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HUR vs REN Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 53

Charbel Coorey
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0
HUR vs REN Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 53

HUR vs REN Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 53 | HUR vs REN Dream11 Prediction Today | Hurricanes vs Renegades Key Players | Docklands Pitch Report

The equation is simple for Hobart Hurricanes. Win and qualify for the playoffs. Lose and they face a showdown with Melbourne Stars tomorrow for the final spot in BBL 11’s top five.

That the Hurricanes are even in this position is a bit of a disappointment. They have the squad to be higher up the table, but inconsistency and poor form for key players has hampered them, so much so they currently sit just two points above the Stars.

However, their last game vs Thunder was a welcome change. Matthew Wade struck form, while Riley Meredith was at his absolute best in turning the game in his team’s favour. Given what’s at stake today, they should have little issue against the struggling Melbourne Renegades, who have only won two matches since their first up win vs Adelaide Strikers all those weeks ago.

Worse, they beat the Stars and Heat who had to field severely depleted teams due to COVID-19. Given that their season is over, they will be well served going hard at the bowling instead of the prodding approach they have employed over the course of the season, often putting together lower-than-average totals.

Renegades have nothing to lose. Hurricanes have plenty at stake. It will be interesting to see how this one goes.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Hobart Hurricanes:

  • Ben McDermott dominates the Renegades more often than not. He smashed 127 against them at Docklands earlier this year, part of 543 runs in nine innings at an average of 108.60 and strike rate of 160.65.
  • McDermott is the leading run-scorer in BBL 11 (513, avg. 57.00, SR 154.51). Also, the right-hander has struck 354 runs in seven innings at an average of 59.00 and strike rate of 171.01 at Docklands.
  • Caleb Jewell provided some great impetus at the top of the order last game vs Hurricanes (51 off 32 balls).
  • Also, Matthew Wade struck form last game, with a 54-ball 83* vs Thunder on this ground. He has a steady record vs Renegades since 2017, with 161 runs in six innings at an average of 26.83 and strike rate of 187.21. He scored a duck against them earlier this season.
  • Riley Meredith has the most wickets in Renegades-Hurricanes matches, with 10 scalps in six matches at an average of 19.00 and economy rate of 9.05. He was player of the match last game vs Thunder thanks to a brilliant spell of 3/29.
  • Tom Rogers took 3/24 vs Renegades earlier this season. He is the Hurricanes’ top wicket-taker in BBL 11, with 15 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 20.93 and economy rate of 7.65. However, he has taken just one wicket in his last four matches, so he will be aiming to bounce back today.
  • Sandeep Lamichhane will look to target the Renegades’ weakness vs spin. He took 3/32 against them earlier this season.

Melbourne Renegades:

  • Aaron Finch has a solid record vs Hurricanes. The Renegades skipper for today’s match has scored 429 runs in 12 matches vs Hobart at an average of 39.00 and strike rate of 135.33.
  • Also, no player even comes close to Finch when it comes to T20 runs at Docklands. He has struck 1,261 runs on this ground at an average of 39.41 and strike rate of 135.01. The next-highest tally is 549.
  • Sam Harper was the only Renegades player to offer meaningful resistance vs Hurricanes earlier in BBL 11. He scored 57 off 35 balls.
  • The Renegades need more from Shaun Marsh, who has scored 8, 39 and 7 in his last three knocks. He has scored 302 runs in nine matches vs Hurricanes at an average of 37.75 and strike rate of 141.12.
  • Kane Richardson had a horror outing vs Hurricanes earlier this season (0/63 off four overs). He has seven wickets in six matches vs Hurricanes at an average of 35.43 and economy rate of 10.86.
  • Can Richardson improve on these numbers today? He has the most T20 wickets at Docklands with 28 scalps in 20 matches at an average of 21.89 and strike rate of 16.29.
  • Cameron Boyce has enjoyed a successful first two games of his BBL 11 campaign (2/15 and 1/30). He has three wickets in four matches vs Hurricanes (avg. 32.00, econ. 6.40), so he will be looking to build on this. Also, he has taken 15 wickets in 14 matches at Docklands at a strike rate of 22.07. If we go by averages, he should take at least a wicket today given his form.
  • Renegades to play Zak Evans? The seamer took 5/33 vs Hurricanes in a crucial end-of-season game in BBL 10.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 14, Renegades 7, Hurricanes 7.
  • Hurricanes have won five of their past six matches vs Renegades, but lost a crucial clash last season that would have secured a playoffs spot.
  • Zahir Khan has taken just three wickets in his last five matches at Docklands.
  • D’Arcy Short averages 22.13 vs Renegades (177 runs) and just 14.40 at Docklands (72 runs).
  • A win for the Hurricanes will confirm their passage to playoffs and eliminate Melbourne Stars.

Possible Playing 11

Hobart Hurricanes have named their squad. Nathan Ellis and Joel Paris (injury) and Scott Boland (Ashes duty) are still unavailable for selection.

Hobart Hurricanes: 1. Caleb Jewell, 2. Ben McDermott, 3. Matthew Wade (c & wk), 4. D’Arcy Short, 5. Tim David, 6. Peter Handscomb, 7. Jordan Thompson, 8. Mitch Owen, 9. Tom Rogers, 10. Riley Meredith, 11. Sandeep Lamichhane

Unmukt Chand has finally been added to Melbourne Renegades’ matchday squad. Nic Maddinson is out with a hamstring injury, so Finch will captain the team.

