Cricket News: Twitter reactions to Virat Kohli’s 28th Test century | Twitter reactions: Virat Kohli breaks drought to reach 28th Test ton
Virat Kohli broke his century drought in Test cricket dating back to November 2019, after notching up his 28th century in the Ahmedabad clash against Australia. It was a near chanceless knock from the classy number four, who batted Australia out of the game along with Axar Patel after Shubman Gill’s brilliant century.
Kohli came into the fourth Test with an average sitting in only the 20s for this series. However, he looked in decent touch throughout the previous three Tests, ultimately undone by some good bowling often against the run of play on tricky batting pitches. There were no such issues at Ahmedabad, with Kohli grinding down the Australian attack on what was still a flat surface by the third session of day four.
The anticipation in the crowd with Kohli on 99 shows the kind of impact he’s had in his great career. Fans all around the stadium were on their feet awaiting the milestone, before a huge roar bellowed once Kohli knocked yet another off-spinning delivery through the legside.
After the long wait for his 71st international century – achieved in the Asia Cup against Afghanistan last year – Kohli has since scored two ODI centuries and one in Tests. With a huge year ahead for India – including an ODI World Cup and possible World Test Championship Final – fans will be very happy to see Kohli back in the big runs.
Twitter reactions as Virat Kohli breaks drought to notch up 28th Test century
In what came as no surprise, fans and pundits were full of praise for Virat. “YES VIRAT! There was never any doubt. Ok, there was some doubt. Quite a lot actually. But I’m glad it’s happened. Love him or loathe him, he’s the most compelling player to watch and the biggest superstar in world cricket,” one tweet read.
Below are some the reactions to Virat Kohli’s century.
YES VIRAT! There was never any doubt. Ok, there was some doubt. Quite a lot actually. But I’m glad it’s happened.
Love him or loathe him, he’s the most compelling player to watch and the biggest superstar in world cricket. pic.twitter.com/kWl3gZe88l
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) March 12, 2023
The man is at it again! This century is a testament of the confident and classy @imVkohli that we've always known. The discipline he maintains regardless of situations makes him a batter with 75 hundreds to his name. Keep going!#INDvAUSpic.twitter.com/54ah4n4xo8
That celebration from Virat Kohli, the reserved raise of the bat and the kiss to the wedding ring, after that century is a sign of where he seems to be in life & where his priorities are currently. Extremely mature & in love with his family #IndvAus
Special innings from a special player , great temperament on display from Virat. Apart from his extraordinary hunger and intensity, Virat’s comeback to form has been an excellent inspiration for to learn how faith in the higher forces can help in challenging times. Proud ?? pic.twitter.com/LnqiVa7NtQ
There is nothing that suggests that Virat is batting for his hundred.
India were still trailing by 171 runs when Jadeja got out. With uncertainty over Shreyas Iyer, taking unnecessary risks against good, disciplined bowling would've been unintelligent. https://t.co/6T0m7J78oO
There were years when a century by @imVkohli seemed inevitable, & then a fallow period of three years when heartbreak seemed inevitable. So pleased that today turned out to be a return to the glory days. Thrilled for Virat, for India and for all of us fans!
UP-W vs MI-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: WPL 2023 Match 10 | UP-W vs MI-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Brabourne Pitch Report
UP Warriorz will be aiming to challenge Mumbai Indians in the 10th game of the Women’s Premier League 2023.
UP Warriorz won their last game in a dominating way by 10 wickets against the RCB women. Their bowlers set the tone as they bundled out RCB for just 138 runs and then Alyssa Healy (96* runs) chased down the target quite comfortably with assistance from Devika Vaidya (36* runs).
UP rely on their spin attack and the pitch at Brabourne has also slowed down a bit. They have a good batting unit as well. UP has many quality players in Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Ecclestone, Deepti Sharma and Grace Harris in their ranks. They will be confident coming into this game.
The Mumbai Indians are on a roll in the WPL 2023. They won all the three games they’ve played until now and are sitting pretty on the points table. They have a star-studded line-up with Harmanpreet Kaur, Hayley Matthews, Natalie Sciver-Brunt and Amelia Kerr being the main players. Issy Wong has been excellent with the ball while Saika Ishaque is the find of the tournament. Mumbai is in exceptional form as a team and they’ll be eyeing their fourth consecutive win in this game.
Alyssa Healy scored a brilliant 96* in the last game and helped her side to an easy win. Healy is one of the best openers in women’s cricket and she’ll win games single-handedly on her day as we saw in the last match. Healy will look to continue her good form.
