Home Blog Page 264

Why this is India’s best chance of a Test series win in South Africa

Robin Rounder
-
0
Why this is India’s best chance of a Test series win in South Africa

Cricket News: Why this is India’s best chance of a Test series win in South Africa | 3 reasons why India can win in South Africa this time

India’s tour of South Africa will start with the Boxing Day Test at SuperSport Park Centurion. India is yet to win a Test series in South Africa, which is quite surprising. Since 1992/93, India has played seven Test series in South Africa, and they’ve lost six with one series being drawn in 2010-11 under MS Dhoni.

India has won only three Test matches in South Africa since 1992-93. The first win came in 2006-07 under the captaincy of Rahul Dravid, second under MS Dhoni in 2010-11, and the third one under Virat Kohli in 2017-18 when India last played on South African soil.

India did well in the last series and were very close to winning as well but they let it slip due to a poor performance with the bat. However, this Indian Test team under Virat Kohli is the strongest Indian side to tour South Africa. India are number one in ICC Test rankings and have been exceptional in their away tours recently. They retained the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2021 with the historic Gabba win after winning it back in 2018-19 and are leading the 5-match Test series against England in England 2-1, which was postponed due to Covid-19.

3 reasons why this is India’s best chance of a Test series win in South Africa

1. Indian Bowling Unit

The Indian bowling unit has been phenomenal for the past few years. The pace unit of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Siraj, Umesh Yadav, and Shardul Thakur have been outstanding with the ball while the spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have been exceptional as well.

Since 1st January 2019, Ravi Ashwin has 85 wickets in 16 matches at an average of 18.85. He is the third-highest wicket-taker during that period. Both Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Shami have picked 53 wickets each in 15 games during this phase. Their bowling average is 24.39 and 22.33 respectively.

Ishant Sharma has 44 wickets to his name in 15 matches and he averages 20.97 with the ball. Mohammad Siraj has 33 wickets in 10 games at an average of 27.69.

This shows that the Indian bowlers – especially the pacers – have been brilliant. South African conditions will assist the pacers a lot and India certainly has a bowling unit to exploit those conditions to the fullest.

2. India’s Excellent Form in Overseas Tours

Cricket News: Why this is India's best chance of a Test series win in South Africa | 3 reasons why India can win in South Africa this time
Why this is India’s best chance of a Test series win in South Africa – India have been excellent overseas in recent times.

As mentioned above India has done really well in overseas tours recently. They won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in Australia back in 2018-19 and then retained it in 2020-21 in a phenomenal way. They won 2 games of the 5-match series against England in England with one game being drawn and one won by England. The impactful performance particularly by the young players like Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur etc has played a very crucial role in all these historic victories. Therefore, India are certainly expected to carry their great momentum forward in this series and emerge victorious.

3. Absence of key South Africa players and lack of bench strength

This is probably the weakest South African batting lineup the Indian team is going to face in South Africa since the readmission of the African nation post apartheid. Further, the absence of some key players is certainly going to rub salt in the wound of the hosts.

Anrich Nortje, the prolific South African seamer is going to miss the entire series whereas the star wicket keeping batter Quinton De Kock is going to miss the last two Tests owing to his paternity leave.

Now the question is do South Africa have an equally good bench strength? The answer is no. Rather, their bench strength looks inexperienced and lacks quality. Although they are all set to replace Nortje with Duanne Olivier, the other seamers are untested at the international level. Their batting is definitely going to be weaker in the absence of de Kock. So, India are expected to exploit this and register their first ever series victory on the South African soil.

Due to aforementioned reasons, India surely have their best chance to win a Test series in South Africa this time and captain Kohli will definitely look to add another feather to his glorious crown as Indian Test skipper.

What do you think? Have your say!

Written by Robin Rounder. Follow Robin on Twitter today.

THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 20

Charbel Coorey
-
0
THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 20

THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 20 | THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today | Thunder vs Sixers Key Players | Sydney Showground Pitch Report

The first edition of the Sydney Smash in BBL 11 has possible “game of the season” feels about it. In the first match post Christmas, Sydney Thunder, who thrashed Brisbane Heat earlier this week, come up against back-to-back champions and BBL 11 title challengers Sydney Sixers.

It does have the feel of challenger vs champion. The Thunder have been thereabouts in recent seasons but have not gone all the way since BBL 05. They have the talent – particularly in their top order and pace attack – to challenge for the title this season, and there is no better way of sending a strong message than with a fine performance against the Sixers today.

And it won’t be easy to beat them. The Sixers have found ways to win this season even when they haven’t been at their best, with the latest being a four-wicket win over Adelaide Strikers last time out. They weren’t great with the bat, but their sheer depth means that they are always in the game. And now, the Sixers have Shadab Khan who provides a top-class spin option with Steve O’Keefe and Ben Manenti injured.

Strap yourselves in, this should be a ripper after day one of the Boxing Day Test.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Sydney Thunder:

  • Alex Hales smashed a superb century in his last match vs Sixers (110 off 56 balls) back in January. The top run-scorer last season found some form last match with 39 off 28 balls against the Heat.
  • What a performance it was by Sam Billings last match. He smashed 64 off 27 balls, part of a fine season so far for the keeper-batsman: 4 inns, 160 runs, avg. 53.33, SR 141.59. He struck 33 (21) and 15 (15) vs Sixers last season.
  • It remains to be seen if Alex Ross gets a good chance to bat today as it depends on how the top order performs. He is batting brilliantly this season, with 159 runs at an average of 159.00 and strike rate of 147.22, with two fifties.
  • Ross smashed 77* off 49 balls on this ground earlier this season vs Melbourne Stars.
  • Daniel Sams has an excellent record on this ground. He has the most wickets of any bowler at Sydney Showground, with 23 scalps in 12 matches at an average of 13.00 and economy rate of 7.73.
  • Sams has an excellent record vs Sixers, too. He has taken nine wickets in five matches against them at an average of 11.22 and economy rate of 6.89.
  • What a debut it was for Saqib Mahmood earlier this week. He took 4/22 in a player of the match performance vs Heat, part of 33 wickets in 20 short-form matches this year.
  • Tanveer Sangha has the fourth-most wickets so far in BBL 11, with eight scalps in four matches (avg. 12.12, econ. 6.68). He has three wickets in two matches vs Sixers at an average of 16.00 and economy rate of 8.00.

Sydney Sixers:

  • Josh Philippe is having a season to remember. The talented keeper-batsman has struck the most runs so far in BBL 11 (282, avg. 70.50, SR 152.43), with three half-centuries.
  • It will be interesting to see whether Philippe can improve on his record vs Thunder. He has scored 108 runs against them at an average of 18.00, but he did play well against them last season (scores of 64 and 20). Also, he has scored just 13 runs in two matches on this ground.
  • Daniel Hughes has an outstanding record against the Thunder. He has scored 319 runs in 11 matches at an average of 45.57 and strike rate of 121.76.
  • Skipper Moises Henriques, who has scored 232 runs at 77.33 this season, also has a strong record vs Thunder. He has 337 runs in 14 innings at an average of 37.44 and strike rate of 134.26. He has a score of 76* in four matches on this ground.
  • Dan Christian took three wickets in his last match vs Strikers. He may not bowl as much today given the presence of Shadab, but the captain may still turn to him for a couple of overs at least.
  • Christian has scored 235 runs at an average of 26.11 and strike rate of 137.43 vs Thunder. He also has 12 wickets against them.
  • Sean Abbott was player of the match last game vs Strikers (3/24). He has 14 wickets in 12 matches vs Thunder at an average of 25.64 and economy rate of 8.55.
  • Shadab Khan promises to be an excellent addition to the Sixers’ squad. The Pakistani leg-spinner has taken 33 wickets in 36 matches this year at an economy rate of 7.53.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 19, Thunder 7, Sixers 12.
  • Both teams won a match against each other last season.
  • Nathan McAndrew has taken just one wicket in five matches vs Sixers at an average of 165 and economy rate of 11.79.

