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Can this Australia team win in India? 3 arguments for & against

Charbel Coorey
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Can this Australia team win in India? 3 arguments for & against

Can this Australia team win in India? 3 arguments for & against | Opinion: A look at Australia’s best opportunities to challenge India

Since Australia’s hard fought 2-1 defeat in 2017, India have come down under and conquered Australia twice. The second, back in 2020/21, is right considered one of India’s greatest ever victories, overcoming a spate of injuries, unavailabilities and 36-all out to achieve what looked to be the impossible.

Fast forward two years later, and Australia are tasked with attempting to achieve the improbable. Not since 2004 have Australia won a Test series in India, and only one team in world cricket – England in 2012 – have won on these shores in that period. Pat Cummins’ side, however, is full of confidence, coming off dominant performances at home while showing good signs away in Pakistan and Sri Lanka in 2022.

Can Australia win the four-match Test series in India?

Of course, this is a whole different challenge. India have lost just two of 42 home Tests since losing 2-1 to Alastair Cook’s team over a decade ago. Written from an (hopeful) Australian fan’s perspective, this article will compare the three reasons why this side will and won’t win the Test series against Rohit Sharma’s team.

ALSO READ: World Test Championship Final scenarios – What India and Australia need to do to qualify

3 reasons why they can’t

1. Lack of adequate preparation

Can this Australia team win in India? 3 arguments for & against | Opinion: A look at Australia's best opportunities to challenge India
Australia’s key players have been playing in the BBL up until late January.

Australia took off for India on January 31, just ten days before the first Test in Nagpur. Also, a number of players, including Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith and David Warner are fresh off BBL action.

As a result, it leaves a race against the clock for Australia to acclimatise to the conditions and get their game ready for the toughest task in world cricket. If Pat Cummins’ team starts poorly and loses the first Test comfortably, it makes that task all the more difficult.

There will be no tour match. Steve Smith said that the team isn’t too worried, given that India produced a green track for the practice outing in 2017. “I think we have made right decision to not play the tour game,” he said. “Last time they served a green top & it was sort of irrelevant, we are better of having our own nets & getting spinners to bowl as much they can.”

This sounds good on paper, but how well Australia, soon after T20 action for a number of key stars, can sharpen their skills against spin in a little over a week remains to be seen.

2. Inexperience and question marks around most of the top 7

Cricket News: David Warner says he is exhausted ahead of India tour | David Warner says he would have liked more time at home
Can David Warner overcome his struggles in Asia?

David Warner, who has worryingly said he feels exhausted after a long home season, averages just 24.25 in eight Tests in India. R Ashwin has dismissed him ten times in Tests at an average of just 18.2 runs per wicket, and there is no doubt the class offspinner will test Warner right away.

Usman Khawaja, as much as he has improved against spin, is set to play his first Test in India. So too Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green, who both have question marks around their footwork against spin especially early in their innings.

However, the arguably bigger question is around Travis Head. Australia’s number five looked to be fighting a lost battle against spin in Pakistan and Sri Lanka last year, even on the benign surfaces. Can Head transfer his superb home form and attacking strokeplay to conditions that will be the complete opposite in India? Time will tell.

The only established option is the great Steve Smith at number four. The others, while very capable, need to start well to ensure they get into the series as quickly as they can. Against a possible spin trio of Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, along with some excellent seamers, it is going to be a mighty tough ask.

3. Is too much on Nathan Lyon’s shoulders?

Cricket News: Most wickets by spinners in Test cricket | List of most wickets by spinners in Test cricket history
Nathan Lyon needs support in India.

Ashton Agar and Mitchell Swepson have a combined 19 Test wickets at an average of 48.73. Todd Murphy is yet to play a Test. If Cameron Green is unable to bowl early in the series, there may be a situation where Australia will play two specialist spinners with Lyon partnered with an inexperienced option.

The luxury of Green bowling is Australia could then play three specialist spinners, perhaps utilising the likes of Swepson or Murphy a little more sparingly for impact.

However, whatever the scenario, Australia’s spinners have a massive task ahead of them, especially if India produce the kinds of surfaces we saw for the final three Tests of the 2017 series. There is the question of Nathan Lyon’s impact, given he hasn’t quite displayed the same bite in recent years despite his terrific consistency. Since the start of 2021, Lyon is striking every 74.18 deliveries. His economy rate of 2.57 is terrific, but Australia need potent options at the other end if they are to take 20 wickets regularly against the likes of Pujara, Kohli and co.

3 reasons why they can

1. The Steve Smith factor

In 2017, Steve Smith struck 499 runs in the four Tests at an average of 71.28 with three centuries. Australia’s great batsman has constantly spoke in recent times about how he feels the best he has in years, which provides a great ray of hope for Pat Cummins’ team in this tough assignment.

Smith averages 57 against Ashwin in India. He averages less against Jadeja (37.8), but the left-arm spinner has dismissed Smith just four times in 474 deliveries in the subcontinent. If Smith can lead the way and others have the stomach for the fight, Australia can post enough competitive totals to test the home side.

