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LSG vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 15

Charbel Coorey
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LSG vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 15

LSG vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 15 | LSG vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Lucknow Super Giants vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report

The 15th match of IPL 2022 will welcome established stars into the fold for what promises to be an exciting matchup. Delhi Capitals will open their arms to David Warner and Anrich Nortje, who will add experience and proven quality to a team that has already shown some promising signs this season with victory over Mumbai then a 14-run loss to Gujarat.

And they will no doubt be tested right away. Lucknow Super Giants have made a terrific start to life in the IPL, beating CSK and SRH in impressive fashion after a narrow defeat to Gujarat in their first game. KL Rahul has found some form, Deepak Hooda and Ayush Badoni are doing wonders in the middle order, and Avesh Khan is following on from his excellent 2021 campaign alongside the likes of Jason Holder and Ravi Bishnoi.

So it sets the scene for a potential classic. Delhi have been up at the pointy end of the table over the past few seasons, while Lucknow are looking to get settled towards the top in their first season. In a 10-team league, putting wins together at this stage could prove crucial down the line in the playoffs race. Big game.

Possible Playing 11

Lucknow look settled and should stick with the same XI.

Lucknow Super Giants: 1. KL Rahul (c), 2. Quinton de Kock (wk), 3. Evin Lewis, 4. Manish Pandey, 5. Deepak Hooda, 6. Ayush Badoni, 7. Krunal Pandya, 8. Jason Holder, 9. Andrew Tye, 10. Ravi Bishnoi, 11. Avesh Khan

Shane Watson confirmed that Warner and Nortje are available. Also, given Mustafizur’s Rahman excellent start to IPL 2022, Nortje could come in for Khaleel Ahmed even though the left armer has been impressive. There is the option of replacing Shardul Thakur given his difficult start to IPL 2022.

Delhi Capitals: 1. Prithvi Shaw, 2. David Warner, 3. Mandeep Singh, 4. Rishabh Pant (c & wk), 5. Lalit Yadav, 6. Rovman Powell, 7. Axar Patel, 8. Shardul Thakur/Khaleel Ahmed, 9. Kuldeep Yadav, 10. Anrich Nortje, 11. Mustafizur Rahman

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Lucknow Super Giants:

  • KL Rahul has struck 108 runs in his last two innings after a golden duck. Also, he has excellent numbers in the IPL against medium pace (avg. 52, SR 142) and high pace (avg. 58, SR 138).
  • Quinton de Kock also has good numbers against medium pace (avg. 38, SR 144) and high pace (avg. 34, SR 165) in the IPL. Also, if DC wish to bowl Axar Patel early, QdK will be well-placed to score as he averages 79 vs left-arm orthodox at a strike rate of 148.
  • Deepak Hooda has been outstanding so far in IPL 2022. He has struck two half-centuries in three matches at an overall strike rate of 145.12. Ayush Badoni has also been mighty impressive (92 runs, avg. 46.00, SR 148.38), which gives LSG great ammunition in the middle and death overs.
  • Jason Holder made a brilliant start to his IPL 2022 campaign (3/34 vs SRH). The West Indian has now taken 33 wickets in his last 16 IPL matches. However, DC are his least-favourite opponents, as he has taken just two wickets in five matches against them at an average of 101.50 and economy rate of 10.24.
  • Avesh Khan blew SRH away earlier this week (4/24) and he comes up against his former team today. He took 24 wickets in IPL 2021, and now has seven to his name in 2022. He is particularly good in overs 12-16 (avg. 14.6, econ. 6.9) and the death (avg. 12, econ. 9.1) in the IPL.

Delhi Capitals:

  • Can David Warner hit top form right away? His battle with Avesh Khan could be key as he averages 32 and strikes at 127 against high pace in the IPL, which are his worst numbers against any bowling type.
  • If Warner gets set, watch out. His strike rate improves with every phase of the innings (131 in the powerplay, 135 in overs 7-11, 140 in overs 12-16 and 171 at the death).
  • DC need a big knock from Prithvi Shaw. How he deals with LSG’s skillful pace attack will be key. He averages just 20 vs medium pace in the IPL (SR 141) and 25 vs high pace (SR 146).
  • What impact will Rishabh Pant have on this match? He found some form with a 29-ball 43 vs Gujarat, but DC need him to see the job through. Interestingly, he averages just 19 vs left-arm orthodox in the IPL (SR 143), so LSG could look to use Krunal Pandya against him. Also, Pant averages 21 vs high pace (SR 134), so LSG could keep Avesh Khan saved for Pant.
  • Kuldeep Yadav has made an excellent start to IPL 2022 (3/18 and 1/32). He could play a key role in building pressure against LSG’s top order. Rahul strikes at 115 vs wristspin in the IPL, de Kock 123 and Pandey 112.
  • LSG have players who have good records against high pace, but Anrich Nortje is top quality. He was magnificent in T20 cricket in 2021, where he took 33 wickets in 25 matches at an economy rate of 6.15.
  • Mustafizur Rahman concedes just 8.1 runs per over in the death overs in the IPL. He started his IPL 2022 campaign with 3/23 vs Gujarat, including two wickets in the final over of the innings.

Other Stats and Facts

  • DC could look to use Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul. Pandya has never dismissed Rahul in 75 deliveries in the IPL, but he has only conceded 75 runs against him. Overall, Rahul averages 28 and strikes at 121 vs left-arm orthodox in the IPL.
  • KL Rahul has an excellent record against Shardul Thakur: 28 deliveries faced, 54 runs scored, one dismissal, SR 192.9.
  • Shardul Thakur has conceded 47 and 42 in his two matches so far without taking a single wicket.

DY Patil Pitch Report and Weather

There has been a mix of high and low scores so far at DY Patil in IPL 2022. Punjab Kings chased over 200 against RCB, before KKR nearly defended 128 against RCB. Then, the Royals defended 193 in a day game vs Mumbai.

Here, the powerplay bowlers could find success in a night game. Another clear and warm evening is forecast.

Dream11 Prediction

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:

LSG vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 15 | LSG vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Lucknow Super Giants vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 15: LSG vs DC Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

LSG vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 15 | LSG vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Lucknow Super Giants vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 15: LSG vs DC Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Ishan Kishan
  • Batsmen: Tilak Varma, Shreyas Iyer
  • All-rounders: Andre Russell
  • Bowlers: Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah

Match Prediction

Very tough match to predict. The chasing team might benefit from dew, so the team batting first will need a good score of 170+ to feel in the game.