Also, the Renegades have changed their batting order so often so it remains to be seen what they choose here.

Melbourne Renegades: 1. Aaron Finch (c), 2. Sam Harper (wk), 3. Shaun Marsh, 4. Mackenzie Harvey, 5. Jake Fraser-McGurk, 6. Unmukt Chand, 7. Jack Prestwidge/Mitch Perry, 8. Kane Richardson, 9. Cameron Boyce, 10. Josh Lalor/Zak Evans, 11. Zahir Khan

Marvel Stadium Docklands Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score at Docklands this season is 172.34. Melbourne Renegades are averaging just 135.33 with the bat on this ground this season.

The team batting first has won five of seven games at Marvel Stadium in BBL 11. However, only once has a team won after scoring less than 160 (Renegades vs Strikers), with most teams batting first able to muster 170.

Weather is not an issue at this ground as there is a roof. The weather is mild in Melbourne, with a top of 22 degrees and mostly sunny conditions.

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:

HUR vs REN Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 53 | HUR vs REN Dream11 Prediction Today | Hurricanes vs Renegades Key Players | Docklands Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 53: HUR vs REN Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

HUR vs REN Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 53 | HUR vs REN Dream11 Prediction Today | Hurricanes vs Renegades Key Players | Docklands Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 53: HUR vs REN Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Ben McDermott, Matthew Wade
  • Batsmen: Aaron Finch, Shaun Marsh
  • All-rounders: D’Arcy Short
  • Bowlers: Riley Meredith, Tom Rogers, Kane Richardson

Match Prediction

Renegades have nothing to lose, but Hurricanes should win this.

HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 52

Charbel Coorey
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0
HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 52

HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 52 | HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction | Heat vs Scorchers Key Players | Docklands Pitch Report

Brisbane Heat’s difficult season hit a new low yesterday after they were thrashed at the hands of Melbourne Stars. The result means that the Heat are now out of finals’ contention, reflecting a season of inconsistent cricket, even before they were ravaged by COVID-19.

Now, they have just pride to play for. The first of their two remaining games is against Perth Scorchers, who will welcome back some big names for this clash. Mitch Marsh, Josh Inglis and Colin Munro are all available as they look to gain some further momentum ahead of the playoffs after a successful season where they have lost just three games out of 13 to date.

Scorchers beat Heat earlier in BBL 11, and they will be looking to do the same with a near full-strength team here at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne. A solid performance will increase confidence further as they have their key players back on deck with top spot sewn up.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Brisbane Heat:

  • It has been a disappointing season for Chris Lynn (avg. 18.90), but today he comes up against one of his favourite opponents. He has the most runs in Heat-Scorchers matches with 611 at a fine average of 47.00 and strike rate of 140.78.
  • Lynn will be looking to improve on his record at Marvel Stadium: 8 inns, 149 runs, avg. 21.29, SR 131.36.
  • Ben Duckett struck a half-century yesterday vs Stars, and he will be aiming to produce more of the same today. He is the Heat’s top-scorer this season with 293 runs at an average of 29.30 and strike rate of 135.02.
  • Sam Heazlett has fallen away (scores of 12, 0, 4 and 9 in last four innings) after a promising start to the season. He scored a 17-ball 34 vs Scorchers earlier in BBL 11, but averages just 13.60 against them overall in five innings.
  • James Bazley remains Heat’s leading wicket-taker with 12 wickets in nine matches this season. He took 1/27 vs Scorchers earlier in BBL 11.
  • Mark Steketee has enjoyed a fruitful season despite the expensive day vs Stars yesterday (11 wickets in six matches), but will be aiming to overcome a poor record against Scorchers: 9 inns, 6 wickets, avg. 47.00, econ. 9.45.
  • Mitch Swepson had a tough day yesterday vs Stars (0/38 in three overs), but he has a good record vs Scorchers. He has taken eight wickets in five matches at an average of 16.13 and economy rate of 6.45.

Perth Scorchers:

  • Mitchell Marsh is back and he loves playing Brisbane Heat. In nine innings against them, he has smashed 408 runs at a remarkable average of 81.60 and strike rate of 167.90.
  • Also, Marsh has enjoyed success at Docklands Stadium in BBL 11, with scores of 86 and 42* against the Renegades.
  • Kurtis Patterson struck an excellent 30-ball 55 vs Heat earlier this season.
  • Colin Munro has a score of 82 in three innings vs Heat. He was enjoying a brilliant BBL 11 campaign before contracting COVID-19, striking 353 runs in 10 matches at an average of 50.42 and strike rate of 133.71.
  • Ashton Turner is in excellent recent form. The skipper has struck scores of 69 (41), 47* (26) and 28 (15) in his last three innings. He is in the right form to improve on his poor record vs Heat: 9 inns, 154 runs, avg. 19.25, SR 127.27.
  • Andrew Tye has the most wickets in Heat-Scorchers matches, with an impressive 17 in 11 matches at an average of 16.59 and economy rate of 7.20, including 2/32 earlier this season.
  • Also, Tye has taken the third-most wickets in BBL 11 (19 in 13 matches, avg. 17.57, SR 13.4).
  • Jason Behrendorff also has an excellent record vs Heat, with 15 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 16.80.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 17, Heat 7, Scorchers 10.
  • Scorchers have won five of the past six matches between the teams, including a six-run win early in BBL 11.
  • Ashton Agar has taken just the four wickets in seven innings vs Heat (avg. 37.50, econ. 5.84). He is capable of adding to that tally.

