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IND vs NZ 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Yash Mittal
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IND vs NZ 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IND vs NZ 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NZ 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs New Zealand 3rd T20 Key Players | Kolkata Pitch Report

India wrapped up the three-match T20I series in Ranchi courtesy of a seven-wicket win on Friday night and the Rohit Sharma-led unit will look to complete a series whitewash when both sides lock horns for one final time at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

The second T20I followed the same template as the first one in Jaipur as India won the toss and once again opted to bowl first. In dew-laden conditions, New Zealand knew they had to post an above par total to challenge the might of Indian batting.

And, unlike the first game, their opening duo of Daryll Mitchell and Martin Guptill came out swinging in the powerplay. The duo racked up 48 runs in just 4.2 overs before Mitchell was dismissed by debutant Harshal Patel.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Deepak Chahar proved to be mighty expensive, conceding 81 runs between them for two wickets in eight overs. However, the spin duo of Ashwin and Axar Patel applied the middle-overs choke while Harshal bowled exceedingly well at the death to restrict the Kiwis to 6/153 in 20 overs.

It was never going to be enough and it didn’t as Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul put the chase on auto-pilot mode courtesy of a 117-run-stand. Apart from skipper Tim Southee, who claimed 3/16 in 4 overs, none of the Kiwi bowlers proved to be effective.

Coming into the third T20I, India would look for chances to fringe players like Ruturaj Gaikwad after a challenging World Cup campaign. They may also look to bring back Yuzvendra Chahal in the starting XI by resting one of their spinners. However, it remains to be seen if India will try to bat first if they end up winning the toss considering the fact that it’s been their Achilles heel for a long time now.

With regards to the visitors, they will look to pull one back and end the series on a high. It can be said that New Zealand lost both games due to the inability of their batters to cash in on their starts. This is something the Southee-led unit will look to address if they once again end up batting first.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

India:

  • KL Rahul: He missed out in the first T20I but more than made up for it in Ranchi by painting the entire ground with his sumptuous strokeplay. Rahul scored a brilliant 49-ball 65 with the help of six fours and a couple of sixes. This was his 18th 50-plus score in T20I cricket in his 52nd innings.
  • Suryakumar Yadav: After enthralling the folklore with brilliant stroke play in the first game, Surya missed out in Ranchi, managing a 2-ball 1. One can expect yet another innings of substance from the Mumbai cricketer at his former IPL home.
  • R Ashwin: The veteran off-spinner seems to have hit peak form in T20s over the course of the last five games. Ashwin has been sensational in the first couple of games and it is his bowling during the middle-overs that helped India put brakes on New Zealand’s batting.
  • Ashwin has thus far registered figures of 2/23 and 1/19 in eight overs.
  • Harshal Patel: The 30-year-old seamer enjoyed a memorable outing in his debut T20I. He registered figures of 2/25 in four overs and was fittingly adjudged ‘Player of the Match’ after a wonderful IPL campaign.

New Zealand:

  • Martin Guptill: The right-handed opener gave New Zealand an ideal start in the last games he tee into Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Deepak Chahar. Guptill backed up his 70 in the first game with a 15-ball 31 in the second. One can expect a similar sort of fireworks from him at Eden Gardens.
  • Mark Chapman: Unlike the first game where he did a stellar job by playing with intent during the middle-overs, Chapman failed to do the same in Ranchi as he registered a scratchy 17-ball 21. New Zealand will hope the southpaw does an encore of Jaipur in Kolkata.
  • Glenn Phillips: He missed out in Jaipur but Phillips looked in his elements in the last game as he smashed three sixes and a four during his 21-ball 34. However, the Kiwis will hope the hard-hitting batter converts his start into a big knock in the final game.
  • James Neesham: The all-rounder had a night to forget in Ranchi as he managed a 12-ball 3 with the bat besides conceding back-to-back sixes off the couple of deliveries he bowled to Rishabh Pant. He will look to bounce back in Kolkata.
  • Tim Southee: The skipper [3/16] was the lone shining light in Ranchi for New Zealand as far as the bowling department is concerned.
  • Not only was he economical, he also claimed three wickets. However, all those wickets came when the game was virtually over. He will look to make early in-roads in India’s batting-unit in Kolkata.

Stats and Facts

  • India have played three T20Is in Kolkata, winning two and losing one.
  • This will be the first time both these sides will lock horns in a T20I at the Eden Gardens.
  • If India win tomorrow, it will be their second consecutive whitewash of the Kiwis in the format. The Men in Blue had previously blanked New Zealand 5-0 under Virat Kohli in January 2020.
  • India’s W/L ratio in the last three years while batting first is 0.909. Teams’ who have worse W/L ratio than India are Bangladesh, Pakistan, West Indies and Sri Lanka.

Possible Playing 11

India:

With series already in the bag, India will certainly look to make some changes to their playing XI. Young Ruturaj Gaikwad, uncapped Avesh Khan and Yuzvendra Chahal might get an opportunity to play at the Eden Gardens.

Ruturaj is likely to make an appearance which means one of Rohit or Rahul could sit out. If Rohit takes rest then Rahul will lead the team. Bhuvneshwar Kumar might make way for Avesh Khan while Chahal could come in place of Axar Patel or even R Ashwin.

Rohit Sharma/ Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (WK), Venkatesh Iyer, R Ashwin, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Avesh Khan/Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal

New Zealand:

New Zealand may look to bring back Lockie Ferguson in place of Adam Milne, who proved to be mighty expensive in the last game.

Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell,  Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Tim Seifert (WK), James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee (C), Lockie Ferguson/Adam Milne, Ish Sodhi, Trent Boult

Kolkata Pitch Report and Weather Conditions

Another game which may well be decided at the toss thanks to the dew factor. New Zealand will be desperate to win the toss and field first while India might look to test themselves by doing something they aren’t traditionally good at – setting a target.

As far as the weather is concerned, the temperatures are set to hover between 23-31 degree celsius. Humidity – 84 per cent. Chances of rain: minimal.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

IND vs NZ 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NZ 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs New Zealand 3rd T20 Key Players | Kolkata Pitch Report
IND vs NZ 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

IND vs NZ 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NZ 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs New Zealand 3rd T20 Key Players | Kolkata Pitch Report
IND vs NZ 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Rishabh Pant
  • Batsmen: KL Rahul, Martin Guptill
  • All-rounders: Daryl Mitchell
  • Bowlers: Harshal Patel, Trent Boult

Match Prediction

India will start as favorites but once again the toss is likely to play a decisive role. 

BAN vs PAK 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
BAN vs PAK 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

BAN vs PAK 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BAN vs PAK 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction | Bangladesh vs Pakistan 2nd T20I Key Players | Dhaka Pitch Report

The series kicked off in cracking fashion yesterday, with Team Pakistan winning the game thanks to some great fight against the Bangladesh bowlers. Bangladesh picked up crucial wickets early and had the game in their hands, but lost the match in a close encounter. But, as was the case against Australia and New Zealand earlier this year, Bangladesh’s attack looks tough to play in these conditions.