KKR vs MI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 14

Charbel Coorey
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0
KKR vs MI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 14

KKR vs MI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 14 | KOL vs MI Dream11 Prediction Today | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians Key Players | Pune Pitch Report

Not for the first time in their history, Mumbai Indians have started a season slowly. They have shown time and time again that they are capable of bouncing back, and will need to do so here in a 10-team league where there is less room for error.

However, MI have the issue of a weaker-looking bowling attack compared to recent seasons. They capitulated against Delhi Capitals and then relied upon Kieron Pollard with the ball in the death overs against the Royals, which highlights where Rohit’s team is currently at. So, they could look at some changes to their lineup today.

But, there are positives to be had with the bat. Ishan Kishan has shown why he is a genuine contender for the Orange Cap this season, while Tilak Varma has looked the goods. But, more is required from Rohit Sharma as well as MI’s middle order batsmen in a time of need.

And they will be tested against a Kolkata Knight Riders attack at the top of its powers. And they will have Pat Cummins available. Umesh Yadav has been magnificent to start the new campaign, with terrific support from Tim Southee and their excellent spin duo. If they can make inroads into MI’s top order, they can ask questions of a middle order that is searching for answers. Indeed, this is KKR’s chance to get another win in the most one-sided head-to-head contest in IPL history, where MI have won 75.8% of the matches.

Possible Playing 11

Pat Cummins has completed his quarantine period and is set to play in this match. So, KKR will boast a specialist seam attack of Cummins, Umesh Yadav and Tim Southee. A tough proposition for the MI batting lineup to cope with.

Kolkata Knight Riders: 1. Venkatesh Iyer, 2. Ajinkya Rahane, 3. Shreyas Iyer (c), 4. Nitish Rana, 5. Sheldon Jackson (wk), 6. Andre Russell, 7. Sunil Narine, 8. Tim Southee, 9. Pat Cummins, 10. Umesh Yadav, 11. Varun Chakravarthy

Basil Thampi is under significant pressure to hold his place after he went for 26 in his single over against the Royals. Mumbai could bring in Jaydev Unadkat in his place. Also, Suryakumar Yadav is a chance of playing.

Mumbai Indians: 1. Rohit Sharma (c), 2. Ishan Kishan (wk), 3. Suryakumar Yadav/Anmolpreet Singh, 4. Tilak Varma, 5. Kieron Pollard, 6. Tim David, 7. Daniel Sams, 8. Murugan Ashwin, 9. Tymal Mills, 10. Jaydev Unadkat, 11. Jasprit Bumrah

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Kolkata Knight Riders:

  • Shreyas Iyer has been on the verge of firing, but hasn’t quite so far in IPL 2022 (scores of 20*, 13 and 26). He has struck 359 runs in 14 innings vs MI at an average of 32.64 and strike rate of 117.32.
  • However, the KKR captain has a horrid record in T20s at Pune. He has scored just 50 runs in seven matches on this ground at an average of 7.14. He is a much-improved player now, though.
  • Venkatesh Iyer is also yet to fire in IPL 2022. He belted 53 at a strike rate of 176.67 in his match against MI in IPL 2021.
  • Sunil Narine is conceding just 4.16 runs per over so far in IPL 2022. Also, he enjoys bowling against MI, with 23 wickets in 18 matches at an average of 20.70 and economy rate of 6.69.
  • Narine is particularly impressive between overs 12-16 in the IPL (avg. 19.3, econ. 6.1). Interestingly, this is usually the time where Kieron Pollard comes out to bat, and Narine has an excellent record against him in T20s: 75 balls bowled, 84 runs conceded, four dismissals. Also, Narine has dismissed Rohit Sharma nine times in T20s for just 183 runs in 170 deliveries.
  • Andre Russell is coming off a magnificent 70* off 31 balls in his last match (vs Punjab). He has struck 183 runs in 10 innings vs Mumbai at an average of 20.33 and strike rate of 144.09. Can he improve on that average? The key will be to get the better of Bumrah (has been dismissed three times for 51 runs vs Jasprit in 40 balls in the IPL).
  • Umesh Yadav is having a dream season. He is the current Purple Cap holder with eight scalps. He takes a wicket every 20 deliveries on average vs MI, and has nine wickets in seven matches at Pune.
  • Tim Southee has taken five wickets in two matches in IPL 2022. His battle with the MI top order will be crucial.

Mumbai Indians:

  • MI needs skipper Rohit Sharma to come to the party. KKR is his favourite opponent, with 899 runs in 23 matches at a superb average of 49.94 and strike rate of 132.60. Also, Rohit has scored 184 runs in six innings on this ground at an average of 46.00 and strike rate of 124.32.
  • Ishan Kishan has had an excellent start to IPL 2022, with two half-centuries in a row. He has now scored 690 runs as an IPL opener at an average of 62.73 and strike rate of 154.36. Also, he has a half-century in three matches vs KKR (overall SR of 208.11).
  • MI will be hoping Suryakumar Yadav is fit for this clash. He has a strong record vs KKR in the IPL: 8 inns, 285 runs, avg. 40.71, SR 145.41.
  • Tilak Varma has made a terrific start to his IPL career. The talented left-hander has struck 83 runs so far at a strike rate of 172.91. He will be key in the middle overs for MI – a period they have struggled in since last season.
  • Jasprit Bumrah has taken 15 wickets in 14 matches vs KKR at an average of 28.27 and a higher-than-usual economy rate of 8.27. On this ground, Bumrah has taken nine wickets in eight matches at an economy of just 6.73.
  • Tymal Mills is MI’s leading wicket-taker so far this season with four at an average of 15.25 and economy rate of 8.71.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 29, KKR 7, MI 22.
  • Shreyas Iyer has a solid record against Jasprit Bumrah in the IPL. He has struck 57 runs off 40 balls against one of the world’s leading bowlers, and has been dismissed just once.
  • Pat Cummins has a great record vs Ishan Kishan in T20s: three dismissals in five deliveries.
  • MI is Ajinkya Rahane’s third-most favourite opponent in terms of runs (593) behind DC and RCB. He averages 32.94 against MI at a strike rate of 123.28. Also, Rahane has the fourth-most runs at Pune: 18 inns, 457 runs, avg. 26.88, SR 117.18.
  • Kieron Pollard strikes at just 119.30 in 18 innings vs KKR.

Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium Pune Pitch Report and Weather

Teams batting first and second have won four games each on this ground since IPL 2018. The team batting first has won both games in Pune so far in IPL 2022, with an average first innings score of 190.5.

Pacers take 3.8 wickets per innings in IPL matches on this ground, compared to 1.6 for spinners. Another warm and clear evening is forecast in Pune.