Possible Playing 11

Brisbane Heat have included left-arm spinner Paddy Dooley in their 17-man squad.

Brisbane Heat: 1. Chris Lynn, 2. Nathan McSweeney/Max Bryant, 3. Lachlan Pfeffer, 4. Ben Duckett, 5. Sam Heazlett, 6. Jimmy Peirson (c & wk), 7. Michael Neser, 8. James Bazley, 9. Mark Steketee, 10. Mitch Swepson, 11. Matt Kuhnemann/Xavier Bartlett

Perth Scorchers have big inclusions for this match. Mitch Marsh and Josh Inglis are back from the Australia Test squad, while Colin Munro returns after testing positive for COVID-19.

However, Ashton Agar is in some doubt with a left shoulder complaint. Laurie Evans is out with a broken toe.

Perth Scorchers: 1. Kurtis Patterson, 2. Josh Inglis (wk), 3. Mitch Marsh, 4. Colin Munro, 5. Ashton Turner (c), 6. Aaron Hardie, 7. Ashton Agar/David Moody, 8. Andrew Tye, 9. Jason Behrendhorff, 10. Peter Hatzoglou, 11. Lance Morris

Marvel Stadium Docklands Pitch Report and Weather

Docklands has played host to a number of high-scoring matches in BBL 11. The average first innings score is 174.86, with the team batting first winning five of seven matches.

Weather is not an issue at this ground as there is a roof.

Dream11 Prediction

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

Option 1:

BBL 2021/22 Match 52: HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 52 | HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction | Heat vs Scorchers Key Players | Docklands Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 52: HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Ben Duckett
  • Batsmen: Chris Lynn, Kurtis Patterson
  • All-rounders: Mitch Marsh, Ashton Agar
  • Bowlers: Andrew Tye, Jason Behrendorff

Match Prediction

After another one-sided Ashes Test and countless one-sided BBL games, the tournament is in need of a close game. However, on paper and form, Scorchers should be too strong.

STR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 51

Charbel Coorey
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0
STR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 51

STR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 51 | STR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today | Strikers vs Sixers Key Players | Adelaide Oval Pitch Report

Adelaide Strikers have enjoyed quite the turnaround. After winning just two of their first 10 matches, the Strikers have won three on the bounce and are playing excellent cricket, too.

Rashid Khan’s departure for Afghanistan’s ODI assignment against Netherlands has not impacted them, with pacer Henry Thornton making a superb impact in the bowling attack. Also, the duo of Matt Short and Jono Wells are carrying the batting lineup nicely, and another strong display here will hold the Strikers in good stead.

The equation is simple for the Strikers. Win and qualify for the BBL finals. But, it’s easier said than done against a Sydney Sixers that stormed back into form after thrashing a capable Sydney Thunder team on Saturday night. Josh Philippe, Dan Hughes and Moises Henriques were in the runs, while Steve O’Keefe made the perfect return from injury with 4/18.

Like the Strikers, this is an important match for Sixers. They now sit second once again after the Thunder demolition job, and victory here will go a long way to sealing that all-important top-two finish for the finals. Henriques’ team looks well balanced and ready, so it will be a good test for the Strikers.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Adelaide Strikers:

  • Matt Short has been excellent with bat, ball and in the field in recent matches. Last match, he scored 33 off 22 balls, took 1/23 and snapped up two catches in the field.
  • Short has struck 359 runs this season at an average touching 30 and impressive strike rate of 152.11. He also has six wickets to his name.
  • Jono Wells is in fine form (73* in last match), and he has the most runs in Sixers-Strikers matches. The right-hander has struck 279 runs in eight innings vs Sixers since December 2017 at an average of 69.75 and strike rate of 125.68.
  • Wells played nicely vs Sixers earlier this season (32 off 19 balls). Also, he has the second-most T20 runs at Adelaide Oval with 972 at an average of 36.00 and strike rate of 135.00.
  • Ian Cockbain has made a solid start to life in the BBL with scores of 35* (24) and 17 (17) so far.
  • Henry Thornton has been a breath of fresh air for the Strikers. He took 4/26 in his last match vs Stars, and is a genuine wicket-taker in the death overs.
  • Peter Siddle is the highest wicket-taker in BBL 11 (21 wickets in 13 matches). However, Siddle has a horrid record vs Sixers, with just two wickets in eight matches at an average of 113.00 and economy rate of 8.81. This includes 0/40 off 3.2 overs earlier this season.
  • Siddle is capable of turning this around given his form and record at Adelaide Oval: 31 inns, 50 wickets, avg. 15.02, SR 12.76

Sydney Sixers:

  • After three ducks in four innings, Josh Philippe burst back into form with 57 off 35 balls vs Thunder. Philippe has a good record vs Strikers, with 195 runs in seven innings at an average of 39.00 and strike rate of 142.34.
  • Moises Henriques also looked in brilliant touch vs Thunder (47* off 27 balls). The skipper has the most runs of any Sixers player against Strikers with 247 runs at an average of 35.29 and strike rate of 130.69.
  • Henriques’ BBL 11 average is back up over 50. He has scored 358 runs this season at an average of 51.14 and strike rate of 146.12.
  • Dan Christian took 3/8 in three overs vs Strikers earlier this season. Also, his 50 runs against them since the start of last season come at an unbelievable strike rate of 294.12.
  • Sean Abbott loves playing the Strikers. The seamer has taken 15 wickets in just eight matches against them (avg. 15.27, econ. 8.33), including 3/24 earlier this season which earnt him the player of the match award.
  • Also, Abbott has taken nine wickets in five matches at Adelaide Oval at an impressive average of 12.89 and strike rate of 9.00.
  • Ben Dwarshuis also loves bowling at the Adelaide Oval, with 10 wickets in five matches at an average of 14.30 and strike rate of 12.00. Fellow left-armer Hayden Kerr is the Sixers’ top wicket-taker this season with 18 wickets in 12 matches (avg. 12.55, SR 10.6).
  • Steve O’Keefe, who is coming off a brilliant spell of 4/18, also enjoys bowling vs Strikers. He has 13 wickets in eight matches against them at an average of 12.85 and economy rate of 6.59, as well as 13 wickets in eight matches at Adelaide Oval (avg. 14.69, econ. 7.85).

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 15, Strikers 5, Sixers 10.
  • Sydney Sixers have won the past seven matches against Adelaide Strikers. The Strikers have not beaten the Sixers since the 2017/18 season.
  • Jordan Silk top-scored for the Sixers against Strikers in a tight run-chase earlier this season (36 off 24 balls). He has struck 233 runs in 10 matches vs Strikers at an average of 29.13 and strike rate of 143.83.
  • Strikers will confirm a top-five finish with a win today.

Possible Playing 11

Adelaide Strikers have named their squad for this match. They could stick with the same XI that beat the Stars on Saturday.

Adelaide Strikers: 1. Matt Short, 2. Matt Renshaw, 3. Ian Cockbain, 4. Jono Wells, 5. Jake Weatherald, 6. Thomas Kelly, 7. Harry Nielsen (wk), 8. Peter Siddle (c), 9. Henry Thornton, 10. Harry Conway, 11. Fawad Ahmed

Sydney Sixers are yet to officially name their squad for this game, but they shouldn’t make too many changes (COVID and injuries pending). Shadab Khan will leave for PSL duty.

Sydney Sixers: 1. Josh Philippe, 2. Jack Edwards/Justin Avendano, 3. Daniel Hughes, 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Dan Christian, 7. Sean Abbott, 8. Hayden Kerr, 9. Ben Dwarshuis, 10. Jackson Bird, 11. Steve O’Keefe

Adelaide Oval Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score on this ground this season is 158.67, with the team batting first winning four of the six matches. Expect another easy-paced batting surface with some potential help for the spinners. A score around 160 will be a competitive one.

A partly cloudy day is forecast in Adelaide with a top of about 25 degrees. This match will begin at 4:35pm local time.

Dream11 Prediction

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

Option 1:

STR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 51 | STR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today | Strikers vs Sixers Key Players | Adelaide Oval Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 50: STR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

STR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 51 | STR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today | Strikers vs Sixers Key Players | Adelaide Oval Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 50: STR vs SIX Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Josh Philippe
  • Batsmen: Jono Wells, Moises Henriques
  • All-rounders: Sean Abbott, Dan Christian, Matt Short
  • Bowlers: Steve O’Keefe, Henry Thornton

Match Prediction

With the Ashes done and dusted, fans will be hoping for a close match here.

Strikers are in terrific form, but Sixers start as favourites. They have a great recent record vs Strikers and should win this match.

The best memes & reactions after England lose 10/56

Charbel Coorey
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0
The best memes & reactions after England lose 10/56

Cricket News: The best memes & reactions after England lose 10/56 | England lose 10/56 in Hobart to surrender the Ashes 4-0

For the second straight time, England came to Australia four-nothing.

But this time, it seems worse. Things started horribly for the tourists right from the first ball of the series, and it didn’t get any better from there. Four chastening defeats later, England finished the series on the back of a shocking collapse even by their standards.

After Rory Burns and Zak Crawley gave England hope with a 68-run opening stand in pursuit of 271, England lost 10/56 in 22.5 overs to surrender 4-0. Sir Ian Botham described it as gutless, and no one can argue with his sentiment. England’s drought in Australia now stretches to 15 Tests, and on this evidence, they will have to completely transform their Test batting to stand a chance in four years’ time.

“It’s been a really tough tour. We’ve played good cricket in parts, just not been able to structure a whole game together. It’s something we have to learn from and not go away and keep making the same mistakes,” said England captain Joe Root.

“It’s pretty obvious we need to be putting more runs on the board. Too often we’ve not given our bowlers enough to work. We’ve been outplayed in all areas and credit to Australia.”

Mark Wood was one of the positives for England, with his six-wicket haul giving his team hope of a consolation win. But, Pat Cummins’ side was too strong after Cameron Green turned the innings with three wickets.