Bangladesh will need to perform well to beat Pakistan even in their home conditions, as the tourists have continuous winning momentum. Bangladesh team got a start from the bowling unit and from the middle order batting line-up, but they need a more consistent performance as Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz sealed the win for Pakistan with some great finishing.

Now, the series is on the line and Bangladesh must win to keep their hopes of a fourth straight bilateral T20I series win alive.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Bangladesh:

  • Mohammad Naim has scored the most T20I runs for Bangladesh this year (526, average: 22.86, strike rate: 102), but will need to bounce back today after getting out early yesterday.
  • Mahmudullah the skipper who plays well at short format of the game can score good runs with his experience and hitting ability. He has an average of 24 in this format of the game.
  • He has the most T20I runs of any player at Sher e Bangla Stadium: 694 runs, average: 40.82, strike rate 119.44.
  • Afif Hossain, the youngster, handled a pressure situation well and he managed to scored 36 runs to resurrect the Bangladesh innings. He has a solid record on this ground: 271 runs, average 27.10, strike rate 127.83.
  • Mehedi Hasan performed well as an all-rounder, scoring 30 runs from 20 balls with excellent strike-rate and picked up one wicket at a steady economy rate. He will be key.
  • Taskin Ahmed picked up crucial wickets including the wicket of Babar. He has been brilliant in the past against Pakistan; he has six wickets from four games. Also, he was impressive in the World Cup.
  • Mustafizur Rahman, the main pacer, bowled the inform batsman Rizwan yesterday. He has taken 97 wickets in 68 T20 matches at Sher e Bangla Stadium. He will be aiming for an improved showing at the death.

Pakistan:

  • Babar Azam has a score of 66* against Bangladesh, but just seven runs across his other two innings against them. However, he has the class to bounce back today after scoring the most runs in the T20 World Cup.
  • Mohammad Rizwan was also out cheaply in the first game, but like Babar, he can bounce back. He is the only player with at least 1,000 T20I runs this year (1,044 runs, avg. 80.30, SR 135.93).
  • Fakhar Zaman struck below 100 yesterday, but his 34 helped stablise the Pakistan innings after a tough start. He scored a brilliant 55* against Australia last week, so he is in some form.
  • Shadab Khan looked in fine touch with the ball, troubling the Bangladeshis with the googly. He took one wicket and finished the match brilliantly with the bat (21* off 10 balls).
  • Mohammad Nawaz also batted beautifully (18* off 8 balls) after an economical spell of 1/27. He will be key again on a slow, turning pitch.
  • Hasan Ali gave an excellent start with the ball last match with three wickets and conceded just 22 runs.
  • Mohammad Wasim Jr is a talented young pacer and can further build confidence today after he picked up two wickets yesterday.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 14, Bangladesh 2, Pakistan 11, N/R 1.
  • Bangladesh won their last three bilateral T20I series. They need to win today.
  • There was plenty of action for the wicket-keepers yesterday. Both Rizwan and Nurul initiated three dismissals each.

Possible Playing 11

Bangladesh: 1. Mohammad Naim Sheikh, 2. Saif Hassan, 3. N Hossain Shanto, 4. Nurul Hasan (wk), 5. Mahmudullah (c), 6. Afif Hossain, 7. Mehedi Hasan, 8. Aminul Islam, 9. Shoriful Islam, 10. Taskin Ahmed, 11. Mustafizur Rahman

Pakistan: 1. Babar Azam (c), 2. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 3. Fakhar Zaman, 4. Haider Ali, 5. Khushdil Shah, 6. Shoaib Malik, 7. Shadab Khan, 8. Mohammad Nawaz, 9. Hasan Ali, 10. Mohammad Wasim Jr., 11. Haris Rauf/Shaheen Shah Afridi

Mirpur Dhaka Pitch Report and Weather

Another low-scoring match is in store today after 127 was nearly enough for Bangladesh yesterday. Turn and grip was on offer for both spinners and pacers. Any score in the region of 130-140 will be quite competitive.

Another clear afternoon is forecast.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

BAN vs PAK 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BAN vs PAK 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction | Bangladesh vs Pakistan 2nd T20I Key Players | Dhaka Pitch Report
BAN vs PAK 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

BAN vs PAK 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BAN vs PAK 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction | Bangladesh vs Pakistan 2nd T20I Key Players | Dhaka Pitch Report
BAN vs PAK 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Mohammad Rizwan
  • Batsmen: Babar Azam, Mahmudullah
  • All-rounders: Mahedi Hasan, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz
  • Bowlers: Hassan Ali, Taskin Ahmed

Match Prediction

Pakistan are favourites to win given their depth and history between the teams. A score between 130-150 can be a very difficult chase.

Tim Paine resigns as Australia Test captain: Twitter reactions

Nash Sant
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Tim Paine resigns as Australia Test captain: Twitter reactions

Cricket News: Tim Paine resigns as Australia Test captain: Twitter reactions | Tim Paine resigns as Test captain due to sexting scandal

In a shock just weeks out from the Ashes, Tim Paine has stood down as Australia Test captain due to a sexting scandal that took place with a former colleague back in 2017.

In 2018, when Tim Paine was made the captain of the Australian Test side following the sandpaper gate, those at CA hoped he would serve as skipper and end with his head held high. But what happened on 19th November no one really saw coming and everyone was absolutely dumbfounded when reports started circulating that Tim Paine had decided to step down from the captaincy amids sexting scandal back in 2017. 

Tim Paine announces resignation via press conference

Around 2:30pm Hobart time, Tim Paine walked into a press conference to announce exactly the same. An emotional Paine read out a statement and gave up his skipper status but expressed his desire to keep playing for Australia.

“Today, I’m announcing my decision to stand down as the captain of the Australian men’s Test team. It’s an incredibly difficult decision, but the right one for me, my family, and cricket.”

He also added that Cricket Tasmania had conducted an investigation of their own in 2017 and he had been exonerated.

“As a background on my decision, nearly four years ago, I was involved in a text exchange with a then-colleague. At the time, the exchange was the subject of a thorough CA Integrity Unit investigation, throughout which I fully participated in and openly participated in.”

When we dive further into what actually transpired in 2017, we get a much clear picture of the entire scandal. Cricket Tasmania put out a statement immediately after the press conference. According to the Cricket Tasmania statement this morning, the allegations against the former skipper were raised by a former employee within the organization when formal theft charges were laid against that said employee.

Cricket Tasmania Chairman, Andrew Gaggin in the press release, said “As soon as Cricket Tasmania was made aware, it undertook an investigation that determined the interaction was consensual, private, occurred on the one occasion only, was between mature adults and was not repeated”

Tim Paine got married in 2016 and has deeply apologized to his wife, family and also the wider cricketing community for his actions. Although the exchange was consensual, Cricket Tasmania has stated that it does not condone this type of behaviour and hence directly addressed the matter with Paine himself in 2017.

