Tests in England at an overall average of 46.66.
  • Travis Head was the player of the last WTC cycle with five man of the match awards, including the final thanks to his 163. Also, he was player of the series in the 2021/22 Ashes series in Australia.
  • Pat Cummins was outstanding in 2019. He took 29 wickets in that series. Australia’s premier fast bowler also has a terrific record against Joe Root, having dismissed him eight times for 190 runs (avg. 23.8) in Tests.
  • Scott Boland could be crucial. His ability to hit the 6m length can help counter Bazball. He averages 14.57 in Tests (33 wickets), with 18 scalps coming against England at an average of 9.55.
  • Nathan Lyon has taken 12 wickets in two Tests at Edgbaston at an average of 20.75. On a pitch devoid of a grass, coupled with England’s attacking approach, Lyon could find himself in the wickets.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in since start of 2013: Matches 15, England 8, Australia 5, 3 drawn.
  • Steve Smith needs 53 runs to reach 9,000 in Tests. Only Allan Border, Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting have crossed this mark among Australian players.
  • Australia have the top three ranked batsmen in Tests: Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head.
  • Ollie Robinson took 7/59, 7/58, 4/29 and 1/46 in his previous two County matches last month.

Edgbaston Birmingham Pitch Report and Weather

Sweltering conditions in Egbaston and a pitch devoid of much grass makes this bat first conditions. The first two days will be hot, but there is the chance of rain over the weekend. Despite the rain, the hot weather may provide turn later in the match.

The average first innings score in the past six Tests is 322.33. The team batting first has won 66.7% of these matches.

Ashes 2023 1st Test: ENG vs AUS Dream11 Prediction Today Match 16-20 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:

Ashes 2023 AUS vs ENG 1st Test Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 | AUS vs ENG 1st Test 2023 Dream11 Prediction Today | Edgbaston Pitch Report
Ashes 2023 1st Test: ENG vs AUS Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

Ashes 2023 AUS vs ENG 1st Test Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 | AUS vs ENG 1st Test 2023 Dream11 Prediction Today | Edgbaston Pitch Report
Ashes 2023 1st Test: ENG vs AUS Dream11 Prediction

Ashes 2023 1st Test: ENG vs AUS Match Prediction – Who will win?

What a match this promises to be. The team that bats first may hold the edge in this clash, given the success of setting a score at Edgbaston in recent years.

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.

Ashes 2023 predictions – top run scorer, wicket taker & who will win?

Charbel Coorey
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0
Ashes 2023 predictions – top run scorer, wicket taker & who will win?

Ashes 2023 predictions – top run scorer, wicket taker & who will win? | Predictions for the 2023 Ashes – who will win the series?

The 2023 Ashes has the potential to be the best since 2005. Such big statements can often be thrown around aimlessly, but the potential storylines, matchups and pitch conditions will make for riveting viewing and countless talking points.

It’s BazBall against the world Test champions. A side rejuvinated under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum will go head-on against a consistent force in the red-ball format, especially over the past two years. This force, Australia, are aiming to achieve a first series win in England since 2001, but it won’t be easy.

Australia, on paper, look the better team. If you had to create a combined Ashes XI out of the current squads, more Australian players will appear on that team sheet. However, that’s not how the Ashes works, particularly in England, and particularly against a Stokes-led team that plays so boldly.

Such a series can defy logic. As a result, it’s a mighty difficult one to predict. In this article, we’ll attempt to land three predictions that may come true by the end of what should be a fantastic series.

Ashes 2023 predictions - top run scorer, wicket taker & who will win? | Predictions for the 2023 Ashes - who will win the series?
Ashes 2023 predictions – Edgbaston will host the first Test.

Leading run-scorer: Steve Smith

The greatest Test cricketer of this generation comes into the series off the back of a superb century in the recent World Test Championship (WTC) Final. His numbers in England – 1,882 runs at an average of 60.70 – are astronomical, and he is well placed to have another big series.

Yes, England are playing with confidence. Yes, James Anderson is around this time. However, with England set to produce fast, flat pitches, these conditions should play right into the hands of Smith, who has an insatiable hunger for runs.