ALSO READ: Usman Khawaja says Australia can achieve greatness in India & England in 2023

Cricket News: Steve Smith to play County cricket for Sussex in the buildup to Ashes & WTC final | Steve Smith county cricket news

2. Australia’s willingness to play an attacking, fearless brand of cricket

One such player who can have a good series is Alex Carey. The keeper-batsman is one of the more exciting players of spin in this Australia lineup, with his willingness to be positive a potentially vital asset down the order.

In the first Test against Sri Lanka at Galle last year, Carey, Green and Australia played an attacking brand of cricket against the home side’s spinners on a sharp turner. They scored at a fast rate, and will surely back themselves to try the same once again. To increase the chances of this, Australia will require the best possible platform they can get from the top order.

Embed from Getty Images

3. India producing sharp turners

Following on from the previous point, if India choose to produce sharp turners, it brings Australia into the game. Such surfaces can make it a shootout, and enables Australia’s spinners to threaten more than they would on a slow turner.

If Australia are greeted with the kind of surfaces England were in 2021, Pat Cummins’ team need to see it as an opportunity rather than a threat.

Pune 2017 is a great example. Steve O’Keefe took match figures of 12/70 to completely destroy India in a 333-run win for Australia. The left-arm spinner combined with Lyon to take all ten wickets in the second dig.

Onto Lyon again. His bowling strike rate since 2021 received a mention, but his performances in 2017 need reminding. He took 19 wickets in four Tests at an average of 25.26, including a magnificent 8/50 in Bengaluru. His accuracy, changes of speed and ability to generate turn and bounce will be vital.

The key for Australia will be to compete hard right from the offset. They were competitive in 2017, and if they can dig in again, anything is possible as India showed down under in 2020/21.

SA vs ENG 3rd ODI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
SA vs ENG 3rd ODI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report

SA vs ENG 3rd ODI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report | SA vs ENG 3rd ODI Dream11 Prediction Today | Kimberley Pitch Report

What a difference a few days make. After a shocking T20 World Cup exit and dismal Test series in Australia, South Africa have boosted their direct ODI World Cup qualification hopes with two excellent wins in Bloemfontein against England.

Sunday was a particularly special day. The Proteas achieved their third-highest successful chase in ODI history, with Temba Bavuma hitting a sweet and rewarding century. Then, almost inevitably, the terrific David Miller sealed another chase.

The question now is whether the hosts can pull off a clean sweep against the world champions. England have now lost their last five ODIs and eight of their past ten completed matches. Ben Stokes puts it down to the schedule, which is fair to an extent, but something is off about England’s ODI game at the moment.

The tourists have lacked regular wickets with the ball and are yet to produce a rounded performance with the bat. In the first ODI, the middle order collapsed after a superb opening partnership. In the second, the opposite held true, with Jos Buttler dominating after an underwhelming top order display.

TWITTER REACTIONS: “Apologise to Bavuma” – South Africa chase 343 against England in 2nd ODI

Match Details

  • Location: Diamond Oval, Kimberley.
  • Time: 1:00pm (local), 4:30pm (IST).
  • For cricket fixtures around the world, visit Fixture Calendar.

SA vs ENG 3rd ODI Possible Playing XIs

Kagiso Rabada and Sisanda Magala were left out of the second ODI. One or both may be back for this game, especially Magala who was man of the match for his 3/46 in Bloemfontein.

Reeza Hendricks and Janneman Malan are also in the squad and either (or both) could get a chance.

South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Temba Bavuma (c), 3. Rassie van der Dussen, 4. Aiden Markram, 5. Heinrich Klaasen, 6. David Miller, 7. Marco Jansen, 8. Wayne Parnell/Kagiso Rabada, 9. Keshav Maharaj/Tabraiz Shamsi, 10. Lungi Ngidi, 11. Anrich Nortje/Sisanda Magala

England may look to rotate. Jofra Archer was not picked for the second match and could return. So too David Willey. Also, the tourists may give an opportunity to Phil Salt.

England: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Dawid Malan, 3. Ben Duckett/Phil Salt, 4. Harry Brook, 5. Jos Buttler (c & wk), 6. Moeen Ali, 7. Sam Curran/Chris Woakes, 8. David Willey, 9. Adil Rashid, 10. Olly Stone, 11. Reece Topley/Jofra Archer

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

South Africa:

  • Temba Bavuma averages 46.05 after 21 ODI innings. Out of his five 50+ scores, he has converted three into centuries.
  • Quinton de Kock has made two 30+ scores without carrying on for a big knock in this series. The keeper-batsman still has a superb record at home against England: 10 inns, 581 runs, avg. 64.55, SR 99.31.
  • Rassie van der Dussen has hit two centuries in a row against England when batting first (134 and 111).
  • David Miller (53 and 58* this series) has continued his love affair with England in ODIs. In eight innings against them, Miller has smashed 354 runs at an average of 118.00 and strike rate of 124.21.
  • Kagiso Rabada has taken total figures of 6/77 in 18 overs in ODIs at Kimberley. The Proteas may bring him back for this match after impressing in the first ODI (2/46), where he dismissed Jason Roy and Sam Curran.
  • Anrich Nortje is the leading wicket-taker so far this series (6).