“However, I recently became aware that this private text exchange was going to become public. On reflection, my actions in 2017 do not meet the standard of an Australian cricket captain, or the wider community. I’m deeply sorry for the hurt and pain that I have caused to my wife, my family, and to the other party. I’m sorry for any damage that this does to the reputation of our sport,” said Paine.

Tim Paine ended his press conference by saying he will remain part of the team. “I will remain a committed member of the Australian cricket team and look forward with anticipation to what is a huge Ashes tour.”

He made it clear that he wasn’t taking questions. But the questions will start looming in the minds of the fans and followers as to who takes over the captaincy and whether Tim Paine stays in the playing XI if not the skipper. 

Paine hasn’t played First Class cricket since April, and without the leadership string to his bow, attention quickly comes back to what is a crowded field of wicketkeeper-batters Australia has available for selection.

Australia A captain Alex Carey and WA gloveman Josh Inglis, who was in Australia’s World Cup winning squad and was also picked in this week’s Australia A side, loom as the two most likely to push for a Baggy Green.

https://twitter.com/Carpo34/status/1461549415592652801?s=20
https://twitter.com/dweplea/status/1461549507129143299?s=20

IND vs NZ 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Yash Mittal
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0
IND vs NZ 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IND vs NZ 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs New Zealand Key Players | Ranchi Pitch Report

After a scrappy five-wicket win in the first T20I, Team India will look to seal the three-match series against New Zealand in Ranchi on Friday [November 19].

The ‘new era’ of Indian T20I cricket under the leadership duo of Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid started on a positive note on Wednesday as the home side chased down the target of 165 in the final over.  India’s run-chase was led brilliantly by Sharma [48 off 36 balls] and Suryakumar Yadav [62 off 40 balls] but their untimely dismissals and scratchy knocks by Rishabh Pant (13* off 13 balls) and Shreyas Iyer (5 off 8 balls) meant that the game inexplicably went into the final over.

The decision to bat Shreyas at five left a lot to be desired given his weakness against pacers while Pant once once underwhelmed as a T20 batter. So, India will be looking for an improvement in this area in the second T20I.

In terms of bowling, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Ravichandran Ashwin were the pick of the bowlers while Mohammed Siraj and Axar Patel endured a poor outing. Rohit missed the trick of not trying out Venkatesh given the fact that he is being looked at as a seam-bowling all-rounder, something the may look to try in Ranchi.

As for New Zealand, despite the absence of many first-choice players, the visitors ran India close in the first game.  Mark Chapman grabbed his opportunity with both hands as he made a well compiled 50-ball 63. Martin Guptill finally turned up to the party after a lean World Cup, finishing with a 42-ball 70.

However, New Zealand would hope that he and Daryll Mitchell make the most of the powerplay, something they didn’t do in the last game. The BlackCaps managed just 65 runs in the first 10 overs in Jaipur, which eventually proved to be decisive in the end, much like the World Cup final, a few days ago.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

India:

  • Rohit Sharma: The stylish opener looked in his elements in Jaipur as he dished out sumptuous strokeplay to whet the appetite of fans.
  • Sharma scored a 36-ball 48 with the help of five fours and a couple of sixes and he would ideally like to convert such a start into a big score in the second match.
  • KL Rahul: Rahul missed out in the last game, managing a 14-ball 15. But given his stellar T20 record, especially against New Zealand- 257 runs in 7 innings- we could be in for a special knock from him on Friday night. 
  • Suryakumar Yadav: SKY on Wednesday displayed just what India missed during their T20 World Cup game against New Zealand last month as he flayed their spinners to all corners of the ground.
  • He batted with the intent India missed in that WC game and ended up scoring a 40-ball 62. He was deservedly adjudged the ‘Player Of the Match’
  • Ravichandran Ashwin: The veteran spinner was at the height his powers in the last game as he bamboozled the likes of Chapman and Glenn Phillips with drift, turn and guile. Ashwin finished with figures of 2/23 in four overs.
  • Bhuvneshwar Kumar: After a disappointing WC outing where he was left out after the game against Pakistan, Bhuvi showed signs of getting back close to his best in the first match.
  • He bowled Mitchell with a brilliant inswinger to kickstart the proceedings before claiming Mark Chapman at the backend to finish with figures of 2/24 in 4 overs.

New Zealand:

  • Martin Guptill: The veteran opener got off to a slow start but cashed in at the backend to finish with a 42-ball 70 with the help of three fours and four sixes.
  • However,  the visitors would want Guptill to show more intent in the powerplay,something that has been missing in the past few games.
  • Mark Chapman: The southpaw made the most of the opportunity and racked up a brilliant 50-ball 63. He will once again be the key to New Zealand’s fortunes during the middle overs.
  • Glenn Phillips: He missed out in the last game thanks to being completely undone by a carrom ball from Ashwin.
  • Phillips is key to New Zealand as far as exploiting the death overs is concerned, especially in the absence of James Neesham.
  • Mitchell Santner: The left-arm orthodox  once again proved to be a difficult customer to get away during the middle overs.
  • He gave away just 19 runs in four overs and claimed the prized scalp of Rahul.
  • Lockie Ferguson: The pacer impressed in his maiden outing after injury and while he didn’t claim a wicket, he ended up giving just 24 runs. He will once again be the key for the Kiwis in the death overs.

Stats and Facts

  • India have played a total of 2 T20Is in Ranchi and the ledger remains 2-0.
  • If India win the second T20I, then it will be their second consecutive bilateral series win over the Kiwis on home soil in the format. They won 2-1 under Virat Kohli back in 2017.
  • India have won six out of their previous seven T20Is against New Zealand.
  • New Zealand has never played a T20I in Ranchi.

Possible Playing 11

Axar Patel and Mohammed Siraj endured a poor outing in the last game but it looks unlikely India will change their playing XI after just one game.

India: 1. Rohit Sharma (c), 2. KL Rahul, 3. Suryakumar Yadav, 4. Shreyas Iyer, 5. Rishabh Pant (wk), 6. Venkatesh Iyer, 7. Axar Patel/R Ashwin, 8. Harshal Patel, 9. Deepak Chahar/Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 10. Avesh Khan/Mohammaed Siraj, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal

The Kiwis rested some of their key players in the last game and handed out opportunities to the likes of Chapman, Ravindra and Todd Astle.

Astle underwhelmed and with the series on the line, the management might look to bring back Ish Sodhi.

New Zealand: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Daryl Mitchell, 3. Tim Seifert, 4. Glenn Phillips (wk), 5. Mark Chapman, 6. Rachin Ravindra, 7. Mitchell Santner, 8. Tim Southee (c), 9. Lockie Ferguson, 10. Todd Astle/Ish Sodhi, 11. Trent Boult

Ranchi Pitch Report and Weather Conditions

Another flat pitch is likely to be the order of the day. However, once again dew could play a major role and captains would be motivated to field first. 