Other leading contenders: Joe Root, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, Harry Brook.

Leading wicket-taker: Nathan Lyon

It’s a brave call to pick a spinner to finish as the leading wicket-taker of a series in England. However, there are a few key reasons for choosing Nathan Lyon.

Firstly, all five Test matches are packed in closely together. So, expect to see fast bowlers from both sides rested and rotated throughout the series.

Secondly, conditions throughout the UK have been quite dry in recent weeks, which may aid spin. Couple that with England’s desire to produce true batting pitches that may aid spin later in the Tests. In fact, we saw Lyon spin the ball effectively in the WTC Final.

Thirdly, England will take on Lyon to try increase the pressure on Australia’s bowlers. Given Lyon’s experience, quality and solid record in English conditions (50 wickets, avg. 29.66), expect wickets for the offspinner as the opposition looks to take more chances against him.

Other leading contenders: Stuart Broad, James Anderson, Pat Cummins, Scott Boland.

Series scoreline: 2-2

Both sides are capable of winning multiple Tests. However, both can easily lose a couple. It has the makings of a fascinating series where the result will be split, with many ebbs and flows sure to leave us on the edge of our seats.

Australia have the depth, but England are at home and are playing fearlessly. Also, James Anderson is available, and should have an impact given how brilliantly he is still bowling. However, where England may struggle is in the spin department after Jack Leach’s injury, which increases the burden on the seam attack. Also, how well will the top three of Crawley, Duckett and Pope perform?

From an Australian perspective, Pat Cummins’ captaincy will come under the microscope. Will he be proactive enough? How long until he pushes fielders back on the rope? One feels he will learn plenty on this tour.

Also, whether the attack as a whole can keep England as quiet as possible on mostly good batting surfaces is a key question, as is the opening batting combination of Warner and Khawaja in UK conditions.

While both sides have their strengths, there are some flaws. Australia are good enough to retain the urn, but this Ben Stokes’s team will prolong their 22-year wait of winning a series in England.

2-2 it is with a rain-affected match somewhere along the line.

Bring it on.

Will Trent Boult play in the 2023 ODI World Cup?

Tarkesh Jha
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Will Trent Boult play in the 2023 ODI World Cup?

Cricket News: Will Trent Boult play in the 2023 ODI World Cup? | Update on whether Trent Boult will play for New Zealand

Trent Boult has reached a compromise agreement with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) where the board has given him a casual playing deal in contrast to the other 20 players who have received full-time contracts.

Boult gave up his NZC central contract in August last year. However, the pacer has reportedly committed to represent the national team in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup that will be held from October 5 to November 19 in India.

He had stated his intention of playing in more T20 leagues across the world. Boult, 33, also wanted to spend more time with his family. He, however, turned up for the Kiwis in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Australia last year.

Similarly, Boult’s commitment to play for New Zealand in big-ticket ICC tournaments remains undeterred regardless of his greater commitment to franchise cricket in recent times.

Trent Boult likely to feature in 2023 ODI World Cup

Boult had a terrific stint with the Rajasthan Royals (RR) despite their inability to qualify for the playoffs in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) season. He has been a regular in the IPL over the years and has toured India multiple times with New Zealand since the early part of the previous decade.

That experience will hold him in good stead during the 50-over World Cup as well as the Kiwis look to go one step better and lift the championship after their runners-up finish in the last two editions of the tournament. Colin de Grandhomme and Martin Guptill are the other major releases from the NZC central contract list.

NZC centrally contracted players 2023-23: Finn Allen, Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Blair Tickner, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, Will Young

India record in ICC knockout matches since 2013

Charbel Coorey
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India record in ICC knockout matches since 2013

Cricket News: India record in ICC knockout matches since 2013 | When is the last time Team India won an ICC trophy?

The Indian men’s team’s ten-year long wait for an ICC trophy continued after comprehensively losing the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia at The Oval. It was yet another missed opportunity for India in an ICC knockout match, with team selections and execution hurting them badly in London.