England:

  • It’s been a mixed bag for Jason Roy in South Africa. Apart from his brilliant 113 in the first ODI, Roy has scored just 158 runs in his other eight ODI knocks in the country.
  • Harry Brook hit 80 (75) in just his second ODI match on Sunday. He recently scored three centuries in as many Tests against Pakistan late last year.
  • Jos Buttler’s masterful 94* (81) in the second match was a thing of beauty. The England captain now averages 40.90 after 13 innings against the Proteas, with a strike rate of 115.53.
  • Olly Stone, if picked, will be key for England in the middle overs. All three of his wickets have come between overs 11 and 40 in this series.
  • Sam Curran has shown glimpses of his best form in this series. He took 3/35 in the first ODI and batted nicely in the second for his 17-ball 28.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Every player in South Africa’s top seven made a 25+ score in the second ODI. This was the first time such an instance happened in ODI history.
  • Quinton de Kock has struck four 50+ scores in ten home ODIs against England. Three have been centuries.
  • de Kock has struck scores of 168* and 25 in his two ODIs at Kimberley.
  • Rassie van der Dussen averages 69.75 after 34 ODI innings (1,674 runs).
  • David Miller has scored five half-centuries in eight ODI knocks against England.
  • When batting first in ODIs, Jos Buttler has hit 2,729 runs at an average of 43.31 and strike rate of 125.52.
  • Adil Rashid strikes every 40.1 deliveries against South Africa in ODIs (18 wickets in 15 innings).

Diamond Oval Kimberley Pitch Report and Weather

This is set to be the first ODI at Kimberley since South Africa hosted Zimbabwe in 2018. It was a tough batting pitch that day, with South Africa chasing Zimbabwe’s 117 five wickets down. Lungi Ngidi was player of the match with 3/19.

In 14 ODIs at Kimberley, the average first innings score is 229, with an overall batting average of 34.22. Chasing teams have won 11 of the matches (78.57%), which may prompt the captain who wins the toss to bowl first.

In five domestic one-day games back in 2020, the average first innings score was a similar 221.6. Right-arm medium bowlers took the most wickets (22), followed by right-arm slow bowlers (18).

There are thunderstorms forecast in the afternoon and evening in Kimberley. There may be some interruptions.

SA vs ENG 3rd ODI Dream11 Prediction Today Match 1 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:

SA vs ENG 3rd ODI Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

SA vs ENG 3rd ODI Dream11 Prediction

TWITTER REACTIONS: “Apologise to Bavuma” – South Africa chase 343 against England in 2nd ODI

Fan2Play Prediction

Base Team:

  • Wicket-Keepers: Jos Buttler, Quinton de Kock
  • Batsmen: Rassie van der Dussen
  • All-Rounders: Sam Curran
  • Bowlers: Kagiso Rabada

SA vs ENG 3rd ODI Match Prediction – Who will win?

With rain around, the chasing team may prevail with a victory, especially given the team batting second have a good history on this ground.

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.

David Warner says he is exhausted ahead of India tour

Tarkesh Jha
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0
David Warner says he is exhausted ahead of India tour

Cricket News: David Warner says he is exhausted ahead of India tour | David Warner says he would have liked more time at home

Australian opener David Warner has acknowledged that he is tired and exhausted after a long home season following Sydney Thunder’s exit from the Big Bash League (BBL) on Friday.

The Pat Cummins-led side is set to embark on the showpiece four-match Border Gavaskar Trophy in India from February 9 onwards. Warner played multiple limited-overs series prior to the T20 World Cup in Australia in October-November last year. Warner then featured in the five Tests against West Indies and South Africa at home combined. Amidst all this, he was engaged in a constant tussle with the Cricket Australia (CA) to overturn his captaincy ban.

Following the international assignments, Warner headed off straight to the BBL to represent the Thunder. Now, he is of the opinion that he would have preferred an additional day off instead of attending the Cricket Australia awards on Monday.

Quite tired, exhausted says David Warner ahead of India tour

“It’s been challenging. I’m quite tired, exhausted. There are a few guys who have gone to the UAE League, which aren’t going to the Cricket Australia awards. From my perspective, that would’ve been nice to have had another night at home. But it is what it is,” Warner was quoted in a report by Cricbuzz.

Warner had a pretty subdued 2022 in Tests wherein he notched 571 runs at an average of 30.05 across 11 matches. He turned the tables with a double century against South Africa in the Boxing Day Test and will look to carry that confidence into the India tour next month.

Warner averages only 24.25 and has never touched the three-figure mark in the eight Tests that he has played in India. However, being one of the seasoned members of the squad, he will be expected to take up significant responsibility as the visitors look to record their first series victory on Indian soil in over 18 years.

Hardik Pandya & fans slam Lucknow pitch for 2nd IND vs NZ T20

Charbel Coorey
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Hardik Pandya & fans slam Lucknow pitch for 2nd IND vs NZ T20

Cricket News: Hardik Pandya & fans slam Lucknow pitch for 2nd IND vs NZ T20 | Lucknow pitch comes in for criticism by fans

“Even the spiders don’t spin the web as much (in Lucknow), that was the story,” said Aakash Chopra on his YouTube channel. That pretty much summed up a lot of the reactions to the second T20I between India and New Zealand.

India skipper Hardik Pandya, along with many pundits and fans, was also critical of the Lucknow pitch dished out for the match. The hosts got back into the series with a very hard fought six-wicket win, reaching the paltry 100-run target with just one ball to spare.