As far as the weather is concerned, it is expected to be clear in Ranchi on Friday. The temperatures will hover between 14-25 and humidity is set to be around 86%.

Dream11 Prediction

Team 01:

IND vs NZ 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs New Zealand Key Players | Ranchi Pitch Report
IND vs NZ 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction

Team 02:

IND vs NZ 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs New Zealand Key Players | Ranchi Pitch Report
IND vs NZ 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Tim Seifert
  • Batsmen: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Martin Guptill
  • All-rounders: Mitchell Santner, Daryl Mitchell
  • Bowlers: Trent Boult, Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Match Prediction

India will start as slight favorites but once again the toss could well play a decisive role.

BAN vs PAK 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
BAN vs PAK 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

BAN vs PAK 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BAN vs PAK 1st T20 Dream11Prediction Today | Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st T20 Key Players | Dhaka Pitch Report

Both Bangladesh and Pakistan will be looking to make a winning start to life after the 2021 T20 World Cup.

Bangladesh will fight with a new-look squad for the chance win against the in-form Pakistan team who have never lost a T20I to Bangladesh. Also, the home side will be looking to recover after a terrible T20 World Cup campaign, while Pakistan are aiming to put their heartbreaking Semi Final loss to Australia behind them.

Given Pakistan’s fighting spirit and Bangladesh desire to win the game, an interesting contest awaits with eyes on how the pitch performs as well.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Bangladesh:

  • Mahmudullah will be important in the absence of Shakib, Mushfiqur, Liton and Soumya. He has the most T20I runs of any player at Sher e Bangla Stadium: 688 runs, average: 43.00, strike rate 120.70.
  • But, he has a bad record vs Pakistan: 11 innings, 88 runs, average: 11.00.
  • Mohammad Naim has scored the most runs for Bangladesh in T20Is this year: 525 runs, average: 23.86, strike rate: 102.53.
  • Afif Hossain had a disappointing World Cup campaign. But, he showed some good form in T20Is at home against Australia. He has scored 235 runs in T20Is on this ground at an average of 26.11 and strike rate of 132.
  • Taskin Ahmed was brilliant in the past against Pakistan; he picked four wickets from three games. Also, he was impressive in the World Cup.
  • Nasum Ahmed took 16 wickets in 10 T20Is on this ground earlier this year (average 9.93, strike rate 12).
  • Mustafizur Rahman has taken 96 wickets in 67 matches at Sher e Bangla Stadium. He will be looking to bounce back after a tough World Cup campaign.

Pakistan:

  • Babar Azam consistently produces runs with his class batting and is the top batsman in T20 rankings. Babar has an average of 66 and strike rate of 143 against Bangladesh.
  • Mohammad Rizwan is having a great year. He is in-form, and can provide a great start coming from a strong World Cup.
  • Fakhar Zaman is an excellent striker of the ball, and with his experience in the game, he can handle any situation for his team. He is coming off a brilliant 55* vs Australia in the Semi Final.
  • Shadab Khan will be crucial if the pitch helps spinners and slower bowlers. He took 4/26 in a brilliant spell last match vs Australia.
  • Shaheen Afridi is bowling brilliantly and got regular wickets in the T20 World Cup. He has two wickets in two T20Is vs Bangladesh at a good economy of 5.63.
  • Haris Rauf is well known for his sharp pace, and he had an impressive World Cup campaign. He has taken two wickets in two matches vs Bangladesh.

Stats and Facts

  • Head to head: Matches 5, Bangladesh 0, Pakistan 5.
  • Babar Azam scored the most runs in the recent T20 World Cup.
  • Bangladesh beat Australia (4-1) and New Zealand (3-2) in T20Is at Dhaka before the World Cup.

Possible Playing 11

Bangladesh: 1. Mohammad Naim, 2. Saif Hassan, 3. Najmul Hossain Shanto, 4. Yasir Ali, 5. Mahmudullah (c), 6. Afif Hossain, 7. Nurul Hasan (wk), 8. Mahedi Hasan, 9. Nasum Ahmed, 10. Mustafizur Rahman, 11. Taskin Ahmed

Pakistan: 1. Babar Azam (c), 2. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 3. Fakhar Zaman, 4. Haider Ali, 5. Shoaib Malik, 6. Khushdil Shah, 7. Mohammad Nawaz, 8. Shadab Khan, 9. Hasan Ali, 10. Haris Rauf, 11. Shaheen Shah Afridi

Mirpur Dhaka Pitch Report and Weather

The pitch at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka will be a slower one. The pitch mainly assists spinners and batsmen can struggle to play big strokes due to pitch conditions. We might see a low-scoring game.

A clear and warm day is forecast for Dhaka.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

BAN vs PAK 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BAN vs PAK 1st T20 Dream11Prediction Today | Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st T20 Key Players | Dhaka Pitch Report
BAN vs PAK 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

BAN vs PAK 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BAN vs PAK 1st T20 Dream11Prediction Today | Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st T20 Key Players | Dhaka Pitch Report
BAN vs PAK 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Mohammad Rizwan
  • Batsmen: Babar Azam, Mahmudullah
  • All-rounders: Mahedi Hasan, Shadab Khan
  • Bowlers: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mustafizur Rahman

Match Prediction

Pakistan have a great record vs Bangladesh and should win vs this inexperienced Tigers team.

5 most impactful batting innings in the 2021 T20 World Cup

Debashish Sarangi
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0
5 most impactful batting innings in the 2021 T20 World Cup

5 most impactful batting innings in the 2021 T20 World Cup | Looking at the 5 best, most impactful batting knocks in the 2021 T20 World Cup

‘When the going gets tough, the tough gets going’.

We have seen an enormous number of batters taking advantage of great starts, but seldom have we seen a batter thriving under a critical situation. Their importance reaches zenith when a World Cup is at stake.

They are called ‘clutch players’ and a lot of eyeballs reside on them especially when they are subjected to crunch situations. Their impact is judged from the way they deal with such situations and rescue their teams.   

In the recently concluded T20 World Cup, there were some players who proved their worth by performing exceedingly well under extreme pressure. Their efforts need a special mention and, in this article, I am going to list five most impactful knocks played in this World Cup. Here we go.

James Neesham 27 (11) vs England

Most gave credit of New Zealand’s Semi Final victory to Daryl Mitchell, which he definitely deserved. But, the knock that turned the game in New Zealand’s favour James Neesham’s cameo of 27 runs off just 11.

New Zealand required 60 off 29 balls when Neesham joined Mitchell in the middle. The situation demanded a quickfire knock, which Neesham delivered with precision. He picked England’s best death bowler, Chris Jordan, for this purpose.