Sophie Ecclestone showed her class in the last game. She picked up four wickets in just 3.3 overs and conceded only 13 runs. She’s the best spinner in T20 cricket and is capable with the bat as well.
Tahlia McGrath will bat in the middle order and she’ll bowl 3-4 overs as well. She scored 90* runs and picked up one wicket in the match against the Delhi Capitals. McGrath hits the ball long and will be a key batter for her team.
Deepti Sharma picked up three wickets in the last game against RCB. She is a consistent performer with the ball and is handy with the bat as well. Deepti is a wicket-taker and she can bowl in any phase of the innings
Mumbai Indians:
Hayley Matthews has 156 runs in three innings at an average of 78 and her strike rate is 156! She has six wickets to her name as well. She has been the best player for MI in the WPL and will look to continue her good form in this game as well.
Natalie Sciver-Brunt will bowl four overs and she’ll bat at number three for Mumbai. She’s in excellent form in the tournament. Sciver has 101 runs at an average of 101 in three innings, and she has picked up three wickets as well. She has been very consistent with the bat.
Issy Wong will bowl with the new ball and then in the later phase of the innings. She is a very talented bowler and bowls at a good pace. She has an excellent knuckleball as well in her arsenal. Wong picked up three wickets in the last game.
Saika Ishaque, as mentioned earlier, is the find of WPL 2023. She is an excellent bowler and has the main bowler for Mumbai in the first three games. Saika has nine wickets to her name and she’s currently the highest wicket-taker of the tournament. She picked up three crucial wickets in the last game.
Brabourne Stadium Mumbai Pitch Report and Weather
The weather is expected to be clear. The pitch at Brabourne is a good one for batting. The ball comes onto the bat nicely and there is some help for the bowlers as well. The pacers will get some movement with the new ball while there was assistance for the spinners in the last game. The average first innings score here is 179 runs and the chasing sides have won two out of the four games played here.
WPL 2023 Match 10: UP-W vs MI-W Dream11 Prediction Today 12 March 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:
WPL 2023 Match 10: UP-W vs MI-W Dream11 Prediction Today 12 March 2023
Option 2:
WPL 2023 Match 10: UP-W vs MI-W Dream11 Prediction Today 12 March 2023
Fan2Play Prediction
Base team:
Wicket-keepers: Alyssa Healy
Batters: Harmanpreet Kaur
All-rounders: Hayley Matthews
Bowlers: Sophie Ecclestone, Saika Ishaque
WPL 2023 Match 10: UP-W vs MI-W Match Prediction – Who will win?
Mumbai Indians will be the favourites to win this game but the law of average can hit them in this game and UP has quite a few match-winners in their ranks. It should be a good game.
Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes, with the stats and writer’s views in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.
BAN vs ENG 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report | BAN vs ENG 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Mirpur Pitch Report
After years of difficulty in this format, Bangladesh have the chance to win a series against the current world champions. After a challenging start with the ball in Chattogram, the Tigers roared into life to dominate the rest of the game, chasing England’s 157 with an impressive six wickets and 12 balls to spare.
Now, the key will be backing it up. England are short on batting depth in this squad, so early wickets, particularly that of Jos Buttler, can prove crucial. For the tourists, they still possess quality bowlers, so enough runs from the top order is vital to keep the series alive.
For more cricket fixtures around the world, visit Fixture Calendar.
BAN vs ENG 2nd T20 2023 Possible Playing XIs
Bangladesh could stick with the same winning combination.
Bangladesh: 1. Rony Talukdar, 2. Litton Das (wk), 3. Najmul Hossain Shanto, 4. Shakib Al Hasan (c), 5. Towhid Hridoy, 6. Afif Hossain, 7. Shamim Hossain, 8. Nasum Ahmed, 9. Taskin Ahmed, 10. Hasan Mahmud, 11. Mustafizur Rahman
England have a lack of options in a small squad. They could also stick with the same XI. However, they may rest Jofra Archer given coach Matthew Mott and the management team are reluctant to play him in two straight games.
England: 1. Jos Buttler (c & wk), 2. Phil Salt, 3. Dawid Malan, 4. Ben Duckett, 5. Moeen Ali, 6. Sam Curran, 7. Chris Woakes, 8. Chris Jordan, 9. Adil Rashid, 10. Mark Wood, 11. Jofra Archer/Rehan Ahmed
Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Bangladesh:
Najmul Hossain Shanto is in terrific form. He was player of the match in the first T20I (51 off 30 balls), soon after scoring the most runs in BPL 2023: 15 inns, 516 runs, avg. 39.69, SR 116.74.