Possible Playing 11

Sydney Thunder have named their squad. They should stick with the same team that thrashed the Heat.

Sydney Thunder: 1. Alex Hales, 2. Matthew Gilkes, 3. Jason Sangha, 4. Sam Billings (wk), 5. Alex Ross, 6. Daniel Sams, 7. Ben Cutting, 8. Nathan McAndrew, 9. Chris Green (c), 10. Saqib Mahmood, 11. Tanveer Sangha

Shadab Khan has been named in the Sydney Sixers’ squad for this match. Chris Jordan is no longer available as he was with the franchise on a five-game contract.

Sydney Sixers: 1. Josh Philippe (wk), 2. James Vince, 3. Moises Henriques (c), 4. Daniel Hughes, 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Dan Christian, 7. Shadab Khan, 8. Sean Abbott, 9. Ben Dwarshuis, 10. Hayden Kerr, 11. Lloyd Pope/Nick Winter/Lawrence Neil-Smith

Sydney Showground Pitch Report and Weather

Earlier this season, Melbourne Stars chased Sydney Thunder’s 151/5 with 17 deliveries to spare. It was an easy-paced surface where batsmen had the opportunity to play their shots with freedom, as Alex Ross, Glenn Maxwell and Andre Russell showed. In the other match on this ground this season, Scorchers smashed 195/1 with Colin Munro notching up a century.

There is a chance of showers today around Sydney, but there should hopefully be enough play for a result.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 20 | THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today | Thunder vs Sixers Key Players | Sydney Showground Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 20: THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 20 | THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today | Thunder vs Sixers Key Players | Sydney Showground Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 20: THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Josh Philippe, Sam Billings
  • Batsmen: Alex Hales
  • All-rounders: Moises Henriques, Daniel Sams
  • Bowlers: Sean Abbott, Saqib Mahmood, Tanveer Sangha

Match Prediction

This one is tough to predict. Sydney Thunder will be motivated to perform well and beat the Sixers, and I think they will today.

Ashes 2021/22 3rd Test: AUS vs ENG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
-
0
Ashes 2021/22 3rd Test: AUS vs ENG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Ashes 2021/22 3rd Test: AUS vs ENG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS vs ENG 3rd Test Dream11 Prediction | Australia vs England 3rd Test Key Players | MCG Pitch Report

Another game, another England defeat down under. As was the case both in 2013 and 2017, the tourists find themselves in a position where they must win all three remaining Tests to retain the urn. On both occasions, they failed to win a single Test – an overall drought that goes back to 2011, spanning 12 Tests.

No side has ever come back from 2-0 down to win an away Ashes series, and there are no signs here pointing to a miracle turnaround. As Ollie Robinson turned his arm over with off-spin on the fourth afternoon at Adelaide, further flashbacks of England’s struggles in Australia came front of mind.

In an attempt to stem the flow, England have made key changes. Rory Burns has been dropped, replaced by Zak Crawley who himself has had a nightmare year with an average of just 11.14 in seven Tests. However, if he is decisive on off-stump, he has what it takes to succeed against bounce owing to his height and attractive strokeplay.

Like a yo-yo, Jack Leach is back in the side, as is Mark Wood as England focus on variety in their attack. Ollie Pope, who many believe has the game to succeed at Test level, has been dropped in favour of Jonny Bairstow. These changes represent one final throw at the stumps for England in their attempt to break their winless run down under and keep the Ashes alive.

For Australia, this series couldn’t go much more smoothly, even with some off-field distractions. Pat Cummins is back to partner Mitchell Starc who had a superb Adelaide Test, while Scott Boland is pencilled in to make his debut. The bowling form of Nathan Lyon and Cameron Green gives the Aussies important depth, and they will be looking to keep their foot on England’s throats in one of the showpiece events on the Australian sporting calendar.

From a batting perspective, Marnus Labuschagne has moved to number one in the rankings, representing a remarkable rise since coming into the side as a concussion substitute for Steve Smith at Lord’s. More long hours in the field for England would be too hard to come back from, and that will be Australia’s focus here as they look to retain the Ashes for a third-straight time.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Australia:

  • Marnus Labuschagne has had a bit of luck, but his overall concentration is to be admired. He has made three 50+ scores in as many innings this series, including a century (74, 103 and 51).
  • Steve Smith dominates at the MCG. Australia’s premier batsmen has struck 916 runs in just eight Tests on this ground at an average of 91.60, with three half-centuries and four centuries.
  • Smith returned to form with 93 in the Adelaide Test, and he will be aiming to build on that in this Boxing Day Test.
  • David Warner’s excellent run of form continued in Adelaide. He missed out again on a century (two 90s in a row in the series), but he is playing beautifully and averages 45.00 in eight Tests at the MCG (630 runs).
  • Watch out for Travis Head if the top order sets a strong platform. He scored a century on this ground two years ago against New Zealand, and has a century and half-century in this series so far.
  • Pat Cummins returns to the team after missing the Adelaide Test. He has a terrific record on this ground with 21 wickets in four Tests at an average of 18.71 and economy rate of 2.78.
  • Mitchell Starc produced some of his best bowling in a long time at Adelaide (4/37 and 2/43). However, the MCG isn’t his favourite ground, with an average of 34.31 in four Tests. Also, the cool weather forecast in Melbourne may not aid swing too much. Can he overcome these factors?
  • Scott Boland will make his debut on his home ground. He was player of the match against New South Wales on this ground earlier this season, taking 3/33 and 5/56. Overall, he has taken 96 wickets at 25.56 in 27 First Class games at the MCG.

England:

  • Yet another fifty for Joe Root, but no century. The England skipper has struck seven half-centuries in his last seven Tests in Australia, but the tourists need this to be the match where he carries on to make a ton.
  • Root has scored 100 runs in three innings on this ground, including a score of 61. He has been brilliant in 2021, notching up 1,630 runs at an average of 62.69.
  • Dawid Malan is England’s leading run-scorer in this series (188 runs, avg. 47.00). Malan has five half-centuries and a century in seven Tests against Australia (overall average of 43.92).
  • England need Ben Stokes to fire. He produced some excellent deliveries in Adelaide, and if he can keep the ball fuller in Melbourne, he could be in the wickets. Also, he spent some time at the crease last game, which he must build on here.
  • James Anderson has a good record at the MCG. The seamer has taken 13 wickets in three Tests at an average of 24.23. There is likely to be grass on the pitch, so Anderson can be a factor.
  • As can Ollie Robinson. He is England’s leading wicket-taker so far in this series with seven wickets at an average of 24.28.