“To have someone like Cameron Green in his second year to grow as a batter and bowler as well as some of the younger players then the hold stalwarts like Scotty Boland and all the old-pros continue their form. Can’t wait to show our wares overseas, we really judge ourselves in all conditions,” said Pat Cummins.

England lose 10/56: The best memes & reactions

STA vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 50

Charbel Coorey
-
0
STA vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 50

STA vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 50 | STA vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today | Stars vs Heat Key Players | MCG Pitch Report

BBL 11’s 50th match is a crucial one. Both Melbourne Stars and Brisbane Heat are on their last legs, with the Adelaide Strikers pulling away on the table thanks to recent wins.

Both the Stars and Heat have been ravaged by COVID-19 this season. Both will welcome back more key players, but the time is now to deliver as defeat will surely mean season over.

As a result of their COVID outbreak, this will now be the Stars’ fifth match in seven days to make up for postponed matches. It has been a struggle overall, with their latest effort a disappointing defeat yesterday in Adelaide. The batting potential is there, but it needs to click against a Heat side that welcomes back a number of bowlers.

Like the Stars, the Heat were badly affected by COVID-19, fielding an inexperienced attack in recent matches. Here, they will welcome back Test squad members Michael Neser and Mitch Swepson, while James Bazley and Mark Steketee are available too alongside Fakhar Zaman and skipper Jimmy Peirson with the bat.

It’s now or never for these two sides. Who will hold their nerve?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Melbourne Stars:

  • Joe Clarke was outstanding vs Heat earlier this season. He belted 85 off 44 balls to win player of the match. Hilton Cartwright was the other star on the night, smashing 79 off 44 balls.
  • Cartwright (344 runs, avg. 31.27, SR 142.14) and Clarke (322 runs, avg. 29.27, SR 144.39) are the Stars’ top scorers in BBL 11.
  • Glenn Maxwell found some form two games ago vs Renegades with an unbeaten half-century. However, it has been a frustrating few weeks for Maxwell, with scores of 12, 2, 4, 7, 5, 68* and 16 in his last seven knocks.
  • The Heat isn’t Maxwell’s favourite opponent (211 runs, avg. 19.18), but he is capable of turning this around on a ground he has a solid record at: 42 inns, 1,077 runs, avg. 30.77, SR 141.34.
  • Nathan Coulter-Nile is expected to return in this match. He has 12 career wickets in eight matches v Heat, including five scalps in three games for Stars vs Heat.
  • Adam Zampa has taken the most wickets by any Stars bowler vs Heat (12 wickets, avg. 22.83, econ. 7.03). Also, Zampa has the most wickets in T20s at the MCG, with 38 scalps in 28 innings at an average of 19.00 and strike rate of 16.61.

Brisbane Heat:

  • It has been a season to forget for Chris Lynn (161 runs, avg. 17.88), but his one innings of note came against Stars (57 off 34 balls). In fact, Lynn has scored the most runs in Stars-Heat matches, with 381 runs in 12 innings at an average of 38.10 and strike rate of 147.67.
  • Lynn in T20s at the MCG: 8 inns, 230 runs, avg. 32.86, SR 140.24.
  • Fakhar Zaman is set to play his second match for Brisbane Heat. He finished 2021 in good form, so the Heat will be hoping he can produce the goods today.
  • Ben Duckett has been one of the positives for Brisbane Heat this season. He has struck 242 runs at a strike rate of 138, including a 35-ball 54 vs Stars earlier this season.
  • Mitch Swepson is set to return. The leg-spinner has taken the most wickets in Heat-Stars matches, with an impressive 14 in eight matches at an average of 14.21 and economy rate of 6.42. This includes a superb 12 wickets in five matches at the MCG at an average of just 9.50.
  • Mark Steketee also has good numbers vs Stars. The seamer has taken 12 wickets in seven matches against them (avg. 16.67), including 3/40 earlier this season.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 15, Stars 6, Heat 9.
  • Stars (207/9) beat Heat (187/9) by 20 runs earlier this year.
  • Michael Neser has taken seven wickets in eight career matches vs Stars (econ. 8.93). He will be aiming to improve on these numbers.
  • James Bazley has taken 11 wickets in eight matches this season (avg. 21).
  • Stars currently sit six points outside the top five. Heat sit nine points outside with two games in hand. Must win.

Possible Playing 11

Melbourne Stars have named an 18-man squad for this match. Nathan Coulter-Nile is a chance of returning after recovering from a hamstring injury.

Also, it will be interesting to see whether the Stars open with Maxwell or Stoinis.

Melbourne Stars: 1. Joe Clarke (wk), 2. Glenn Maxwell, 3. Beau Webster, 4. Marcus Stoinis, 5. Hilton Cartwright, 6. Joe Burns, 7. Nathan Coulter-Nile, 8. Clint Hinchliffe, 9. Adam Zampa, 10. Brody Couch, 11. Ahmad Daniyal

It is good news for Brisbane Heat in this crucial clash. They welcome back Test duo Michael Neser and Mitchell Swepson. Also, Fakhar Zaman is available, and regular skipper Jimmy Peirson returns.

