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IND vs WI 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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IND vs WI 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report

IND vs WI 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report | IND vs WI 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs West Indies 1st T20I Key Players | Kolkata Pitch Report

With an eventful IPL Mega Auction sandwiched in between the two formats, attention turns to further World Cup preparation as India and West Indies look to continue their recent form.

While the Windies’ ODI form is horrendous, they enter this series off the back of a fine 3-2 series win over England. There was an element of youthful freedom in the lineup, which was a far cry from their wretched 2021 in T20s. A strong performance in India will certainly boost confidence further.

India won the ODI series courtesy of their bowlers, and will be looking to build some continuity ahead of this year’s World Cup. Both they and West Indies were mighty disappointing in the last World Cup in the UAE. So, spots are up for grabs and players from both sides will be aiming to make a strong impression at Eden Gardens in the first of three T20Is to round off the tour.

Possible Playing 11

India could open with Ishan Kishan, who was bought back by Mumbai Indians for over 15 crores. His record as opener in the IPL is brilliant (more below), so it makes sense.

India: 1. Rohit Sharma (c), 2. Ishan Kishan, 3. Virat Kohli, 4. Rishabh Pant (wk), 5. Suryakumar Yadav, 6. Shreyas Iyer, 7. Harshal Patel, 8. Kuldeep Yadav, 9. Mohammed Siraj, 10. Yuzvendra Chahal, 11. Avesh Khan/Shardul Thakur

Kieron Pollard is back fit for the Windies after missing the final two ODIs with a niggle.

West Indies: 1. Kyle Mayers, 2. Brandon King, 3. Nicholas Pooran (wk), 4. Kieron Pollard (c), 5. Rovman Powell, 6. Jason Holder, 7. Romario Shepherd, 8. Fabian Allen, 9. Odean Smith, 10. Akeal Hosein, 11. Sheldon Cottrell

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

India:

  • Between 2016 and 2019, Virat Kohli smashed three half-centuries in four T20Is vs West Indies in India. He has scored a total of 272 runs with just the one dismissal at an incredible strike rate of 190.20. So, will we see the Virat of old today after a lean ODI series?
  • Also, Virat has solid T20 numbers at Eden Gardens. The former captain has struck 377 runs in 11 innings at an average of 47.13 and strike rate of 130.45, including a century.
  • Rohit Sharma has the most runs in India-West Indies T20Is with 519 runs in 15 innings at an average of 43.25 and strike rate of 141.41. Also, like Virat, Rohit has some fine numbers at Eden Gardens in T20s: 16 inns, 538 runs, avg. 41.38, SR 144.24, with four half-centuries and a century.
  • Ishan Kishan could open in this match. Watch out if he does. He is dynamite when he opens in the IPL, with 555 runs in 13 innings at an average of 55.50 and strike rate of 155.90.
  • Shreyas Iyer won player of the match in the third ODI (80 off 111 balls). Suryakumar Yadav scored the most runs in the ODIs (104).
  • Kuldeep Yadav could get a run here. The left-arm spinner has eight wickets to his name in four matches vs West Indies at an average of 15.50 and economy rate of 7.75. Also, he has experience at Eden Gardens playing for KKR, with 24 scalps in 22 innings at an average of 26.29 and economy rate of 8.06.
  • Harshal Patel, who was popular among bidders at the IPL auction, took the joint-most wickets in India’s last T20I series vs New Zealand (2 matches, 4 wickets, avg. 12.78, econ. 7.75). He will be key at the death, as he was in IPL 2021 where he took 32 wickets.

West Indies:

  • Nicholas Pooran went for over 10 crores in the IPL auction, and he will want to prove his worth here. He recently had a strong T20I series against England, where he scored the most runs of any player (164, avg. 41.00, SR 122.38).
  • Pooran in T20Is vs India: 7 innings, 151 runs, avg. 30.20, SR 125.83.
  • Rovman Powell scored a magnificent century in that same series. However, that one knock (107) makes up nearly one-third of his total T20I runs (524) in 36 matches, so it will be interesting to see if he can develop some consistency.
  • Kieron Pollard has the second-most runs of any Windies player against India. The skipper has scored 292 runs in 10 innings at an average of 32.44 and strike rate of 126.40. Also, Pollard has struck 206 runs in nine innings at Kolkata at an average of 29.43 and strike rate of 127.95.
  • Jason Holder’s stocks rose as a T20 bowler in the England series, where he took a brilliant 15 wickets in five matches. He had a bad series with the ball against India in 2019, with just one wicket in the three matches at an average of 142.00 and economy rate of 11.83.
  • Akeal Hosein also had an impressive series against England (5 inns, 8 wickets, econ. 7.05). He has taken at least one wicket in each of his last eight T20Is, including four in his last outing vs England.
  • Odean Smith looked good in the ODIs vs India, as he took three wickets and scored 60 runs at a strike rate of 157.89.

Stats and Facts

  • India have won four of the past five T20Is against West Indies, with the last being back in 2019.
  • West Indies come into this series on the back of an impressive 3-2 win over a capable England side.
  • India have won their last six T20Is going back to the T20 World Cup, beating Afghanistan, Scotland, Namibia and New Zealand thrice.

Eden Gardens Kolkata Pitch Report and Weather

Eden Gardens is typically one of the pacier, bouncier surfaces in India. India smashed New Zealand by 73 runs after making 184/7 with the bat.

However, the toss could be crucial here with plenty of dew around in recent days according to reports. Also, it will be a clear evening.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time.

Option 1:

IND vs WI 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report | IND vs WI 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs West Indies 1st T20I Key Players | Kolkata Pitch Report
IND vs WI 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

IND vs WI 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report | IND vs WI 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs West Indies 1st T20I Key Players | Kolkata Pitch Report
IND vs WI 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Ishan Kishan, Nicholas Pooran
  • Batsmen: Rohit Sharma, Rovman Powell
  • All-rounders: Jason Holder
  • Bowlers: Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Odean Smith

Match Prediction

The chasing team should have the advantage in this clash with dew expected. India start as favourites.

MI IPL Mega Auction Analysis: Will they make it 6 Titles?

Debashish Sarangi
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MI IPL Mega Auction Analysis: Will they make it 6 Titles?