India, who often dominate bilateral series, have no issue reaching the big matches at ICC tournaments. They almost always do. However, their pattern of stumbling on the biggest stage can be difficult to explain given their significant talent pool and financial might.

India’s missed opportunities in ICC knockout matches since Champions Trophy in 2013

Three wins out of 11 is an inexplicable record after winning seven in a row between 2007 and 2013. Here is a deeper dive at India’s record since winning the Champions Trophy back in 2013, looking back at their missed opportunities as each ICC event.

2014 T20 World Cup – loss vs Sri Lanka in the final

Cricket News: India record in ICC knockout matches since 2013 | When is the last time Team India won an ICC trophy?
India record in ICC knockout matches since 2013: Kumar Sangakkara led Sri Lanka to victory in 2014.

Yuvraj Singh, who was a monster in white-ball cricket for India, struggled in the T20 World Cup final against Sri Lanka in Dhaka. His 21-ball 11 stifled India’s progress, with Virat Kohli unable to generate any meaningful momentum despite scoring 77 off 58 balls.

In response to India’s 130, Sri Lanka cruised to the target with 13 balls to spare courtesy mainly of Kumar Sangakkara’s glorious 52* off 35 balls. In the process, the Lions overcame their own set of near misses after losing the 2003 ODI World Cup semi final, 2007 ODI World Cup final, 2009 T20 World Cup final, 2010 T20 World Cup semi final and 2011 ODI World Cup final.

2015 ODI World Cup – loss vs Australia in the semi-final

India beat Bangladesh in the quarter final of the 2015 ODI World Cup. They then ran into a red-hot Australia team at the SCG, where Steve Smith hit 105 off 93 balls in a total of 328/7.

Despite a promising start by Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan, India were never in the contest, eventually falling short by 95 runs.

2016 T20 World Cup – loss vs West Indies in the semi-final

India were expected to win the 2016 T20 World Cup on home soil. A score of 192 in the semi final against West Indies seemed enough, but Lendl Simmons (82* off 51 balls), Johnson Charles (52 off 36 balls) and Andre Russell (43* off 20 balls) had other ideas in a show of T20 excellence at the Wankhede.

Kohli’s second half-century in a T20 World Cup knockout match was not enough to secure victory, with all of Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin and Hardik Pandya conceding over ten runs per over.

2017 Champions Trophy – loss vs Pakistan in the final

Cricket News: India record in ICC knockout matches since 2013 | When is the last time Team India won an ICC trophy?
India record in ICC knockout matches since 2013: Mohammad Amir was magnificent in the 2017 CT Final

India thumped Bangladesh in the 2017 Champions Trophy semi-final, setting up a dream clash against arch-rivals Pakistan in the final. However, all that went right for India on that day was winning the toss.

After sending Pakistan in, Fakhar Zaman (114) was the main architect of a dominant batting display where the men in green finished with 338/4. India’s strong batting lineup and magnificent conditions meant there was always hope, but Mohammad Amir ripped through the top order, dismissing Rohit, Shikhar and Virat within nine overs.

India eventually lost by 180 runs, with Hardik Pandya’s 43-ball 76 making up nearly half their total of 158.

2019 ODI World Cup – loss vs New Zealand in the semi-final

Another ICC event, another heartbreak. Martin Guptill was the most disliked man in India after running MS Dhoni out and ending hopes of another MSD special. The New Zealand attack ripped through India’s top order after mustering 239 themselves, with the Black Caps winning on the reserve day.

KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were all dismissed for one run. Dhoni (50) and Ravindra Jadeja (77) had the nation believing, but it was another near miss in the end.

2021 World Test Championship – loss vs New Zealand in the final

New Zealand again. This time in the World Test Championship. Rain played spoilsport throughout the Test, with the Black Caps’ more well-rounded attack for the conditions delivering the goods.

Trailing by just 32 after the first innings, India could only manage 170 second time around with the game there to be won. After R Ashwin gave India hope by dismissing both openers before the score reached 50, New Zealand legends Kane Williamson (52*) and Ross Taylor (47*) slammed the door shut.

