RCB vs RR Preview Dream11. Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Rajasthan Royals Preview Dream11 Prediction
Two teams who have been in do-or-die mode for a couple of weeks now. One side is about to take its last breath, and the other is doing enough to keep hopes alive of a miraculous playoffs appearance.
Not even the philosophical, faithful Royal Challengers Bangalore fans can realistically believe they can make the playoffs. Despite four wins out of five before their defeat to DC, it has been another underwhelming canpaign for Virat Kohli’s men. It was another season of hope for RCB, but it hasn’t materialised. However, they can now be of nuisance value to their opponents. Will they end RR’s season?
Rajasthan Royals made a late run to the playoffs last season. They are attempting to do it again, and even though SRH’s net run rate boosting win over KXIP yesterday is a blow, Steve Smith’s men are still in with a chance. Their first win this season was over RCB, and they will be out to ensure their win over SRH last game isn’t their last.
Key to an RCB win
RCB’s death bowling made for grim viewing once again. Their poor last four overs vs DC was ultimately the difference between winning and losing. Here, they need a polished performance at all stages of the innings, with RR’s top order in good form – Ajinkya Rahane, Liam Livingstone, Sanju Samson and Steve Smith are all playing well. So, Umesh Yadav will be key in the powerplay, Washington Sundar and Yuzvendra Chahal up until the middle overs, and Navdeep Saini and even Marcus Stoinis at the death.
Also, can Virat Kohli play a big innings? He has had three low scores in a row – something so rare for the India and RCB captain. He and in-form Parthiv Patel can provide a quick start that pushes RR back, and remind them of their pace bowling worries from earlier in the season. If RCB do the right thing and bat Marcus Stoinis at four, RCB have a top four – including AB de Villiers – that can set up a huge total.
RCB vs RR Preview Dream11 – It wasn’t a good death period for RCB vs DC.
Key to a RR win
RR bowled nicely as a unit in their last-start win over SRH. The much-maligned Jaydev Unadkat picked up man-of-the-match, but the challenge for he and RR is to back up their effort well. Conditions at the Chinnaswamy are different to Jaipur, which puts onus on Varun Aaron and Oshane Thomas in particular to be as accurate as possible with their pace. Shreyas Gopal has a superb record vs RCB, so he can keep things tight in the middle overs, especially if RR make a strong start. Can RR get the better of Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers?
Also, there was much to like about RR’s top four against SRH. Ajinkya Rahane and Liam Livingstone began with a strong opening partnership, and if they can replicate what DC did a couple of days ago vs RCB, it sets things up nicely for Sanju Samson, Steve Smith, Ashton Turner and Riyan Parag to play off the back of. Samson in particular has fond memories of the Chinnaswamy, belting 92* off 45 balls there last year. Against an RCB attack that continues to have its struggles, a big opportunity awaits RR.
RCB vs RR Preview Dream11 – Will Steve Smith lead his team to victory?
Possible Playing 11
RCB: 1. Virat Kohli (c), 2. Parthiv Patel (wk), 3. AB de Villiers, 4. Heinrich Klaasen/Shimron Hetmyer, 5. Shivam Dube, 6. Marcus Stoinis, 7. Gurkeerat Singh, 8. Washington Sundar, .9 Umesh Yadav, 10. Yuzvendra Chahal, 11. Navdeep Saini
RR: 1. Ajinkya Rahane, 2. Liam Livingstone, 3. Sanju Samson (wk), 4. Steve Smith (c), 5. Ashton Turner, 6. Riyan Parag, 7. Stuart Binny, 8. Shreyas Gopal, 9. Jaydev Unadkat, 10. Varun Aaron, 11. Oshane Thomas
This will be Steve Smith’s last match for RR this season. It will be his 50th match as captain in T20s.
Yuzvendra Chahal is two wickets away from 100 in IPL.
Virat Kohli currently has 49 wins as an IPL captain.
Match Prediction
Huge game for RR as they look to keep their season alive.
It is hard to predict which RCB side will turn up in this game. Will they perform really well now that the pressure is gone? Or will RR continue their good run?
Cricket News: Best bowling figures on Test debut for Australia | Who has the best bowling figures on debut for Australia?