Stats and Facts

  • Alex Carey has 10 dismissals to his name so far in this series.
  • Cameron Green has dismissed England captain Joe Root twice in two Tests. Watch out for their battle once again.
  • The last time these two teams met at the MCG was a drab draw in 2017.

Possible Playing 11

Australia have confirmed their XI, with Scott Boland to debut. Jhye Richardson and Michael Neser miss out due to soreness. Also, Marcus Harris has kept his place.

Australia: 1. David Warner, 2. Marcus Harris, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Steve Smith, 5. Travis Head, 6. Cameron Green, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Pat Cummins (c), 9. Mitchell Starc, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Scott Boland

England have also confirmed their XI, with four changes.

England: 1. Zak Crawley, 2. Haseeb Hameed, 3. Dawid Malan, 4. Joe Root (c), 5. Ben Stokes, 6. Jonny Bairstow, 7. Jos Buttler (wk), 8. Ollie Robinson, 9. Mark Wood, 10. Jack Leach, 11. James Anderson

MCG Pitch Report and Weather

The 2017/18 Boxing Day Test was a forgettable one, with just 24 wickets falling on a very flat MCG surface. Since then, the groundstaff have worked very hard to produce good surfaces, with a lively surface expected for this clash.

“The last few years have been different to what it was before that,” said Scott Boland during the Sheffield Shield match vs NSW earlier this year. “There’s a bit more grass on it now, much better carry, especially for day two. Sometimes you rock up here and it looks like a one-day wicket.”

Sunny conditions are forecast right throughout the Test, but with mild temperatures. The temperatures will barely exceed 20 degrees celsius on day one.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Ashes 2021/22 3rd Test: AUS vs ENG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS vs ENG 3rd Test Dream11 Prediction | Australia vs England 3rd Test Key Players | MCG Pitch Report
Ashes 2021/22 3rd Test: AUS vs ENG Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

Ashes 2021/22 3rd Test: AUS vs ENG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS vs ENG 3rd Test Dream11 Prediction | Australia vs England 3rd Test Key Players | MCG Pitch Report
Ashes 2021/22 3rd Test: AUS vs ENG Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base Team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Alex Carey
  • Batsmen: Steve Smith, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne
  • All-rounders: Joe Root
  • Bowlers: Pat Cummins

Match Prediction

Australia should be too strong once again, particularly if they get runs on the board batting first.

5 things India must do to beat South Africa

Tarkesh Jha
-
0
5 things India must do to beat South Africa

Cricket News: 5 things India must do to beat South Africa | 5 things India need to do to win their first ever Test series in South Africa

The Indian Test team scaled several heights in the past few years, including a fantastic performance on English soil in 2021 and successive series victories in Australia.

They had a disappointing tour to New Zealand in 2020, but have previously emerged victorious over there. It’s only South Africa that India has fallen short of conquering so far, despite coming ever so close in both 2010/11 and 2017/18.

Now, the Virat Kohli-led side has headed to take on the Proteas with a wonderful chance of doing something that no Indian Test team has done earlier. Let us elaborate on five things that the team might have to do in order to script history in the coming month.

How India can beat South Africa this time around

1. Maintain consistency in playing XI

India has went for a horses-for-courses approach in recent times, altering their playing XI according to the circumstances and challenges in hand. The method has arguably delivered mixed results and there have been adverse reactions to the same depending upon the result.

Neither the approach from the side has been consistent with regards to this factor nor have the masses reacted fairly to it every time. The better way to deal with it might be to maintain some sort of stability in terms to the choices made in the playing XI. It will be quite difficult for the players to adapt to the circumstances straightaway and they need to be backed adequately to derive the required results from them.

2. Beware of South Africa’s new guns

South Africa has perhaps historically never lacked profound cricketing talents over the years.

Though they have not really gelled well as one would have liked in recent times, individually most of the players do seem to have a very high career ceiling. Marco Jansen’s has pace to burn from a 6 foot 8 inch frame, Duanne Olivier has returned back to be a formidable bowler from his county spell whereas Beuran Hendricks brings the left-arm angle to the mix in addition to the proven talents of Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi.

In the absence of the batting bigwigs, Aiden Markram, Keegan Peterson and Rassie van der Dussen will be looking to make the most of the series whereas Dean Elgar will be a tough nut to crack especially whilst donning the captain’s hat. Needless to say, play down the home side’s abilities at your own peril!

3. Go with an extra batter

Cricket News: 5 things India must do to beat South Africa | 5 things India need to do to win their first ever Test series in South Africa
5 things India must do to beat South Africa: Play Rahane and Shreyas Iyer together.

In recent times, India has preferred to play Ravindra Jadeja at number six and go with four specialist bowlers from number eight onwards. This allowed the side to play the spin duo of Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin along with three frontline pacers. However, in South Africa, the team could very well do with the cushion of playing an extra batsman.

The conditions over there are hostile for batsmen and the side will perhaps prefer the assurance of some additional runs on the scorecard. Moreover, India now has a top-tier bowling attack that can almost guarantee taking 20 wickets in any given situation. Rather than opting for all-rounders who offer something in all departments, the need of the hour might be to trust the specialists in the unit, keeping the playing XI balance into consideration.  

4. Take up more responsibility amongst the batsmen

The Indian bowlers have been majorly responsible for the team’s terrific dominance overseas in recent times. However, they seem to be taking the limelight away from an equally prolific batting unit in recent times. While either situation augurs well for the overall fate of Indian cricket, the management will be hoping for the batsmen to step up to the challenge and be at their level best in the series against the Proteas.

The core of the batting order has performed well in South Africa previously, whereas the younger crop has it in them to make a mark this time around. If the team manages to strike the right balance straightaway, it will be up on the batsmen to tackle the challenges appropriately and give the bowling unit enough to play with. Whether that happens or not, might end up playing a major role in the eventual outcome of this contest.

5. Exploit the opening when you crack them

Openings that can be exploited don’t come across often in such difficult contests. After knocking the door continuously, an opportunity presents itself merely once or twice throughout a match and it is upon the team in question to optimise that situation completely.

In the past, the Indian team perhaps used to let go of such chances more than they would have wanted to, which included the failure to clean up the opposition’s tail-end and not putting up a frail fight with the willow after the chips went down. But, that mentality has changed in recent times.

India is arguably more ruthless with the ball against the opposition’s tail-enders and Kohli’s own bowlers have shown tremendous character and talent with the bat in the recent tours of Australia and England. South Africa will maybe put the biggest batting challenge in front of them and they will have to be properly prepared to take it down, time and again. 

Written by Tarkesh Jha. Follow Tarkesh on Twitter

HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 19

Charbel Coorey
-
0
HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 19

HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 19 | HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction Today | Hurricanes vs Stars Key Players | Hobart Pitch Report

It has the potential to be a Christmas cracker. Hobart Hurricanes and Melbourne Stars, two sides who have high aspirations in this season’s BBL, do battle in an important Christmas Eve clash.

Hurricanes, after their great victory over champions Sydney Sixers, were belted twice by the Perth Scorchers on this ground. The form of D’Arcy Short is a worry, which places greater emphasis on the performances of Matthew Wade at the top. Their attack has quality and balance, but they aren’t performing to their potential yet, and this is the perfect opportunity to do so in front of their home fans.