His brutal hitting put immense pressure on Jordan to get his Yorkers right in the 17th over. With two huge sixes and one boundary, Neesham scored 19 runs in that over. If this wasn’t enough, he went after Adil Rashid in the next over and hit another six in his very first delivery.

New Zealand scored 40 much-needed runs in just 17 balls during his short-stay in the middle. More importantly, his efforts brought the equation down to just 20 off 12 balls, which was easily achieved by Mitchell in the next over.

Jos Buttler 101* (67) vs Sri Lanka

Although England started as clear favourites against Sri Lanka, the Lankan bowlers had other ideas as they dismantled the English top order, which left them reeling at 47/3 at the end of 10 overs. It was gripping at Sharjah, some deliveries were keeping low and England needed someone to take the charge in order to finish their innings on a high note.

Cometh the hour, cometh the man!

Jos Buttler started playing his shots, with ample support from Eoin Morgan at the other end. He went after all the Sri Lankan bowlers especially their fast bowlers and destroyed their rhythm. He hit them all around the park and reached his century in 67 balls despite being 24 off 30 at one stage.

His fireworks enabled England to reach 166 which they defended successfully.

Matthew Wade 41* (17) vs Pakistan

Imagine needing 80 runs in 46 balls with just five wickets in hand against an in-form Pakistan? You are certainly under the pump.

Matthew Wade went to bat in that exact situation in the second Semi Final. Pakistan was nearing a one-sided victory and the jubilant celebrations of the Pakistani crowd had already begun in the stands in Dubai.

There was a lot of pressure on the Australian keeper-batsman and the way he dealt with it was magnificent. He was at 8 off 9 balls at the end of the 17th over, but was successful in targeting Hasan Ali in the very next over. He hit Hasan for a six and a four and took 13 off 4 balls in his over.

What followed next was sheer carnage. Wade smashed the premier fast bowler of Pakistan, Shaheen Afridi, for three consecutive sixes and won it for Australia single-handedly in the 19th over. He was adjudged the player of the match for his blistering knock.

Kane Williamson 85 (48) vs Australia

Kane Williamson didn’t have a great World Cup prior to the Final as he had scored just 131 runs at a strike rate of just 94.24.

But the World Cup Final against the mighty Aussies proved to be the ideal situation for the Kiwi-skipper to step up and show his class when it mattered the most, yet again.

Williamson joined hands with Martin Guptill after the fall of Mitchell’s wicket in the 4th over. Guptill was struggling to get going at the other end and pressure was building up on the experienced duo. Williamson started changing his gears and went bonkers soon after Guptill was dismissed.

He smashed Starc for three consecutive fours in the 11th over to start with and hit Maxwell for two consecutive sixes in the 13th over. His hitting prowess reached new levels when he hit 22 runs in the 16th over; Mitchell Starc being at the receiving end once again. He had a boundary percentage of almost 69 on his way to an outstanding knock of 85. Although it came in a losing cause, it was one of the finest innings I have ever seen in a Final.   

Mitchell Marsh 77* (50) vs New Zealand

A target of 173 certainly feels like 193 in a World Cup Final. Added to that, Australia started the chase in a poor manner as they lost an important wicket of Aaron Finch in the third over.

You would expect your batters to consolidate in such a situation. However, Mitchell Marsh smacked the very first ball he faced over square leg for a six. This was the proof of the plethora of confidence the man had at that moment. The next two balls went for two boundaries and he never looked back.

He was so comfortable and dominating that it didn’t seem like he was feeling the pressure of the final. He never let the asking rate increase and as a result, Australia chased the target with ease.

His knock of 77* off just 50 balls involved six fours and four humongous sixes and he was so attractive to watch in the night of the final. There was absolutely no wonder why he was adjudged the player of the match for his breath-taking knock.  

For a knock to be impactful, we need to consider the situation under which it is played as well as the dominance of the knock. Frankly, I don’t have any doubt regarding these five being the five most impactful knocks of this World Cup. Have your say!

Written by Debashish Sarangi. Follow Debashish on Twitter today

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

Yash Mittal
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IND vs NZ 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IND vs NZ 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs New Zealand Key Players | Jaipur Pitch Report

The juggernaut of international cricket rolls as India and New Zealand gear up to lock horns in a three-match T20I series, starting November 17 in Jaipur.

It’s been just three days since the T20 World Cup came to a close in the UAE. New Zealand will look to move on from the heartbreak they suffered at the hands of Australia in the summit clash and start from scratch as they aim to build their side for the next World Cup, which starts in Australia in 11 months time. Kane Williamson has opted out of the series and in his absence, Tim Southee will take up the leadership reins.

India, on the other hand, will usher in a new era in the shortest format under the newly appointed leadership duo of captain Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid. The T20 World Cup proved to be nightmare for the ‘Men in Blue’ as they crashed out of the league stage following back-to-back defeats to Pakistan and New Zealand.

There are few new faces in the squad in the form of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Venkatesh Iyer, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel while Yuzvendra Chahal has earned a recall after being snubbed from the set-up ahead of the World Cup.

Also read: 3 ways India can revive their T20I cricket

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

India:

  • KL Rahul: The opener loves batting against the Kiwis in this format. In six innings, he has racked up 242 runs at an average of 48.40 and a strike rate of 141.52 with two 50+ scores.
  • Rohit Sharma: The new T20I skipper is the leading scorer among Indians against the Kiwis. In 14 innings, he has scored 352 runs at an average of 29.33 and a strike rate of 135.90 with 4 50+ scores.
  • SuryaKumar Yadav: The Mumbai batter missed out on a crucial game against the Kiwis in the WC due to injury. He didn’t have much to do in the tournament but the stylish batsman has had a stellar start to his international T20 career. He will be extremely crucial in the middle overs against the likes of Ish Sodhi and Mitchell Santner.
  • Shreyas Iyer: The right-hander has a solid T20I record vs New Zealand: 7 inns, 182 runs, avg. 36.40, SR 127.27.
  • Harshal Patel: The seamer is coming off a record-breaking IPL season, where he took the most wickets by an Indian bowler in a single edition (32).
  • Yuzvendra Chahal: The leg-spinner will have a point to prove in this series following his snub from the T20 WC squad. Chahal was brilliant during the second leg of the IPL. However, he managed just 1 wicket in 5 games in the recent Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament.

New Zealand:

  • Daryl Mitchell: Mitchell made full use of the opportunity to open the innings in the World Cup. With 208 runs in 7 innings at 34.66 and a strike rate of 140.54, Mitchell was the 2nd highest run-scorer for his side in the tournament which includes a match-winning 72* in the Semi Final against England.
  • Tim Seifert: Conway’s absence means Seifert will get an extended opportunity to showcase his credentials in the series. Since the start of 2020, he is the fifth highest run-getter for the Kiwis in the format: 395 runs in 16 innings at 32.91/128.24.
  • Ish Sodhi: Sodhi loves bowling to Indian batsmen. In 13 games, he has claimed 19 wickets at an average of 17.94 and an economy rate of 7.25. His figures of 2/17 in 4 overs in the T20 WC was one of the major reasons why India posted just 110 in 20 overs.
  • Mitchell Santner: The left-arm Orthodox is the second highest wicket-taker for NZ in T20Is against India.  In 13 innings, he has claimed 12 wickets at an average of 28.58 and an economy rate of 7.29.
  • Trent Boult deserves to be in the T20 World Cup team of the tournament. He took 13 wickets in the campaign, including 3/20 vs India.