2022 T20 World Cup – loss vs England in the semi-final

The highly-anticipated semi-final turned to out to be a beating of epic proportions. India began their innings slowly, with Hardik Pandya then taking them to 168. It was nowhere near enough, with Jos Buttler (80*) and Alex Hales (86*) taking the Indian attack to all parts of the Adelaide Oval.

The defeat sparked widespread disappointment from an Indian perspective. A slow start with the bat and lack of penetration with the ball brought back haunted memories of previous ICC knockout matches, extending the wait for a trophy even further.

2023 World Test Championship – loss vs Australia in the final

In 2021, India had their chances to win the WTC Final against New Zealand. In 2023, they were pretty much out of it after the first day.

After opting to bowl without R Ashwin in the team, India put all their eggs in the one basket instead of picking an XI for the entire five days. Steve Smith and Travis Head dominated a struggling attack, before Scott Boland and the Australians plugged away against an Indian batting lineup that struggled to adjust appropriately after the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The performance as a whole was disappointing. They were always playing from behind, relying on a remarkable comeback against a good Test side in Australia. In the end, they were beaten comprehensively by 209 runs before lunch on the fifth day.

2023 ODI World Cup – loss vs Australia in the final

This one would hurt the most. India, coming off an absolutely dominant group stage and 70-run win over New Zealand in the semi-final, entered the final with ten straight wins. They were the undoubted favourites against an Australia side that fought its way to the final, but fears of a bad day in the knockouts came to fruition once again.

After Pat Cummins opted to bowl, India only had joy in the opening ten overs. The remaining 40 yielded just 160 on a slow pitch. With the ball, India picked up early wickets, but the body language was telling even with Australia still needing over 100 runs to win.

In the end, Australia won comfortably by six wickets and 42 balls to spare, with Travis Head (137) and Marnus Labuschagne (58*) the stars with the bat, leaving India to wonder when the drought will end.

The next chance? The 2024 T20 World Cup in West Indies and USA.

3 reasons why India lost the 2023 WTC Final

Shahryaar Mirza
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3 reasons why India lost the 2023 WTC Final

Cricket News: 3 reasons why India lost the 2023 WTC Final | Why did India lose WTC Final 2023? A look at three key reasons

Australia became the first nation to win all major ICC titles after comprehensively beating India in the final of the World Test Championship (WTC).

In what was a cracking game of Test cricket, Australia kept their nerves under pressure. All three results were possible heading into day five, with India needing 280 runs to win with seven wickets in hand. However, Australia played their best cricket on the final day to blow India away before lunch.

Coming into this game, India would have hoped to put up a better show. Instead, their decade-long hunt for an ICC trophy continues. On that note, let us look at three reasons behind India’s loss in the final.

3 key reasons why India lost the WTC Final

1. Team selection

Cricket News: 3 reasons why India lost the 2023 WTC Final | Why did India lose WTC Final 2023? A look at three key reasons
3 reasons why India lost the 2023 WTC Final: R Ashwin’s exclusion hurt India.

The inclusion of four pacers is never too bad an idea in England. However, India’s selection came at the cost of a modern-day Test great, Ravichandran Ashwin. The off-spinner was left out as India chose Umesh Yadav and Shardul Thakur as the other two fast bowlers in addition to Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami.

In the lead up, Steve Smith talked about how the pitch could assist spinners as the game progresses. He was indeed right. On days four and five, Ravindra Jadeja and Nathan Lyon got a fair bit of turn and bounce, of which Ashwin would have surely enjoyed.

Apart from being the top-ranked bowler, he also has a favourable matchup against left-handed batsmen. Against left-handers, Ashwin has notched a tremendous 240 wickets at an average of just 19. Furthermore, he has grabbed 114 Test wickets against Australia; his most against any nation.

Also, crucially, he averages just a little over 19 overall against Australia’s four left-handed batters: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Travis Head and Alex Carey.

In the end, Head and Carey played crucial knocks to push Australia ahead in the contest. On a dry pitch in hot conditions, Ashwin could have combined control with wicket-taking threat to give India a greater chance in this match.

ALSO READ: Why can’t certain India fans separate the IPL & India national team?