Similar applies to the Stars. They have won two and lost two (while the Hurricanes have lost three), but there are still question marks around the Stars’ ability to perform in the crunch moments. Now, they have the chance to move up the table after a break of nine days, with attention on how Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell can lead from the front.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Hobart Hurricanes:

  • D’Arcy Short is struggling this season, striking at just 102.98. He has a score of 96* vs Stars, but that was against a depleted Stars side a few years ago. He averages 24.38 against them overall in nine games.
  • It is a big match for Matthew Wade. The skipper scored just 4 and 13 since his brilliant 93 (46) vs Sydney Sixers. He has scored 211 runs in seven matches vs Stars at an average of 30.11 and strike rate of 127.88.
  • Surprisingly, Wade doesn’t enjoy batting at Bellerive Oval too much. In 19 innings, he has struck 418 runs at an average of 24.59 and strike rate of 144.14. He has the ability to turn this around.
  • Ben McDermott smashed 91 off 58 balls the last time he played the Stars. He took the Hurricanes close to the Stars’ 183 that day. Overall, he has scored 273 runs in eight matches against them at an average of 39.00 and strike rate of 123.53.
  • McDermott has scored the fifth-most runs of any player in T20s at Bellerive Oval (656, avg. 36.44, SR 125.43).
  • Hobart Hurricanes subbed Riley Meredith out in a strange decision last match. Meredith has the most wickets of any Hurricanes bowler against the Stars in BBL (10 wickets, avg. 17.80, econ. 6.72).
  • Nathan Ellis is the Hurricanes’ equal top wicket-taker this season (5). Ellis has taken five wickets in four matches vs Stars at an economy rate of just 6.00. Also, he has taken 16 wickets in 12 matches on this ground at an average of 20.94 and economy rate of 7.36.
  • Tom Rogers has taken five wickets in three matches this season (avg. 17.00, econ. 7.72).

Melbourne Stars:

  • Marcus Stoinis is yet to fire in BBL 11 (47 runs, avg. 15.66), but today could be the day. He smashed 97* off 55 balls in his last match against the Hurricanes, back in January.
  • Stoinis has a great record vs Hurricanes overall: 9 inns, 278 runs, avg. 55.60, SR 134.30. Also, Stoinis has struck 150 runs on this ground at an average of 50 and strike rate of 135.13. 50+ score coming today?
  • Glenn Maxwell is coming off a masterful century nine days ago vs Sixers (103 off 57 balls). The skipper has the most runs in Stars-Hurricanes matches, with 325 in 11 innings at a brilliant average and strike rate of 46.43 and 163.32.
  • Also, Maxwell loves batting on this ground. In eight innings, he has smashed 347 runs at an average of 69.40 and strike rate of 164.46, including two 50s and a century.
  • Hilton Cartwright has looked solid in the middle order this season (98 runs, avg. 32.66, SR 136.11). He will be looking to improve on his career record vs Hurricanes: 8 inns, 136 runs, avg. 22.67, SR 106.17.
  • Andre Russell has not been dismissed in any of his last four innings (90*, 17*, 42*, 12*). He has been hitting the ball beautifully in recent times, so the Stars should try to give him as much time at the crease as possible.
  • Nathan Coulter-Nile will be key in leading the pace department. He has seven wickets in six matches vs Hurricanes, including two in his only match for the Stars against the Hurricanes so far.
  • Brody Couch has been impressive so far in BBL 11. The seamer has six wickets to his name in four matches at an average of 17.83 and strike rate of 13.0.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 15, Hurricanes 5, Stars 10.
  • Stars have won four out of the six meetings against Hurricanes at Bellerive Oval, including a 10-run win last season.
  • Qais Ahmed has seven matches of experience on this ground, where he bowled for the Hurricanes. He took eight wickets in these matches at an average of 26.75 and economy rate of 8.56.

Possible Playing 11

Hobart Hurricanes have named an unchanged squad. Englishman Harry Brook waits in the wings, and surely he deserves a crack as the middle order continues to misfire.

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

Melbourne Stars have also named their squad. Adam Zampa is unavailable for this clash.

Melbourne Stars: 1. Marcus Stoinis, 2. Joe Clarke (wk), 3. Glenn Maxwell (c), 4. Nick Larkin, 5. Hilton Cartwright, 6. Andre Russell, 7. Beau Webster, 8. Nathan Coulter-Nile, 9. Clint Hincliffe, 10. Brody Couch, 11. Qais Ahmed

Bellerive Oval Hobart Pitch Report and Weather

This has the potential to be a very high-scoring match. The Perth Scorchers struck 183 and 167 in their two matches here recently and won both games. The shorter boundaries – particularly square of the wicket – should give the batsmen a good advantage.

A pleasant day is forecast in Hobart, with a top of about 24 degrees and partly cloudy conditions.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 19 | HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction Today | Hurricanes vs Stars Key Players | Hobart Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 19: HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 19 | HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction Today | Hurricanes vs Stars Key Players | Hobart Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 19: HUR vs STA Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Matthew Wade, Ben McDermott
  • Batsmen: Marcus Stoinis
  • All-rounders: Glenn Maxwell
  • Bowlers: Nathan Ellis, Brody Couch

Match Prediction

Batting first and getting 170+ on the board will be key. The Stars seem in better form, but the Hurricanes, particularly if the top order fires, can win this. This could ultimately come down to which top order performs better.

2021 T20I Team of the Year: Who makes the XI?

Vaibhav Tripathi
-
0
2021 T20I Team of the Year: Who makes the XI?

Cricket News: 2021 T20I Team of the Year: Who makes the XI? | CricBlog’s 2021 T20I Team of the Year: Which players make the XI?

The T20 World Cup was the focal point of this year’s white-ball action; a year filled with mouthwatering T20 action. 2021 was jam-packed with 20-over games and it was a treat for the fans to watch the T20 superstars displaying their skills and entertaining everyone. 

So, here’s a look at an XI made out of such players who were the torchbearers for their team this year and topped the charts when it came down to their own numbers in T20Is.

CricBlog’s 2021 T20I Team of the Year

1. Mohammad Rizwan

Rizwan stood tall and was a step above everyone else in the shortest format this year. In 29 T20Is, Rizwan racked up 1,326 runs at an average of 73.66.

He slammed one century and 12 fifties with the best score of 104*.

Rizwan finished with the most number of fours (119). Rizwan hit 42 sixes (highest) and had a strike rate of 134.89. The Pakistan opener became the first player to touch the 1,000-run mark in T20Is in a calendar year and he’ll be the first choice opener in this eleven.

2. Jos Buttler

Cricket News: 2021 T20I Team of the Year: Who makes the XI? | CricBlog's 2021 T20I Team of the Year: Which players make the XI?
2021 T20I Team of the Year: Jos Buttler.

Jos Buttler ticked all the boxes to partner Rizwan in this XI. His numbers were outstanding for any opening batter in this format. He scored 589 runs in 14 T20ls in 2021 at an average of 65.44 and a strike rate of 143.30 including a hundred against Sri Lanka at the T20 World Cup.

Buttler played sensational knocks throughout the year and he always kept the opposition bowlers in check. Buttler’s success this year has a lot to do with his attacking approach, taking on the bowlers from the very first ball which helped England post big totals in T20Is this year.

3. Mitchell Marsh

Cricket News: 2021 T20I Team of the Year: Who makes the XI? | CricBlog's 2021 T20I Team of the Year: Which players make the XI?
2021 T20I Team of the Year: Mitchell Marsh

This was Mitchell Marsh’s breakthrough year with the bat. The Australian all-rounder excelled on all kinds of pitches to score runs for his team.