“To be honest, this was a shocker of a wicket,” Hardik said to Star Sports in the post-match conference. “Two games… the kind of wickets we played on, I don’t mind difficult wickets. I’m all up for that but these wickets are not made for T20. Somewhere down the line the curator or stadium, whichever we play T20s, they should make sure they should prepare the game previously rather than having couple of games there. Other than that, very happy [with the result].”

Spinners sent down 30 of the 40 overs. It beat the previous record of 28 bowled in a T20I comprising of Full-Member nations, which was way back in 2011 between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Also, no sixes were struck in the match. It foreced New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner to look far and wide for another spin option, even asking pacer Lockie Ferguson if he could send down some offspin.

I was trying to find them [spinners] from everywhere, I was asking Lockie [Ferguson] if he could bowl some offspin but yeah I think you don’t often see more than 12 overs of spin out there. I think maybe we bowled 16 or 17, so it’s definitely something different,” said Santner.

ALSO READ: Will Jasprit Bumrah take part in the Test series against Australia?

Fans, pundits share views on Lucknow pitch for IND vs NZ 2nd T20I

In the end, India got home thanks to a 31-ball 26* from Suryakumar Yadav. It is quite the contrast to the kind of strike rate he showed in 2022, but he played the situation perfectly.

Here are reactions about the Lucknow surface, including some in support of the pitch.

The third and final T20I will be played at Ahmedabad on Wednesday. The winner will take out the series after New Zealand took out the first match by 21 runs. A clear evening is forecast.

SA vs ENG 2nd ODI Twitter reactions: Miller and Bavuma lead SA to emphatic series win

Tarkesh Jha
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0
SA vs ENG 2nd ODI Twitter reactions: Miller and Bavuma lead SA to emphatic series win

SA vs ENG 2nd ODI Twitter reactions: Miller and Bavuma lead SA to emphatic series win | Twitter reactions to South Africa beating England

South Africa secured a sensational series victory in the ongoing One Day International (ODI) series vs England as they chased down 343 with relative ease in the second game of the three-match series at the Mangaung Oval on Sunday.

Under-fire skipper Temba Bavuma starred with 109 off 102 deliveries and was ably supported by dynamic southpaw David Miller notched 58 off 37 deliveries to help the home side get to the total in the final over of the encounter.

The likes of Aiden Markram and Marco Jansen played a fine hand with the bat as well – scoring 49 and 32 runs respectively, with the latter remaining unbeaten until the end with Miller to safely see off the chase.

Frontline English pacers like Chris Woakes and Reece Topley were taken to the cleaners as they conceded 134 runs in their combined 15.1 overs without scalping any dismissal.

SA vs ENG 2nd ODI Twitter reactions: Proteas seal ODI series & boost ODI WC Qualification hopes

Here are some of the reactions on the Protea performance.

Earlier, England put up a scintillating batting performance – scoring 342 in 50 overs courtesy an incredible knock of 94 runs in 82 deliveries by skipper Jos Buttler. Harry Brook was quite flawless in his innings of 80 runs, which included seven boundaries and four sixes.

All-rounder Moeen Ali bagged his first ODI half-century in nearly five years as he took 45 deliveries to get to 51 with six boundaries and a six to form a fruitful 106-run partnership in 14.5 overs with Buttler.
Sam Curran pulled off the finishing act pretty well, hitting three sixes en route the 28 runs he scored in 17 deliveries.

The English top-order arguably flattered to deceive as the trio of Jason Roy, Dawid Malan and Ben Duckett were back in the pavilion by the 17th over.

South Africa have now attained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. The third ODI will be played at the Diamond Oval in Kimberley, Northern Cape on Wednesday.

REN vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Knockout

Charbel Coorey
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0
REN vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Knockout

REN vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Knockout | MR vs BH Dream11 Prediction Today | Docklands Pitch Report

Apart from Sydney Sixers and Perth Scorchers, Melbourne Renegades and Brisbane Heat have been the most impressive sides this season. The two in-form teams meet in what promises to be a cracking battle on this Sunday night for the chance to move within one game of next Sunday’s BBL 12 Final.

Heat come into this game having won five of their past six matches, including a number of close encounters. Usman Khawaja turned on the style two nights ago, but that was close to not being enough with Heat only winning by eight runs on Duckworth/Lewis against Thunder.

If Khawaja shows the same kind of form today, Heat will be very difficult to beat given rain will not be a factor in a roofed stadium.

So how will the Renegades get the better of the Heat captain? Kane Richardson is unavailable (more below), so the onus may be on the spinners to build some pressure. However, the Renegades have an in-form captain of their own in Aaron Finch, so the men in red, playing in their first finals match since 2019, are in with a strong chance at home.

Match Details

  • Location: Marvel Stadium, Docklands, Melbourne.
  • Time: 7:15pm (local), 1:45pm (IST).
  • For cricket fixtures around the world, visit Fixture Calendar.

BBL 2022/23 Knockout: REN vs HEA Possible Playing XIs

Kane Richardson is unavailable due to family reasons.