2. First day performance

3 reasons why India lost the 2023 WTC Final: Travis Head blew India away on day one.

India got off to a dream start after Usman Khawaja nicked one to the wicketkeeper off Siraj. The conditions looked conducive for pace bowling, with movement in the air and off the pitch.

However, to Rohit Sharma’s misfortune, India could not really make use of the first hour or so.

The Australian batters were beaten on multiple occasions, but India did not get as many wickets as they could and should have. Shami bowled a touch short, while Umesh and Shardul leaked way too many runs. Australia outperformed India in this regard, particularly on days two and five.

When Travis Head started counterattacking, the Indian bowlers had no reply. Steve Smith settled in as well after getting off to a scratchy start.

Eventually, India gave away 327 runs on the first day and 469 in the first innings. From there on, they were never really in control of the game despite the efforts of Ajinkya Rahane and Shardul Thakur with the bat.

3. Top order failing to make it count

Cricket News: India possible 11 for WTC 2023 Final | Possible playing XI for India for the World Test Championship Final
3 reasons why India lost the 2023 WTC Final: Rohit and co. couldn’t go big.

None of India’s top four could capitalise on the decent starts they got in both innings.

Rohit Sharma failed to produce an inspirational performance as the skipper. In the first innings, he was caught on the crease and was dismissed LBW off Cummins. In the second innings, he would feel he missed out. He looked in extremely good touch and was on track to get a really big score. However, a lapse of concentration off Nathan Lyon’s bowling saw him dismissed for 43.

Shubman Gill creamed a cover drive and a pull before he was knocked over by Boland on day two. In the second innings, Boland again got the better of Gill, thanks to a controversial Cameron Green catch.

ALSO READ: Cameron Green catch to dismiss Shubman Gill in the WTC Final – out or not out?

Pujara, in the first innings, was dismissed in almost identical fashion as compared to Gill. Both were caught in two minds and could not decide whether to play or leave.

Gill is young and bound to make mistakes. Pujara, on the other hand, with all his experience, should have done a lot better. He also threw his wicket away in the second innings trying to play an uncharacteristic shot over the wicketkeeper’s head.

While the top three were supposed to lay down the platform for the likes of Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Ravindra Jadeja, they collapsed instead. Kohli himself looked solid on both occasions, but made a fatal error on the fifth day that began India’s final, sharp slide towards defeat.

Now, it’s thinking time for India. Once again, they have fallen short in a knockout match at an ICC event, creating some uncertainty in the minds of some fans as to how they will fare at this year’s ODI World Cup at home.

Where they go from here will be interesting to see.

WTC Final 2023 day 4 talking points: Was Gill out or not out?

Shahryaar Mirza
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WTC Final 2023 day 4 talking points: Was Gill out or not out?

Cricket News: WTC Final 2023 day 4 talking points: Was Gill out or not out? | Cameron Green catch sparks great debate on day 4

The fourth day of the game started with Australia having a big lead of 296 runs. Marnus Labuschagne was dismissed early in the day, but Cameron Green, Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc played handy knocks to help Australia post a target of 444 for India

India started off well, but lost their top three for less than 100 runs. Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane have steadily built a good-looking partnership. On a pitch that is still tricky but does seem better for batting, India will need 280 runs to win the ICC World Test Championship 2021-23.

3 talking points from day 4 of the WTC 2023 Final

On that note, let us take a look at three talking points from Day 4 of the WTC Final.

1. Alex Carey quietly chips in with another potentially match-winning knock

In a side with two Test batting greats who average close to 60 in the format, Alex Carey never really makes it to the headlines. The 31-year old, however, has silently played two absolute gems in both the innings this game. In the first innings, he missed out on a half-century by just two runs. Unsurprisingly, his knock was overshadowed by the tons that Travis Head and Steve Smith scored. Even though he did not get a very big score to his name, Australia managed to add a lot more runs to their total than what they would have if Carey failed to stay at the crease for a while.

In the second innings, the wicketkeeper-batsman topped the scoring charts for Australia, 25 more than next-best Marnus Labuschagne. Much like how Head took the counterattacking route to bail Australia out of a pressure situation earlier in the game, Carey operated in similar fashion.