Todd Murphy made headlines with his outstanding bowling in Australia’s horror loss in the Test against India in Nagpur. Several Australian bowlers over the years have produced similar or even better performances in their debut Tests, just like Murphy.
Let us take a look at the top five bowling figures on debut for Australia in this article.
AE Trott – vs England, 1895
Albert Trott clinched the record for the best bowling figures in a Test debut way back in 1895 when he dismissed eight Englishmen in the second innings of their game in Adelaide. Trailing by 525, the visitors were already down and out by the time of the fourth innings. Trott capitalized on their misery by running down their lineup with sheer pace as he scalped eight wickets for 43 runs in merely 27 overs. England were bowled out for a partly 143 and Australia won the Test match by 382 runs.
RAL Massie – vs England, 1972
Robert Arnold Lockyer Massie, better known as Bob Massie, made heads turn with an incredible eight-wicket haul in the first innings of Australia’s second Test against England in Lords in 1972. Amongst his victims were the likes of Geoff Boycott, Tony Greig and Alan Knott. The remaining two wickets were taken by Dennis Lillee.
Interestingly, Massie played merely six Tests throughout his career but still managed to scale a feat in his debut that is etched at the top of the record books 53 years down the line. Moreover, Massie took eight wickets yet again in the second English innings to finish off with a remarkable figure of 16 scalps in his very first Test match.
Jason Krejza – vs India, 2008
Jason Krejza took eight wickets in the first innings of the fourth Test between India and Australia in Nagpur in 2008. The likes of Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly and MS Dhoni fell for the debutant’s off-spin on a placid surface back then.
However, Krejza also conceded runs at an economy rate of 4.9 as he gave away 215 runs for his eight scalps in 43.5 overs. The Aussies kept him going on from one end as they tried to deter the Indian batting effort. Eventually, the home side posted 441 in the first innings and won the game by 172 runs.
Tom Kendall – vs England, 1877
Australian pacer Tom Kendall took seven wickets for 55 runs in 33.1 overs in the final innings of the home side’s Test against England in Melbourne in 1877. He helped Australia bundle out the Englishmen for merely 108 runs in 66 overs as Australia secured a close victory in a tightly-contested game by only 45 runs. Kendall only played two Tests throughout his career with both of them coming in that particular series itself.
Todd Murphy – vs India, 2023
23-year-old off-spinner Todd Murphy is the latest to join these ranks with his impressive outing of 7/124 in 47 overs in the first Indian innings of the ongoing Test in Nagpur. Having received his Baggy Green from Nathan Lyon, Murphy managed to outclass his senior counterpart by bowling flatter, quicker through the air and deceiving key Indian batsmen like KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja in the process. Murphy has shown incredible potential so far and it will be exciting to see if he sustains this form over the course of the coming four games.
Cricket News: What was Ravindra Jadeja putting on his finger during the Nagpur Test? | Ravindra Jadeja stirrs reactions around incident
Andy Pycroft, the match referee for the ongoing India vs Australia match in Nagpur, has been duly informed by the Indian team management that all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja was applying pain relief on his finger in the widely circulated clip from the day one of the Test.
Jadeja took a substance from the back of Mohammed Siraj’s hand and then applied it to the index finger of his left hand prior to one of his overs. Pyrcoft took the matter up with Jadeja, Rohit Sharma and the Indian team manager post stumps on the opening day of the game.
The Australian team management did not inform the referee of this incident, ESPN Cricinforeports. Instead, Pycroft opted to voluntarily probe the issue and did not charge Jadeja whatsoever. Moreover, bowlers require to take the due permission of the umpires before applying any substance on their hands. This rule is imposed to ensure that the ball condition remains unaffected.
Surely Jadeja wouldn't be putting anything on his fingers and ball to get more spin would he? pic.twitter.com/IidBbHS5NY
Jadeja has made a sensational return to international cricket after his nearly six-month-long injury layoff. The Saurashtra superstar took a five-wicket haul in the first innings, dismissing the key Australian duo of Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne in the process.
Jadeja then followed it up with an unbeaten 66 off 170 deliveries to take India to 321/7 at stumps on day two. India have now garnered a substantial first-innings lead of 144 runs and will look at add on to this advantage on the third day of play on Saturday.