Cricket News: MI IPL Mega Auction Analysis: Will they make it 6 Titles? | Mumbai Indians IPL 2022 Mega Auction Analysis: How did they perform?

The most exciting part of the Indian Premier League, i.e., the IPL mega auction is over now. We witnessed some tremendous purchases, as well as some poor ones in the grand-trade festival that lasted for two days.

The blueprint of each of the ten teams is set and fans across the globe have begun to speculate the strengths and weaknesses of their favourite teams.

Let’s review the performance of the most successful side in the IPL, the Mumbai Indians, in the recently concluded Mega Auction.

Mumbai Indians Possible XI for IPL 2022

Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan (wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tim David, Kieron Pollard, Fabian Allen/Daniel Sams, Mayank Markande/Murugan Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Jaydev Unadkat, Tymal Mills

MI IPL 2022 Auction Analysis: What did Mumbai have before the auction?

First, let’s analyze what they had and what they needed prior to the auction. Mumbai had a brilliant pace hitter up the order in the form of Rohit Sharma, a dynamic player of spin in SuryaKumar Yadav, an experienced pace-hitting finisher in Kieron Pollard and the finest limited-overs bowler Jasprit Bumrah.

They needed to pick a flamboyant opening partner for Rohit who could capitalize on the field restrictions, fill the middle order with some good names, pick their spinners, and assist Bumrah with quality pace bowlers.

Key strength: Batting

They have ticked the first box quite brilliantly by getting Ishan Kishan back, spending more than 15 crores on the keeper-batsman. Firstly, he will be Rohit’s opening partner, and he strikes at over 155 when opening the batting in the IPL. Secondly, he certainly is an option to lead the side in future after Rohit’s departure. So, this was definitely MI’s finest buy in the auction.

Apart from Kishan, MI bought Tilak Varma, a promising talent from Hyderabad, who is expected to be a part of their playing XI. Tilak bats at the top of the order and scored 215 runs at an average of 35.83 and an outstanding strike rate of 147.26 in the 2021 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

The remaining two batters in their lineup will be Tim David and either of Daniel Sams and Fabian Allen. Tim David, the most expensive Australian in IPL 2022, has been in red-hot form in the ongoing PSL and is expected to handle the finishing job alongside Kieron Pollard. Sams and Allen are capable finishers who can contribute well with the bat coming at number 7, and thus MI have successfully formed a good batting lineup.

Cricket News: MI IPL Mega Auction Analysis: Will they make it 6 Titles? | Mumbai Indians IPL 2022 Mega Auction Analysis: How did they perform?
Mumbai Indians purchased Tim David for over 8 crores.

Strength: Building young core for the future

One of the biggest positives for MI in the auction was the young core they have assembled. Their vision for the future is commendable considering the fact that they have invested in the likes of Dewald Brevis, Tilak Varma, Sanjay Yadav, Rahul Buddhi and Arshad Khan.

Archer will be a big miss in IPL 2022, but once fit, MI will have an insane pace duo of Bumrah and Archer.  

Weaknesses: Lack of quality Indian bowling options

Now if we talk about their bowling, MI seem to have compromised slightly in this category, with the prime reason being their desire to have Jofra Archer from 2023. They let many good options go and spent 8 crores on Archer who will miss this season owing to his recovery from an injury.

To compensate, MI have picked two decent overseas fast bowlers in Tymal Mills and Riley Meredith. Mills has done well with the ball in recent times and is expected to be their death bowler alongside Bumrah.

However, their Indian picks Jaydev Unadkat and Basil Thampi don’t inspire too much confidence. Also, their spinners Murugan Ashwin and Mayank Markande are relatively inexperienced at IPL level. So, their perennial weakness of not having a great spin attack is likely to persist in the coming few years.

Cricket News: MI IPL Mega Auction Analysis: Will they make it 6 Titles? | Mumbai Indians IPL 2022 Mega Auction Analysis: How did they perform?
Can Jaydev Unadkat have a good season?

MI IPL 2022 Auction Analysis: Key strengths and weaknesses – summary

Strengths: Brilliant top order, dynamic finishers

Weakness: Spin department, death bowling apart from Bumrah

Mumbai Indians IPL 2022 final squad

Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Kieron Pollard, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishan Kishan (wk), Tilak Varma, Tim David, Daniel Sams, Fabian Allen, Riley Meredith, Tymal Mills, Jaydev Unadkat, Mayank Markande, Murugan Ashwin, Jofra Archer, Mohammed Arshad Khan, Basil Thampi, Aryan Juyal, Dewald Brevis, Rahul Buddhi, Ramandeep Singh, Sanjay Yadav, Arjun Tendulkar, Hrithik Shokeen, Anmolpreet Singh.

Written by Debashish Sarangi. Follow Debashish on Twitter today

PES vs QUE Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 22

Charbel Coorey
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0
PES vs QUE Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 22

PES vs QUE Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 22 | PES vs QUE Dream11 Prediction Today | Peshawar Zalmi vs Quetta Gladiators Key Players | Lahore Pitch Report

It’s a high-stakes game in match 22 of PSL 2022. Quetta Gladiators (fourth) and Peshawar Zalmi (fifth) are only separated by net run rate at the moment, with the winner today to occupy that all-important playoffs spot with two games remaining after this one.

After their magnificent chase of 200 against Islamabad, Quetta crumbled against Lahore. After losing their first four wickets for 20-odd, the Gladiators did well to reach 141/7, but it was never enough against an in-form Qalandars side.

Today, eyes will be on the Gladiators top order in response to that collapse last time out. Jason Roy has been brilliant, while Sarfaraz Ahmed is showing glimpses of his best. Umar Akmal has made a very promising start to his campaign, while more is needed from James Vince. Also, it will be interesting to see whether the Quetta attack can reign in a Zalmi lineup that bats right down to number seven.

Zalmi smashed Karachi Kings two days ago, with Mohammad Haris playing a blinder in his first match of the tournament. Skipper Wahab Riaz is back in the wickets, and his experience will be key in lifting his team in a crunch match. This should be good.