Rony Talukdar promised plenty in a good start in the opening T20I (21 off 14 balls). In T20s at Mirpur, Talukdar has scored 1,283 runs in 66 matches at an average of 21.03 and strike rate of 128.43.
Shakib Al Hasan is in good batting touch. He scored 58 and 75 in the final two ODIs, followed by 34* in the opening T20I.
Shakib is the leading wicket-taker in T20s at Mirpur (160) with an economy of just 6.37 and strike rate of 17.18.
Mustafizur Rahman also loves bowling at Mirpur. He has taken 120 wickets in 84 innings on this ground, striking every 15.39 balls on average.
Hasan Mahmud took two wickets at the death in the opening T20I. He will be key again at this stage.
England:
Jos Buttler batted beautifully in the first match. The captain scored 67 off 42 balls, taking his T20I average in Asia to 34.85 and strike rate of 144.10.
Dawid Malan hit a century in an ODI on this ground earlier this month. He averages 39.00 with a strike rate of 135.32 batting at number three in T20Is.
Moeen Ali has a good record on this ground. He has scored 243 runs in nine innings at an average of 34.71 and strike rate of 138.86. He also has ten wickets.
Sam Curran can turn the game in his team’s favour. The all-rounder was player of the tournament in last year’s World Cup.
Adil Rashid will be key on a Mirpur track that may aid turn. The legspinner took eight wickets in the recent ODI series, followed by 1/25 in the opening T20I.
Other Stats and Facts
Head-to-head: Matches 2, Bangladesh 1, England 1.
Nasum Ahmed at Mirpur: 57 inns, 53 wickets, avg. 22.45, econ. 6.18.
Najmul Hossain Shanto is one of ten players with at least 1,800 T20 runs on this ground (1,830). He averages 29.52 with a strike rate of 124.91.
Shere Bangla National Stadium Mirpur Dhaka Pitch Report and Weather
The Mirpur track has often been a difficult surface for batting in T20Is in recent years. Also, the ground hosted 26 matches in BPL 2023 plus two ODIs against England, so a slow surface could be on offer once again.
The average first innings score in BPL 2023 was a decent 154.39. Interestingly, the chasing team won 61.5% of the matches. Orthodox bowlers were the most economical (<6.5 per over) whereas legspinners were the most expensive at nearly nine per over.
A hot, humid and clear afternoon is forecast in Mirpur.
BAN vs ENG 2nd T20 2023 Dream11 Prediction Today 12 March 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:
BAN vs ENG 2nd T20 2023 Dream11 Prediction Today 12 March 2023
Option 2:
BAN vs ENG 2nd T20 2023 Dream11 Prediction Today 12 March 2023
Fan2Play Prediction
Base team:
Wicket-keepers: Jos Buttler
Batters: Najmul Hossain Shanto
All-rounders: Shakib Al Hasan, Sam Curran, Moeen Ali
Bowlers: Jofra Archer
BAN vs ENG 2nd T20 2023 Match Prediction – Who will win?
Bangladesh are a great chance of winning again, particularly if they can get early wickets. A score of 150 batting first can be a winning one on what could be a slow Mirpur track.
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.
The first-ever Women’s Premier League (WPL) cricket competition is underway, putting women front and centre in a country known for its love of the sport. The WPL seeks to change the face of women’s cricket around the world, with some of the best female players taking part in the inaugural competition. The league has already been described as “transformative” as it could shape the women’s game for decades to come.
In recent years, women’s basketball and soccer have been transformed by the rise in competitions and the excitement of sports fans from around the globe. The WPL hopes to create the same kind of buzz, as it becomes the authority in women’s cricket.
The WPL is an all-new women’s cricket competition in India, home of the men’s Indian Premier League (IPL). The IPL transformed men’s cricket, making it more exciting and fast-paced, growing the sport which seemed to be stagnating in other parts of the world.
The 2023 WPL features five teams playing a format like the IPL. The fast-paced matches typically finish in under three hours, making the competition ideal for cricket fans of the shorter game. The league features Delhi Capitals, Gujarat Giants, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and UP Warriorz competing for 22 days. The competition will conclude on March 26.
Investment in the women’s game
A considerable amount of money was invested in the WPL before it started. Around $580 million was spent by owners to acquire the five team franchises. Viacom paid $117m to acquire the broadcast rights for the WPL for the next five years.