Dream11 Prediction

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:

KKR vs MI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 14 | KOL vs MI Dream11 Prediction Today | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians Key Players | Pune Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 14: KKR vs MI Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

KKR vs MI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 14 | KOL vs MI Dream11 Prediction Today | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians Key Players | Pune Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 14: KKR vs MI Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Ishan Kishan
  • Batsmen: Tilak Varma, Shreyas Iyer
  • All-rounders: Andre Russell
  • Bowlers: Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah

Match Prediction

MI have a wonderful record vs KKR, but Kolkata have the bowling and form behind them. KKR to win.

Why are CSK struggling to perform in IPL 2022?

Vaibhav Tripathi
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Why are CSK struggling to perform in IPL 2022?

Cricket News: Why are CSK struggling to perform in IPL 2022? | A look at why CSK are struggling so far in IPL 2022

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have started their IPL 2022 campaign on a horror note as they’ve lost their first three games in the tournament.

Led by all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, the men in yellow couldn’t start the tournament well after having lost 3 out of 3 games and are finding themselves at the bottom of the points table. For the first time in the history of the tournament, they have started the tournament with three losses on the trot. It’s very surprising for a consistent team like CSK to suffer such a run, especially given they are the defending champions.

Unlike Mumbai Indians, Chennai is not known as a slow starter but this season it’s been very unlike CSK start to their IPL campaign. They lost their first game to Kolkata Knight Riders. When it felt like they’ll register their first win of the ongoing edition, Shivam Dube’s expensive penultimate cost them the game against the Lucknow Super Giants. And most recently, Punjab Kings got the better of the defending champions by 54 runs making it three defeats in a row.

One question that is popping into everyone’s mind is, “what’s been the cause of concern for one of the most successful franchises in the history of the IPL?”

3 key reasons why CSK are struggling so far in IPL 2022

1. Gaikwad’s poor run of form:

Ruturaj Gaikwad is having a torrid time with the bat currently as he’s been dismissed for single-digit scores in all of CSK’s three games so far in IPL 2022. This is completely contrasting to his brilliant run of form last season when he finished as the highest run-getter in the tournament and won the Orange Cap.

CSK will be hoping that Gaikwad will turn the tides and hit a run of supreme form to help his side climb up in the points table. The incumbent opener has been an important part of CSK’s success story in the last year and that’s why CSK retained him before the IPL 2022 mega auction. However, this is not the first time that the opener has had to struggle to get going at the start of the season. In fact, even in IPL 2020 and IPL 2021, Ruturaj registered three straight single-digit scores in his first three knocks of those seasons.

CSK desperately need him to fire at the top as they’re losing wickets regularly in the powerplay which is putting too much pressure on the rest of the batters. If Gaikwad doesn’t end this string of bad runs soon enough, a lot of problems will arise for the yellow army.

2. Deepak Chahar’s absence hurting CSK badly

Cricket News: Why are CSK struggling to perform in IPL 2022? | A look at why CSK are struggling so far in IPL 2022
CSK are missing Deepak Chahar so far in IPL 2022

CSK had spent a whopping Rs 14 crore (INR 140 million) to buy back Chahar at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month but were handed a massive blow ahead of the start of the season after an injury to the pacer. Since 2018, Chahar has picked up 58 wickets in as many matches with 42 of those coming in powerplay – an ability that CSK are missing the most this year.

His unavailability has been a big factor in CSK’s dismal run in the first three games of the season. Early wickets in the powerplay is very necessary in any format of the game and the lack of wickets from Chennai’s bowlers is one of the main reasons why they’re yet to win a game this season. Chahar’s record in the powerplay reflects his importance in the team and why CSK has invested a lot in Chahar’s swinging ability.

The team management is confident that Chahar will join the team in the last week of April but hopefully, it’ll not be too late from CSK’s point of view.

3. Spin yet to play a part for CSK:

Spin has played a crucial part in the middle overs in this tournament but for CSK’s spinners haven’t joined the party yet. In the spin department, the team has Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali, Mitchell Santner, and M Theekshana as their spin attack, and it is a potent finger-spin attack with the ball turning inwards as well as outwards for the batters. 

Ravindra Jadeja and Moeen Ali are the only two options that are regular members of the playing XI. And honestly, they haven’t been as effective as the team would like them to be.

Wrist spin has played a huge part in a team’s success in T20 cricket in the last few years and they lack an experienced wrist spinner in the squad. All their main options are finger spinners. The only wrist spin option in the squad is Prashant Solanki, who is highly inexperienced when it comes to IPL cricket.

Being the regular members of the playing XI, skipper Jadeja and Moeen have to take up the extra responsibility to control the game in the middle overs or CSK will continue to struggle in the ongoing edition of IPL 2022.

What makes Pat Cummins a generational great in Tests?

Debashish Sarangi
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What makes Pat Cummins a generational great in Tests?

Cricket Opinion: What makes Pat Cummins a generational great in Tests? | Why Pat Cummins is the best Test bowler in the world

Second session of Day 5, 3rd Test, Lahore.

The excitement of the on-field battle between Pakistan and Australia was at its peak among masses even after witnessing two exhausting drawn Tests in succession. Chasing 350, Pakistan were placed at 164 for 3 at the end of the 68th over, and were even aiming to win the Test with the outstanding Babar Azam at the crease.

On the other hand, the Aussies were battling really hard in the middle to draw the first blood post lunch – a breakthrough that could swing the game in their favour.

Meanwhile, Pat Cummins brings himself back into the attack for the 69th over. What followed in the next few overs was nothing short of exceptional from the Australian captain. In the fourth ball of his spell, Cummins traps Fawad Alam plumb in front of the stumps by a full delivery that straightens on off and goes past the outside edge. In the third delivery of his next over, the Australian captain sends down a magnificent toe-crusher to get the all-important wicket of Mohammad Rizwan.

The game turned into the visitor’s favour in the blink of an eye; something they were dreaming prior to these two dismissals. The Aussies never looked back from that point and went on to win the game as well as the series in the end. Cummins’ class oozed for the umpteenth time during that short burst of a spell, which forced an Australian victory out of nowhere.

How does Pat Cummins produce these amazing spells so often?

He was so impactful in the Border-Gavaskar series in 2020-21 that he was awarded man of the series despite Australia losing the series 2-1. He almost wreaked havoc in the mind of every Indian fan by dismissing Cheteshwar Pujara by beauty of a delivery when the Aussies needed a breakthrough.

The next few overs by Cummins that day in Brisbane were among the toughest ones from a batsman’s point of view. It seemed like he was determined to knock India out of the game by his thunderbolts. However, he lacked support as India managed to script one of the most iconic victories in their cricket history.