Possible Playing 11

Peshawar Zalmi: 1. Hazratullah Zazai, 2. Mohammad Haris (wk), 3. Haider Ali, 4. Liam Livingstone, 5. Shoaib Malik, 6. Sherfane Rutherford/Saqib Mahmood, 7. Ben Cutting, 8. Amad Butt, 9. Wahab Riaz (c), 10. Mohammad Umar, 11. Saman Irshad

Quetta Gladiators: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Ahsan Ali, 3. James Vince, 4. Sarfaraz Ahmed (c & wk), 5. Iftikhar Ahmed, 6. Umar Akmal, 7. Noor Ahmad, 8. Sohail Tanvir/James Faulkner, 9. Naseem Shah, 10. Ghulam Mudassar, 11. Hassan Khan

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Peshawar Zalmi:

  • Keeper-batsman Mohammad Haris was outstanding against Karachi, smashing a 27-ball 49 to win player of the match.
  • Hazratullah Zazai struck a 42-ball 52 in the same match. That was Zazai’s first half-century in four matches in PSL 2022 (overall average of 34 and strike rate of 130.76).
  • Liam Livingstone will be key with both bat and ball. He dismissed Joe Clarke with a beautiful leg-spinner two days ago, and will be looking for his first big knock with the bat after scores of 24 and 6 so far.
  • Shoaib Malik has struck 145 runs in five innings vs Quetta since the start of 2020 at an average of 36.25 and strike rate of 149.48. This includes a terrific 48* off 32 balls earlier this season.
  • Wahab Riaz has bounced back with four wickets in his last two matches after going wicketless in his first four games in PSL 2022. He has an outstanding record against Gladiators, with 33 wickets in 17 matches at an average of 12.70 and economy rate of 6.55.
  • Salman Irshad is Zalmi’s leading wicket-taker in PSL 2022 with seven scalps in five matches (econ. 8.35). He took 2/24 in the last match vs Karachi.

Quetta Gladiators:

  • Ahsan Ali struck an excellent 73 off 46 balls against Zalmi earlier in PSL 2022. He is Quetta’s top run-scorer in this tournament with 249 runs in seven matches at an average of 41.50 and strike rate of 139.88.
  • Jason Roy has scored a century, half-century and duck in PSL 2022, all in that order. He is one to watch today, as always, as he boasts a strike rate of 197.67 in three innings this season.
  • Skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed has the second-most runs in PES-QUE matches, with 383 runs at an average of 29.46 and strike rate of 140.81. This includes scores of 81 (40) and 36* (28) last season.
  • Iftikhar Ahmed is coming off an impressive half-century vs Lahore, but averages just 10.80 in eight innings vs Zalmi. Can he turn this around today?
  • Umar Akmal has looked really promising so far this season. His scores of 25 and 23 have come at a strike rate of 177.77, providing Quetta with some great momentum in important moments.
  • Naseem Shah has taken just two wickets in six matches outside of his five-wicket haul this season, so this is a big game for him.
  • James Faulkner has taken six wickets in as many matches in PSL 2022. He was expensive vs Zalmi earlier this season (1/40).

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 19, Zalmi 10, Gladiators 8, 1 N/R.
  • Zalmi have won the past five matches between the teams.
  • Zalmi (191/5) chased Quetta’s (190/4) in the second match of PSL 2022 back on January 28.

Gaddafi Stadium Lahore Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score in six matches at Lahore this season is 181.33. The team batting first has won four of the six matches, with Islamabad holding on for a one-run win yesterday. Expect another good batting track here.

The forecast is for another cool and clear evening in Lahore.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time.

Option 1:

PES vs QUE Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 22 | PES vs QUE Dream11 Prediction Today | Peshawar Zalmi vs Quetta Gladiators Key Players | Lahore Pitch Report
PSL 2022 Match 22: PES vs QUE Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

PES vs QUE Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 22 | PES vs QUE Dream11 Prediction Today | Peshawar Zalmi vs Quetta Gladiators Key Players | Lahore Pitch Report
PSL 2022 Match 22: PES vs QUE Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Mohammad Haris
  • Batsmen: Jason Roy, Hazratullah Zazai, Ahsan Ali, Shoaib Malik
  • All-rounders: Liam Livingstone
  • Bowlers: Wahab Riaz

Match Prediction

Peshawar Zalmi have a great recent record against Quetta and start as favourites in this match.

Concerns grow over T20s in Australia after another low SCG crowd

Charbel Coorey
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Concerns grow over T20s in Australia after another low SCG crowd

Cricket News: Concerns grow over T20s in Australia after another low SCG crowd | Low crowd for Sri Lanka T20Is at SCG after long BBL season

Concerns are growing over the state of the cricketing calendar in Australia after another low crowd at the SCG. Just 6,305 fans turned out for the second T20I between Australia and Sri Lanka, prompting further discussions over just how much T20 is too much in the country.

The five-match T20I series, which will move to Canberra (third T20I) and Melbourne (fourth and fifth T20I) comes after a long Big Bash League (BBL) season which comprised of 61 matches across 54 days. While COVID-19 certainly plays a factor in lower crowds, the steady decline in BBL crowd numbers over the past five years is clear, with those in suits currently discussing the BBL’s future according to cricket.com.au.

AUS vs SL T20I series also behind a paywall

The series, which began with a crowd of just 12,908 for the first T20I, is also only behind a paywall. Viewership peaked at around the 201,000 mark for the second T20I, which is a fraction of what the viewership would have been had the match been available on Free-to-Air television.

This, in combination with Justin Langer’s resignation dominating the headlines ahead of the series, resulted in a lack of awareness among some fans. Worryingly, some took to social media to state that they didn’t even know the series was on.

With the second T20I on at the same time as the IPL Mega Auction, more attention turned to the match only as things got tight late on. Sri Lanka struck 45 off the last three overs to force a Super Over, with Josh Hazlewood, the million dollar IPL man, continuing his remarkable rise in T20 cricket.

Low crowds, low engagement: Cricket Australia must act

Fans turned out to the Test matches this summer even with COVID-19 at its peak particularly in Sydney and Melbourne. It has not been the case with the T20 format, with the level of engagement seen 5-10 years ago nowhere to be seen at the moment.

In fact, the BBL has the most games and spans the highest number of days compared to some of the other major white-ball leagues around the world, including the IPL.