Melbourne Renegades: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Shaun Marsh, 3. Sam Harper (wk), 4. Aaron Finch (c), 5. Jon Wells, 6. Matt Critchley, 7. Will Sutherland, 8. Tom Rogers, 9. Jack Prestwidge/David Moody, 10. Corey Rocchiccioli, 11. Fawad Ahmed

Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne and Matt Renshaw will all play in this match despite the India Test series starting soon.

Brisbane Heat: 1. Usman Khawaja (c), 2. Josh Brown, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Matt Renshaw, 5. Sam Hain, 6. Jimmy Peirson (wk), 7. Michael Neser, 8. James Bazley, 9. Matt Kuhnemann, 10. Mitch Swepson, 11. Spencer Johnson

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Melbourne Renegades:

  • Aaron Finch has a great career record against Heat: 13 inns, 505 runs, avg. 45.91, SR 131.17.
  • Finch is the third-highest run-scorer in BBL 12, with 418 runs at an average of 41.80 and strike rate of 122.58. He has struck 76* and 63* in his past two knocks.
  • Shaun Marsh has a wonderful record in BBL finals matches: 7 inns, 341 runs, avg. 68.20, SR 130.2. Marsh also has good numbers in T20s at Docklands: 13 inns, 452 runs, avg. 41.09, SR 135.74.
  • Jono Wells has struck seven 20+ scores in his past eight matches. He will be key again in the middle order.
  • Renegades have the option of using Will Sutherland as a pinch hitter. The all-rounder has slammed scores of 42* (23), 30 (18) and 31 (14) in three of his past four knocks.
  • However, Sutherland has gone wicketless in his last four matches. Overall this season, he has taken seven wickets in 13 innings at a strike rate of 34.8.
  • Tom Rogers is striking every 14.8 deliveries in BBL 12. He is the fourth-highest wicket-taker with 21 scalps, including 4/23 vs Heat back in December.

Brisbane Heat:

  • Usman Khawaja loves playing in BBL finals. In seven matches, he has scored 411 runs at an average of 58.71 and strike rate of 154.51, including a magnificent 94 (55) two nights ago.
  • Marnus Labuschagne played his most influential innings of the season. He struck 73 (48) against Thunder.
  • Sam Hain is in good touch. He didn’t get much of a chance vs Thunder (1*), but hit 33*, 73* and 26 in his previous three outings.
  • Michael Neser has taken the third-most wickets in this BBL (22) at an average of 18.00 and strike rate of 12.7. He took 4/32 vs Renegades, where he dismissed Sam Harper and Jono Wells.
  • Neser has dismissed Harper twice in six balls (one run), Finch once in 16 balls (20 runs) and Marsh once in eight balls (14 runs).
  • James Bazley is striking every 14 deliveries this season (16 wickets). He took 2/19 and 0/28 (3.2) against Renegades in the BBL 12 league stage.
  • Mitch Swepson has taken figures of 2/23 and 1/17 in his past two completed matches. He may find some turn on the Marvel Stadium track.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 19, Renegades 13, Heat 6.
  • Renegades lead Heat 5-3 at Marvel Stadium.
  • Aaron Finch in run chases in BBL 12: 8 inns, 295 runs, avg. 73.8, SR 122.9.
  • Fawad Ahmed took 3/17 in his last match, on this ground. Overall at Docklands, Fawad has taken 12 wickets in ten matches at an average of 19.11 and economy of just 6.11.
  • Jimmy Peirson scored 43 (30) and 45* (30) against Renegades in the league stage.
  • Spencer Johnson is yet to take a wicket in the powerplay, but he will have a key role at the death. This can bring about wicket-taking opportunities for the left-armer.

Marvel Stadium Docklands Pitch Report and Weather

The Docklands surface was a little up and down in the Renegades-Strikers match last week. Strikers fought to reach 142, before Renegades chased it with ten balls to spare after being in early trouble.

The average first innings score in five matches at Marvel Stadium this season is 159.2. Chasing teams have won four times.

There is a slight chance of a shower in Melbourne (top of 24 degrees). But, that does not matter as there is a roof.

BBL 2022/23 Knockout: REN vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today 29 January 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:

REN vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Knockout | MR vs BH Dream11 Prediction Today | Docklands Pitch Report
BBL 2022/23 Eliminator: REN vs HEA Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

REN vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Knockout | MR vs BH Dream11 Prediction Today | Docklands Pitch Report
BBL 2022/23 Eliminator: REN vs HEA Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base Team:

  • Wicket-Keepers: Sam Harper
  • Batsmen: Usman Khawaja
  • All-Rounders: Michael Neser, James Bazley
  • Bowlers: Tom Rogers

BBL 2022/23 Knockout: REN vs HEA Match Prediction – Who will win?

The absence of Kane Richardson could be a big blow for Renegades. Heat, who are in good form, may sneak away with a 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.

Khawaja eyeing all-time great status for Australia Test team

Tarkesh Jha
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0
Khawaja eyeing all-time great status for Australia Test team

Cricket News: Khawaja eyeing all-time great status for Australia Test team | Usman Khawaja looking forward to huge 2023 for Australia

Australia batsman Usman Khawaja is relishing the prospect of emerging victorious in the three major challenges lying ahead for the Test team in the coming six months – the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India, a prospective World Test Championship (WTC) final in June followed by the Ashes in England.