WI-W vs EN-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 2 | EN-W vs WI-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Paarl Pitch Report
West Indies women will challenge the England women’s team in the second match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023. The tournament is returning after a long break since 2020 and it promises to be exciting as we’ve plenty of big names rearing to showcase their skills.
West Indies women lost their first warm-up game against New Zealand by 32 runs and won the second match against Sri Lanka women by 4 wickets. Their batters need to be consistent as batting is their weak link. No one apart from skipper Hayley Matthews gives much confidence with the bat.
England women, meanwhile, won both the warm-up games and will be very confident coming into this match. Their batters were in great touch and they have excellent depth in the bowling department. England will be eyeing a to start off their campaign.
Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 2: WI-W vs EN-W Possible Playing XI
Hayley Matthews will lead the West Indies.
West Indies: Hayley Matthews (c), Rashada Williams (wk), Chedain Nation, Shemaine Campbelle, Shabika Gajnabi, Chenille Henry, Alliyah Alleyne, Karishma Ramharack, Afy Fletcher, Shakira Sleman, Shamillia Connell
Heather Knight will lead England.
England: Danielle Wyatt, Sophia Dunkley, Alice Capsey, Nat Sciver, Heather Knight (c), Amy Jones (wk), Sophie Ecclestone, Katherine Brunt, Charlie Dean, Sarah Glenn, Lauren Bell
Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
West Indies:
Hayley Matthews is without any doubt the best player for the West Indies women. She’s an aggressive opening batter and will bowl 3-4 overs of her off-spin.
She has scored four 30+ scores including a fifty in her past five games, and took a 3-wicket haul against Sri Lanka in the last warm-up game.
Chenille Henry will be an important all-rounder for her side. She is expected to bat in the top order and she’ll bowl a few overs as well. Henry picked up 1 wicket and scored 23 runs in the warm-up game against the White Ferns.
Afy Fletcher is an experienced campaigner for the Windies women. She’s the lead spinner for the team and will play a key role in this tournament. She picked up 2 wickets and conceded only 13 runs in the warm-up game against Sri Lanka.
Karishma Ramharack was in good form in both the warm-up matches. She picked up 1 wicket against New Zealand and 2 wickets against Sri Lanka
England:
Sophie Ecclestone is one of the best spinners in women’s cricket. She’s a genuine wicket-taker and a proven performer.
Ecclestone picked up 3 wickets and conceded only 19 runs. She’s more than capable with the bat which we saw in the last WBBL.
Natalie Sciver will bat at number 4 and she’ll bowl 4 overs as well. She’s one of the best all-rounders in women’s cricket; a match-winner with both bat and the ball.
Sciver is a very aggressive batter and she showed that in the first warm-up game where she scored 51 off just 25 deliveries against South Africa.
Sophia Dunkley scored 59 off just 19 in the first warm-up match and then an unbeaten 60 take her side over the line in the second warm-up game against the White Ferns. She can score big once she gets going.
Youngster Alice Capsey is a very exciting player from England. She is a brute hitter and also can roll her arm over if required. She has impressed cricket fans around the world and it’ll be very interesting to see how she goes in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
Other Stats and Facts
Head-to-Head: Matches 26, West Indies 8, England 18.
England women have won the last 5 T20Is played between these two sides.
West Indies women are yet to score 150 against England in T20Is.
Boland Park, Paarl Pitch Report and Weather
A bright sunny day will welcome both teams and no rain is predicted. The pitch at Boland Park is on the slower side and run-scoring won’t be easy on this pitch. Spinners will enjoy bowling here. The average first innings score here in WT20Is is 112 runs. Teams batting first have won 2 out of the 3 matches.
Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 2: WI-W vs EN-W Dream11 Prediction Today 11 February 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:
Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 2: WI-W vs EN-W Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 2: WI-W vs EN-W Dream11 Prediction
Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 2: WI-W vs EN-W Match Prediction – Who will win?
England to win.
Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes, with the stats and writer’s views in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.
SA-W vs WI-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 1 | SA-W vs WI-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Cape Town Pitch Report
Three years after a record-breaking 2020 edition, the Women’s T20 World Cup is back. Hosts South Africa will be aiming to use this tournament to springboard their progress, but will have to overcome the controversy of star all-rounder Dane van Niekerk’s ommission due to fitness reasons. In a group comprising of Australia, New Zealand, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the home side cannot afford to let any nerves get the better of them early.