However, his astounding efforts with the ball were highly praised, even by Indian fans. He was exceptional in BGT 2017 on Indian soil as well. Whenever Australia need wickets, they approach Cummins. This signifies the kind of an outright matchwinner he has been in his 41-matches long test career.  

What makes Cummins this good?

Cricket Opinion: What makes Pat Cummins a generational great in Tests? | Why Pat Cummins is the best Test bowler in the world
Cricket News: Pat Cummins aces first major test as Australia captain

First of all, a bowler needs to possess certain abilities to establish himself as a good Test bowler and I feel Cummins doesn’t lack any of those abilities. He has pace, and bowls consistently around 140-145kph. However, his accuracy and consistency is his biggest asset, which can be well imagined from the fact that he concedes just 2.75 per over. He can swing the ball and can get the seam movement off the deck as well.

Most importantly, his ability to replicate success of the same level all around the world makes him different from the other seamers. He averages just 20.49 and has an extremely good bowling strike rate of 44.76 in Australia, England and South Africa combined. More importantly, Cummins has 26 wickets at an average of just 26.38 in Asia, where the wickets are the least likely to be appreciated by a fast bowler. His greatness is evident in that he had the highest number of wickets (12) in the recently concluded series against Pakistan, with both his average (22.50) and strike rate (55.08) being the best on tracks that were the least conducive for seam bowling.

Another aspect of his game that keeps Cummins head and shoulders above the rest of this generation is his ability to bowl long spells even in the hot and humid conditions of the subcontinent. He refuses to give up, runs with the same intensity and delivers almost every ball in the channel of uncertainty. The secret behind Cummins being a bowling machine is his immense dedication to improve his fitness and amazing discipline.

When he toured Pakistan as the best Test bowler of this generation, questions were raised whether he would succeed on the lifeless decks of Rawalpindi, Karachi and Lahore. But he played the most significant role in Australia’s historic series victory and silenced everyone. His success in Pakistan can definitely be considered as another feather in the Aussie skipper’s crown and currently, it’s impossible to deny that Cummins is the greatest Test bowler of this generation.

Written by Debashish Sarangi. Follow Debashish on Twitter today

RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 13

Charbel Coorey
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RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 13

RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 13 | RR vs BLR Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore | Wankhede Pitch Report

A Royal night awaits at the Wankhede. Rajasthan Royals, who have been outstanding so far in IPL 2022, will be looking to keep the momentum going against a Royal Challengers Bangalore side still seeking a full performance.

Before Gujarat beat Delhi on Saturday, the Royals were the only team to successfully defend a target in this edition. They have done so twice. Their experienced attack has gelled well, with Lasith Malinga’s clarity of thought and clear instructions working well for the bowling group.

Also, the form of Jos Buttler and Sanju Samson in particular is cause for huge optimism. These are the two whom Jimmy Neesham, in an exclusive interview with CricBlog last week, pointed out as players he was looking forward to playing and training with. Buttler is coming off a magnificent century and will be after a similar performance here to set the tone for a confident Royals’ lineup.

So, it’s a good test for RCB. They have had two contrasting matches so far in IPL 2022, where they failed to defend 200+ and then just survived a scare to chase down a paltry 129 set by KKR. Much does seem to depend on their top order to perform, so if the top three can set a platform, they can look forward to a big score. Also, the bowling attack is capable of making inroads given the quality on paper, so their battle with the in-form Royals should be a beauty.

Possible Playing 11

The Royals are looking settled. One change they could make is Saini out for Neesham as the Kiwi can offer more with the bat.

Also, expect the Royals to persist with Riyan Parag. Last week, Sanju Samson said this could be a breakthrough year for the youngster, and then Jimmy Neesham also called him a “very talented batsman”.

Rajasthan Royals: 1. Yashasvi Jaiswal, 2. Jos Buttler, 3. Devdutt Padikkal, 4. Sanju Samson (c & wk), 5. Shimron Hetmyer, 6. Riyan Parag, 7. Jimmy Neesham/Navdeep Saini, 8. R Ashwin, 9. Trent Boult, 10. Prasidh Krishna, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal

Josh Hazlewood is reportedly available for this match, but RCB could look to stick with the same overseas players. Glenn Maxwell will be available for the April 9 match vs Mumbai.

Royal Challengers Bangalore: 1. Faf du Plessis (c), 2. Anuj Rawat, 3. Virat Kohli, 4. Dinesh Karthik (wk), 5. Sherfane Rutherford, 6. Shahbaz Ahmed, 7. Wanindu Hasaranga, 8. Harshal Patel, 9. David Willey/Josh Hazlewood, 10. Mohammed Siraj, 11. Akash Deep

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Rajasthan Royals:

  • What a magnificent performance it was by Jos Buttler vs Mumbai on Saturday. The Englishman struck an imperious 68-ball 100 to sit atop the run-scoring chart for IPL 2022 (135, SR 140.62).
  • Since 2018, Buttler has struck 136 runs in five innings vs RCB at an average of 27.20 and strike rate of 133.33. Also, he has 20 matches of T20 experience at the Wankhede, where he has scored 543 runs at an average of 30.17 and strike rate of 147.55.
  • Can Sanju Samson turn around a modest record vs RCB? The RR skipper has scored 260 runs in 12 matches at an average of 23.64, which includes one score of 92 a few years ago.
  • Like Buttler, Samson is in great form currently (55 off 27 and 30 off 21 in IPL 2022), and has experience at the Wankhede: 19 inns, 568 runs, avg. 31.56, SR 143.80.
  • Yashasvi Jaiswal looked good against RCB’s attack last season. He struck 31 off 22 balls with three fours and two sixes. Can he produce the goods today?
  • Shimron Hetmyer has smashed 67 runs at a strike rate of 248.14 so far this season. This comes after he struck at nearly 170 in IPL 2021.
  • Yuzvendra Chahal will come up against the franchise whom he served so well for a number of years. The classy leg-spinner has taken the most wickets of any spinner since the start of IPL 2021 (23). This includes a superb 2/26 vs MI, where he was denied a hat-trick by a dropped catch.
  • Trent Boult has a strong record vs RCB, with 11 wickets in seven matches. He strikes every 15 deliveries against them. Also, he has a terrific record against du Plessis in T20s: 48 deliveries bowled, 39 runs conceded, three dismissals.