Only women’s basketball in the United States has a higher broadcast rights fee per game than the WPL in the entire women’s sports world. It is a remarkable figure, as women’s basketball has deep roots in the US. The WPL is only in its first season, and when the broadcast rights deal ends in five years, the WPL could eclipse the numbers set by women’s basketball in the US. Of course, that will depend on how cricket fans consume the sport.
Adding more investment into the WPL was Tata Group. The Indian conglomerate became the WPL’s title sponsor in a deal that will last for the next five years. Although the financial sponsorship figure wasn’t made public, it is said to be substantial.
How big can women’s cricket become?
The sky is the limit for women’s cricket with the new investment provided by the WPL and its sponsors. The more money available for the women’s game, the better-developed players will become. The WPL isn’t the only major women’s cricket competition. In 2021, the women’s Hundred tournament launched in the United Kingdom.
The game is on an upward trajectory and the stats back up the growth the women’s sport is experiencing. The Women’s World Cup final in 2009 featured England and New Zealand. Despite being strong cricketing nations, the match held in Sydney was watched by just over 2,000 fans. Just over 10 years later, the T20 World Cup final had a packed Melbourne Cricket Ground of 86,000 fans.
Cricket News: Cameron Green is a ‘once-in-a-generation’ cricketer – R Ashwin | Ashwin comments on Cameron Green
Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin hailed Cameron Green as a once-in-a-generation cricketer after the towering all-rounder slammed a prolific century (114) on the second day of the fourth Test between the two teams in Ahmedabad on Friday. Green partnered with opener Usman Khawaja (180) to put up a formidable 208-run partnership for the fifth wicket and help Australia get to a dominant total of 480 runs in the first innings.
Taking 170 deliveries for his 114, Green notched 18 boundaries and manoeuvred India’s spin trio seamlessly to bring up his maiden ton in Indian shores.
“I hope you tuned into the IPL auction. It just tells you how the Indian cricket fraternity rates Cameron Green. I think he is a fantastic player. Just the raw material he has, tall, lovely levers, good batting sense, can hit the deck hard while bowling, moves pretty well; these are once-in-a-generation cricketer that you are talking about,” Ashwin exclaimed at the end of second day’s play, as reported by Hindustan Times (HT).
The 23-year-old has induced incredible balance to the Australian playing XI ever since making a comeback in the third Test after missing out from the opening two Tests due to a finger injury. Green’s introduction allowed Australia to play a pacer less in favour of an additional spinner. That enabled them to crack down the Indian batting order in Indore.
Moreover, his proficiency with the bat came to the fore in this Test as he tackled the Indian bowling unit with perfection on a placid playing surface. Overall, he has added great strength in all departments of the Australian playing XI. Ashwin also reflected on his careful handling and workload management by the Australian team management – even indicating that such a delicate approach in missing in the Indian cricketing ecosystem.
“However, we come from different countries, India is very different. We can’t protect such players for longer periods of time. It is perform or perish (in India). In countries like Australia and England, these cricketers are groomed pretty well. Expect Cameron Green to be a wonderful cricketer down the line,” the 36-year-old, who picked a six-wicket-haul in the first innings, further remarked.
Cricket News: Twitter reactions: Temba Bavuma scores long-awaited 2nd century | Reactions to Temba Bavuma century vs West Indies
Temba Bavuma scored his first century as South Africa Test captain, finishing on 171 not out after the third day of the second Test against West Indies.
Bringing up the three figures was an emotional moment for Bavuma, who has often come under criticism from fans regarding his role in South Africa’s cricketing setup. But, praise was widespread for the skipper, whose innings has put the Proteas in a commanding position after they were in trouble at 8/2 and then 69/4 in their second innings.
This century comes over seven years since his first – against England at Cape Town in 2016. However, Bavuma has often leant a steady hand to a shaky Proteas batting lineup in recent years, now scoring 899 runs at an average of 47.3 since the start of 2021.
Bavuma has the chance to become the 16th South African to notch a double century in Tests. His team are well placed at 287/7, leading by a healthy 356 runs against a Windies side whose top score is just 251 so far in this series.
Twitter reactions to superb century by Temba Bavuma
Fans and pundits were full of praise for the new Proteas skipper, who responded to critics in the best possible way after a pair in the first Test. Here are some of the reactions.