Marsh played with the flair and ease of a finisher in the crucial number three slot, notching 627 runs at a strike rate of 129.81 in the 20 innings he batted. He’s Australia’s leading run-scorer in T20Is this year and played a huge part in their maiden T20 World Cup win in UAE.

Marsh has been picked over Babar Azam only because of his sheer impact with the bat and ability to score quick runs. He brings all-around value to the team with his medium-pace bowling. Destructive with the bat from the word go, efficient with the ball, and electric in the field, Marsh furtively ironed out the creases for Australia this year.

4. Devon Conway

Since Conway’s emergence in international cricket, he’s been a force to reckon with the bat in all three formats of the game. Although he had an average T20 World Cup in Dubai, he still ended the year with 428 runs in 13 innings at a great average of 47.55 and a strike rate of 135.01.

He also scored a couple of 90+ scores this year. The Kiwi batter has got all the attributes to be slotted at number 4 in this XI and a left-hander always brings that X-factor in the team and he can rally in case of early blows. The Kiwi batter is a flexible option in the middle order and can be used at any number but we believe he’s best placed at number 4 in this XI.

5. Aiden Markram

This year everyone saw a different version of Aiden Markram in the 20-over format. Since his debut, Markram has made a name for himself in Test cricket but he had very little to show in T20Is. He aced the art of T20 run-making and scored 570 runs at a blistering strike rate of close to 150 (148.82).

He scored six fifty-plus scores and top-scored in T20Is for South Africa this year. Markram’s strike rate proves that at five he can keep bludgeoning the opposition bowlers with his incredibly meaty GM bat.

6. Shakib Al Hasan

The number 2 T20I all-rounder in the world was awful with the bat this year and has been picked solely for his bowling in this lineup. Shakib is a premier all-rounder but him batting at 6 won’t give much to this team as he’s a more preferred option at the top of the order.

However, with the ball, he enjoyed a stellar run this year with 25 wickets in 18 games at an astonishing economy rate of 6.05. It’s unreal for a bowler who bowls the tough overs in the powerplay. The left-arm spinner is a canny operator with the ball and has the skill to bowl at any phase of the game which makes him a valuable player to this team.

7. Wanindu Hasaranga

Cricket News: 2021 T20I Team of the Year: Who makes the XI? | CricBlog's 2021 T20I Team of the Year: Which players make the XI?
2021 T20I Team of the Year: Wanindu Hasaranga

The talismanic all-rounder’s exploits were the cornerstone of young Sri Lanka’s impressive run this year. Hasaranga topped the bowling charts with 36 wickets in 20 games at an unbelievable economy of 5.20.

The Lankan leggie was just too good with his variations and batters found it tough to pick him and tackle him which makes him the number 1 choice spinning option in this playing XI. In the T20 World Cup, he proved that he’s no less with the bat but a very useful lower-order batter coming at number 7.

8. Anrich Nortje

The speedster from South Africa displayed an array of skills with the ball to scalp 15 wickets from 11 matches in 2021. His express pace and bounce combined to keep his economy down to 6.07 at an average of 15.93.

Nortje complimented Kagiso Rabada and other pacers well, and had a very impactful year with the ball for South Africa. The Proteas quick bowled exceptionally well in all three phases of the game and he’s our express pace bowling option who can keep it tight in his quota of four overs and is a proven wicket-taking option.

9. Josh Hazlewood

Cricket News: 2021 T20I Team of the Year: Who makes the XI? | CricBlog's 2021 T20I Team of the Year: Which players make the XI?
2021 T20I Team of the Year: Josh Hazlewood

Inarguably this was Josh Hazlewood’s year in T20Is as he ended 2021 as Australia’s most successful fast bowler in the 20-over format. The Aussie quick was one of the main reasons behind Australia’s successful campaign in the T20 World Cup. Hazlewood celebrated a successful 2021 with 23 wickets in 15 games.

Regarded as McGrath 2.0, Hazlewood’s discipline and accuracy have given him rewards this year, and not only with the new ball but he showed that he can be effective at the back end of the innings as well. He also can extract bounce and marginal seam movement which is not a forte to many modern-day bowlers.

10. Mustafizur Rahman

The Bangladeshi left-arm pacer is regarded as one of the finest T20 bowlers, and for him, 2021 was no different.  Blessed with a freakishly supple wrist that can snap through 90 degrees at the point of release, the Fizz bagged 28 wickets in 20 matches this year.

Even though he doesn’t swing the ball much or have a snorting bouncer, Mustafizur still has found he can make the white ball jump and stop alarmingly without any change of action. He looked unplayable at home against Australia and New Zealand and was one of the main pillars of Bangladesh’s historic wins against the Trans Tasman countries.

Despite bowling most of the overs in the power play and the death overs, he managed to get wickets at only seven runs per over which is absolute gold in the 20-over format.

11. Tabraiz Shamsi

Before the start of the year 2021, Shamsi had played almost every match in the international calendar for South Africa in the shortest format. But, his consistency was a big issue at that time.

Now, all of the critics and questions raised were put to rest in 2021. Shamsi played 14 matches this year and bagged 32 wickets at a strike rate of 14.0 and average of 13.36. He ended as the joint leading wicket-taker in T20Is with Hasaranga. Being a left-arm wrist-spinner, Shamsi adds a different dimension to the bowling group. This year saw a remarkable rise of the Proteas spinner in T20Is thus it was tough to look past him and pick any other bowler to complete the eleven.

12th Man – Martin Guptill

Written by Vaibhav Tripathi. Follow Vaibhav on Twitter today.

3 big questions for India ahead of the Centurion Test

Debashish Sarangi
-
0
3 big questions for India ahead of the Centurion Test

Cricket News: 3 big questions for India ahead of the Centurion Test | 3 big questions for Team India ahead of the Centurion Test vs South Africa

The Indian Cricket Team has become a fantastic Test side under the exemplary leadership of Virat Kohli for quite some years now. They have been absolutely ruthless at home, and their performance level in overseas Tests has improved by a huge margin. Moreover, cricket pundits across the world are acknowledging India’s stature as a formidable Test unit, which is a great sight to behold as an Indian fan.

But, the one thing that still hurts fans is that India is yet to win a Test series on South African soil. Although they have a very promising bunch of players this time, there are some issues they need to address before the first Test at the SuperSport Park on Boxing Day.

In this article, I am going to mention three such big questions for team India ahead of the first Test. Here we go.

3 key questions India must answer ahead of the Centurion Test

1. Ishant or Siraj?

Cricket News: 3 big questions for India ahead of the Centurion Test | 3 big questions for Team India ahead of the Centurion Test vs South Africa
3 big questions for India ahead of the Centurion Test – Should India pick Ishant Sharma?

Ishant Sharma has been a potent weapon for India particularly in overseas conditions in the last 5-6 years. Since 2014, Ishant has picked 85 wickets at an average of 26.95 and an impressive strike rate of 52.82 in SENA countries. In the process, he has helped India achieve some memorable victories.

Although he bowled some good spells in the England tour, he seemed very wayward at times and took his time to settle in. That relentless consistency was missing in his bowling.