Brisbane Heat: 1. Chris Lynn, 2. Fakhar Zaman, 3. Max Bryant/Tom Cooper, 4. Ben Duckett, 5. Sam Heazlett, 6. Jimmy Peirson (c & wk), 7. Michael Neser, 8. James Bazley, 9. Xavier Bartlett, 10. Mark Steketee, 11. Mitch Swepson

MCG Pitch Report and Weather

The teams batting first have scored just 126, 139 and 139 in the last three matches at the MCG. The chasing team went on to win all those games.

Here, with the two teams boasting some hitting power, we should see higher scores. The MCG track is typically an easy-paced surface, where bowlers will bowl into the wicket to force the batsmen to hit to the longer square boundaries.

A warm and sunny day with a top of 29 degrees is forecast for Melbourne.

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:

STA vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 50 | STA vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today | Stars vs Heat Key Players | MCG Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 50: STA vs HEA Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

STA vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 50 | STA vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today | Stars vs Heat Key Players | MCG Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 50: STA vs HEA Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Joe Clarke, Ben Duckett
  • Batsmen: Chris Lynn, Hilton Cartwright
  • All-rounders: Glenn Maxwell
  • Bowlers: Mitch Swepson, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Adam Zampa

Match Prediction

Stars to win at home.

“Thank you India’s best Test captain” – Reactions to Virat Kohli stepping down as India captain

Charbel Coorey
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“Thank you India’s best Test captain” – Reactions to Virat Kohli stepping down as India captain

Cricket News: “Thank you India’s best Test captain” – Fans react to Virat Kohli stepping down as India captain | Virat Kohli steps down as captain

Virat Kohli has stepped down as India’s Test captain following his side’s 2-1 series defeat in South Africa. Kohli, who led India admirably over the past seven years, took to social media to announce the news.

“It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perserverance everyday to take the team in the right direction,” Kohli’s statement began.

“Every thing has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now.”

Virat Kohli finishes as India’s most successful Test skipper

Virat Kohli captained India on 68 occasions in Test cricket, which is the most for India and sixth-most in Test history behind Graeme Smith (109), Allan Border (93), Stephen Fleming (80), Ricky Ponting (77) and Clive Lloyd (74).

He won 40 of his 68 matches as skipper, losing just 17 in the process. His win-percentage of 58.82 is only behind Ponting (62.33%) and Steve Waugh (71.92) among captains with at least 30 Test victories.

India made a marked improvement overseas under his leadership, winning series in Australia and getting the better of England in 2021. A key reason for this is Kohli, who played a key role in India’s pace bowling revolution. From an attack that barely threw a punch overseas, India’s pace bowling bunch is now one of the best in the world, and he leaves his post as India skipper with the squad in a good place, despite the frustrating 2-1 defeat in South Africa embarked in some Cape Town stump mic controversy.

Twitter reactions to the news Kohli steps down as India Test captain

Wasim Jaffer put it perfectly.

“When Virat took over as Test captain, India winning a Test overseas was an achievement. Now if India lose an overseas Test series, it is an upset. And that’s how far he has taken Indian cricket forward, and that will be his legacy. Congratulations on successful reign, Virat Kohli”, he tweeted.

There was plenty of respect and admiration for the man whom many believe is India’s greatest ever Test captain.

https://twitter.com/CSKian716/status/1482350952430850053?s=20
https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1482354646689906690?s=20
https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1482362370949545986?s=20
https://twitter.com/ivivianrichards/status/1482363332761841670?s=20
https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1482363603412226048?s=20
https://twitter.com/im_yash2307/status/1482358038095077376?s=20
https://twitter.com/NashvSant/status/1482344505110331393?s=20
https://twitter.com/ParagRiyan/status/1482347623826997251?s=20
https://twitter.com/_cricketsparsh/status/1482349437083348997?s=20

SA vs IND reactions: India fans disappointed at missed chance

Charbel Coorey
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SA vs IND reactions: India fans disappointed at missed chance

Cricket News: SA vs IND reactions: India fans disappointed at missed chance | India fans left deflated after India lose Test series in South Africa

South Africa sealed their second-straight seven-wicket victory over India in Cape Town, completing an excellent comeback to win the Test series 2-1 after a comprehensive defeat in Centurion.

This is without a doubt one of South Africa’s sweeter Test series wins in recent times. They were dealt a blow before the series with class pacer Anrich Nortje ruled out with injury, before Quinton de Kock announced a shock retirement after the Proteas were beaten soundly in the first Test.

After that, they had the measure of the Indian batsmen. Twice did India have the chance to own the game in the third innings, but the Proteas restricted them in both Johannesburg and Cape Town to give themselves realistic targets to chase. Courtesy of Dean Elgar at the Bull Ring and the impressive Keegan Petersen at Newlands, the Proteas pulled off a morale-boosting, impressive 2-1 win against the world’s number one team.

Cricket News: Twitter reactions to masterful KL Rahul century vs SA | Twitter reactions to KL Rahul hundred at Centurion vs South Africa
SA vs IND Reactions: India didn’t fire since KL Rahul’s century

SA vs IND reactions: India fans left upset at missed opportunity

For India, this is quite a deflating feeling. After brilliant displays in Australia and England since the backend of 2018, and given South Africa’s lack of batting depth, this was India’s best opportunity in years to win a Test series in South Africa.