It's been 2621 days since Temba Bavuma scored his first Test hundred and finally… he has a second. There's only about 350 people at the Wanderers, but they made it sound like 35,000. And Wiaan Mulder celebrated like crazy at the other end. #SAvWI
It may have been seven years between Temba Bavuma's centuries but he's been the top Proteas batsman over the past 12 months ? pic.twitter.com/Yhc2nyDvHa
No one in a South African shirt has suffered more ridicule than Temba Bavuma. And yet he always seems to be the man for a crisis over the last two or three years. Salute my captain.
I know 1st innings runs set up a game, but 2nd innings hundreds are often under a lot more pressure. Temba Bavuma's 170 not out is the highest 2nd innings score for the Proteas since Hashim Amla's staggering 196 against Australia in Perth in 2012.
What a way to end the drought! Temba Bavuma lashes Alzarri Joseph over the covers for his 12th four to go to his 2nd Test century, the long-awaited one, the one to silence the critics. Wiaan Mulder leaps for joy at the other end. It's been 254 minutes & 192 balls of tenacity.
Lets hope the pictures that gets used in certain newspapers tomorrow are better than what we saw after Temba Bavuma made a century v ENG in the ODIs in January #ifyouknowyouknow
When your team is 32/3 and you dig out a hundred… Proper innings that from the South African captain. Weight off his shoulders sure because of how long it's been between Test centuries, but hugely significant given the context of the match. Well played Temba Bavuma.
— Lawrence Bailey ⚪ ?? (@LawrenceBailey0) March 10, 2023
??TEMBA BAVUMA CENTURY? brilliant from our captain!!!??? Been one of our best batsmen over the past 2 years, finally rewarded with another century, well batted ? ?? #SAvWI
Beautiful interview with Temba Bavuma on now. Wonderful insight into his recent struggles. Temba is not just our captain – he’s an important captain, and he knows it. Heavy is the head… but what a great day for him and South African cricket.
First Test century as a captain in front of his father, Take a bow, Temba Bavuma when the team was under huge pressure in the 2nd innings. pic.twitter.com/PFyvNgtSwC
Following the second Test, the two nations will play three ODIs and three T20Is from March 16 to 28. Bavuma is also expected to play a key role in South Africa’s ODI team, soon after a century against England back in January.
Gujarat won their last game by 11 runs after losing their first two games. Beth Mooney’s injury in the first game was a huge blow for them but they’ve signed Laura Woolvardt as her replacement and that should bolster their batting.
They have the likes of Sophia Dunkley, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Sneh Rana and Harleen Deol who can all deliver in key moments. They looked in good form in the last game and will look to continue the winning momentum.
Delhi Capitals women are amongst the best and in-form teams of the WPL. They lost their previous game easily against Mumbai, but they have many quality players in their squad who’ll look to bounce back strongly.
Delhi’s strength is their batting, especially the top order of Meg Lanning and Shafali Verma. Alice Capsey, Jemimah Rodrigues, Jess Jonassen and Marizanne Kapp are in good form and form a strong batting unit for them, but they need a big top order performance with batting depth a worry at times.
Sohpia Dunkely scored an 18-ball fifty in the last game and helped Gujarat register their first win of the season. The English opener is an aggressive batter and likes to exploit the field restrictions in the first six overs.
Ashleigh Gardner is not in the best of form but is a proven match-winner with both bat and ball. Gardner is known for her aggressive batting and is bowling the key overs for her side. She picked up three crucial wickets in the last game. Gujarat needs her to regain her form with the bat.
Annabel Sutherland is a crucial all-rounder for Gujarat. She will do the late-hitting duties with the bat and is an important bowler. She scored 14 runs and picked up two wickets in the last game. Sutherland also needs to be consistent with the bat.
Harleen Deol scored 67 in the last game and 46 in the game before that. She is in good form. Harleen is a talented batter and she’s scoring runs consistently at a good strike rate. She has scored 113 runs at an average of 37.67 in three games.
Delhi Capitals:
Meg Lanning is the highest run-scorer of the tournament with 185 runs in three games at an average of 61.67 and strike rate of 146.83. This includes three 50+ scores.
Shafali Vera scored 84 in the first game but she has failed in the last two games. She’s an aggressive batter and tends to attack from the first ball. Shafali needs to be consistent as Delhi doesn’t have a long batting unit. She can also roll her arm over if required.
Jemimah Rodrigues has scored 81 runs in three games at an average of 81. She is a very talented batter and has looked in good form as well. She’s batting a bit low from her ideal position but she has done a good job until now.