On the other hand, Mohammed Siraj looked more threatening and India started looking at Siraj as an alternative for Ishant. In the recent home series against New Zealand, Siraj was absolutely magnificent, whereas Ishant struggled. So, considering Siraj’s ability as well as current rhythm, I believe India will start with him in Centurion.

2. Will India pick Ashwin or stick with the 4-seamer strategy?

Keeping four seamers in the XI worked well for India in England. Shardul Thakur provided some really handy contributions with the bat and took some very important wickets at crucial stages of the match.

In the absence of Ravindra Jadeja, India will certainly want to have that extra batting depth without compromising their bowling by including Thakur. Further, Ashwin’s record in South Africa is not something to cheer about. Also, the South African pitches are not so ideal for spin bowling. Therefore, I don’t think the Indian management will be desperate to draft Ashwin into the XI unless they run out of pace-bowling options.

3. What is going to be India’s combination down the order in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja?

Cricket News: 3 big questions for India ahead of the Centurion Test | 3 big questions for Team India ahead of the Centurion Test vs South Africa
3 big questions for India ahead of the Centurion Test – Expect Ajinkya Rahane to feature.

Ravindra Jadeja has scored 459 runs at a healthy average of 35.30 in England, Australia and New Zealand since 2018. He provides the required depth in the batting without losing the bowling options.

Therefore, India will need to do some brainstorming to find a great combination in his absence. Personally, I feel that India should go with Hanuma Vihari as their number 6 and ask him to roll his arm as a part timer if required. Vihari did brilliantly in the recently concluded three-match series against South Africa A in Bloemfontein as he was the highest run getter for India A with 227 runs at a splendid average of 75.67.

He dealt with the South African pacers quite well and hit three fifties in five innings. But looking at the way they have treated Vihari after the Sydney Test, I don’t see them going immediately with him in the XI. Instead, I feel India will bring Rahane back in the absence of Jadeja to bat at no 5.

Now the key question. Will they drop Shreyas Iyer especially after what he did in his first series to accommodate Hanuma Vihari? There is a definite chance for this to happen, but I don’t think they will do that as Iyer was phenomenal in his debut Test series. Therefore, I feel India might go with Ajinkya Rahane and Shreyas Iyer as their no. 5 and 6 respectively and let Vihari wait for his chances.  

India’s possible XI for first Test vs South Africa at Centurion

1 KL Rahul, 2. Mayank Agarwal, 3. Cheteshwar Pujara, 4. Virat Kohli (c), 5. Ajinkya Rahane, 6. Shreyas Iyer, 7. Rishabh Pant (wk), 8. Shardul Thakur, 9. Mohammed Shami, 10. Jasprit Bumrah, 11. Mohammed Siraj

Written by Debashish Sarangi. Follow Debashish on Twitter today

STR vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 18

Charbel Coorey
-
0
STR vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 18

STR vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 18 | STR vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today | Strikers vs Heat Key Players | Adelaide Oval Pitch Report

After finishing just one game short of the BBL 10 Final, Brisbane Heat have been quite disappointing in the new season. Yes, there is plenty of time left, but Jimmy Peirson’s team will want to avoid falling too far behind the pack, particularly given how well the Sydney Sixers and Perth Scorchers are going, plus the potential of the Sydney Thunder.

The Heat have won one of four matches this season. As have the Adelaide Strikers. However, the Strikers, thanks to four Bash Boost points, sit in the top five. Nevertheless, it is a match that has a great deal of importance to it, as defeat for either side will mean that catching up is on the post-Christmas menu.

Last time out, the Strikers pushed the Sixers right till the end. Yet again, however, they lost a cluster of wickets in their middle order – an area they must improve on today. The Heat were obliterated by the Thunder, reaching 143 thanks to some good lower order batting after being reduced to 15/5 in their chase of 192.

Australia won in fine style here a few days ago to take a 2-0 lead in the Ashes. Which of these two sides will have the happier Christmas with a win at the Adelaide Oval tonight?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Adelaide Strikers:

  • Matthew Short was looking good once again last match (16 off 8 balls), before falling to a brilliant catch at point by Dan Christian. He had struck two fours and a six in a promising innings.
  • Short has been in good touch this season, with 140 runs in four matches at an average of 35.00 and strike rate of 155.55. Key player.
  • Jake Weatherald has scored the most runs of any player in T20s at the Adelaide Oval. In fact, he is the only player with at least 1,000 runs on this ground (34 inns, 1,044 runs, avg. 32.63, SR 138.65).
  • Weatherald has made a slow start to the season (4 inns, 52 runs, avg. 13). The Strikers will be hoping he builds on his modest record vs Heat today: 9 inns, 198 runs, avg. 24.75, SR 137.50.
  • Matt Renshaw has an outstanding record against his former team. He has smashed 185 runs in three innings against the Heat at an average of 185.00 and strike rate of 146.83.
  • Thomas Kelly played a beautifully a couple of days ago against the Sixers. He top-scored with 41 off 34 balls to help the Strikers reach a defendable 147/8.
  • Rashid Khan is in irresistible form. He was superb against the Sixers, taking 3/20 to keep his team right in the game. He also has a good record vs Heat, with 10 scalps in six matches at an average of 14.30 and economy rate of 5.96.
  • Rashid also enjoys bowling at the Adelaide Oval. He has taken 39 wickets in 25 matches at an average of 17.08 and economy rate of 6.53.
  • Peter Siddle was disappointing against the Sixers (3.2-0-40-0), but he loves bowling at the Adelaide Oval. He has 39 wickets in 26 matches on this ground at an average of 15.31 and economy rate of 6.90.
  • Also, Siddle has 10 wickets in eight matches vs Heat at an economy rate of 7.07 and average of 15.20.

Brisbane Heat:

  • Skipper Jimmy Peirson has the most runs in Strikers-Heat matches. He has struck 286 runs in nine innings at an average of 47.67 and strike rate of 144.44. He scored 69* (36), 12 (14) and 47* (44) against them last season.
  • Chris Lynn has been disappointing so far this season with just 72 runs in four matches, and he will have to turn around some poor numbers vs Adelaide Strikers (214 runs, avg. 16.46) and at the Adelaide Oval (162 runs, avg. 18.00) today.
  • Sam Heazlett has made a poor start to life vs Strikers (4 inns, 15 runs, avg. 3.75). However, he is talented and has plenty to offer, which was on show earlier this season with scores of 42, 34 and 44* to start the campaign.
  • Mark Steketee has the most wickets of any Heat bowler vs Strikers in their current squad. He has taken nine wickets in eight matches at an average of 25.33 and economy rate of 8.39.
  • Xavier Bartlett is the Heat’s second-highest run-scorer this season (102). Incredibly, he is yet to be dismissed. He also has taken four wickets in three career matches vs Strikers at an average of 15.75 and strike rate of 7.00.
  • Incredibly, Mujeeb ur Rahman has not taken a single wicket in four matches vs Strikers. Will today be the day?

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 14, Strikers 8, Heat 6.
  • Adelaide Strikers beat Brisbane Heat twice in the regular season in BBL 10, before the Heat won the Eliminator. Jimmy Peirson was player of the match with 47* (44).
  • Both teams have won just once so far this season, but the Strikers sit fourth due to four Big Bash points to their name.
  • Fawad Ahmed has taken 14 wickets in 11 matches vs Heat at an economy rate of 7.18.