Stats and Facts

  • Both sides have locked horns in 17 T20Is, with India winning 6 and losing 9.
  • Last time these two sides played a bilateral T20I series, India thumped the Kiwis 5-0.
  • This will be the first international match at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium since the 2013 India-Australia ODI.
  • Last time Rohit Sharma led India in a T20I series against New Zealand- February 2019- the Kiwis won 2-1.

Possible Playing 11

With Hardik Pandya not a part of the squad, it will be interesting to see how India balance their playing XI. Will they go with a spin all-rounder in the form of Axar Patel or will they punt on Venkatesh Iyer in the role of a seam bowler + finisher? Also, will Shreyas Iyer get a place in the starting XI or will they stick with Ishan Kishan? Also, if Kishan plays, will he slotted in the middle-order or will one of Rahul or Rohit get denoted to the middle-order spot?

India: 1. Rohit Sharma, 2. KL Rahul, 3. SuryaKumar Yadav, 4. Shreyas Iyer, 5. Rishabh Pant (wk), 6. Venkatesh Iyer, 7. Axar Patel/R Ashwin, 8. Harshal Patel, 9. Deepak Chahar/Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 10. Avesh Khan/Mohammaed Siraj, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal

Kane Williamson will miss the T20I series, as will Devon Conway. Also, it remains to be seen if Lockie Ferguson is fit enough to play after missing the World Cup.

New Zealand: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Daryl Mitchell, 3. Tim Seifert (wk), 4. Glenn Phillips, 5. Mark Chapman, 6. James Neesham, 7. Mitchell Santner, 8. Tim Southee (c), 9. Lockie Ferguson/Adam Milne, 10. Ish Sodhi, 11. Trent Boult

Jaipur Pitch Report and Weather Conditions

The pitch at the Sawai Man Singh stadium has always been a batting paradise. Flat pitch and small ground, it is fair to say that bowlers will have their work cut out.

As far as the weather is concerned, it is expected to be partly cloudy in Jaipur on Wednesday. But the chance of rain playing spoilsport can be ruled out. The temperatures will hover between 13-26 and humidity is set to be around 32%.

Dream11 Prediction

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

Option 1:

IND vs NZ 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs New Zealand Key Players | Jaipur Pitch Report
IND vs NZ 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

IND vs NZ 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs New Zealand Key Players | Jaipur Pitch Report
IND vs NZ 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Rishabh Pant
  • Batsmen: Daryl Mitchell, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul
  • All-rounders: James Neesham
  • Bowlers: Trent Boult, Ish Sodhi, Yuzvendra Chahal

Match Prediction

It’s not wise to predict in T20s. India will finish as slight favorites as they are playing on home soil but to be brutally honest, it’s 50-50. Since, it’s a night game, once again toss can prove to be decisive factor.

Also read: 3 ways India can revive their T20I cricket

How did Australia spark a turnaround in the T20 World Cup?

Tarkesh Jha
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How did Australia spark a turnaround in the T20 World Cup?

Cricket News: How did Australia spark a turnaround in the T20 World Cup? | How Australia ended up winning the T20 World Cup

There is a reason pre-tournament predictions aren’t taken as seriously by those who have a real understanding and stake in the game. They know that all the on-paper forecasts fall flat when players battle it out amidst intensifying pressure amongst thousands of people.

Only those who manage to hold their nerve in these crunch moments make it through the finishing line. It is in all manners, the survival of the fittest.

Nobody gave Australia much of a chance prior to the commencement of this edition of the T20 World Cup. The Aussies haven’t really put much focus on the shortest format internationally in recent times. Moreover, they came on the back of series defeats against West Indies and Bangladesh prior to this tournament.

They didn’t have a settled XI, and doubts were cast over the form of the batting lineup as well.

Then on 14th November, they set aside all those apprehensions by comfortably steamrolling over a very competent New Zealand side at the Dubai International Stadium.

How did the Aussies manage to do it? How did they finally laid their hands over the coveted T20 World Cup trophy?

They were pitted in the group of death and made it through to the Semi Finals on the back of a better net run rate as compared to South Africa.

They faced an immensely gifted Pakistan side in the Semi Finals and were put against the effervescent and in-form Kiwi unit for the showpiece game.

Australia shouldn’t really have won all these games as per conventional cricketing logic and their recent form. But they managed to get their act together in the difficult moments and sailed past the winning mark every single time.

Victory is as much of a habit as it is an achievement. When you win over and again all the time, the spirit to not give up during the tough moments gets ingrained in you permanently.

At that moment, the form doesn’t count. Neither does past record matter. What is important is how you deal with that particular situation at that point in time, and the end result takes care of itself.

That’s what happened with Australia across the tournament. Though their form wasn’t the best as compared to others, the Aussie spirit of not letting down in big moments came to the fore as the tournament progressed.

Warner, Zampa, Marsh, Hazlewood lead the way

Cricket News: How did Australia spark a turnaround in the T20 World Cup? | How Australia ended up winning the T20 World Cup

David Warner couldn’t buy a run for the love of money in the Indian Premier League (IPL) this year. Yet, he managed to tame the supremely talented bowling attacks of Pakistan and New Zealand in the Semi Finals and Final respectively.

Josh Hazlewood didn’t play T20 internationals for a good four-and-a-half years from 2016 to late 2020. He didn’t play in the first leg of IPL 2021 either. Yet, he found his mojo back in the second leg and carried that on to the World Cup as well.

There is hardly a cricketer as maligned as Mitchell Marsh in the present day Australian cricketing setup. Yet, he came into this tournament on the back of a stellar turnaround of form. Glenn Maxwell said that he hasn’t seen anyone hit the ball better than what Marsh was doing prior to this T20 World Cup.

Still, not many seemed to give the all-rounder a chance to succeed as a specialist top-order batsman. Marsh proved the critics wrong handsomely, top-scoring in the Final and leading the Aussies home in style.

Australia defied logic and predictions

See, very little separates the very good teams from others in premium cricket tournaments like these. Especially in the limited overs format, on-paper predictions count for nothing as only the clutch players tend to possess the mettle, flair and the comprehensive ability to win their team big games.

Australia never seemed to be out of place whenever encountered with difficult moments through this World Cup. With Maxwell gone and over 12 RPO required in the semis, not many gave Marcus Stoinis and Matthew Wade a chance to steer the chase successfully.