With Australia in a potentially tricky situation , Carey remained positive. He did not slow down Cameron Green’s wicket either, scoring two marvelous boundaries the very next over off Mohammed Siraj’s bowling. Although he was supported well by Starc at the other end, his positive intent is what kept the scoreboard ticking.

2. Mitchell Starc shines with the bat, but not so much with the ball

Cricket News: WTC Final 2023 day 4 talking points: Was Gill out or not out? | Cameron Green catch sparks great debate on day 4
WTC Final 2023 day 4 talking points: Mitchell Starc struggled with the ball

Mitchell Starc is one player who would have had mixed feelings at the end of the day. With the bat, he played second fiddle to Carey in the brilliant 93-run stand. Without slogging blindly, he scored a brilliant 41 off just 57 balls.

However, he was massively disappointing with the ball. The left-arm pacer went for 13 runs off his first over, and a total of 26 in his first three. He bowled one good ball once in a while and then followed it up with a number of ordinary ones.

Starc was unable to build pressure, with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli benefitting. Both were strong against deliveries pitched too straight, of which there were many from the left-arm quick.

3. Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane untroubled aiming to pull off something historic after controversial catch

Cricket News: WTC Final 2023 day 4 talking points: Was Gill out or not out? | Cameron Green catch sparks great debate on day 4
WTC Final 2023 day 4 talking points: Cameron Green’s contentious catch

Cameron Green’s catch (or no catch) was the big talking point of the day. Richard Kettleborough’s decision to give Shubman Gill out sparked debate, with many believing the ball snuck between Green’s fingers to take some of the turf as he completed the catch. It brought to an end a very promising opening stand, where Gill and Rohit began positively.

However, India’s lack of partnerships hurt them early. The Indian skipper was dismissed in Nathan Lyon’s first over trying to sweep, while Cheteshwar Pujara guided one to the wicketkeeper attempting a ramp shot on a shorter delivery.

India would have certainly felt those two wickets were avoidable. But, there was never a lack of intent from the Indian batters. With 280 needed off the last day, Australia are still ahead in the game needing just 7 wickets to win. However, Virat Kohli has looked very comfortable ever since he walked out to bat. Ajinkya Rahane, who scored a magnificent 89 in the first innings, has also looked at ease.

A few of Kohli’s boundaries have come because of the immaculate use of those wrists. Chasing a mammoth total on a fifth day pitch, India could not have asked for a better pair to begin proceedings with on the last day: an in-form Rahane and a well-set Kohli.

The pair brought India out of trouble with an unbeaten partnership of 71 runs, but their job is not done yet. On Day 5, this very experienced duo would look to carry their form forward as India look to chase what would be the highest total that has ever been chased in Test history.

Cameron Green catch to dismiss Gill in WTC Final: Out or not out?

Charbel Coorey
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Cameron Green catch to dismiss Gill in WTC Final: Out or not out?

Cricket News: Cameron Green catch to dismiss Gill: Out or not out? | Debates rife over Cameron Green catch in WTC 2023 Final

Controversy is never too far away when rivals Australia and India do battle. It made an appearance on the fourth day of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, where Cameron Green produced a terrific effort at gully off Shubman Gill that third umpire Richard Kettleborough deemed out.

However, was it out? Did any part of the ball touch the ground? Or did Green keep the ball off the ground the entire time? Remember, the soft signal was removed before the final, so it was Kettleborough’s decision – and Kettleborough’s only – to make.

As an Australian fan, my personal opinion is Shubman Gill was hard done by. While Green’s fingers are under the ball, there appears to be a gap between his fingers, with the ball brushing the turf in the process of taking the catch.

But, opinion either side of the argument should be encouraged and debated in civilised manner. And there certainly is plenty of discussion online. Below are some of the key reactions to the decision, which was an important call given Gill and Rohit Sharma started their steep chase of 444 superbly.

ALSO READ: Highest successful run chases in Tests at The Oval

Cameron Green catch in WTC Final: Out or not out?