Indeed, they will love a repeat of the thrashing they gave to Sri Lanka in last year’s Commonwealth Games. South Africa bowled them out for just 46, with five of the six bowlers in the wickets.
So, the message for the Sri Lankans is clear. South Africa want a perfect start to a home World Cup, but Chamari Athapaththu’s team need to be fearless and target any nerves. Remember, they beat India in a T20I in what was a big scalp last year, and will be calling on their captain to lead the way.
Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 1: SA-W vs SL-W Possible Playing XI
Marizanne Kapp is crucial. She averages just 13.78 in 11 innings with the bat against Sri Lanka, but she often does well with the ball: 12 inns, 16 wickets, avg. 11.38, econ. 4.33.
The home fans surely can’t wait to see Laura Wolvaardt in action. The class opener is coming off an excellent 2022 in T20 cricket, where he scored 1,010 runs in 33 innings at an average of 40.40 and strike rate of 117.44.
At Newlands, Wolvaardt has scored 116 runs at an average of 38.67 and strike rate of 114.85.
Nadine de Klerk took 3/7 in four overs against Sri Lanka in the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Shabnim Ismail has picked up 12 wickets in 13 matches against Sri Lanka at an economy of just 4.78. She averages 18.33 per wicket and should enjoy the Cape Town surface.
Nonkululeko Mlaba has taken 12 wickets in her past nine matches at an excellent economy of 4.26 and average of 15.58.
Sri Lanka:
Chamari Athapaththu is vital to Sri Lanka’s hopes. She has experience against South Africa, with 264 runs in 13 matches (avg. 20.31).
Since the start of 2020, Chamari has scored 1,121 runs at an average of 27.34 in all T20s.
Harshitha Samarawickrama was Sri Lanka’s second-highest run-scorer in 2022. She scored 389 runs at an average of 24.06 and strike rate of 93.96.
Vishmi Gunaratne made a couple of starts in the warm up games: 36 (34) vs Ireland and 13 (15) vs West Indies.
Can spinner Inoka Ranaweera find enough out of the Cape Town pitch? She was Sri Lanka’s leading wicket-taker in 2022 with 27 wickets at an average of 13.85 and economy of 5.75.
Ranaweera vs South Africa: 9 inns, 8 wickets, avg. 21.13, econ. 5.83.
Offspinner Oshadi Ranasinghe will also be key. She was Sri Lanka’s second-highest wicket-taker last year (23), and she struck every 14 deliveries.
Other Stats and Facts
Head-to-head: Matches 13, South Africa 10, Sri Lanka 3.
South Africa lead 5-1 in home matches against Sri Lanka.
Tazmin Brits has struck 182 runs in her past seven matches at an average of 45.50 and strike rate of 98.91.
Newlands Cape Town Pitch Report and Weather
A clear and warm evening is expected for the World Cup opener. In the SA20, the Cape Town surface had assistance for both batters and bowlers, with an average first innings score of 150.4. The chasing team won four of the five matches.
Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 1: SA-W vs SL-W Dream11 Prediction Today 10 February 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.
Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 1: SA-W vs SL-W Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 1: SA-W vs SL-W Dream11 Prediction
Fan2Play Prediction
Base Team:
Wicket-Keepers: Anushka Sanjeewani
Batters: Laura Wolvaardt
All-Rounders: Marizanne Kapp, Chamari Athapaththu
Bowlers: Shabnim Ismail, Nonkululeko Mlaba
Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Match 1: SA-W vs SL-W Match Prediction – Who will win?
South Africa to win.
Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes, with the stats and writer’s views in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.
Cricket News: “Disgrace”. Australia selectors cop criticism for leaving Travis Head out | Travis Head left out of Australia team
Australian middle-order batsman Travis Head’s exclusion from the playing XI attracted sharp reactions from all quarters after the visitors bundled out for 177 on the opening day of the first Test against India in Nagpur on Thursday.
Head, who has been in some fine form in the whites recently, was overlooked for Matthew Renshaw for the number five slot in the line-up. Renshaw made matters worse by being dismissed for a golden duck by Ravindra Jadeja.