But the duo remained undeterred. They seemed unfazed in a moment that most other sides would have collapsed in. They maintained a composed head over their shoulders and finished the game with more than an over to spare.

That’s legacy. Winning culture. The mental strength to be undisturbed any sort of acrimonious developments. Belief and confidence to turn around the game single-handedly. That’s the art of Australian cricket.

This is a moment to rejoice for Australia. They perhaps haven’t had the best of recent years in international cricket by their own high standards. But this victory is a clear testament that the blood of champions that run in their veins is still going strong. That’s a great news for both them, and world cricket as a whole as well!

Written by Tarkesh Jha. Follow Tarkesh on Twitter

4 players CSK should retain for IPL 2022

Robin Rounder
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4 players CSK should retain for IPL 2022

4 players CSK should retain for IPL 2022 | 4 players Chennai Super Kings should retain ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction

After the ICC T20 World Cup, the next big event in the world of white-ball cricket Mega Auction for IPL 2022, the 15th edition of the Indian Premier League. The auction will be in December this year and teams can only retain up to four players (3 Indian + 1 overseas or 2 Indian + 2 overseas players).

There will be two new franchises, Lucknow and Ahmedabad and no Right to Match (RTM) cards for this mega auction. The two new teams can select three players from the player pool before the auction.

The last date to submit the details of the retained players is 30 November. Teams will be sure to do all kinds of permutations and combinations before retaining the players.

We’ll list four players which we think every franchise should retain before the mega auction. Let’s start with the current and the 4-time champions, the Chennai Super Kings.

4 Players CSK Should Retain for IPL 2022

CSK is arguably the most consistent side in IPL history. They have won the title four times, are the runners-up on five occasions, and have qualified for the play-offs 11 times out of the 12  seasons they’ve played. They won the title this year after a very poor show in 2020.

CSK has a very settled squad and it will be a little tricky for them to choose their four retentions as most of their players are over 35 years old and teams generally build a core for the future in the mega auctions.

1. MS Dhoni

Cricket News: 4 players CSK should retain for IPL 2022 | 4 players Chennai Super Kings should retain ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction
Cricket News: 4 players CSK should retain for IPL 2022 – MS Dhoni

Harsha Bhogle once said, “Dhoni is CSK and CSK is Dhoni” and this statement is very true as everything about CSK revolves around their “Thala”. Dhoni is the face and heart of CSK. He has led CSK to four titles and has a phenomenal record as a captain and batsman in the IPL.

Although he isn’t the same as he used to be a few years ago with the bat, his leadership skills are unmatchable and CSK’s triumph in IPL 2021 is the best example of that. Plus, in Qualifier 1 against DC this year, he showed that he hasn’t completely lost his touch with the bat.

It is still unknown whether he’ll play the next season or not. However, if he decides to continue playing (which we assume will be the case), then he will be the first retained player for CSK for IPL 2022.

2. Ravindra Jadeja

Cricket News: 4 players CSK should retain for IPL 2022 | 4 players Chennai Super Kings should retain ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction
Cricket News: 4 players CSK should retain for IPL 2022 – Ravindra Jadeja

Ravindra Jadeja should be CSK’s second retention. Jadeja has been a very crucial part of CSK over the years and has been in terrific form for the last two seasons. He scored 227 runs in 12 innings in IPL 2021 at an excellent average of 75.66 and strike rate of 145.5.

He has been terrific with the bat and is doing what Dhoni used to do in the past, i.e. finishing games for CSK. Jadeja did well with the ball as well picking 13 wickets in 16 games at an economy of 7.06 in CSK’s successful campaign.

Jadeja is experienced and provides all-round value including his world class fielding. There should not be any doubts for the CSK management about retaining him.

3. Ruturaj Gaikwad

Ruturaj Gaikwad had a horrible start to his IPL career in 2020. Firstly, he got infected with the Coronavirus and then had a string of low scores to kickstart his career.

However, CSK management backed him despite that, and he finally showed “spark” in CSK’s last three games of IPL 2020, scoring consecutive half-centuries.

This wasn’t all. He then scored most runs in IPL 2021 and won the Orange cap. Ruturaj scored 635 in 16 matches at an average of 45.35 at a strike-rate of 136.26 including a brilliant century and four fifties.

Ruturaj is young and will be a great choice for the new core of Indian players for CSK and he will play in the yellow jersey in IPL 2022.

4. Moeen Ali

Cricket News: 4 players CSK should retain for IPL 2022 | 4 players Chennai Super Kings should retain ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction
Cricket News: 4 players CSK should retain for IPL 2022 – Moeen Ali

There is a lot of talk on who should CSK retain between Moeen Ali and Faf du Plessis. Faf had an exceptional IPL 2021. He was the second highest run-scorer, scoring 633 runs at an average of 45.21 and strike rate of 138.20 including six 50+ scores.

However, there are a few reasons why I think that CSK should retain Moeen Ali.

First is the value that Moeen Ali brings in the CSK 11. He batted at number three in the first half of IPL 2021 and did a great job. Moeen attacked from the word go and scored runs at a good average and a very high strike-rate in the middle-overs, which CSK lacked in IPL 2020. He bowls as well and now with Suresh Raina being out of form with the bat, CSK may look to replace him with Moeen at three.

Another reason is that it will be easier for CSK to buy back Faf from the auction as Moeen has been in red hot form recently and will most probably go at a higher price than Faf.

And, even if CSK fails to buy back Faf, then they can buy someone like Robin Uthappa who played a vital role in the crunch games of IPL 2021. Or, CSK could look at a young player like C Hari Nishanth who will come at a much cheaper price than Faf.

I myself being a hardcore CSK fan understand the connect that CSK fans have with the players that do well for the franchise and it’s hard to see them play for any other team but given the situation, retaining Moeen Ali over Faf seems to be the logical decision.

Also, if MS Dhoni decides to hang his boots from the IPL as well then CSK can retain Faf and Moeen both alongside Jadeja and Ruturaj Gaikwad. When the time comes, we will eventually get to know which four players CSK will retain and whether Dhoni will continue playing or not.

Written by Robin Rounder. Follow Robin on Twitter today.

T20 World Cup 2021 Team of the Tournament

Charbel Coorey
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T20 World Cup 2021 Team of the Tournament

Cricket News: T20 World Cup 2021 Team of the Tournament | Putting together the best XI of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE

Australia, who were outsiders in the eyes of many, won their first ever men’s T20 World Cup title thanks to magnificent performances in the crunch matches against Pakistan and New Zealand.

Throughout the tournament, we saw a number of magnificent performances in crunch stages. This is certainly bound to happen a tournament filled with world class players, which makes choosing a team of the tournament a very difficult task.

After much deliberation and thinking, here is CricBlog’s team of the tournament, with some reasoning for the each player’s selection.