Alice Capsey has either contributed with the bat or with the ball. She picked up two wickets in the first game, scored 21 (10) in the second game and picked up one wicket in the last game. Capsey is an aggressive batter who can take on any bowling unit on her day and is handy with the ball as well.
Marizanne Kapp scored 39* in the first game and 16 runs + 1 wicket in the second one. She’s not at her best with the ball. Kapp is a world-class all-rounder and Delhi needs her to contribute with both bat and ball. Kapp will look to turn things around in this game.
Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Mumbai Pitch Report and Weather
The pitch at the DY Patil Sports Academy will be an excellent one for batting. The ball will come onto the bat nicely and there will be plenty of runs on offer for the batters.
The pacers will get some movement with the new ball in the power play while the spinners will come into play as the game progresses. The average first-innings score here in the WPL is 173 runs and chasing sides have won two out of the four games played at the venue.
A warm and clear evening is forecast.
WPL 2023 Match 9: GUJ-W vs DEL-W Dream11 Prediction Today 11 March 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:
WPL 2023 Match 9: GUJ-W vs DEL-W Dream11 Prediction Today 11 March 2023
Option 2:
WPL 2023 Match 9: GUJ-W vs DEL-W Dream11 Prediction Today 11 March 2023
Fan2Play Prediction
Base team:
Wicket-keepers: Sushma Verma
Batters: Meg Lanning, Sophia Dunkley
All-rounders: Ash Gardner
Bowlers: Jess Jonassen
WPL 2023 Match 9: GUJ-W vs DEL-W Match Prediction – Who will win?
Delhi Capitals will start as the favourites as they are in good form.
Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes, with the stats and writer’s views in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.
Cricket News: Matthew Mott interview: Malan & Root could play in ODI team | Matthew Mott interview during Bangladesh tour
Members of the media spoke with England men’s white-ball coach Matthew Mott during their tour of Bangladesh. Mott spoke on a wide range of topics regarding England’s white-ball game and where they stand ahead of the ODI World Cup.
You can listen to the entire discussion below. In this article, we will cover a few of the key topics, namely England’s approach, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and his view on World Cups.
Matthew Mott interview: key quotes
Q: Saw a little bit of evolution thinking in the way you bat. Your team has always been to be a bit uber aggressive. Saw a little bit more of a template for Asian conditions.
“From 2019 a lot of statisticians have told us that we have been more aggressive since then. It’s something; I think the making of this team is aggressive. It’s about getting the fine balance between aggression and playing the smart game in different conditions as well. We know we are not going to get belters every time we bat. When we do, we will back ourselves against everyone. It’s on the trickier conditions that were there yesterday [3rd ODI against Bangladesh] that’s the evolution. It’s about finding a way – when we talk about playing what is in front of us. Probably yesterday the lack of execution, there weren’t too many bad shots but just some shots where if we adjust on a little bit more and probably waited a little bit more in these conditions then we might have put the ball to the boundary than getting out. So, it was a good opportunity to learn for us yesterday.”
Q: England have got Joe Root as the straight guy in the whole team and everyone going mental around him. Dawid Malan is the guy being intended to play when Joe Root isn’t there to fill that role. Do you think it is possible that they both play in three and four as the double anchor pair?
“Absolutely. I think they can definitely play in the same team. Their numbers are incredible. Joe is one of the all-time greats. Dawid Malan’s record over the last 18 months is incredible – both white-ball and T20s. He has played 16 innings in this format and scored four hundreds. They are incredible numbers. As I said, when you add in those extra players, there are going to be some class players who will miss out of that top six. All you can keep doing as a batter in this time is to keep scoring runs in whatever format it is.”
Q: On the subject of Ben (Stokes) and the developments around him. Is that going to have an impact if he comes out of retirement for the World Cup or if he can’t bowl for example?
“Don’t know, to be honest. I have deliberately made an effort to leave Ben alone. Obviously, I am in touch with him. The issue about whether he wants to play, we don’t need to know that for a while. I would say, halfway through that summer, gauging on how he is feeling physically and mentally that will be his call whether he wants to make himself available for selection. We will welcome him back. Obviously, we are talking team balance – you have got a player who can bowl in any over of the game and make big hundreds as well. Any team will cry out for that. I think the worst thing you can do is to put pressure on him early to make a decision. We have to see how his body is holding up and how he is feeling physically and mentally.”
Q: Obviously, we are talking about the World Cup which is seven months away, which is a long time. Has that been a topic of discussion in the dressing room as well?
“I think we talk about it all the time, to be honest. These bilateral series – of course you want to win it, they are important to win, but it is all building towards that (World Cup).