Head had been one of the team’s mainstays in their run in Test matches last year, scoring 655 runs at an average of 50.38 across 15 innings with two centuries and three half-centuries to his name. He also had an incredible strike rate of 80.86 to show for the same. However, the Pat Cummins-led side opted to go with the duo of Renshaw and Peter Handscomb and gained little from the gamble eventually.
Reactions: Travis Head left out of Australia XI
Here are some of the most pertinent reactions to Head’s dropping from the side.
Travis Head, the world's No.4 ranked batter, was left out for two guys who had played one Test between them in four years. Head's record in Asia is miserable but it's still an all-time brutal call #INDvsAUS
How can Travis Head not be in XI?? Didn’t he just carve up all summer? Don’t care what his records like in India. Can’t drop an established player in form #AUSvIND
Mathew Renshaw in place of Travis Head who is World number 4 ? Now you know why Pat Cummins didn't want Justin Langer. He wouldn't have allowed such nonsense.
Very interesting selection from Australia. Travis Head? I know he js a lefthander but I thought he was the right package with his off-spin. I would have thought a tall left arm spinner who bats would be perfect.
Surely Travis Head had to be backed in for the first Test. Massive call – not just for this match and series but his standing moving forward. Hard to remember a more brutal axing for an Australian player #AUSvIND
Hearing some people describing the decision to drop Travis Head as bold. Spare me! Not withstanding the fact he’s statistically been a standout the last 18 months, he’s shown he takes wickets in Australia… as a spinner! #INDvsAUS
By not playing Travis Head today, his batting is lost (although I accept it hasn't been great in these conditions, av 15.17 in Pak + SL) – but also, his bowling might have been useful, witness his 4-10 at Galle last year.
So, Warner’s sub-continental record is so strong that he keeps getting picked, while Travis Head gets dropped on the back of a small sub set of performances in 2022? I repeat, a disgraceful decision to drop him.
Setting all the noise aside, it was pretty apparent by early signs that the Australian team management would select Peter Handscomb in the XI – reportedly for his proficiency against spinners. On the other hand, Head hasn’t played a Test in India and his record in the subcontinent is arguably quite unimpressive. He averages 22.67, 7.67 and 30.50 in Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) respectively. Head has only a solitary half-century to show for in the seven Tests that he has played combined in these three nations.
However, many expected him to get the nod ahead of Handscomb or Renshaw. To be fair, the 31-year-old Handscomb showed some good resistance against the Indian spinners but was eventually undone by Ravindra Jadeja after scoring 31 runs off 84 deliveries.
Should Head make the comeback in the following Tests? Let us know by tweeting at @cric_blog.
Cricket News: Twitter reactions: Jadeja five-for as India dominate Australia | Twitter reactions to day 1 of Nagpur Test between India & Australia
When Australia “won” the first session thanks to a recovery from Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith, they just won it. When India win a session, they completely dominate and turn the game in their favour.
It was the case on day one of the Nagpur Test, where Australia’s worst nightmares were realised. On a pitch that made for some gripping (pun intended) viewing, Australia could not provide enough resistance and then bowled poorly to make matters worse.
After winning what everyone believed to be the crucial toss, Australia had the opportunity to bat first on a spinning pitch that had no gremlins in it, by any means. But, it was the Indian seamers who kicked things off, followed by Ravindra Jadeja who was unstoppable once he broke the threatening Labuschagne-Smith stand.
Jadeja’s comeback is a terrific one. Out for five months with a serious knee injury, Jadeja bowled as if he was never away, landing nearly 75% of his deliveries on a good length. His mix of deliveries that spun versus going straight was a delight to watch, with even the great Steve Smith done by a straight one.
Twitter reactions: Jadeja headlines India dominance
He and Ashwin, who himself went past 450 Test wickets, were simply terrific. Australia’s lower order provided no resistance as they were bowled out for 177, shedding further spotlight on the selectors’ controversial decision to leave out Travis Head. Then, Rohit Sharma turned it on, taking advantage of an off-colour Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon to put India in a commanding position.
Rohit, who now averages 75.66 in home Tests, will begin day two on 56 not out. Here are some of the Twitter reactions to a day of dominance for India.
I see India's curaters have done the usual method of changing the pitch whenever the opponent is batting and replace it with their roads for when they bat.
Since 2013 in India (Spin) Indians: 21.03 Away team: 43.01
They're not turner's, Jadeja and Ashwin are just fantastic.