  • 2021 IPL: 60 games in 51 days
  • 2021-22 BBL: 61 games in 54 days
  • 2022 PSL: 34 games in 32 days
  • 2021 Hundred: 34 games in 31 days
  • 2021 CPL: 33 games in 21 days

Less T20 is more in Australia. The original success of the BBL came about as an entertainment product, where families could go enjoy a night out at the cricket. Now, with reduced quality and more matches, Australian cricket fans have made the message loud and clear.

As mentioned, COVID-19 has a role to play, but average crowd numbers have been declining since BBL 06.

  • BBL 05: 1,029,285 | Avg per game: 29,408 (35 games)
  • BBL 06: 1,053,997 | Avg: 30,114 (35)
  • BBL 07: 1,143,763 | Avg: 26,599 (43)
  • BBL 08: 1,214,965 | Avg: 20,592 (59)
  • BBL 09: 1,133,114 | Avg: 18,575 (61)
  • *BBL 10: 473,770 | Avg: 7,766 (61)
  • *BBL 11: 412,547 | Avg: 6,763 (61)

*COVID-19 affected seasons with neutral venues and crowd restrictions in some parts.

Move more T20 Internationals to lesser-known grounds

One possible option for Cricket Australia is to move more T20 Internationals to grounds such as Coffs Harbour, Geelong and Northern Australia. Fans in those regions rarely see any international cricket if at all, so the locals will pack the grounds out and it will be a better look for the game.

Importantly, it will help drive engagement across the country.

The remaining T20Is against Sri Lanka will be played on February 15 in Canberra and February 18 and 20 in Melbourne.

List of Australians sold (and unsold) in the IPL 2022 Auction

Charbel Coorey
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0
List of Australians sold (and unsold) in the IPL 2022 Auction

Cricket News: List of Australians sold (and unsold) in the IPL 2022 Auction | Which Australians were sold in the IPL 2022 Mega Auction?

ALSO READ: List of Australians sold and unsold in the IPL 2024 Auction

After two days of intense battle on the auction tables, all 10 teams have finalised their squads ahead of IPL 2022 next month.

Heading into the Mega Auction, the Australians were subject of great anticipation after their T20 World Cup triumph last November. That anticipation was for good reason, with a particularly large sum, as well as some bargains and surprise omissions, generating plenty of discussion and debate.

List of Australians sold in the IPL 2022 Mega Auction

Tim David to Mumbai Indians (8.25cr, approx. AU$1.534m)

The Singapore international, who is eligible to play for Australia, had the biggest payday among the Australians. David’s finishing ability was attractive among bidders, especially after striking at 211.68 in the first half of the ongoing PSL 2022.

Five-time champions Mumbai Indians landed David for a whopping 8.25 crores.

Josh Hazlewood to Royal Challengers Bangalore (7.75cr, approx. AU$1.44m)

Cricket News: List of Australians sold (and unsold) in the IPL 2022 Auction | Which Australians were sold in the IPL 2022 Mega Auction?
List of Australians sold in the IPL 2022 Auction: Josh Hazlewood got a great deal with RCB

Josh Hazlewood’s rise as a T20 bowler over the past 12 months has been magnificent. He played a vital role in both Chennai winning IPL 2021 and Australia lifting the T20 World Cup. In his most recent outing, he won player of the match thanks to a superb bowling display against Sri Lanka both during the 20 overs and Super Over.

Royal Challengers Bangalore will enjoy his services in a pace attack that includes Harshal Patel and Mohammed Siraj.

Pat Cummins to Kolkata Knight Riders (7.25cr, approx. AU$1.35m)

Pat Cummins is back at Kolkata Knight Riders for approximately half of what he was earning in IPL 2020 and 2021. The pace bowler is still an excellent pickup for 2021 finalists KKR, who will turn to Cummins to bowl in the crunch powerplay and death overs.

Mitchell Marsh to Delhi Capitals (6.50cr, approx. AU$1.2m)

Cricket News: List of Australians sold (and unsold) in the IPL 2022 Auction | Which Australians were sold in the IPL 2022 Mega Auction?
List of Australians sold in the IPL 2022 Auction: Mitchell Marsh.

A really solid purchase by Delhi Capitals. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh enjoyed a stellar year in 2021 after moving to the number three position. He was player of the match in the T20 World Cup Final, and if he stays fit, he could prove to be a matchwinner for Delhi in IPL 2022.

David Warner to Delhi Capitals (6.25cr, approx. AU$1.16m)

Another one of the bargains of the IPL 2022 Mega Auction. David Warner, one of the greatest players in IPL history, was sold to a jubilant Delhi Capitals for 6.25 crores. He will partner Prithvi Shaw at the top in what promises to be a dynamic opening partnership.

Daniel Sams to Mumbai Indians (2.6cr, approx. AU$484,000)

A solid payday for Daniel Sams, who is one of the BBL’s most prolific bowlers. He joins five-time champions Mumbai Indians, and if he gets an opportunity, will be looking to make a mark with bat and ball in a star-studded lineup.

Matthew Wade to Gujarat Lions (2.4cr, approx. AU$446,000)

Originally unsold on the first day, Matthew Wade was snapped up by one of the new franchises, Gujarat Lions. Wade reminded everyone of his six-hitting ability in his memorable knock against Pakistan last year.

Sean Abbott to Sunrisers Hyderabad (2.4cr, approx. AU$446,000)

Cricket News: List of Australians sold (and unsold) in the IPL 2022 Auction | Which Australians were sold in the IPL 2022 Mega Auction?
List of Australians sold in the IPL 2022 Auction: Sean Abbott.

Sean Abbott is also one of the top performers in the BBL. He enjoyed another strong season with the Sydney Sixers recently, where he also contributed with the bat. If he gets a chance in this year’s IPL and performs well, his stocks will only grow further.

Nathan Coulter-Nile to Rajasthan Royals (2cr, approx. AU$372,000)

Nathan Coulter-Nile, who was bought late on day two, has IPL title-winning experience. He was part of Mumbai’s triumphant season in 2020, and he will be looking to make an impact for the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2022.