Instead, they will prepare for the ODI series with a sense of what could have been. After KL Rahul led the way superbly on the series’ opening day, the Indian batsmen from thereon rarely displayed the patience and technique required in such conditions. This is highlighted most by all 20 wickets falling to catches in the Cape Town Test, with the strategy of five specialist batsmen and a keeper-batsman keeping the Proteas in the contest.

And, when you add the poor form of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane, as well as the lack of batting belief from R Ashwin and Shardul Thakur, it makes the ask all the more taller. India’s bowlers worked hard and created opportunities, but the South Africans expertly dealt with the pressure to seal the deal in comfortable fashion.

Here are some of the SA vs IND Twitter reactions from India fans after their team’s missed opportunity.

SIX vs THU Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 49

Charbel Coorey
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SIX vs THU Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 49

SIX vs THU Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 49 | SIX vs THU Dream11 Prediction Today | Sixers vs Thunder Key Players | SCG Pitch Report

BBL 11 is in need of a thrilling match, and this one could be it. Who knows, this edition of the Sydney Smash could be a preview of the BBL 11 Final to be held later this month, with both sides sitting pretty in the top five.

But that doesn’t mean this match doesn’t have any importance. Just four points separate third-place Sydney Sixers and second-place Sydney Thunder at the moment, and the winner today takes a huge step towards an all-important top-two finish.

Sixers beat Thunder earlier this season, before the Thunder embarked on a brilliant six-match winning streak. That came to an end last game vs Hurricanes, but the men in green will want to use that defeat as a little wake up call before the playoffs.

For the Sixers, they will be aiming to improve on their performances. They have been a little up-and-down of late, and while they beat Renegades comfortably last match, they still have work to do regarding losing clumps of wickets early in their innings.

This match has the makings for a classic, and here’s hoping it delivers.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Sydney Sixers:

  • Incredibly, Josh Philippe has scored three ducks in his last four innings. He has a poor record vs Thunder (7 inns, 121 runs, avg. 17.29, SR 142.35), but is capable of turning this around at a ground he enjoys batting at (20 inns, 568 runs, avg. 33.41, SR 141.65).
  • Daniel Hughes loves playing against the Thunder. He has the most runs of any Sixers player against them, with 369 runs in 12 innings at an average of 46.13 and strike rate of 128.13. He smashed a 26-ball 50 against them earlier this season.
  • Dan Christian was player of the match vs Thunder earlier this season with a superb 17-ball 41*. Since joining the Sixers last season, Christian has smashed 77 runs vs Thunder without dismissal at a strike rate of 202.63.
  • Sean Abbott has taken the most wickets of any Sixers player against Thunder. The seamer has taken 16 wickets in 13 matches against them at an average of 24.25 and economy rate of 8.59.
  • Abbott, by far, has the most wickets of any bowler in T20s at the SCG. He has taken 58 wickets in just 32 matches on this ground at an average of 18.29 and strike rate of 13.03.
  • Ben Dwarshuis took a five-wicket haul in his last match, vs Renegades. He has 10 wickets in 10 matches vs Thunder, as well as the second-most T20 wickets at the SCG (32 wickets in 28 matches, SR 17).
  • Hayden Kerr remains the Sixers’ top wicket-taker in BBL 11, with 17 scalps in 11 matches (avg. 11.41, SR 9.8). He took 3/29 vs Thunder earlier this season.

Sydney Thunder:

  • Alex Hales is in terrific touch now after a slow start to the season. He has smashed 181 runs in his last three innings at a strike rate of 181.18.
  • Hales has struck scores of 89 and 32 in his two innings at SCG. He has struck 210 runs in five innings vs Sixers, including a brilliant century last season.
  • Jason Sangha played nicely against Sixers earlier this season (47 off 30 balls). He is the second-highest run-scorer in BBL 11 with 360 runs in nine innings at an average of 60 and strike rate of 134.83.
  • Daniel Sams has taken 11 wickets in just six matches vs Sixers at an average of 11.82 and economy rate of 7.36. He also has a half-century in six innings with the bat, and he will be key here after scoring 98* a few matches ago vs Renegades.
  • Gurinder Sandhu is conceding just 6.58 runs per over this season, with 12 wickets in eight matches. However, he has a poor record vs Sixers, with just four wickets in nine innings at an average of 50. Nathan McAndrew has an even worse record vs Sixers, with just one wicket in six innings at an average of 204.
  • Tanveer Sangha has taken 12 wickets in nine matches in BBL at an average of 17.66 and economy rate of 6.95. Muhammad Hasnain has seven scalps in four matches this season.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 20, Sixers 13, Thunder 7.
  • Sixers have won six out of eight matches vs Thunder at the SCG.
  • Sixers and Thunder both have won two out of the last four matches against each other.

Possible Playing 11

Sydney Sixers have named their squad for this match. Steve O’Keefe is back from a hand injury, and will likely replace impressive off-spinner Todd Murphy.

Jordan Silk is also in the squad, but it remains to be seen if he plays as he has a niggle.