Khawaja had a terrific 2022 in Test cricket, scoring 1080 runs in 11 matches at an average of 67.50. He notched four centuries and five half-centuries and is well-poised to take on the Indian challenge, considering his improvement against spinners.

Probably the best Australia team I have been a part of – Usman Khawaja

The 36-year-old was probed whether the current Australian unit will be worthy of being referred to as greats if they triumph in the aforementioned three assignments. “100%, definitely,” he responded, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.

Khawaja added, “Personally, it’s probably the best team I’ve been a part of because even when I came into the side we were sort of in transition. We had some great players, [and] some new players in between, so it’s just really nice to be in a team where everyone trusts each other and looking forward to what will happen over the next six months.”

The batsman said that his training, even for the home Test matches, included preparing for facets of his batting that could help him during the Indian tour. He said that the Australian unit is pretty matured and that the players understand that they need to have an eye ahead on future assignments at all times.

“Even the way I’ve been practicing, I’ve been practicing for these [home] games here but when I feel I’ve ticked that off I go and do stuff I feel I need to for next two months,” Khawaja said.

ALSO READ: Will Jasprit Bumrah play in the Test series against Australia?

SCO vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Qualifier

Charbel Coorey
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SCO vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Qualifier

SCO vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Qualifier | PS vs SS Dream11 Prediction Today | Perth Pitch Report

The two best teams by a distance so far in BBL 12 do battle with the shot of reaching next week’s big Final. Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers have been the standout teams of the tournament, easily finishing in the top two ahead of the others. Now, a new competition begins, with so much on the line.

There are so many great battles to look forward to. It will be interesting to see whether Aaron Hardie can continue his solid record against a Sydney Sixers attack that is in great touch, led by Sean Abbott. Also, how well the Scorchers can cope without a few key absentees should make for some riveting viewing. And, perhaps the biggest question of them all, what will Steve Smith deliver?

Strap in, this has the makings of a beauty.

Match Details

  • Location: Optus Stadium, Perth.
  • Time: 4:15pm (local), 1:45pm (IST).
  • For cricket fixtures around the world, visit Fixture Calendar.

BBL 2022/23 Qualifier: SCO vs SIX Possible Playing XIs

Scorchers have confirmed their squad. Matt Kelly (concussion), Jhye Richardson (hamstring) and Ashton Agar (India tour preparation) are unavailable. So, Ashton Turner may be required to bowl again, along with overs from Aaron Hardie.

Perth Scorchers: 1. Stephen Eskinazi, 2. Cameron Bancroft, 3. Aaron Hardie, 4. Josh Inglis (wk), 5. Ashton Turner (c), 6. Nick Hobson, 7. Cooper Connolly, 8. Andrew Tye, 9. Lance Morris, 10. Jason Behrendorff, 11. Peter Hatzoglou

Sixers have also confirmed their squad. Todd Murphy (India tour preparation) is unavailable.

Sydney Sixers: 1. Josh Philippe (wk), 2. Steve Smith, 3. Kurtis Patterson, 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Dan Christian, 7. Hayden Kerr, 8. Ben Dwarshuis, 9. Sean Abbott, 10. Jackson Bird, 11. Steve O’Keefe

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Perth Scorchers:

  • Aaron Hardie has scored 26 (13), 45 (24), 35 (31), 55 (32) and 1 (5) in his last five innings against Sixers.
  • At number three, Hardie has scored 306 runs at an average of 61.20 and strike rate of 140.37.
  • Cameron Bancroft smashed 95* (50) in his last innings, against Renegades. Can he overturn a poor record against Sydney Sixers? (8 inns, 132 runs, avg. 18.86, SR 121.10)
  • Bancroft does have strong numbers against Sean Abbott: 23 balls, 45 runs, one dismissal.
  • Josh Inglis in BBL 12: 13 inns, 405 runs, avg. 40.50, SR 150. He scored just 13 and 11 against Sixers in the league stage, so he will be aiming for a big knock today.
  • Inglis has belted 87 off 51 against Ben Dwarshuis in T20s (one dismissal). Also, he has never been dismissed by Sean Abbott (33 off 29).
  • Andrew Tye has a magnificent 31 wickets in 19 matches against Sixers (avg. 19.10, econ. 7.14). He also has the most wickets of any bowler on this ground (32) at a strike rate of 12.78.
  • Jason Behrendorff has dismissed Josh Philippe thrice in 42 balls in T20s, conceding just 41 in the process.
  • Overall against Sixers, Behrendorff has picked up 19 wickets in 14 matches at an average of 16.32 and economy of 6.46.

Sydney Sixers:

  • Steve Smith is enjoying a dream run of form. He has smashed 328 runs in four matches at a a strike rate of 180.21, including 24 sixes.
  • It has been a quiet season for Josh Philippe (avg. 19.15). He does have good numbers against Scorchers (352 runs, avg. 35.20, SR 144.26), so it’s a good time to fire.
  • Philippe has scored 57 off 35 against AJ Tye and 55 off 33 against Peter Hatzoglou, both without dismissal.
  • Jordan Silk is the Sixers’ second-highest run-scorer this season: 306 runs, avg. 43.71, SR 128.57.
  • Sean Abbott took 17 wickets in his last six matches to finish as the leading wicket-taker in the regular season. This includes 3/18 vs Scorchers in Sydney.
  • Overall against Scorchers, Abbott has taken 23 wickets in 19 matches at an average of 25.78 and high economy of 9.08.
  • Hayden Kerr has picked up 11 wickets in seven innings against Scorchers (avg. 16.18, econ. 7.74).