Royal Challengers Bangalore:

  • Getting through the powerplay will be key for Faf du Plessis, as he did against Punjab Kings earlier this season where he smashed 88 off 53 balls. He has a good record at the Wankhede, with 479 runs in 15 matches at an average of 39.92 and strike rate of 130.52.
  • Virat Kohli has the most runs in RR-RCB matches (579), including 72* at the Wankhede last season, albeit against a very different Royals attack. However, Kohli has some good numbers against the current Royals bowlers, including Ashwin (average of 162 in 20 innings), as well as Boult and Krishna (strike rate of over 140 against them).
  • Dinesh Karthik’s 46 runs in IPL 2022 have come at a strike rate of 219.04. He has scored 23 off 15 balls vs Boult in the IPL (one dismissal), 75 off 57 vs Ashwin (one dismissal) and 14 runs off 12 balls vs Saini (one dismissal). Key player.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga produced his best performance in the IPL last match vs KKR. He took 4/20, with all four of his wickets coming between overs 7-16. The Royals’ run rate is over 10 in this period in this IPL so far, so Hasaranga’s battle with RR’s big hitters should make for some great viewing.
  • Hasaranga has a brilliant record against Samson in T20s. He has dismissed him three times in just 11 balls.
  • Mohammed Siraj took 3/27 vs Royals on this ground this season, which included the wicket of Jos Buttler. Also, Siraj has a good record against Sanju Samson in the IPL: 15 balls bowled, 20 runs conceded, two dismissals.
  • Harshal Patel was outstanding last match against KKR. He bowled two wicket maidens in the match to finish with 2/11. He took six wickets in two matches vs Royals last season (3/47, 3/34), and he will be key at the death here.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 25, RR 10, RCB 12, N/R 3.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga vs Jos Buttler could be a key battle. Buttler has faced 23 deliveries from Hasaranga in T20s and is yet to hit a boundary. Also, Buttler’s strike rate vs wristspin (131, avg. 28) is his lowest against any bowling type in the IPL.
  • Yuzvendra Chahal could be key against Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli. Du Plessis strikes at just 114 vs wristspin in the IPL, while Kohli is only slightly better at 116. However, both average well against wristspin (du Plessis 51, Kohli 46).
  • Virat Kohli has struck scores of 72*, 43, 72* and 25 in his last four matches vs Royals.
  • Devdutt Padikkal struck an unbeaten century on this ground for RCB against Royals last season.

Wankhede Stadium Mumbai Pitch Report and Weather

Powerplay bowlers have had a good time at the Wankhede so far this season. A total of 13 wickets have fallen in the powerplay in three matches on this ground so far in IPL 2022 (avg. 2.17 per match).

The average first innings score is just 142 so far at the Wankhede in IPL 2022. The chasing team has won all three matches. Another clear and warm evening is forecast, with dew likely.

Dream11 Prediction

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:

RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 13 | RR vs BLR Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore | Wankhede Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 13: RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 13 | RR vs BLR Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore | Wankhede Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 13: RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Jos Buttler
  • Batsmen: Virat Kohli, Shimron Hetmyer
  • All-rounders: Wanindu Hasaranga
  • Bowlers: Trent Boult, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel

Match Prediction

This should be a cracker. If the team batting first can have a good powerplay, it can set them up for a good score. A score in the region of 170 can be a tough chase with teams now starting to win while bowling second in IPL.

Royals start as favourites.

Maharaj & Harmer create 5 huge slices of history in Durban

Charbel Coorey
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Maharaj & Harmer create 5 huge slices of history in Durban

Cricket News: Maharaj & Harmer create 5 huge slices of history in Durban | Simon Harmer & Keshav Maharaj take all 10 wickets vs Bangladesh

Looking at the scorecard, you may have been forgiven that the first Test between South Africa and Bangladesh took place in Dhaka, where the pace bowlers have no role but to wait for the ball to come to them in the field.

Spinners Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer created history in Durban, combining to take all 10 wickets to demolish Bangladesh for just 53 and win the first Test by a whopping 220 runs. Coming into the Test series with an inexperienced team as South Africa’s leading players are at the IPL, Maharaj and Harmer took it upon themselves to spin the Proteas to victory and take a 1-0 series lead.

With the Test match in the balance on the fourth day, Bangladesh may have believed that they were in with a chance of a historic victory with a target of 273 to chase. However, those were almost extinguished on the fourth evening where they lost 11/3.

And it only got worse on the fifth day, as they lost their last seven wickets for 42 in under an hour. It represents a big missed opportunity for the Tigers, as their batsmen are experienced in playing in such conditions. However, they had no answer.

5 ways Maharaj & Harmer created history in Durban

1. First time that two South Africa bowlers take all 10 wickets in a Test innings

This was the first instance that two bowlers did all the damage for South Africa in a Test innings. It was a spin masterclass by Keshav Maharaj, who finished with seven wickets, and Simon Harmer, who finished with three.

2. First time that spinners combine for all 10 wickets in South Africa since their redamission

Spinners have combined to take all 10 wickets in an innings for South Africa for the first time since readmission. Its rarity is no surprise given the pace-friendly conditions that South Africa offers, but no one could have predicted the record would be broken here, especially against an opponent from the subcontinent.

This was the third time that spinners took all 10 wickets for South Africa. The other two instances were in 1948 and 1950. All have been in Durban.

3. Lowest ever score at Kingsmead, Durban

Bangladesh’s 53 all-out is the lowest ever score in a Test at Durban. The previous lowest was 66 by India against South Africa in 1996.

Also, this is the fourth time a team has been bowled out for less than 100 on this ground. Along with Bangladesh and India, Australia were bowled out for 75 in 1950 and South Africa for 99 in the same year.

4. Fourth-lowest score ever vs South Africa

All four of the lowest scores against South Africa have taken place since 2010. New Zealand were rolled for 45 in Cape Town in 2013, two years after Australia’s infamous 47 in 2011. Pakistan were blanked for 49 in 2013, and now Bangladesh for 53 nine years later.

5. Bangladesh’s second-lowest total in Tests

Bangladesh have largely struggled in Test cricket since 2000, but the fight they showed over four days here soon after a historic Test win in New Zealand earlier this year makes this 53 all-out particularly difficult to take.

It is their second-lowest total in history, behind their 43 all-out in West Indies in 2018. Their previous second-lowest was 62 against Sri Lanka in 2007.

Simon Harmer and player of the match Keshav Maharaj were outstanding in demolishing Bangladesh. The Tigers will have to bounce back quickly with the second Test in Port Elizabeth starting on April 7.