Watching Test cricket on spinning wickets in India is simply the best. It’s an absolute examination of your technique & temperament . It’s exhilarating cricket. ITS A TEST ?
What a spell by Ravindra Jadeja – 5/47 in 22 overs against Australia. A comeback to remember for Jadeja, wickets of well set Labuschagne, Smith and Handscomb.
What a way to mark a comeback, and this is just the first innings. With 3 more innings left in the match, the Man of the series of the last home BGT could very well end as Man of the match in this test. Ravindra Jadeja, you absolute Rockstar!
A timely reminder of the high quality of Ravindra Jadeja. Averages 24 with the ball, 36 with the bat and one of the best fielders in the world over the last 30 years. Through 60 Test matches. Genuine superstar. #INDvAUS
The three biggest rivalries in the Indian Premier League (IPL) | A look at the three biggest IPL rivalries
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed some of the most heated rivalries in cricket history. They have not only increased the game’s excitement, but also created a new level of rivalry amongst teams. Fans have witnessed some of the most nail-biting endings and unforgettable events in recent memory, dating back to the league’s inception.
The IPL is much more than simply individual player performances; it is also about team competitiveness. As such, this is often included in IPL stats and team overviews. The fierce rivalries have contributed to the league’s intrigue, with players and fans alike looking forward to the next meeting between two of the league’s top rivals. The fierce rivalry between these teams has produced some of the finest memories for fans while also raising the standard for future IPL encounters. The rivalry between these clubs has been a fixture of the league and remains one of the sport’s most popular draws.
The biggest IPL rivalries
Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals
The IPL rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals is one of the most heated and anticipated in the competition. The two franchises have played each other numerous times in the competition and have always put up a good fight, providing spectators with a fascinating experience. This rivalry has generated some unforgettable moments and nail-biting endings that have fans anxiously anticipating their next clash.
The presence of some of the top players in the world on both sides is one of the primary aspects that have fueled this rivalry. The presence of top-tier players has resulted in some interesting matches between these two sides, with both teams leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of success. Another aspect fueling this rivalry is the two teams’ opposing playing styles, with one famed for its aggressive brand of cricket and the other for its calm and collected approach.
As a result, numerous high-scoring and thrilling matches have occurred. Overall, the rivalry between the Mumbai Indians and the Delhi Capitals is one of the finest in the IPL and a delight to watch for cricket fans all over the world.
Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders
The IPL rivalry between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders is one of the strongest in the league. These two teams have played numerous high-stakes matches against each other throughout the years, producing some remarkable moments.
Both sides often bring their A-game every time they hit the field against each other, thanks to a combination of top players, experienced coaches, and fervent supporters. With each victory, the stakes rise and the rivalry intensifies, making each meeting between these two teams a must-see event.
One such memorable contest was the 2021 Eliminator, where KKR prevailed with two balls to spare thanks to a special all-round performance by Sunil Narine. In 2019, the two teams played two 200 vs 200 matches, two years after RCB were bowled out for 49. Indeed, there are usually some awesome talking points.
Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings
The Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings are two of the most successful Indian Premier League franchises (IPL). The rivalry between these two clubs has been one of the tournament’s most thrilling and anticipated confrontations. The on-field fights between these two teams have been nothing short of thrilling, with each squad putting their best foot forward every time they meet.
The head-to-head record between the Mumbai Indians and the Chennai Super Kings is always a talking point. MI have won 21 out of the 36 meetings, including the memorable 2019 final. They have met in numerous other finals, with the matchup often generating huge buzz on social media before, during and after each meeting.
Cricket News: Winning in India bigger than Ashes – Steve Smith | Steve Smith & David Warner discuss challenge of India tour
Top Australian players including Steven Smith and David Warner consider a prospective win the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India to be a bigger achievement than emerging victorious in the Ashes.
“It [India] is a difficult place to win a Test match let alone a series. So if we are able to do that, it would be huge. I think if you win in India, it is bigger than an Ashes series [win],” Smith told cricket.com.au, as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.
David Warner, who has toured India for Tests twice previously, echoes similar viewpoints. The southpaw has an average of 24.25 and hasn’t notched a ton in the 16 innings he has played in India. The Indian spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja has managed to outmanoeuvre him in the previous two tours. Warner battled indifferent form for the better part of the last year before regaining some touch back by scoring a double-century in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa.