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 26, Scorchers 16, Sixers 10.
  • Scorchers lead Sixers 3-1 at Perth Stadium.
  • Ashton Turner has the most runs in Scorchers-Sixers matches (460) at an average of 27.06 and strike rate of 149.84.
  • Turner has scored 178 runs at an average of 44.5 and strike rate of 144.7 when chasing in BBL 12.
  • AJ Tye vs Jordan Silk in T20s: 60 balls, 66 runs, four dismissals.
  • Sean Abbott at Optus Stadium: 4 inns, 7 wickets, avg. 18.43, SR 13.71.
  • Ben Dwarshuis vs Scorchers: 16 inns, 15 wickets, avg. 27.87, econ. 7.51.

Optus Stadium Perth Pitch Report and Weather

After bowlers had a say earlier in the tournament, batsmen have come roaring back later on. The average first innings score in the last three matches at Perth Stadium is 176.33, with the chasing team winning twice. Last game, Renegades (202) got close to Scorchers’ mammoth 212.

A warm and clear day is forecast in Perth with a top of about 30 degrees.

BBL 2022/23 Qualifier: SCO vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today 28 January 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:

SCO vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Qualifier | PS vs SS Dream11 Prediction Today | Perth Pitch Report
BBL 2022/23 Qualifier: SCO vs SIX Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

SCO vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Qualifier | PS vs SS Dream11 Prediction Today | Perth Pitch Report
BBL 2022/23 Qualifier: SCO vs SIX Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base Team:

  • Wicket-Keepers: Josh Inglis
  • Batsmen: Steve Smith
  • All-Rounders: Aaron Hardie, Hayden Kerr
  • Bowlers: Sean Abbott, Andrew Tye

BBL 2022/23 Qualifier SCO vs SIX: Who will win?

Scorchers are favourites, and will be in a very good position to win if they can dismiss Steve Smith cheaply. All things considered, Scorchers look good to win at home.

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.

Jofra Archer fitness: Pacer says he is 80% fit ahead of SA series

Tarkesh Jha
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Jofra Archer fitness: Pacer says he is 80% fit ahead of SA series

Cricket News: Jofra Archer fitness: Pacer says he is 80% fit ahead of SA series | Jofra Archer fitness update ahead of South Africa series

Jofra Archer considers being 80 per cent fit as he gears up for a return to international cricket in England’s upcoming ODI series against South Africa after a two-year-long injury layoff. The 27-year-old is eyeing emerging victorious in both the Ashes as well as enabling England to retain their ODI World Cup title that will be held later on this year in India.

“There’s no reason to look back. I’ve done my time and I’m here now. That’s the most important thing. I’d probably say I’m about 80%. Just some fine-tuning now,” Archer was quoted in a report by ESPNcricinfo.

He added, “I know whenever I’m fully fit, I don’t think there’s much that can stop me, it’s just a matter of when that was going to be. Playing cricket again for the first time a few weeks ago, [I’m] still riding off that wave of emotions right now.”

Jofra Archer fitness: Matthew Mott excited for pacer’s return

England’s limited-overs head coach Matthew Mott also expressed excitement upon Archer’s impending return – referring to the Mumbai Indians bowler as ‘one of the most exciting things to have happened in cricket for the last decade’.

Mott further said that express pace bowlers like Archer and Mark Wood provide additional confidence to the entire group. He explained that the team management will work around the situation with Archer so that they can assess the way his body is coping.

The tactician mentioned that Archer should be bowling enough to make it to England’s Test plans in the summer but his workload will have to be managed simultaneously as well.

“What he is very big on is not wasting too many balls in practice. He really loves his match balls and that’s a great attest of his resilience. We will keep talking to him about his bowling loads and how he’s going,” Mott said.

Archer’s last international appearance was in a T20I against India in March 2021 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. He featured for MI Cape Town in the SA20 and picked eight wickets in five matches. He is expected to play two out of the three ODIs that England will play against South Africa – with the first of them taking place at Mangaung Oval on Friday.

THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Eliminator

Charbel Coorey
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THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Eliminator

THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Eliminator | ST vs BH Dream11 Prediction Today | Sydney Showground Pitch Report

After 56 games and uncertainty around who would make the top five right up until the final match, the BBL 12 playoffs are here.

Starting off are two flawed teams who can turn it on at any stage. Sydney Thunder, from 15 to 228 to 62, have endured an up-and-down season. Brisbane Heat have risen from last position after ten games to the playoffs, but this should have been a home final after blowing what looked to be a certain chase against Hobart on Wednesday afternoon.

So, who knows what this match has in store. The Heat attack, who were hammered on this ground by Matthew Gilkes and Alex Hales earlier this season, have what it takes to dismantle a very shaky Thunder lineup. But, whether the Heat can get more out of their own top four remains to be seen, as a lot has been left to the likes of Sam Hain and Jimmy Peirson in recent games.