SRH vs LSG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 12

Charbel Coorey
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SRH vs LSG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 12

SRH vs LSG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 12 | SRH vs LSG Dream11 Prediction Today | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Lucknow Super Giants Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report

Despite it still being early in the season, there is a sense of importance around this match for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Chennai Super Kings, who have now lost their first three games, look quite a distance away from those teams currently in the top four, which is a given considering that there are now 10 teams in the league. SRH need to ensure they don’t fall into a similar predicament.

Last season’s bottom-placed team didn’t enjoy any smiles to start IPL 2022, as they were beaten soundly by Rajasthan Royals a week ago. They created chances off no balls, and were then blown away in the powerplay to cop a hefty blow to their net run rate. With that in mind, they need to win today.

But it won’t be easy. Lucknow Super Giants have started their campaign in promising fashion, losing narrowly to Gujarat before chasing over 200 against Chennai. Also, they have the added bonus of Jason Holder now in the fold, with the West Indian an impressive all-rounder over the past two seasons of the IPL. If LSG start this match well, it might too difficult for SRH to bounce back from. It’s all to play for.

Possible Playing 11

Despite the defeat to the Royals, SRH are likely to stick a settled XI.

Sunrisers Hyderabad: 1. Kane Williamson (c), 2. Abhishek Sharma, 3. Rahul Tripathi, 4. Nicholas Pooran (wk), 5. Aiden Markram, 6. Abdul Samad, 7. Romario Shepherd, 8. Washington Sundar, 9. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 10. Umran Malik, 11. T Natarajan

Jason Holder is set to slot into the LSG XI after completing his quarantine period.

Lucknow Super Giants: 1. KL Rahul (c), 2. Quinton de Kock (wk), 3. Manish Pandey, 4. Evin Lewis, 5. Deepak Hooda, 6. Ayush Badoni, 7. Krunal Pandya, 8. Jason Holder, 9. Dushmantha Chameera, 10. Ravi Bishnoi, 11. Avesh Khan

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Sunrisers Hyderabad:

  • A lot rests on Kane Williamson. He was dismissed in unlucky fashion vs RR for 2 (questionable catch). Williamson averages 59 and strikes at 159 against high pace in the IPL, so his battles with Dushmantha Chameera and Avesh Khan could be interesting.
  • Can Rahul Tripathi produce some of the gems we saw in 2021? The right-hander will need to improve on his records against wristspin (avg. 20, SR 120) and high pace (avg. 25, SR 117) given the LSG attack has both those bowling types in their attack.
  • The pressure is on Nicholas Pooran, who has scored five ducks in his last 12 IPL innings. In these 12 knocks, he has scored just 85 runs in total. He did make three 60+ scores in the T20Is vs India recently, so he has the ability to turn his awful IPL form around.
  • Aiden Markram (57* off 41 balls) was a shining light for SRH against RR last week. He strikes at 140 between overs 7 and 16 in the IPL, so the key will be for SRH to set a platform for him.
  • Washington Sundar also batted beautifully against RR (40 off 14 balls). He will be key with the ball in the powerplay, particularly against KL Rahul (17 balls, 16 runs, one dismissal) and Quinton de Kock (36 runs conceded off 37 balls in T20s). Also, SRH could look to employ Sundar between overs 7 and 16, where he averages 23.7 runs per wicket at an economy rate of 7.00.
  • Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be key on a ground where the powerplay bowlers have enjoyed success. He concedes just 5.9 runs per over in the powerplay and less than a run-a-ball vs de Kock (47 off 48 balls) in the IPL.

Lucknow Super Giants:

  • KL Rahul spent some important time at the crease against CSK (40 off 26 balls). He has a solid record vs SRH (10 inns, 325 runs, avg. 36.11, SR 123.57) and will be looking for a big score to set up his campaign.
  • Quinton de Kock has struck three 50+ scores in 10 innings vs SRH. He has scored 371 runs against them overall at an average of 41.22 and strike rate of 132.50. He is coming off a brilliant 61 vs CSK.
  • What a performance it was by Evin Lewis against CSK. The West Indian smashed 55* (23) to lead Lucknow to victory.
  • Ayush Badoni has had a magnificent start to IPL 2022. The 22-year old has struck 54 (41) and 19* (9) in crucial situations, which includes four fours and five sixes in 50 deliveries faced.
  • Jason Holder has taken two wickets per match in his last two IPL campaigns (30 wickets in 15 matches). The conditions at Dy Patil could suit him with his ability to swing and move the ball.
  • Krunal Pandya enjoys batting against SRH. He has scored 189 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 154.92. He has just four wickets in those 11 matches, though.
  • Avesh Khan took the second-most wickets in 2021 (24), and has started IPL 2022 with three scalps in two matches. Ravi Bishnoi was excellent in a high-scoring match vs CSK (2/24).

Other Stats and Facts

  • KL Rahul has scored 73 runs off 63 deliveries against Bhuvneshar Kumar in the IPL (one dismissal).
  • Kane Williamson has a strike rate of just 99 in the powerplay in the IPL, followed by 101 in overs 7-11. If LSG can take early wickets, it will only increase the pressure on Williamson.
  • Ravi Bishnoi to Williamson early? Kane averages 31 and strikes at 104 vs wristspin in the IPL. Also, Williamson strikes at 126 (avg. 30) vs medium pace, so Jason Holder could be employed early, too.
  • Nicholas Pooran averages 66 and strikes at 151 vs wristspin in the IPL. Expect LSG to use Dushmantha Chameera against him, as Chameera has dismissed Pooran three times in six deliveries in T20s.
  • Bhuvneshar Kumar vs Manish Pandey in the IPL: 19 deliveries, 20 runs, four dismissals.
  • Jason Holder has taken 15 wickets at the death since the start of IPL 2020 (avg. 9.53, econ. 9.03).

DY Patil Academy Mumbai Pitch Report and Weather

There have been some contrasting games so far on this ground. Rajasthan Royals won by 23 runs after batting first and scoring 193 in a day game vs Mumbai. In the game before at DY Patil, RCB and KKR ripped through each other’s batting lineups in the powerplay. Here, conditions could suit swing early.

A warm and clear evening is forecast.

Dream11 Prediction

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:

SRH vs LSG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 12 | SRH vs LSG Dream11 Prediction Today | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Lucknow Super Giants Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 12: SRH vs LSG Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

SRH vs LSG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 12 | SRH vs LSG Dream11 Prediction Today | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Lucknow Super Giants Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 12: SRH vs LSG Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: KL Rahul, Quinton de Kock
  • Batsmen: Evin Lewis, Kane Williamson
  • All-rounders: Jason Holder
  • Bowlers: Avesh Khan, Umran Malik

Match Prediction

Lucknow Super Giants look good for a win in this game. A strong total (180+) will be key for the team batting first.