As we found out leading to that T20 World Cup, people forget series’ pretty quickly but they don’t forget how you go in World Cups.
That obviously puts a lot of pressure on the World Cup but I don’t like looking that far ahead but the realistic thing about this team is that this is our last opportunity to get together. We have been exposed to the conditions that we want to be exposed to. I think, to come over here and had flat, belting wickets – it wouldn’t be the same experience. We have had to work for everything. You can’t buy that. I mean if we are asking to construct a series, this is the best series for us. It’s difficult. You are stuck in a hotel, can’t get out and about. The group is tied up. I think when we look back at the T20 World Cup, Pakistan (tour) was a very similar experience. We drew on that a lot for the World Cup and essentially that’s what it is about. It’s about how you perform in the World Cups.”
Q: We have had four games of Jofra (Archer) in South Africa and here. How has that changed your thinking? Having a bowler of that class, that calibre. What have you made of him as a character around the group and what difference does he make to your team?
“He is a box office player, isn’t he? He is someone everyone wants to turn up and see. He has fitted back in the group. Incredible effort for a fast bowler the other game to be out and come back and bowl the way he has done. He would admit that he is not fully firing in all cylinders. But, I think, even yesterday, his adaption, his slower balls, he read the wicket, just shows that he is building and by the time the we get to the – the red-ball guys for the Ashes and the World Cup, you can just see he is ticking all the boxes to be back to his best again. I think he is incredible for him to be comeback and he just seems to be very slowly, strategically doing it right, ticking over and come the Ashes, come the World Cup, I am sure you will see him back to his best.
Q: Could he have played two games in three days here? Could he have, if required, done that yet?
“Not really. The medical advice was definitely not for back-to-back games. I think it actually suits us anyway. We are just trying to find our best 15 for that World Cup. Different opportunities for different players, testing our depth because you know he is walk-in. Of course, I will love him for every single game, who wouldn’t? But in the bigger picture, to get in overs for other bowlers in these conditions is probably better.”
RCB-W vs UP-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: WPL 2023 Match 8 | RCB-W vs UP-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Brabourne Pitch Report
It’s must-win territory for the winless Royal Challengers Bangalore. Smriti Mandhana’s team had their most competitive showing last game against Gujarat, but they ultimately fell short once again as their bowling attack leaked too many.
Also, there is the question of RCB’s team combination. Heather Knight has looked promising with both bat and ball, but her opportunities have been limited in WPL 2023. A more profound role for the England captain, as well as greater control from RCB’s experienced bowlers, can help the team notch their first win ever.
Alyssa Healy’s team was beaten easily by Delhi a few nights ago, but the arrival of Tahlia McGrath is something to build on. Like RCB, the Warriorz will be after some control with the ball, after five of their six bowlers went for at least ten an over against the Capitals. Crucial match.
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WPL 2023 Match 8: RCB-W vs UP-W Possible Playing XIs
RCB struggled in the middle overs with the bat against Gujarat. It will be interesting to see the make up of their batting lineup, with Dane van Niekerk also available in the squad.
Heather Knight is striking at 193.93 this season. That he has faced just 33 balls in three games so far is an area for RCB to look at.
Knight is also RCB’s leading wicket-taker (4) having bowled just five overs so far in the tournament.
Smriti Mandhana has made starts in WPL 2023, but is yet to make the big score. The RCB captain has the most runs of any player at Brabourne, with 305 at an average of 33.89 and strike rate of 149.51.
Sophie Devine hit her best score in recent matches, with 66 against Gujarat. Devine is currently RCB’s leading run-scorer with 96 in three matches (SR 143.28).
Ellyse Perry enjoys batting at Brabourne: 9 inns, 291 runs, avg. 41.57, SR 152.36.
Megan Schutt has taken 11 wickets in ten matches at Brabourne at an average of 25.55 and strike rate of 19.45.
UP Warriorz:
Can Alyssa Healy overcome her poor record on this ground? In seven matches at Brabourne, she has scored just 114 runs at an average of 19.00 and strike rate of 135.71.
Tahlia McGrath showed the form we all know she is capable of. The number T20I batter smashed 90* off 50 balls in her last game, and will be aiming to take advantage of an RCB side that has leaked runs quickly this season.
Deepti Sharma struggled with the bat last match (12 off 20 balls). But, we can expect the all-rounder to have a say with the ball. She has taken nine wickets on this ground at a strike rate of 14.