Possible Playing 11

The Strikers have named their squad. They might stick with the same XI that pushed the Sixers hard a couple of nights ago.

Adelaide Strikers: 1. Matt Short, 2. Jake Weatherald, 3. Matt Renshaw, 4. Jono Wells, 5. Thomas Kelly, 6. Harry Nielsen (wk), 7. George Garton, 8. Rashid Khan, 9. Peter Siddle (c), 10. Daniel Worrall, 11. Fawad Ahmed

Mitchell Swepson is on Australia Test duty so he will miss this match. Also, Jack Wildermuth is a welcome return after Tom Abell injured his knee in the loss to Sydney Thunder.

Brisbane Heat: 1. Chris Lynn, 2. Max Bryant, 3. Ben Duckett, 4. Sam Heazlett, 5. Tom Cooper, 6. Jimmy Pierson (c & wk), 7. Xavier Bartlett, 8. Jack Wildermuth, 9. James Bazley/Matt Kuhnemann, 10. Mark Steketee, 11. Mujeeb ur Rahman

Adelaide Oval Pitch Report and Weather

Earlier this season, Strikers (149) defended their total with ease vs Renegades (100). The Adelaide Oval surface had something in it for the bowlers, and we can expect another good cricket wicket here after a fine surface for the recent Test match.

In 10 BBL matches on this ground last season, the average first innings score was 169.2 at a run rate of 8.72 per over. The team batting first won six of those matches, and the Strikers won batting first earlier this season.

We are set for a perfect evening for cricket forecast wise. The temperature will be in the mid-20s with clear skies.

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:

STR vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 18 | STR vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today | Strikers vs Heat Key Players | Adelaide Oval Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 18: STR vs HEA Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

STR vs HEA Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 18 | STR vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today | Strikers vs Heat Key Players | Adelaide Oval Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 18: STR vs HEA Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Ben Duckett
  • Batsmen: Sam Heazlett, Matt Renshaw
  • All-rounders: Matt Short
  • Bowlers: Xavier Bartlett, Rashid Khan, Peter Siddle

Match Prediction

Adelaide Strikers start as favourites due to their bowling attack plus the Heat’s very poor top order batting right now. Batting first and posting a score of 165+ will be a good position to be in.

REN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 17

Charbel Coorey
-
0
REN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 17

REN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 17 | REN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction | Melbourne Renegades vs Perth Scorchers | Docklands Pitch Report

Perth Scorchers have well and truly made a strong statement in the early part of the BBL 11 season. Filled with talent from top to bottom, the Scorchers have performed brilliantly as a unit, so much so that they swept the highly-rated Hobart Hurricanes twice in as many weeks in Hobart.

How well they deal with the constant travel will be key. They will not play at home due to Western Australia’s border restrictions, so it will be interesting to see how they perform further north in Melbourne this time. But, their bowling attack is rocking, and the Melbourne Renegades will have to be at their best to stand any chance.

However, the Renegades are boosted by the return of World Cup winning skipper Aaron Finch. The former Renegades captain missed the opening part of the season due to a knee injury, and the young batting lineup was unable to muster significant scores as a result. Here, Finch and the Renegades will need to deal with the Scorchers’ brilliant variety, as well as keep a deep batting lineup in check. Tough ask.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Melbourne Renegades:

  • Will Aaron Finch feel refreshed after a break? He has a sub-par record against the Scorchers, with just 264 runs in 13 matches at an average of 20.31 and strike rate of 124.53. The Renegades will be hoping he can turn those numbers around.
  • However, Finch loves batting at Marvel Stadium. No player has scored more T20 runs on this ground than Finch, with 1,122 at an average of 41.56 and strike rate of 135.84.
  • Nic Maddinson will also be key to the Renegades’ hopes. The left-hander hasn’t really cracked T20 cricket, but he is enjoying a wonderful domestic season, which includes a 46-ball 71* in Australia A’s recent win over England Lions.
  • Maddinson has a poor career record vs Scorchers: 15 inns, 226 runs, avg. 16.14, SR 116.49.
  • Mackenzie Harvey has struck two half-centuries in three matches this season (71* and 56). He is the Renegades’ top scorer so far in BBL 11 with 146 runs in three innings at an average of 73.00 and strike rate of 128.07.
  • Will Mohammad Nabi deliver with both bat and ball? The all-rounder has taken just two wickets in five matches vs Scorchers, along with 70 runs at an average of 17.50 and strike rate of 107.69.
  • However, Nabi enjoys playing at Marvel Stadium. He has scored 282 runs on this ground at an average of 35.25 and strike rate of 123.14. He also has taken seven wickets at an economy rate of just 6.00.
  • Zahir Khan is having a dream season so far, with seven wickets in three games in BBL 11. He took 3/24 on this ground earlier this season.
  • Kane Richardson has taken 13 wickets in eight matches for Renegades against Scorchers (avg. 15.15, econ. 6.53). Also, he has taken the most wickets of any bowler at Marvel Stadium, with 22 scalps in 16 matches at an average of 21.18 and economy rate of 7.64.

Perth Scorchers:

  • Mitch Marsh smashed a century two matches ago, before missing out on a big score last match. He was looking solid for his 21, before chopping a full toss back onto his stumps.
  • Marsh has a modest record against Renegades (9 inns, 177 runs, avg. 25.29, SR 121.23). But, he has had a wonderful year in T20s, and the Renegades need to dismiss him early.
  • Kurtis Patterson is having a terrific BBL 11 so far. He has struck two half-centuries in three matches so far, with a total of 146 runs at an average of 48.66 and strike rate of 165.90.
  • Josh Inglis has made a slow start to his campaign (2 and 0). However, a player of his talent can never be written off. He smashed 72* off 41 balls the last time he played the Renegades, back in January.
  • Ashton Agar looked brilliant with the bat last game vs Hurricanes (30* off 11 balls). He also has six scalps in four matches this season (econ. 6.37), and will be looking to build on his five wickets in seven matches vs Renegades.
  • Andrew Tye is the top wicket-taker so far in BBL 11 (10 in four matches). His change of pace and accuracy has been a real feature of his bowling, and will be aiming to take more wickets today against a team whom he has 11 wickets to his name in nine matches (avg. 23).
  • Tymal Mills was superb once again with his variations last match (1/15 off 3 overs). He has four scalps in two matches this season, part of a wonderful year in short-form cricket: 25 inns, 36 wickets, econ. 6.76.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 14, Renegades 3, Scorchers 11.
  • Both Scorchers and Renegades won a game against each other last season. Scorchers bowled the Renegades out for 89 in their previous meeting.
  • Aaron Finch vs Jason Behrendhorff will be a key battle. Finch averages just 11.6 in 24 T20 innings against left-arm pace.
  • Colin Munro smashed 52 off 31 balls the last time he played the Renegades. He will be seeking a return to form after getting dismissed for 0 and 9 in his last two games following a century vs Strikers.

Possible Playing 11

Aaron Finch is back for the Renegades and will open the batting. James Pattinson is back after missing the last match due to soreness.

Melbourne Renegades: 1. Aaron Finch, 2. Mazkenzie Harvey, 3. Sam Harper (wk), 4. Nic Maddinson (c), 5. Mohammad Nabi, 6. Jake Fraser-McGurk, 7. Will Sutherland, 8. James Pattinson, 9. Kane Richardson, 10. Reece Topley, 11. Zahir Khan

Perth Scorchers named their squad, which includes Kurtis Patterson who was battling a quad issue last match.