Arguments in support of the decision:

Cricbuzz journalist and SEN commentator Bharat Sundaresan believes it was the correct decision.

“When it comes to a catch low to the ground, what matters most is if the fielder was in control of the ball & his body & not if the ball has touched a blade of grass post that & it’s clear that Cameron Green was in control of both. Great call from Richard Kettleborough,” he tweeted.

Arguments & reactions against the decision:

Many believe the ball hit the ground as the catch was being completed, and thus should have been given not out.

What is your call? Do you believe the decision was correct or incorrect? Let us know by tweeting @cric_blog.

ALSO READ: Highest successful run chases in Tests at The Oval

Talking points from WTC Final 2023 day 3 – Can India still win?

Shahryaar Mirza
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Talking points from WTC Final 2023 day 3 – Can India still win?

Cricket News: Talking points from WTC Final 2023 day 3 – Can India still win? | WTC Final 2023 prediction: Can India pull off stunning win?

India began the third day with half of their side back in the pavilion. To add to their wounds, Srikar Bharat was dismissed on just the second ball of the day. Another Scott Boland delivery nipping back ended up disturbing an Indian batter’s stumps. At that point, Australia were quite comfortably in the driver’s seat.

When Shardul Thakur walked in to bat, India trailed by a massive 317 runs, needing 117 runs to avoid the follow on. However, it was then that an extraordinary eighth wicket partnership started to take shape.

Although it was not without some luck for the Shardul and Rahane, the pair still put up a brilliant 109-run stand in a fighting cause. From a position where it looked like an Australia win was the only possible result, the partnership added some life to the game.

On that note, let us take a look at three talking points from Day 3 of the WTC Final.

ALSO READ: Highest successful run chases at The Oval

WTC 2023 Final day 3 talking points: Are Australia too far ahead now?

1. Ajinkya Rahane plays the knock of a warrior on his comeback

Rahane, in his first Test since January 2022, reminded all of his class. Like he has often done in the past, he once again played a superb fighting knock to bring India back into the game. His 89 was a test of his character, which he passed with aplomb thanks to a batting exhibition.

The 35-year old put up a show, piercing gaps on the off-side more often than not. Throughout his knock, he played the ball very late, and never lost his shape in the process. While visuals showed others making contact with the ball outside the crease, Rahane’s points of interception were much closer to his body.

He was standing deep in his crease compared to the likes of Virat Kohli and Marnus Labuschagne, and his trigger movement saw him go further back. Playing late and close to the body is one of the keys to success in England, and Rahane adapted in the best possible manner.

He missed out on a ton by just 11 runs. Nevertheless, his knock has potentially pulled India back into the game from the jaws of defeat.

2. Shardul Thakur makes a case to cement his spot as India’s premier pace bowling all-rounder

Cricket News: Talking points from WTC Final 2023 day 3 - Can India still win? | WTC Final 2023 prediction: Can India pull off stunning win?
Talking points from WTC Final 2023 day 3 – Rahane and Shardul were superb

Shardul may have his weaknesses as a cricketer, but he is a true fighter. He may not consistently get big scores with the bat and may bowl the odd wayward delivery, but he showed some real character on day three.

He took multiple blows to the body, but never allowed it to affect his approach. Two consecutive deliveries from Pat Cummins that rose up sharply off the pitch hit Shardul on his right forearm. He was in immense pain, but he did not throw his wicket away, ensuring he got in line with the ball each time.

Not too long after that, he creamed a cover drive off Mitchell Starc, and then timed an on-drive to perfection off Cummins’ bowling. The resilient knock came to an end only after he got to his half-century. In the process, he joined an elite list; he became only the third visiting batsman ever to score three consecutive Test scores of 50 or more at The Oval, joining the great Sir Don Bradman and Allan Border.

3. Australia play some ordinary cricket to give India hope

Talking points from WTC Final 2023 day 3 – Pat Cummins and Australia were ill-disciplined at times

After dominating the first two days of the Test, Australia lost control of things somewhat on the third day. As good as the Rahane-Shardul duo was, both got lucky on numerous occasions.