Riley Meredith to Mumbai Indians (1cr, approx. AU$186,000)

Pacer Riley Meredith went for a huge 8 crores in IPL 2021, but didn’t have the best of seasons with Punjab Kings. He has gone for 1 crore a year later, but joins a winning culture at the Mumbai Indians.

Nathan Ellis to Punjab Kings (75lakh, approx. AU$139,000)

Punjab Kings have bought back Nathan Ellis after he landed his first IPL deal for phase two of the tournament last year. He is one of Australia’s finest prospects in the shortest format of the game, and how he goes will be interesting to see.

Jason Behrendorff to Royal Challengers Bangalore (75lakh, approx. AU$139,000)

A nice little pickup here by RCB. Jason Behrendorff is a strong performer in the powerplay overs, and has constantly been producing the goods for Perth Scorchers in the BBL.

Some of the Australians unsold in the IPL 2022 Auction

Incredibly, there were no bids for Adam Zampa, who is one of the top T20 spinners in the globe. Perhaps a little less surprising was Aaron Finch and Steve Smith going unsold, given both have struggled in T20 Internationals for quite a while now.

BBL star Ben McDermott missed out, as did pacers Kane Richardson, Ben Dwarshuis and Andrew Tye. Marnus Labuschagne went unsold, and Chris Lynn, Ashton Agar and Moises Henriques were not put up for bidding.

Overall, franchises spent a total of AU$12.23m on Australian players in the auction.

ALSO READ: List of Australians sold and unsold in the IPL 2024 Auction

ISL vs KAR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 21

Charbel Coorey
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0
ISL vs KAR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 21

ISL vs KAR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 21 | ISL vs KAR Dream11 Prediction Today | Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings Key Players | Lahore Pitch Report

“It should be taken, but who knows today?” said Nick Knight in commentary during Karachi Kings’ horrendous fielding display against Peshawar Zalmi yesterday. If their poor batting wasn’t enough, the Kings’ fielding was arguably even worse, dropping a number of chances in a season to forget.

It took a long time for the Kings to try get going in their chase of 195, and they were always behind the eight-ball. They must turn their batting and fielding around to win all four of their remaining matches to stand any sort of chance at a miraculous appearance in this year’s playoffs. On current evidence, though, they look long odds to secure even one victory across their 10 matches.

And it gets no easier today. Islamabad United are licking their wounds after a defeat to Quetta Gladiators, their second loss in their past three matches. While it was poor catching by the Kings that hurt them badly yesterday, it was Islamabad’s terrible running between the wickets that cost them dearly in the middle overs two days ago.

Faheem Ashraf rescued the ship brilliantly with 55 off 28 balls, but their death bowling will be under the spotlight today. It is important they get things right in a game they should win to keep pace with Lahore in the race for that all-important top-two finish.

Possible Playing 11

Colin Munro missed the last match due to an injury. It remains to be seen if he returns today. Also, United could bring Waqas Maqsood back.

Islamabad United: 1. Alex Hales, 2. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 3. Muhammad Akhlaq, 4. Shadab Khan (c), 5. Azam Khan (wk), 6. Asif Ali, 7. Liam Dawson, 8. Faheem Ashraf, 9. Mohammad Wasim Jr, 10. Hasan Ali, 11. Zeeshan Zameer/Waqas Maqsood

Karachi Kings: 1. Sharjeel Khan, 2. Babar Azam (c), Joe Clarke (wk), 4. Ian Cockbain, 5. Mohammad Nabi, 6. Sahibzada Farhan, 7. Qasim Akram, 8. Imad Wasim, 9. Chris Jordan, 10. Umaid Asif, 11. Aamer Yamin

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Islamabad United:

  • Alex Hales was looking in supreme touch yesterday (62 off 38 balls) before a run out cut his innings short. He scored 30 off 21 balls vs Karachi a week ago, and looked good for more. In fact, Hales has scored double figures in each of his six innings in PSL 2022, with two half-centuries.
  • Shadab Khan continues to produce the goods. He has now taken 16 wickets in his last four matches, including 3/26 yesterday in a high-scoring match vs Quetta. He scored 34 (19) and took 4/15 vs Kings earlier this season.
  • Asif Ali is yet to get going in PSL 2022, but he has some good numbers against Karachi. In 10 innings, the middle order batsman has struck 262 runs at an average of 43.67 and strike rate of 170.13.
  • Hasan Ali is conceding 11.20 runs per over in PSL 2022. His only economical outing was against the Kings, where he took 1/26 in four overs on February 6. Overall, he has taken 17 wickets in 13 matches vs Kings at an economy rate of 7.64.
  • Waqas Maqsood to come back into the XI? He has taken six wickets in three matches this season at an economy rate of just 8.08 compared to Hasan Ali’s 11.20 and Mohammad Wasim’s 10.84.

Karachi Kings:

  • Babar Azam has scored the fourth-most runs in PSL 2022 (253, avg. 50.60), but Karachi needs more impact from the captain who is striking at just 120.47.
  • He has scored the most runs in ISL-KAR matches, with a tally of 490 runs in 14 innings at an average of 40.83 and strike rate of 122.50. He was out for just eight against them on February 6, where he was bowled by Mohammad Wasim.
  • Sharjeel Khan struck a century against Islamabad last season. Karachi desperately need an impact innings from Sharjeel, who averages 42.20 and strikes at 180.34 in five matches vs United since the start of 2020.
  • Mohammad Nabi top-scored for Karachi against Islamabad a week ago. He struck 47* off 28 balls. Ian Cockbain struck 239 runs in six innings at an average of 59.75 and strike rate of 141.42 the recent Big Bash League. Key players.
  • Chris Jordan should have had even more wickets yesterday had it not been for Karachi’s poor fielding. He will be key at the death with the ball, and is a livewire in the key fielding positions.
  • Umaid Asif is Karachi’s top wicket-taker so far this season with seven scalps in five matches at an economy rate of 7.72.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 17, Islamabad 11, Karachi 6.
  • Islamabad have won the past three matches between the teams.
  • Imad Wasim has taken 13 wickets in 14 matches vs United (avg. 25.31) and has scored 156 runs (avg. 16.56).