Also, it remains to be seen if the Scorchers put Colin Munro back at opener after trying Josh Inglis in the position last match.

Perth Scorchers: 1. Kurtis Patterson, 2. Colin Munro, 3. Mitch Marsh, 4. Josh Inglis (wk), 5. Ashton Turner (c), 6. Laurie Evans, 7. Ashton Agar, 8. Andrew Tye, 9. Jason Behrendhorff, 10. Peter Hatzoglou, 11. Tymal Mills

Marvel Stadium Docklands Pitch Report and Weather

It is typically a slow pitch on this ground. The team batting first has won four of the five matches at Docklands. However, there was some bounce and carry in the only match on this ground so far this season, where the Renegades (153/9) beat Adelaide Strikers by two runs.

Weather won’t be an issue as this stadium has a roof.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

BBL 2021/22 Match 17: REN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

BBL 2021/22 Match 17: REN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Josh Inglis
  • Batsmen: Kurtis Patterson, Aaron Finch
  • All-rounders: Mitch Marsh, Ashton Agar
  • Bowlers: Andrew Tye, Tymal Mills, Kane Richardson

Match Prediction

Scorchers are the only unbeaten team this season, and they should win again here.

SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 16

Charbel Coorey
-
0
SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 16

SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 16 | SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction Today | Sydney Sixers vs Adelaide Strikers Key Players | SCG Pitch Report

For the first time in BBL 11, if the match doesn’t end in a certain way, it will be considered quite the upset. Adelaide Strikers, who are without linchpins Alex Carey and Travis Head due to successful Test duty, have found the going tough so far this season. So, if they beat the high-flying Sydney Sixers in Sydney, it would be some result.

The Strikers have found it difficult to score big, with scores of just 151, 149 and 146 so far. The onus is on the bowlers to keep the in-form Sixers’ batsmen in check, particularly Josh Philippe and Moises Henriques who have both led from the front this season.

However, the Sixers have been dealt a blow with Tom Curran to miss the remainder of BBL 11 due to a back injury. Also, key spinner Steve O’Keefe is out with a calf injury, with fellow finger spinner Ben Manenti out with a stress fracture in his neck. So, these absentees give the Strikers reason to believe, but the Sixers’ depth – which has been key to their success – will be a challenge to overcome.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Sydney Sixers:

  • What a season Josh Philippe is having. He is currently the top run-scorer in BBL 11 with 259 runs in four matches at an average of 86.33 and strike rate of 156.96 with three half-centuries. This includes a superb 99* in his last match.
  • Philippe has struck 83 and 72 so far at the SCG this season. He also has a good record against the Strikers, with 172 runs in six innings at an average of 43.00 and strike rate of 147.01.
  • Moises Henriques is also having a fine season (204 runs, avg. 102.00, SR 155.72). The skipper has the most runs of any Sixers player against the Strikers, with 219 in eight matches at an average of 36.50 and strike rate of 134.36.
  • Jordan Silk continues to be a reliable middle order player for the Sixers. He struck 25* off 19 balls in his last match vs Stars, and has scored the third-most runs in T20s at the SCG: 23 inns, 610 runs, avg. 38.13, SR 130.34.
  • Dan Christian smashed 50 off 16 balls last season vs Strikers. Also, he took two wickets across the two meetings in BBL 2020/21. Can he fire here?
  • Ben Dwarshuis has the most wickets in Sixers-Strikers matches. The left-armer has 14 scalps in nine matches at an average of 17.29 and economy rate of 6.91.
  • Sean Abbott is set to return after the birth of his daughter last week. The seamer enjoys bowling against the Strikers, with 12 wickets in seven matches at an average of 17.08 and economy rate of 8.72.
  • Also, Abbott has the most T20 wickets of any bowler at the SCG, with 51 scalps in 35 matches at an average of 19.73 and economy rate of 8.53.

Adelaide Strikers:

  • Matt Short has been a shining light for the Strikers this season. He has struck 124 runs in three matches at an average of 41.33 and strike rate of 151.21.
  • Can he improve on a terrible record against the Sixers? Short has scored 27 runs in five matches against them at an average of just 5.40. However, Short looks an improved player this year.
  • Jake Weatherald is key to the Strikers’ hopes. He has scored 198 runs in eight innings vs Sixers at an average of 28.29 and strike rate of 129.41.
  • Matt Renshaw is set to return, and will be key. He has scored 84 runs in four innings vs Sixers, so he will be looking to build on that today.
  • Jono Wells has an outstanding record for Strikers against Sixers. In seven matches, he has struck 247 runs at an average of 82.33 and strike rate of 121.67.
  • Rashid Khan has an excellent record vs Sixers, with 13 scalps in seven matches at an average of 14.92 and economy rate of 6.93. He took 3/18 in his last match against them back in January, dismissing Philippe, Jack Edwards and Daniel Hughes.
  • Daniel Worrall (four wickets this season, econ. 6.17) and George Garton (three wickets, econ. 6.00) have both bowled well so far in BBL 11.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 14, Sixers 9, Strikers 5.
  • Sydney Sixers have won the past five meetings between the teams.
  • Peter Siddle has taken just two wickets in seven innings against the Sixers (avg. 93.00).
  • James Vince has scored 113 runs in five matches vs Strikers at an average of 28.25.

Possible Playing 11

Sydney Sixers have named their squad for this match. As mentioned, Tom Curran, Steve O’Keefe and Ben Manenti are unavailable due to injury.

Sydney Sixers: 1. Josh Philippe (wk), 2. James Vince, 3. Moises Henriques (c), 4. Daniel Hughes, 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Dan Christian, 7. Sean Abbott, 8. Chris Jordan, 9. Ben Dwarshuis, 10. Hayden Kerr, 11. Lloyd Pope

Matt Renshaw is named in the Strikers squad and is a welcome addition after Australia A duty. Also, promising batsman Henry Hunt is in the squad.

Adelaide Strikers: 1. Matt Short, 2. Jake Weatherald, 3. Matt Renshaw, 4. Jono Wells, 5. Harry Nielsen (wk), 6. George Garton, 7. Rashid Khan, 8. Peter Siddle (c), 9. Wes Agar, 10. Daniel Worrall, 11. Fawad Ahmed

SCG Pitch Report and Weather

It has been a belter of a pitch at Sydney so far in BBL 11. There have been two 200+ scores in as many matches, with the likes of Philippe, Henriques and Matthew Wade scoring big. It should be another good surface here, but don’t be surprised if it’s a touch on the drier side after a number of hot days in Sydney.

Rain will not play a factor in this one. A warm and clear evening is forecast.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 16 | SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction Today | Sydney Sixers vs Adelaide Strikers Key Players | SCG Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 16: SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report: BBL 2021/22 Match 16 | SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction Today | Sydney Sixers vs Adelaide Strikers Key Players | SCG Pitch Report
BBL 2021/22 Match 16: SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Josh Philippe (c)
  • Batsmen: James Vince, Jake Weatherald
  • All-rounders: Moises Henriques, Matt Short
  • Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Sean Abbott

Match Prediction

Sydney Sixers should be too good in this one. The Strikers’ best hope likely lies with the likes of Rashid Khan and Jake Weatherald.

1...263264265...498Page 264 of 498