Rahane, on day two, was dismissed off a no ball from the Australian skipper. He got another life when he was dropped on 72. Cummins found Rahane’s outside edge, but in a moment of indecisiveness between David Warner and Alex Carey, neither went for the catch wholeheartedly.

Shardul, on the other hand, was dropped by Usman Khawaja on just the fourth delivery he faced. It was a tough chance that flew off Shardul’s outside edge. Had the Australian batter reacted a few milliseconds earlier, he could have put India into further trouble. Shardul was again dropped on eight by Cameron Green, who could not hold on to a sitter at gully.

Later, he missed a flick and got struck on the pads. It was given out by the umpire, but Cummins had overstepped yet again.

With the bat, David Warner, Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith gave their wickets away. Travis Head looked all at sea. With the chance to really drive home the advantage, Australia were quite loose, giving India some hope that they are not out of the match just yet.

With the kind of batting potential India possesses, even 350 would not be impossible to chase, albeit on a tricky pitch. If anything, this gives the Australian management a lot to think about, irrespective of the result of this game. From a champion side like Australia, a tad more professionalism is expected.

ALSO READ: Top 5 highest successful run chases at The Oval

List of highest successful run chases in Tests at The Oval

Charbel Coorey
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List of highest successful run chases in Tests at The Oval

Cricket News: List of highest successful run chases in Tests at The Oval | What is the highest successful run chase at The Oval?

The Oval in London has traditionally been a good ground for batting. But, how successful have teams been in chasing targets?

Over the past 20 years, the team batting first has won 47.4% of Tests on this ground. Teams bowling last have had the better of proceedings in this period, with the top five successful run chases all taking place before 2000.

Top 5 successful run chases in Tests at The Oval

There have been multiple 300+ scores in the fourth innings on this ground. However, none of the top five scores in the final innings have actually resulted in victory.

TotalTargetTeamOpponentYearResult
429/8438IndiaEngland1973Draw
423/7451South AfricaEngland1947Draw
369/6500EnglandIndia2007Draw
348546AustraliaEngland2009ENG win
345464IndiaEngland2018ENG win

Here are the top five run chases achieved at Kennington Oval in London.

1. 263/9 by England against Australia, 1902

England’s effort way back in 1902 remains the highest succcessful run chase to date on this ground. They scored just 183 in reply to Australia’s 324 in the first innings, before knocking over the tourists for just 121 second time around.

Gilbert Jessop’s 104 and George Hirst’s 58 helped England to a remarkable win after falling to 48/5 in pursuit of 263.

2. 255/2 by West Indies against England, 1963

Windies opener Conrad Hunte hit 80 and 108* in an excellent win against England in 1963. The Test was even in the first innings before the visitors cruised to victory by eight wickets on the back of Hunte’s ton and Rohan Kanhai’s 77.

3. 242/5 by Australia against England, 1972

The Chappell brothers were at their very best at The Oval in 1972. Both scored hundreds in Australia’s first innings score of 399, which handed them a 115-run lead.

England fought hard in response with 356, and then picked up three Australian wickets for five runs during the chase of 242. However, Paul Sheahan (44*) and Rod Marsh (43*) led Australia to a fine win.

4. 226/2 by West Indies against England, 1988

West Indies sealed a 4-0 series win in England in 1988 with an eight-wicket win. Greats Gordon Greenidge and Desmond Haynes put on 131 for the first wicket to set up the chase of 225, before Haynes and Gus Logie finished the job.

England dug deep in this Test to bowl the great Windies out for just 183 in the first innings. However, the Windies attack, consisting of Malcolm Marshall, Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh, restricted the home side to 205 and 203 in their two digs.

5. 219/2 by Sri Lanka against England, 2024

Sri Lanka achieved their fourth Test win in England after dismantling the hosts by eight wickets. Pathum Nissanka (127*) was magnificent in the fourth innings, driving, cutting and pulling his way to his second Test hundred.

England paid the price for terrible batting in the second innings. They were bowled out for 156 in just 34 overs on a relatively flat pitch. Sri Lanka had no issues in reaching the target, achieving the fifth-highest successful run chase on this ground in the process.

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