Match Details

  • Location: Sydney Showground Stadium.
  • Time: 7:15pm (local), 1:45pm (IST).
  • For cricket fixtures around the world, visit Fixture Calendar.

BBL 2022/23 Eliminator: THU vs HEA Possible Playing XIs

Thunder have confirmed their squad. Ryan Hadley will be part of the squad as a local replacement player for Brendan Doggett, who is out of the tournament with an elbow injury.

Also, Gurinder Sandhu has been named in the squad but is in great doubt after another calf injury suffered on Wednesday night against Stars.

Sydney Thunder: 1. Matthew Gilkes (wk), 2. David Warner, 3. Jason Sangha, 4. Oliver Davies, 5. Alex Ross, 6. Daniel Sams, 7. Ben Cutting, 8. Chris Green (c), 9. Nathan McAndrew, 10. Gurinder Sandhu/Joel Davies, 11. Usman Qadir

Heat are yet to officially name their squad. They could stick with the same XI that fell short against Hurricanes.

Brisbane Heat: 1. Usman Khawaja (c), 2. Josh Brown, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Matthew Renshaw, 5. Sam Hain, 6. Jimmy Peirson (wk), 7. Michael Neser, 8. James Bazley, 9. Matthew Kuhnemann, 10. Mitch Swepson, 11. Spencer Johnson

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Sydney Thunder:

  • Matthew Gilkes was player of the match on this ground against Heat in the BBL 12 league stage. He hit 56* off 34 balls.
  • David Warner has scored just 63 runs in his five BBL matches this season. If there is ever a time to deliver for the Thunder, it’s now.
  • Oliver Davies is the Thunder’s leading run-scorer in this BBL (333). But, he has scored 0, 2 and 8 in his past three knocks.
  • Daniel Sams is coming off a crucial 28 against Stars two nights ago. He has a strike rate of 210 in eight innings vs Heat (168 runs) along with 16 wickets in nine innings with the ball (avg. 17.50, econ. 9.23).
  • Sams is the highest wicket-taker in T20s on this ground (30) at an average of 14.77 and strike rate of 11.50.
  • Expect Chris Green to test the Heat top order. The offspinner is conceding just 6.07 per over this season (12 wickets, SR 26).
  • Usman Qadir has taken five wickets in his past three games. The legspinner could find some assistance on what has been a tricky Sydney Showground surface in BBL 12.

Brisbane Heat:

  • Usman Khawaja has struck two fifties in seven matches on this ground. He has scored a total of 229 runs at an average of 32.71 and strike rate of 136.31.
  • Sam Hain has hit 33*, 73* and 26 in his past three knocks.
  • Jimmy Peirson is coming into form at the right time. The keeper-batsman has struck 57* and 39 in his last two matches.
  • Peirson smashed 43* off 24 in a knockout match against Thunder two years ago.
  • Michael Neser took the third-most wickets in the league stage (22) at an average of 17.59 and strike rate of 12.2.
  • James Bazley took 4/22 against Thunder earlier in the season, part of 15 wickets in ten innings in BBL 12. He also scored 29 (24) in the same game.
  • Mitchell Swepson conceded a total of 0/75 in seven overs against Thunder in this campaign. However, the legspinner is in fine touch, with figures of 2/23 and 1/17 in his past two matches.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 18, Thunder 7, Heat 10, N/R 1.
  • Sydney Thunder beat Brisbane Heat twice in the league stage.
  • Alex Ross vs Heat since December 2019: 7 inns, 171 runs, avg. 34.20, SR 135.71.
  • Chris Green has taken 17 wickets in 25 innings on this ground. He strikes every 26.18 deliveries.
  • Daniel Sams has dismissed Matt Renshaw twice in ten balls in T20s.
  • Spencer Johnson is not only key at the death, but can test Thunder with the new ball. Thunder have lost early wickets regularly in BBL 12.

Sydney Showground Pitch Report and Weather

The Sydney Showground surfaces have been tricky for batting in BBL 12. The average first innings score is just 126, with the chasing team winning three of the four matches. And, infamously, Thunder were bowled out for 15 on this ground.

Seamers have found movement this season, with Henry Thornton (5/3), Wes Agar (4/6) and Sean Abbott (3/9) among the chief destroyers.

There have been thunderstorms in recent evenings in Sydney. There is a chance of some showers tomorrow (1-5mm), with a top of 26 degrees.

BBL 2022/23 Eliminator: THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today 27 January 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:

THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Eliminator | ST vs BH Dream11 Prediction Today | Sydney Showground Pitch Report
BBL 2022/23 Eliminator: HEA vs THU Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2022/23 Eliminator | ST vs BH Dream11 Prediction Today | Sydney Showground Pitch Report
BBL 2022/23 Eliminator: HEA vs THU Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base Team:

  • Wicket-Keepers: Matthew Gilkes, Jimmy Peirson
  • Batsmen: Sam Hain
  • All-Rounders: Michael Neser, James Bazley, Daniel Sams
  • Bowlers: Usman Qadir

BBL 2022/23 Eliminator THU vs HEA: Who will win?

A genuine 50-50 match. Thunder have beaten Heat twice, but the Brisbane-based side have looked more convincing in recent games. Heat 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.

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