“Should have been chasing 170” – Bangladesh upset with umpiring in Durban

Charbel Coorey
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“Should have been chasing 170” – Bangladesh upset with umpiring in Durban

Cricket News: “Should have been chasing 170”: Bangladesh upset with umpiring in Durban | Bangladesh upset with umpiring in 1st Test vs SA

Bangladesh have been left disappointed by the umpiring in the ongoing first Test against South Africa, with all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan and director Khaled Mahmud leading a chorus of discontent. A number of decisions – particularly LBW – had gone against Bangladesh in the first session on the fourth day, prompting calls to reinstate neutral umpires for international matches.

“There was no hiding from the [poor] umpiring in today’s play,” said Mahmud. “A number of decisions went against us. We also missed out on a wicket when the boys seemed scared of taking a review. If we got those decisions, we might be chasing 180 instead of 270. To be really honest, I have seen such inconsistency in umpiring after a long time. But the umpires are the best judge on the field. We have to accept the decisions.”

The instances that Mahmud refers to begin as early as the fifth over in South Africa’s second innings. Dean Elgar was struck on the back leg but was given not out by umpire Marais Erasmus, with ball tracking showing the ball hitting off-stump but not enough to overturn the decision on review.

Fellow umpire Adrian Holdstock had his not out decision for an lbw against Sarel Erwee overturned in the 19th over. According to ESPNCricinfo’s live commentary, it “looked so out to the naked eye and it was a surprise that the on-field call was not given despite a screeching appeal”.

Dean Elgar then looked absolutely plumb in the 38th over, which was also given not out. It was overturned on review, and gave Taskin Ahmed his first wicket for the Test.

Bangladesh upset with umpiring: Shakib calls for neutral umpires

Shakib Al Hasan, who is unavailable for this Test series due to personal reasons, said that it’s time to reintroduce neutral umpires. After COVID-19 situation put a halt to cricket in 2020, it then brought about a situation where the ICC introduced home umpires to reduce the amount of travel.

“I think it’s time for ICC to get back to neutral umpires as the COVID situation is OK in most cricket playing countries,” Shakib tweeted.

Bangladesh selector and former captain Habibul Bashar was in agreeance.

“I totally agree with Shakib,” Bashar said. “Since Covid protocols are all but over, we should go back to neutral umpires. Umpires make mistakes but definitely neutral umpires ensure everyone gets the advantage. We have seen that on and off in this series. The DRS is certainly helpful but the umpire’s call isn’t really going in our favour.

“When you have a neutral umpire in the middle, even if he makes a mistake, you don’t think it is deliberate. We have seen many decisions in this series which could have gone our way, but didn’t.”

Bangladesh will start day five in a difficult position at 11/3, still in need of 263 runs to win their first Test against South Africa. Spinners Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer were outstanding on the fourth evening, ripping through the Bangladesh top order to leave the home side as strong favourites heading into the final day in Durban.

Jimmy Neesham shares special Ross Taylor story from his debut

Charbel Coorey
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Jimmy Neesham shares special Ross Taylor story from his debut

Cricket News: Jimmy Neesham shares special Ross Taylor story from his debut | Ross Taylor retires: Neesham shares story about NZ legend

New Zealand will wave farewell to one of their finest ever cricketers on Monday in their third ODI against Netherlands in Hamilton. The great Ross Taylor will take the field one final time, prompting more tributes to a player that has contributed so much to cricket as a whole.

During the ODI series, all-rounder Jimmy Neesham spoke of the sheer impact that Taylor has had on New Zealand cricket as well as himself personally. In an exclusive interview with CricBlog, Neesham said that Taylor has helped shape the culture to what it is today, and also shared a story from his own debut back in 2012.

“He’s been an absolute giant of our game over the last 20 years. Early 2000s was when he debuted for New Zealand, which seems like a different era at the moment,” Neesham said.

“Yes, you’ll miss the runs and the catches and all that kind of thing, but just the sort of individual he was is what will leave a hole in our group. But, I think he can be proud of the influence he has had in shaping our culture over the last decade-and-a-half, and watch on with pride over the next few years and know that was a huge hand he had in creating that culture.”

Ross Taylor rang me before my New Zealand debut – Neesham

Before heading over to South Africa for his debut series in international cricket in 2012, Jimmy Neesham received a phone call from an anonymous number. It was Ross Taylor on the other end, wishing Neesham all the best for the tour. It is a moment that the all-rounder still holds dear.

“He’s been such a quality performer and such a great guy to know off the field. When I first got picked for the Black Caps in 2012, he [Ross Taylor] was having a series off when the captaincy change and that sort of thing was happening,” said Neesham.

“He wasn’t coming on the tour, and a couple of days after the team was announced, I got a phone call from an unsaved number on my phone. I answered and it was him saying ‘hey mate, Ross Taylor here, just wanted to wish you all the best for the tour’, and I just remember thinking we didn’t know each other at all at the time.

“He didn’t have to do that. I imagine he probably called the other four or five guys who were debuting on that tour and said the same thing. I think that’s testament to his character that he’s willing to make those phone calls and talk to the young guys, and offer his experience off the field.”

Ross Taylor will finish career as New Zealand’s highest run-scorer in Tests and ODIs

Ross Taylor will say goodbye to cricket as New Zealand’s highest-ever run-scorer in ODIs (8,593) and Tests (7,683). He was a pinnacle of consistency over a number of years, with the period between the 2015 and 2019 World Cups particularly prolific in terms of ODI cricket.

Also, his final match will be his 450th in international cricket. He has crossed 18,000 runs across formats at an average above 42, with a remarkable 40 hundreds and 93 fifties.

After a slow start to the ODI series vs Netherlands, Taylor will certainly be keen to contribute and finish his career on the best possible note.

You can watch CricBlog’s full interview with Jimmy Neesham here or below.

CSK vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 11

Charbel Coorey
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CSK vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 11

CSK vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 11 | CSK vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction Today | Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings Key Players | Brabourne Pitch Report

In a long tournament where each team plays 14 matches, the third game doesn’t seem so crucial when you look at it on face value. However, in a competitive league with two new, capable teams involved, you cannot afford to fall too far behind.

That is the predicament Chennai Super Kings find themselves in. The defending champions have lost their opening two games in contrasting fashion; one after crawling to 131 and the other after failing to defend 200+. Coach Stephen Fleming spoke of the difficulty of bowling in the dew after the defeat to Lucknow, but what CSK have done so well over the years is eliminate the distractions and perform against adversity. They need to do it here.