Sydney Sixers: 1. Josh Philippe (wk), 2. Jack Edwards, 3. Daniel Hughes, 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Dan Christian, 6. Shadab Khan, 7. Sean Abbott, 8. Hayden Kerr, 9. Ben Dwarshuis, 10. Jackson Bird, 11. Steve O’Keefe

Chris Green is set to return for the Sydney Thunder after completing his COVID isolation period.

Sydney Thunder: 1. Alex Hales, 2. Matthew Gilkes, 3. Jason Sangha, 4. Daniel Sams, 5. Oliver Davies, 6. Ben Cutting, 7. Baxter Holt (wk), 8. Nathan McAndrew/Gurinder Sandhu, 9. Chris Green (c), 10. Tanveer Sangha, 11. Muhammad Hasnain

SCG Pitch Report and Weather

There have been four matches at the SCG so far this season. The first two matches saw first innings scores of 213 (by Sixers and Hurricanes) followed by 147 by Strikers and 105 by Heat. The team batting first has won two of the four matches so far in BBL 11.

There is rain forecast in Sydney today, with a strong chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon/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:

SIX vs THU Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 49 | SIX vs THU Dream11 Prediction Today | Sixers vs Thunder Key Players | SCG Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 49: SIX vs THU Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

SIX vs THU Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 49 | SIX vs THU Dream11 Prediction Today | Sixers vs Thunder Key Players | SCG Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 49: SIX vs THU Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Josh Philippe
  • Batsmen: Alex Hales, Jason Sangha
  • All-rounders: Dan Christian, Sean Abbott, Daniel Sams
  • Bowlers: Muhammad Hasnain, Ben Dwarshuis

Match Prediction

Sixers start as favourites at home, but Thunder look in better form. The weather could play a key factor, so the chasing team should benefit.

Twitter reactions to very green Hobart Pitch

Charbel Coorey
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Twitter reactions to very green Hobart Pitch

Cricket News: Twitter reactions to very green pitch in Hobart | Reactions to the very green pitch for 5th Ashes Test in Hobart

The fifth and final Ashes Test has been greeted by a green monster in Hobart. The pitch, which is difficult to differentiate from the outfield, has up to 8mm of grass which Damien Fleming described as “22 yards of kryptonite”.

It has drawn comparisons to the kind of surfaces seen in New Zealand and earlier this series at the MCG. Australia rolled England for 68 in the Boxing Day Test, with Scott Boland taking remarkable figures of 6/7 on debut. Boland is available and will be a handful on this surface, targeting an England batting lineup that has struggled badly throughout the series.

Hobart is set to host its first Ashes Test, with the 22 yards a big talking point ahead of the match. The track is perfectly set for memes and reactions. Here are some from Twitter.

Twitter reactions to green Hobart pitch for fifth and final Ashes Test

This Test is England’s final attempt to win their first Test in Australia since 2011. They haven’t got close to a victory in this series, but their confidence could be bolstered by a fighting draw last Test in Sydney.

And, of course, the conditions should provide assistance for their bowlers.

Virat Kohli criticised for shouting into stump mic during Cape Town Test

Charbel Coorey
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Virat Kohli criticised for shouting into stump mic during Cape Town Test

Cricket News: Virat Kohli criticised for shouting into stump mic during Cape Town Test | Reactions to Virat Kohli shouting into stump mic

India captain Virat Kohli has been criticised by India and opposition fans for shouting into the stump mic during the third and deciding Test vs South Africa in Cape Town. In the 21st over with South Africa 60/1 chasing 212 for a series win, Ravichandran Ashwin pinned opener Dean Elgar in front with a straight delivery.

Given out on the field, hawkeye then remarkably showed the ball to be going over the stumps on review, much to the shock and anger of the Indians. Elgar’s wicket was significant, as the Proteas skipper was a thorn in India’s side in the Johannesburg Test, playing beautifully in the second innings to seal a series-levelling win last week.

The tracking technology, authorised by HawkEye, relays the information to the host broadcaster, SuperSport. The Indians were stunned, with questions raised about hawkeye’s accuracy by fans and pundits online.

Kohli immediately made his thoughts known in the stump mic, followed closely by KL Rahul and R Ashwin.

“Focus on your team while they shine the ball. Not just the opposition. Trying to catch people all the time,” said the India captain.

KL Rahul, the vice-captain, then said “It’s the whole country against 11 guys.” Ashwin followed, “You should find better ways to win, SuperSport.”

Tempers flare as series is on the line: Virat Kohli comes in for criticism

India came into this series with arguably their best opportunity in years to win a Test series in South Africa. They started brilliantly in Centurion, but their batting has let them down throughout the series.

Rishabh Pant scored a superb century, but India only managed 198 in the second innings with the game there for the taking. Elgar and the impressive Keegan Petersen settled in, and India became quite agitated in a period of play that suggested the tourists were becoming frustrated with how such a series – which they were widely expected to win – has transpired.

A series defeat for India would be quite deflating given the progress they have made in England and Australia. The reactions of Kohli and co. suggested that. Elgar was eventually dismissed on what turned out to be the final ball of the day, as fans can be sure of a fiery finish to a spicy series on day four of the Newlands Test.

Of course, the reactions were widespread. Skipper Virat Kohli came in for some criticism, with even some calls for a match ban.

Day four will begin with South Africa needing a further 111 runs to seal the series 2-1. India need eight wickets. All to play for.

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