However, even Warner asserts that the touring contingent have their task cut out against a skilful spin attack.
“Being a part of the last Ashes was fantastic but to go to India and beat India in India is the toughest challenge in Test cricket for us. I’m looking forward to the tour, it’s always a hard graft. One thing that I’m looking forward to is applying myself against the best spinners in the world,” Warner explained.
Skipper Pat Cummins went a step ahead by mentioning that winning a Test series on the Indian soil will be a ‘career highlight’ altogether. The first game of the series will begin at the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) Stadium in Nagpur on February 9.
Cricket News: Australia roped in Ashwin impersonator in nets ahead of Nagpur Test | Ashwin impersonator bowls to Australia team
The touring Australian squad is relying on the skillsets of the now-renowned ‘Ravichandran Ashwin-impersonator’ Mahesh Pithiya to tackle the Indian veteran off-spinner in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting from Thursday. The Australian management spotted Pithiya, who apparently has a bowling action very similar to that of Ashwin, on Instagram. They flew the young Baroda spinner down to Bengaluru and have been training with him in nets ever since, according to Cricbuzz.
Pithiya got a reference from his friend Pritesh Joshi for this role. Joshi is himself a throwdown specialist from Baroda and has been in touch with some of the Australian coaches in order to work with the team in their India tour.
Pithiya’s similarity to Ashwin was first spotted by Australian southpaw Matt Renshaw and then batting talisman Steven Smith. Smith immediately took notice of the young spinner and began playing against him in a clear bid to better prepare himself for facing Ashwin in the four Tests.
Full on Preparation this time –
Maheesh Pithiya a Net bowler with a bowling action similar to Ashwin has been called up by Australia at their Training Camp in Bangalore to prepare for off spin threat.#INDvAUSpic.twitter.com/e52ahu3U13
Smith and Pithiya have been constantly engaged in a tussle in the nets since then. Sometimes, the Australian batsman has managed to get a hang of the spinner’s trickery whereas the rookie has also been able to outmanoeuvre the 33-year-old on occasions.
“I was rarely called by my original name. It was always Ashwin,” said Pithiya, who has been well-known for the resemblance of his bowling action with that of the Indian great since a pretty long time. The youngster hails from Saurashtra but plays for Baroda where has been taken under the wings of the Pathan brothers (Yusuf and Irfan).
Meanwhile, Ashwin isn’t the sole focus of the Australian contingent. They have also on-boarded left-arm spinner Shashank Mehrotra, who hails from Hyderabad, to help them train for India’s spin duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel.
The first Test will commence from February 9 at the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) Stadium in Nagpur.
IND vs AUS 1st Test Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report | IND vs AUS 1st Test Dream11 Prediction Today | Nagpur Pitch Report
A little over two years since India’s incredible triumph at the Gabba, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is back. And this time, it’s on their own turf.
This is without a doubt Pat Cummins’ most challenging test as Australia captain to date. The Australians performed admirably in Asia last year, but India, who have lost just two of 42 Tests at home since the start of 2013, is a much tougher assignment. A number of players will make their debuts in this country, with question marks over the likes of David Warner and Travis Head against spin. Also, will there be enough support for Nathan Lyon?
With regards to India, they will be raring to go. They have lost just one of their last 15 home Tests against Australia since 2004, and their magnificent spin attack is more than capable of keeping that record going. However, as their last match in Dhaka showed, any significant assistance for the spinners can test their batsmen who haven’t been at their best against the turning ball in recent times.
Match Details
Location: Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur.
Match dates and start time: February 9-13 2023, 9:30am (IST).
For more cricket fixtures around the world, visit Fixture Calendar.
Some reports are suggesting India may pick up to four spinners. Also, the home side may choose to open with the in form Shubman Gill, who hit 259 runs in three Tests in Australia in 2020/21.
Cameron Green is considered unlikely to play. Peter Handscomb is set to come in, and there is a chance he could replace Travis Head with Matt Renshaw to also play.
It remains to be seen who Australia choose in their attack with Josh Hazlewood ruled out, with the possibility of three specialist spinners. Reports suggest Todd Murphy will debut.