In terms of Punjab Kings, we’ve received the same picture as we’ve seen for many a year. After thumping 200+ to defeat RCB, the Kings crumbled in a heap against Umesh Yadav to showcase the inconsistency that still plagues the franchise despite many new, high-quality faces. They did fight with the ball for a while against KKR, but the Andre Russell storm was too much to handle. Now, they get the chance to bounce back less than 48 hours later.

Possible Playing 11

Chris Jordan had a tonsil infection, and has now been discharged from hospital. Whether he is fit enough to play this match remains to be seen, but CSK do need an experienced bowling option.

Chennai Super Kings: 1. Robin Uthappa, 2. Ruturaj Gaikwad, 3. Moeen Ali, 4. Shivam Dube, 5. Ambati Rayudu, 6. Ravindra Jadeja (c), 7. MS Dhoni (wk), 8. Dwaine Pretorius, 9. Dwayne Bravo, 10. Chris Jordan, 11. Tushar Deshpande

According to ESPNCricinfo, Jonny Bairstow is available after quarantine and is likely to replace Odean Smith.

Punjab Kings: 1. Mayank Agarwal (c), 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Bhanuka Rajapaksa (wk), 4. Jonny Bairstow, 5. Liam Livingstone, 6. Shahrukh Khan, 7. Raj Bawa, 8. Harpreet Brar 9. Rahul Chahar, 10. Kagiso Rabada, 11. Arshdeep Singh

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Chennai Super Kings:

  • Ruturaj Gaikwad has started another series/tournament slowly. The reigning Orange Cap holder has scored 0 and 1 this season, with a run out in his last match. He scored just 5 and 12 vs PBKS last season, and Arshdeep Singh dismissed him in both matches. Can he turn his form around?
  • Robin Uthappa is a player enjoying some great form. He is coming off a 27-ball 50 against Lucknow, where he looked in terrific touch. He averages 39 and strikes at 133 in the powerplay in IPL, so Punjab need his wicket early.
  • Moeen Ali looked good for more in his first game of IPL 2022 (35 off 22 balls vs LSG). Moeen is an excellent spin hitter, and Punjab have spinners who predominantly turn the ball into left-handers. He strikes at 166 vs wristspin, 155 vs left-arm spin and 152 vs off-spin in the IPL.
  • Ravindra Jadeja has had a quiet start to IPL 2022 with bat and ball. He has the ability to turn it around here, particularly given his batting form across IPL 2020 and 2021: 459 runs at an average of 57.38 and strike rate of 157.73.
  • Jadeja has scored 158 runs in nine innings for CSK vs PBKS at an average of 31.60 and strike rate of 143.64. He has taken 10 wickets in 15 innings against Punjab at an average of 35.90 and economy rate of 7.92.
  • Dwayne Bravo has a crucial role to play in the CSK attack. He has taken 15 wickets in 13 outings vs PBKS at an average of 22.33 and economy rate of 8.17.

Punjab Kings:

  • Shikhar Dhawan has strong numbers against CSK. He has scored 908 runs against them at an average of 41.27 and strike rate of 128.98, which includes eight 50+ scores in 26 innings.
  • Dhawan has a good record against two of CSK’s main bowlers: Dwayne Bravo and Ravindra Jadeja. He has scored 93 runs in 64 balls vs Bravo (two dismissals) and 106 runs in 64 balls vs Jadeja (one dismissal).
  • Can Mayank Agarwal improve on his poor record vs CSK? He has scored 238 runs in 14 innings at an average of 17.00 and strike rate of 123.96.
  • Bhanuka Rajapaksa has made a terrific start to IPL 2022. The Sri Lankan has struck scores of 43 and 29 at an overall strike rate of 238.70.
  • Jonny Bairstow is set to return. The Englishman has one fifty in five innings vs CSK (overall average of 22.75). Can he improve on these numbers?
  • Bairstow has terrific numbers in the three key phases of an IPL innings. He strikes at 139 in the powerplay, 150 between overs 7-11 and 152 between overs 12-16. He will no doubt take on CSK’s bowlers right away.
  • Kagiso Rabada will be key for PBKS. He concedes under seven runs per over vs CSK in the IPL, taking a wicket every 22 deliveries against them on average. Importantly, he averages 9.6 and concedes 9.3 per over in the death period. He has taken the most wickets of any bowler in the IPL since 2019.
  • Arshdeep Singh has taken three wickets in two matches vs CSK (econ. 7.00).
  • Rahul Chahar took 2/13 in four overs in his last match (vs KKR), where he found some turn. Also, he loves bowling to left-handers, where he has taken 11 wickets in IPL matches in India since 2019 (only Rashid Khan has more among spinners). So, expect him to be used against Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja and Moeen Ali.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 26, CSK 16, PBKS 10.
  • Shivam Dube struck seven boundaries in 30 deliveries last match vs LSG (49).
  • Dwayne Bravo to Mayank Agarwal in the IPL: 16 balls bowled, 12 runs scored, one dismissal.
  • A wide line will be key Bhanuka Rajapaksa. The Kings keeper-batsman has been very strong over the legside, particularly square leg and deep midwicket.
  • Shikhar Dhawan averages 66.8 vs CSK since the start of IPL 2020.
  • MS Dhoni vs PBKS: 20 innings, 593 runs, avg. 53.90, SR 151.12.
  • Shivam Dube strikes at 140 between overs 12-16 in the IPL. Kumar Sangakkara told CricBlog that this is Dube’s best time to bat.

Brabourne Stadium Mumbai Pitch Report and Weather

It has been two belting batting surfaces so far at Brabourne Stadium. In the first match, Delhi pulled off a heist to chase 178 vs MI, before Lucknow chased over 200 against CSK. With this being a night game, expect the ball to come onto the bat beautifully especially in the second innings.

Dew is likely. Another clear and warm evening is forecast.

Dream11 Prediction

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:

CSK vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 11 | CSK vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction Today | Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings Key Players | Brabourne Pitch Report
CSK vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction: IPL 2022 Match 11

Option 2:

CSK vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 11 | CSK vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction Today | Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings Key Players | Brabourne Pitch Report
CSK vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction: IPL 2022 Match 11

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Jonny Bairstow
  • Batsmen: Shikhar Dhawan, Robin Uthappa
  • All-rounders: Moeen Ali
  • Bowlers: Kagiso Rabada, Dwayne Bravo

Match Prediction

CSK’s bowling is under the spotlight. If they are required to bat first, it might be difficult for them to get a win. However, PBKS are capable of losing early wickets, so CSK’s best chance is to take early wickets.

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