CricBlog’s T20 World Cup 2021 team of the tournament

1. David Warner (Australia)

7 matches, 289 runs, average: 48.16, strike rate: 146.70

What a terrific little redemption story. After being cast aside by Sunrisers Hyderabad, there was some doubt as to what impact David Warner would have on the T20 World Cup.

But, Warner proved all those doubts wrong with a magnificent finish to the campaign. He smashed 89* (56) in a must-win game vs West Indies, 49 (30) without even being out vs Pakistan and 53 (39) to help Australia seal the title. All in all, it was a magnificent campaign from Australia’s outstanding white-ball opener.

2. Jos Buttler (England) (wk)

Cricket News: T20 World Cup 2021 Team of the Tournament | Putting together the best XI of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE
T20 World Cup 2021 Team of the Tournament: Jos Buttler provided great impact.

6 matches, 269 runs, average: 89.66, strike rate: 151.12

Jos Buttler, Babar Azam or Mohammad Rizwan for the opening spot? Ultimately, Buttler’s strike rate of 151.12 trumps Babar’s 126.25 and Rizwan’s 127.72. Both Pakistani openers were outstanding in this World Cup, but Buttler’s ability to change gears so effectively was a feature of his campaign.

His superb 101* against Sri Lanka on a tough Sharjah pitch was the highlight after thumping eventual champions Australia to all parts the game before. As we need a keeper in this team, Buttler’s strike rate gets him in the team of the tournament.

3. Charith Asalanka (Sri Lanka)

6 matches, 231 runs, average: 46.20, strike rate: 147.13

Charith Asalanka was without a doubt one of the surprise packets of this World Cup. The Sri Lankan left-hander is a fine player in the 50-over format, but was yet to make a mark in T20 cricket consistently even at a domestic level.

But, this tournament truly announced the arrival of a very talented batsman for the Lions. He batted with superb intent throughout the tournament, evident in his strike rate of 147.13 which is brilliant for a batsman coming in at three. He looked good in all his matches, with his performances against Bangladesh and West Indies particularly impressive.

4. Moeen Ali (England)

6 matches, 92 runs, average: 46.00, strike rate: 131.42, 7 wickets, average: 11.00, economy rate: 5.50

Moeen Ali is enjoying some year in white-ball cricket. After playing a key role in Chennai Super Kings’ IPL triumph, Moeen then went on to have a fine campaign for England in the World Cup.

Moeen batting up the order is a different beast in T20 cricket. smashing 37 and 51* in his last two matches. However, it was with the ball that Moeen was most impressive, providing England with a number of valuable overs and wickets particularly in the powerplay.

5. Aiden Markram (South Africa)

Cricket News: T20 World Cup 2021 Team of the Tournament | Putting together the best XI of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE
T20 World Cup 2021 team of the tournament: Aiden Markram had a fine tournament.

5 matches, 162 runs, average: 54.00, strike rate: 145.94

What a player. And what a year he is having. South Africa have a gem in Aiden Markram, and he was one of their shining lights in this tournament.

His 24-ball 52* against England was particularly impressive, part of an overall strike rate of 145.94. Having a player like Markram come in at number four or five is a huge asset for any team given his ability to build momentum early in his innings.

6. Asif Ali (Pakistan)

5 matches, 57 runs, average: 57.00, strike rate 259.09

There are a few contenders for the number six role including Marcus Stoinis and David Wiese, but Asif Ali’s finishing was something else in this tournament. He led Pakistan to crucial wins vs New Zealand (27* off 12 balls) and Afghanistan (25* off 7 balls), hitting a total of seven sixes in the 19 deliveries he faced in those two matches.

In the end, Asif’s performances were crucial in helping Pakistan reach the Semi Finals.

7. Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)

Cricket News: T20 World Cup 2021 Team of the Tournament | Putting together the best XI of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE
T20 World Cup 2021 team of the tournament: Wanindu Hasaranga was excellent.

8 matches, 16 wickets, average: 9.75, economy rate: 5.20, 119 runs, average: 23.80, strike rate: 148.75

What an outstanding cricketer. Wanindu Hasaranga finished as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, producing consistent performances right throughout the World Cup.

His 16 wickets included a hat-trick against South Africa to keep Sri Lanka’s hopes alive of Semi Final qualification before David Miller and Kagiso Rabada broke Sri Lankan hearts. In the end, the Lions fell short, but Hasaranga is a bright spot they can build their cricket around in the near future and beyond.

8. Adam Zampa (Australia)

7 matches, 11 wickets, average: 12.07, economy rate: 5.81

What a tournament. What a performance. Adam Zampa, who was Australia’s only specialist spinner, played a vital role in Australia’s triumph.

The leg-spinner conceded less than a run-a-ball and took the second-most wickets, only behind fellow leggie Wanindu Hasaranga. He came of age in this tournament, playing a vital role in the middle overs for Australia.

9. Anrich Nortje (South Africa)

5 matches, 9 wickets, average: 11.55, economy rate: 5.37

Anrich Nortje was a key part of South Africa’s excellent bowling effort in the Super 12s. He was terrific in all stages of the innings, resulting in a magnificent economy rate of just 5.37.

His pace was up, hurrying batsmen even on slower surfaces. Also, he was able to mix his pace and lengths effectively, which made him so difficult to get away.

10. Trent Boult (New Zealand)

7 matches, 13 wickets, average: 13.30, economy rate: 6.25

Yet another impressive performance from New Zealand’s impressive left-arm seamer. Boult conceded a little over a run-a-ball in the tournament (6.25), taking the equal second-most wickets in the process (13).

Boult was quite impressive at the death, keeping New Zealand in the game as opponents were often unable to get away freely. Also, he was the only New Zealand bowler to make an impact in the Final, taking impressive figures of 2/18 in a tough night for the Black Caps.

11. Josh Hazlewood (Australia)

Cricket News: T20 World Cup 2021 Team of the Tournament | Putting together the best XI of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE
T20 World Cup 2021 team of the tournament: Josh Hazlewood was superb.

7 matches, 11 wickets, average: 15.90, economy rate: 7.29

Australia shaped their XI in such a way to cater for Josh Hazlewood. Often seen as more of a red-ball bowler, Hazlewood has had a magnificent year in T20 cricket, including playing a key role in CSK’s IPL win.

A key factor in Australia’s success was their powerplay bowling. Hazlewood was central to this, and often held his own in the backend of the innings as well. His 11 wickets cost just 15.90 apiece, which included a magnificent spell of 3/16 in the Final.

With such a number of world class players competing in a tournament, quality players are bound to miss out on the team of the tournament. A special mention to Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, who fall short simply because of their strike rates. We can slot them in down the order, but they are most effective as openers.

Also, a special mention to Shaheen Shah Afridi who was magnificent in the powerplay against India and Australia. David Wiese also had a great tournament for Namibia, as did Matthew Wade and Marcus Stoinis for Australia.

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