RCB have found it difficult to score runs in the middle overs at times, so watch out for Sophie Ecclestone at this stage. Since the start of 2022, she has taken 70 wickets in 49 innings in T20s.
Other Stats and Facts
RCB have conceded 10.76 runs per over so far in WPL 2023.
Grace Harris has smashed 94 runs in five T20 innings this year at an average of 31.33 and strike rate of 204.35.
A win for UP Warriorz will put them level on points with Delhi Capitals.
Brabourne Stadium Mumbai Pitch Report and Weather
Flat pitch, short boundaries. That has been on the menu so far at Brabourne, and more good batting conditions are expected. The average first innings score is 193, with the team batting first winning twice with 200+ scores.
“I think every team is realising that to bowl on these wickets… they are batters’ paradise to be fair. There is no seam, there is no swing, quick outfield. It’s a real test as a bowling unit and I don’t think any team has been able to crack it yet. This is an area we improved on but we can get a lot more disciplined in terms of execution,” said Sophie Devine.
Another warm and clear evening is forecast.
WPL 2023 Match 8: RCB-W vs UP-W Dream11 Prediction Today 10 March 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:
WPL 2023 Match 8: RCB-W vs UP-W Dream11 Prediction Today 10 March 2023
Option 2:
WPL 2023 Match 8: RCB-W vs UP-W Dream11 Prediction Today 10 March 2023
Fan2Play Prediction
Base team:
Wicket-keepers: Alyssa Healy
Batters: Heather Knight, Sophie Devine
All-rounders: Tahlia McGrath, Ellyse Perry
Bowlers: Sophie Ecclestone
WPL 2023 Match 8: RCB-W vs UP-W Match Prediction – Who will win?
UP Warriorz start as favourites, but a score of 180+ batting first can be a winning one.
Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes, with the stats and writer’s views in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.
Cricket News: Simon Doull criticised Babar Azam for slowing down while nearing his maiden PSL ton after Peshwar Zalmi’s loss to the Quetta Gladiators
New Zealand commentator Simon Doull criticised Peshawar Zalmi skipper Babar Azam for slowing down as he approached his century as the national team captain’s franchise lost to Quetta Gladiators despite putting up 240 on the board in the first innings.
Azam scored 115 off 65 deliveries but evidently undertook a more cautious approach nearing his maiden ton in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Not out at 80 off 44 deliveries at one point, the 28-year-old took 16 more deliveries to score his next 20 runs and that did ultimately hamper the Zalmi’s prospects of notching an even bigger total.
nah man Babar Azam really took 15 deliveries to get from 80 to 100 on this pitch ??
Eventually, Jason Roy’s 145-run blinder off 63 deliveries helped the Gladiators chase down the target with relative ease in merely 18.2 overs. On commentary, Doull did not mince words when it came to the need of moving the game forward.
“The last little while, that’s all that has been happening rather than looking for boundaries still, when you’ve got so much firepower to come [Mohammad Haris, Haseebullah Khan and all-rounder Aamer Jamal were to follow]. Hundreds are great, stats are brilliant, but it still must be team first,” Doull said.
With his latest century, Azam has climbed to the second rank in the list of batsmen with most centuries in T20 cricket. He has equalled the records set by Australian stalwarts like Aaron Finch and David Warner (eight each) and only Caribbean superstar Chris Gayle is ahead of them in the list with 22 tons to his name.
The latest loss means that Azam’s Zalmi are placed fourth in the PSL standings with four victories and defeats each in eight games. With 343 runs at an average of 49 and strike rate of 140, Azam is third in the list of highest run-scorers in the PSL currently.
Fans divided after the comments of Simon Doull regarding Babar Azam
Some fans said the comments were uncalled for, while others believe Doull was correct and is well within his rights to state his views.
Not the first time that Simon Doull hasn't been shy of criticising Star cricketers. Hasn't been shy of criticising Kane Williamson either. Or when KL Rahul started to do this thing in IPL 2020. https://t.co/krzJHO46so
— Gurkirat Singh Gill (@gurkiratsgill) March 8, 2023
Jokss apart, Simon Doull is a bully targeting players like Dale Steyn, Rizwan and now Babar shows he loves seeking attention by using his job as a commentator.
One team scores 240 and loses, you can't blame anyone but bowlers.
Fair play to Simon Doull. Can't think many pundits would have criticised Babar Azam for slowing down when he was one run shy of a hundred with his team on for a massive score, but he has been completely vindicated. The sides were basically level after 15 overs