Gaddafi Stadium Lahore Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score in the Lahore leg of PSL 2022 is 179.4 in five matches so far. The team batting first has won three matches so far. Expect another good batting surface, but it remains to be seen if Karachi can improve their terrible run rate.

Another cool and clear evening is forecast in Lahore.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time.

Option 1:

ISL vs KAR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 21 | ISL vs KAR Dream11 Prediction Today | Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings Key Players | Lahore Pitch Report
PSL 2022 Match 21: ISL vs KAR Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

ISL vs KAR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 21 | ISL vs KAR Dream11 Prediction Today | Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings Key Players | Lahore Pitch Report
PSL 2022 Match 21: ISL vs KAR Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Joe Clarke
  • Batsmen: Alex Hales, Babar Azam
  • All-rounders: Shadab Khan
  • Bowlers: Chris Jordan, Hasan Ali

Match Prediction

Islamabad United to win.

AUS vs SL 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
AUS vs SL 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report

AUS vs SL 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report | AUS vs SL 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Australia vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20 Key Players | SCG Pitch Report

Expectedly, Australia won the first T20I. However, the road to victory wasn’t so expected. In a poor batting performance, the home side crawled to 149/9, owing to poor shot selection. It was then pretty much smooth sailing thereafter, with Australia’s bowling attack, key to enabling qualification to the World Cup Semi Finals last year, turning it on.

Today represents a good opportunity for Australia to rectify those batting errors on the same ground. Ben McDermott’s half-century gave him a foothold in international cricket, but eyes will be on the experienced Aaron Finch, Glenn Maxwell and Steve Smith to improve their form in what has been a lean period for all three in T20 Internationals since the beginning of the World Cup.

And that’s where the opportunity lies for Sri Lanka. Their bowling and fielding for the most part was solid as a rock, but their batting let them down. Overcoming this Australian attack won’t be easy, so a fearless brand of cricket will be key if they have aspirations to level the series. Certainly if they bowl as well as they did in the first T20I, and the likes of Asalanka fire with the bat, anything is possible.

“It’s [batting] been a concern even from the last tour we were here. We need to come up with a better plan for the next game.”

Dasun Shanaka

Possible Playing 11

Australia could go in with the same team that won the first match.

Australia: 1. Aaron Finch (c), 2. Ben McDermott, 3. Josh Inglis, 4. Glenn Maxwell, 5. Steve Smith, 6. Marcus Stoinis, 7. Matthew Wade (wk), 8. Mitchell Starc, 9. Pat Cummins, 10. Adam Zampa, 11. Josh Hazlewood

Sri Lanka could also look to give the same team the chance to bounce back.

Sri Lanka: 1. Pathum Nissanka, 2. Danushka Gunathilaka, 3. Charith Asalanka, 4. Avishka Fernando, 5. Dinesh Chandimal (wk), 6. Dasun Shanaka (c), 7. Chamika Karunaratne, 8. Wanindu Hasaranga, 9. Dushmantha Chameera, 10. Maheesh Theekshana, 11. Binura Fernando

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • Ben McDermott top-scored in the first T20I with a 41-ball 53. He did enjoy some luck with a number of leading edges, but he grew more confident as the innings went on. He recently smashed the most runs in BBL 11, too: 577 at an average of 48.08 and strike rate of 153.8.
  • It’s a big innings for skipper Aaron Finch, who is in need of some runs. He has scored 262 runs in 10 T20Is vs Sri Lanka at an average of 26.20 and strike rate of 143.95.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga has dismissed Glenn Maxwell in the last two T20Is between the teams, albeit off a big full toss in the last match. Maxwell still has a great record vs SL despite two low scores in a row against them: 6 inns, 293 runs, avg. 73.25, SR 215.44.
  • Adam Zampa’s brilliant record vs Sri Lanka got even better after his excellent 3/18 in the first T20I. The leg-spinner has now taken 19 wickets in nine T20Is against the Lions at an average of 9.89 and strike rate of 11.3.
  • Josh Hazlewood’s value continues to skyrocket in T20 cricket, highlighted by his IPL Auction value of 7.75 crore. He was excellent in the first T20I, taking 4/12 in four overs, after 34 wickets in 24 T20s in 2021.
  • Mitchell Starc will be aiming to bounce back after a poor outing in the first T20I (0/41). He has taken 11 wickets in eight matches vs Sri Lanka (avg. 20.90) as well as 15 wickets in nine T20s at the SCG.

Sri Lanka:

  • Wanindu Hasaranga had a big payday at the IPL Auction yesterday. His value was further highlighted with his three-wicket haul in the first T20I, taking his wicket tally to five wickets in his last two T20Is vs Australia.
  • Charith Asalanka will be key for Sri Lanka with the bat. His 19-ball 16 in the first T20I is room for improvement, but fans can draw confidence from his brilliant World Cup campaign last year.
  • More impetus is also required from Pathum Nissanka after his 36-ball 35 in the first T20I. He recently won player of the series in an ODI series vs Zimbabwe (156 runs) and scored the seventh-most runs of any player in last year’s World Cup (8 inns, 221 runs, avg. 27.62, SR 117.55).
  • Chamika Karunaratne (2/22) was terrific in the first T20I as he found movement off the SCG pitch. Binura Fernando (2/12) was also terrific in building pressure on the Aussie batsmen. Backing it up will be key.
  • Dushmantha Chameera also took two wickets in the first match (2/38). He has had a good year in T20s in 2021 with 35 wickets in 29 matches at a respectable economy rate of 7.74.

Stats and Facts

  • Australia have won the past six matches against Sri Lanka.
  • Sri Lanka are winless in their past five T20Is in Australia after winning their first five matches in the country between 2010 and 2017.
  • Marcus Stoinis (30 off 17 balls) was Australia’s second-highest scorer in the first T20I. He also got through three overs (0/12).

SCG Pitch Report and Weather

The weather forecast is much better in Sydney today after a disrupted match on Friday.

The pitch had assistance for both pace and spin bowlers in the first T20I. However, it is expected to be a good batting strip for this match. The average first innings score at the SCG in BBL 11 was 173.67 in six matches, with the teams batting first and second winning three games each.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time.