Australia: 1. Usman Khawaja, 2. David Warner, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Steve Smith, 5. Travis Head/Matt Renshaw, 6. Peter Handscomb, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Pat Cummins (c), 9. Scott Boland 10. Ashton Agar/Todd Murphy, 11. Nathan Lyon
Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
India:
Virat Kohli has two centuries in four Test innings at Nagpur, including a double ton. India’s star number four will be aiming to make amends for his poor 2017 series against Australia, where he averaged just 9.20.
Expect Cheteshwar Pujara to be a tough nut to crack. In home Tests against Australia, Pujara has scored 900 runs in nine Tests at an average of 64.28.
R Ashwin, of course. The classy offspinner has 50 wickets in eight home Tests against the Aussies (avg. 23.16). Importantly, he will be looking to get the better of David Warner early, whom he has dismissed ten times at an average of 18.2 in Tests.
Ravindra Jadeja has made a successful return from injury. He took 7/53 for Saurashtra in late January.
Jadeja loves bowling against Australia in India. He has taken 49 wickets in eight Tests at an average of 18.02.
Axar Patel’s bowling record in India: 6 matches, 39 wickets, avg. 12.43, SR 33.5.
Australia:
Steve Smith is undoubtedly Australia’s most important player. The magnificent number four averages 60.00 in six Tests in India, with a total of 600 runs.
Smith averages 57 against Ashwin on Indian soil. Jadeja has dismissed him four times at an average of 37.8 in India, but Smith has faced a whopping 474 deliveries against the left-arm spinner.
Usman Khawaja scored 1,080 runs in 2022, and averages 57.58 in 12 Tests in Asia. Now, he gears up for his first game in India.
Australia’s middle order will have a vital role. Alex Carey is one of those players who can score quickly against spin. In fact, he strikes at 61.1 against finger spin in Tests to date (245 runs, avg. 35.00).
Nathan Lyon is Australia’s go-to man. The offspinner was magnificent in India in 2017, where he took 19 wickets at an average of 25.26.
Ashton Agar, if picked, will have a crucial role to play. Pujara averages 27.8 against left-arm orthodox since the start of 2021, so Agar could be tasked with trying to dismiss India’s number three early.
Pat Cummins has taken 28 wickets at an average of 28.78 in nine Tests in Asia. The skipper has an excellent Test record against Virat Kohli, with total figures of 5/82 off 247 balls.
Other Stats and Facts
Australia have not won a Border-Gavaskar Trophy series since 2014/15. India have won the past three.
Cheteshwar Pujara faces an average of 120.78 deliveries per innings against Australia, home and away.
Marnus Labuschagne hit a century in his last Test in Asia, against Sri Lanka at Galle.
Travis Head averages 57.40 in 22 home Tests but just 21.69 in nine away games.
Rohit Sharma averages a mammoth 73.33 in 20 home Tests (1,760 runs).
Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium Nagpur Pitch Report and Weather
The Nagpur pitch is very dry. According to a report from cricket.com.au, there are already some cracks in the surface, which makes it an easy decision to bat first for the captain who wins the toss. Also, it is expected to be very difficult for the left-handers as the game goes on, given the curators are leaving areas outside their off-stump drier than the rest of the pitch.
So, both teams may play at least three specialist spinners each.
The average first innings score in six Tests at Nagpur is 324, significantly boosted by India’s 610/6 against Sri Lanka in 2017. In 2015, it was a sharp turning track that produced a low-scoring match between India and South Africa.
Hot and clear weather is forecast right throughout the match, with temperatures ranging from about 32-35 degrees.
Interesting treatment of the pitch in Nagpur. The groundstaff watered the entire centre of the surface & only the length areas outside the left-hander’s leg stump & then rolled only the centre, stopping short every time they got to the good length areas at both ends #IndvAuspic.twitter.com/Myr2ZblqCg
IND vs AUS 1st Test Dream11 Prediction Today Match 9-13 February 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:
IND vs AUS 1st Test Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
IND vs AUS 1st Test Dream11 Prediction
Fan2Play Prediction
Base Team:
Wicket-Keepers: Alex Carey
Batsmen: Steve Smith, Cheteshwar Pujara
All-Rounders: R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel
Bowlers: Nathan Lyon
IND vs AUS 1st Test 2023 Match Prediction – Who will win?
India look strong at home and should win this first Test.
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.