Option 1:

AUS vs SL 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report | AUS vs SL 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Australia vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20 Key Players | SCG Pitch Report
AUS vs SL 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

AUS vs SL 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report | AUS vs SL 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Australia vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20 Key Players | SCG Pitch Report
AUS vs SL 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Josh Inglis
  • Batsmen: Aaron Finch, Charith Asalanka, Ben McDermott
  • All-rounders: Glenn Maxwell, Wanindu Hasaranga
  • Bowlers: Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood

Match Prediction

Australia start as favourites again and should win courtesy of their strong attack.

ISL vs QUE Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 18

Charbel Coorey
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0
ISL vs QUE Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 18

ISL vs QUE Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 18 | ISL vs QUE Dream11 Prediction Today | Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators Key Players | Lahore Pitch Report

Identical totals of 182 have been enough for the teams batting first in the Lahore leg of PSL 2022, so will it be more of the same or something different today?

Both Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators possess players who can change the narrative. While United lose Paul Stirling to national duty, Alex Hales, Colin Munro and the in-form Shadab Khan still represents a mighty top order. On the other side, Jason Roy announced himself to PSL 7 with a blistering 57-ball 116 in the final match of the Karachi leg – an innings that could fetch him plenty in this weekend’s IPL Auction.

Expect fireworks in a clash between two sides who possess batting firepower. With Lahore defeating top-of-the-table Multan yesterday, the onus is on Islamabad to win today to go back into that all-important second spot. For Quetta, the incentive is there to solidify their place in the top four with Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings struggling for form this season.

Possible Playing 11

Paul Stirling is no longer available for Islamabad after joining up with Ireland for their quadrangular T20I series in Oman. Colin Munro could open, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz a chance to come in at three.

Islamabad United: 1. Alex Hales, 2. Colin Munro, 3. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 4. Shadab Khan (c), 5. Azam Khan (wk), 6. Asif Ali, 7. Mubasir Khan, 8. Faheem Ashraf, 9. Mohammad Wasim Jr, 10. Hasan Ali, 11. Waqas Maqsood

In a huge blow for Quetta, Mohammad Nawaz has been ruled out of the PSL with a foot injury.

Quetta Gladiators: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Ahsan Ali, 3. James Vince, 4. Sarfraz Ahmed (c & wk), 5. Iftikhar Ahmed, 6. Ali Imran, 7. Shahid Afridi, 8. James Faulkner, 9. Luke Wood, 10. Naseem Shah, 11. Ghulam Mudassar/Sohail Tanvir

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Islamabad United:

  • Shadab Khan is having a tournament to remember. The United skipper has taken 13 wickets in his last three matches, including 5/28 against Quetta. Also, he has scored 91, 9, 52 and 34 in his last four matches.
  • Colin Munro has smashed 90* (36) and 72* (39) in his last two knocks vs Quetta. Overall, he has scored 193 runs against them at an average of 96.50 and incredible strike rate of 201.04.
  • Alex Hales’ 9-ball 22 against Quetta earlier this season is indicative of his PSL 2022 campaign. He has often looked good, but has been unable to get the big scores after his 82* against Zalmi. Overall, Hales averages 20.33 in three matches vs Quetta with scores of 23, 22 and 16.
  • Azam Khan smashed 65 off 35 balls vs Quetta earlier this season.
  • Waqas Maqsood is Islamabad’s second-highest wicket-taker this season (six in three matches), which includes 1/34 vs Quetta. He will be key in the death overs.
  • Hasan Ali has been expensive this season, but today could be a good day for him as he has taken six scalps in three matches vs Quetta since the beginning of 2021.

Quetta Gladiators:

  • Jason Roy scored a brilliant 116 off 57 balls in his last match. What does he have in store for us today?
  • Ahsan Ali has scored the most runs for Quetta so far in PSL 2022, with an excellent 211 runs in five games at an average of 52.75 and strike rate of 147.55. This includes a 27-ball 50 vs Islamabad.
  • James Vince scored a duck vs Islamabad earlier this season, but returned to form with a classy 49* off 38 balls against Lahore. Key player.
  • Sohail Tanvir has taken six wickets in three matches for Quetta vs Islamabad, and if picked, will be looking to bounce back after conceding 0/42 against them earlier in PSL 2022. Also, he will be looking to improve on his tally of 16 wickets in 18 outings at Lahore (avg. 35, econ. 8.81).
  • James Faulkner took one wicket in each match in PSL 2022 before his wicketless outing last match vs Lahore. Also, he scored 30* off 14 balls vs Islamabad earlier this season.
  • Quetta needs more from Naseem Shah. Outside of his five-wicket haul earlier this season, Naseem has taken just one wicket in his other four matches. Against Islamabad, he has taken two wickets in four matches at an average of 58.00 and economy rate of 9.67.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 14, Islamabad 7, Quetta 7.
  • Islamabad (229/4) smashed Quetta (186) in their earlier clash in PSL 2022.
  • The team batting first has won 10 of the last 11 matches in this year’s PSL.
  • Faheem Ashraf has the most wickets in ISL-QUE matches (13 in eight matches, avg. 14.77).

Gaddafi Stadium Lahore Pitch Report and Weather

Multan and Lahore each scored 182 batting first in the Lahore leg of PSL 2022. It was easily enough on both occasions. A score in that region today will be a challenging chase, with teams batting first dominating in recent times.

In the National T20 Cup in October 2021, Lahore hosted 15 matches. The average first innings score was 155.53. The chasing team won 12 of the 15 matches. A clear and mild 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.

Option 1:

ISL vs QUE Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 18 | ISL vs QUE Dream11 Prediction Today | Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators Key Players | Lahore Pitch Report
PSL 2022 Match 17: ISL vs QUE Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

ISL vs QUE Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: PSL 2022 Match 18 | ISL vs QUE Dream11 Prediction Today | Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators Key Players | Lahore Pitch Report
PSL 2022 Match 17: ISL vs QUE Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Azam Khan
  • Batsmen: Colin Munro, Alex Hales, Jason Roy, Ahsan Ali
  • All-rounders: Shadab Khan
  • Bowlers: Hasan Ali, Waqas Maqsood

Match Prediction

Islamabad have won their past three matches against Quetta. They have greater depth, so if they can limit Quetta’s top order, they will win.

4 BBL players who should land a deal in the IPL 2022 Auction

Debashish Sarangi
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0
4 BBL players who should land a deal in the IPL 2022 Auction

Cricket News: 4 BBL players who should land a deal in the IPL 2022 Auction | BBL stars who should attract buyers in the IPL 2022 Mega Auction

We are just a few hours away from witnessing the fascinating Mega Auction of India’s grandest T20 carnival, the Indian Premier League (IPL). There will be so many promising names up for grabs and we will see a bid-fest by ten IPL teams.

The Big Bash League (BBL) always offers some exciting names who enrich the quality of the league. In the recently concluded BBL, some players performed brilliantly, and now have a strong case for their inclusion in the most luxurious T20 league.

In this article, I am going to mention four such names. Here we go.

Mitchell Marsh

The younger Marsh has been sensational in the shortest format since he has been batting at number three. Marsh played a pivotal role in Australia’s victorious campaign in the latest T20 World Cup.

He carried his glorious touch into the BBL and smashed 347 runs for the champions Perth Scorchers at a brilliant average of 57.83 and a magnificent strike rate of 142.79. In the absence of premier all-rounders like Stokes, Curran and Woakes, Marsh is expected to get big bucks in the mega auction.

Ben McDermott

The recently concluded BBL could possibly prove to be a turning point for Ben McDermott as he topped the list of highest run getters with a mammoth 577 runs at a splendid average of 48.08 and strike rate of 153.86.

He was one of those rare shining lights for the Hobart Hurricanes in an otherwise mediocre campaign. His string of impressive performances has earned him the national call up for Australia, and crossed 50 in the first T20I against Sri Lanka.

He is a very good option for top order and we can certainly expect him to get an IPL contract in the Mega Auction.

Daniel Sams

Daniel Sams is probably the most appropriate like-for-like replacement for Sam Curran. A powerful hitter down the order, Sams had a huge strike rate of 161.86 and thus played some really impactful cameos for the Sydney Thunder, including a 44-ball 98* against Renegades.

Added to that, he was among the top 10 wicket takers in BBL 11 with 19 wickets at an impressive strike rate of 17.3. He has a plethora of experience of playing T20 leagues around the world and can be a good solution to team’s quest for a good bowling allrounder in the XI.

In the absence of Curran, Stokes and Woakes, Sams is expected to get a contract in the IPL Mega Auction.

Joe Clarke

Just like Ben McDermott, Joe Clarke is another exciting top order batting talent. Clarke has been impressive in T20 format for quite a while now. Overall, he has scored 2824 runs at a tremendous strike rate of 153.98.

His glorious strokeplay impressed many in the BBL and he finished the tournament with 419 runs at an average of 32.23 and a strike rate of 151.26. Teams who look for dynamic top order players might have a look into his profile and try to get him into the team in the Mega Auction.

Written by Debashish Sarangi. Follow Debashish on Twitter today

4 overseas left-arm pacers that teams will target in the IPL 2022 Auction

Vaibhav Tripathi
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0
4 overseas left-arm pacers that teams will target in the IPL 2022 Auction

Cricket News: 4 overseas left-arm pacers that teams will target in the IPL 2022 Auction | Left-armers on teams’ radars in IPL 2022 Mega Auction

The IPL 2022 Mega Auction is upon us and teams have planned what they are going to do at the big event.

With a lack of quality Indian left-arm pacers available in the auction, teams will be looking to add the left-armers from the overseas bag to give a different dimension to their squads. Like left-handed batters, left arm pacers also bring an X-factor to the team.

In this age of matchups and set pieces, it is necessary for a team to have a ready left-arm pace option. Thus here we will be discussing four such candidates that franchises can target for their bowling department.

Reece Topley

England’s left-arm pacer has been in tremendous form of late since his return to England’s white-ball set up last year. Topley’s height and ability to bowl tight lines will catch bidders in the upcoming auction.

He was a part of England’s T20 World Cup squad but couldn’t make the 11. Afterwards, he represented Melbourne Renegades in the BBL 11 and bowled extremely well for the Melbourne-based franchise picking nine wickets in eight outings.

Recently, he enjoyed a productive tour against West Indies, claiming three wickets and returning with an economy rate of below six from his three outings. Topley has the skill to pull off his variations and yorkers consistently making him an effective option for the franchises.

Fazalhaq Farooqi

Fazalhaq Farooqi is not a very high-profile name like Mitchell Starc or Trent Boult but he has shown that he can be a fine investment for T20 cricket. The Afghanistan fast bowler was one of Chennai Super Kings’ net bowlers last year and he troubled the likes of Robin Uthappa, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Suresh Raina in the nets with his raw pace and well-disguised slower ones.

In the Abu Dhabi T10 league last year, one could see his aptness for the shorter format. Farooqi is adept with his variations and has many in his armory. He has the hunger to perform and win games, and if given an opportunity at 50 lakhs, he will surely try to make it count.

Jason Behrendorff

The left-arm Aussie seamer was a replacement for Hazlewood in the Indian leg of IPL 2021. However, he didn’t get a game but still got to rub shoulders with IPL legends like MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina.

Behrendorff was one of the main reasons why Perth Scorchers won the BBL 11 as he bagged 16 wickets in 13 games at an excellent economy rate of 7.32. Not exactly like Mitchell Starc, but with the new ball he can be as deadly as anyone in the world as he has got the skill to move the ball upfront and make life difficult for the batters early in the innings.

And because of his height his slower ones, he will be effective on Indian wickets. Though not an out-and-out quick, Behrendorff’s ability to bowl accurately can prove to be very handy for a captain.

Trent Boult

In the last year or so, no left-arm pacer has been as dominant as Trent Boult in T20 cricket. He really has taken his game to another level since the start of 2020.

And, he surely is on the radar of many franchises.

The ex-Mumbai Indians bowler can bowl at any phase of the 20-over game; he can strike with the new ball and he can take wickets at the back end as well.

In 2020, he led Mumbai Indians to the title with a player of the match performance in the final. During IPL 2021, he bagged 13 wickets at an economy rate of under eight. His accuracy and variations with the white ball will enable him to fetch heavy bids in the auction.

Written by Vaibhav Tripathi. Follow Vaibhav on Twitter today.

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