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T20 WC 2021 SF 2: PAK vs AUS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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T20 WC 2021 SF 2: PAK vs AUS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

T20 WC 2021 SF 2: PAK vs AUS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | PAK vs AUS Dream11 Prediction Today | Pakistan vs Australia Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report

If this Semi Final is anything like yesterday’s classic between England and New Zealand, then we are in for another wild ride. It could happen, as both sides here are capable of producing terrific cricket.

Indeed, that is exactly what Pakistan have achieved so far. They are the only team to boast a 100% record at this tournament so far, courtesy of the kind of consistent, excellent cricket that often eludes a usually inconsistent Pakistan. Most importantly, their middle order, which was an area of concern heading into the tournament, has been outstanding in finishing off Babar Azam’s great work at the top.

So, can Pakistan right the wrongs of the heartbreak of 2010 when Australia produced a heist at the same stage? Michael Hussey’s brilliance against Saeed Ajmal all those years ago is the kind of superb finishing Pakistan are producing now, so the Aussies will have to be on their game right throughout the match.

Australia’s powerplay bowling and the form of Adam Zampa have been key factors in their passage into the Semi Finals. There were plenty of question marks about Aaron Finch’s team heading into the tournament, but they have come together to produce effective cricket when it matters most. But, Pakistan will certainly be a different test than the hapless Bangladesh and West Indies, so good starts with both bat and ball will be key, followed by finishing off the job well.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Pakistan:

  • Babar Azam has an excellent record against Australia. The skipper has scored 278 runs in six matches at an average of 69.50 and strike rate of 125.23.
  • Babar has struck four half-centuries in five matches in this World Cup (total of 264 runs). He is only five runs behind Jos Buttler in the race to be the tournament’s leading run-scorer. Also, Babar recently crossed 1,000 runs at Dubai at an average of 35.86.
  • Mohammad Rizwan in the 2021 World Cup: 5 inns, 214 runs, avg. 71.33, SR 127.38. He scored a brilliant 79* against India on this ground, and will be looking to produce similar here today as he averages just 19.71 in 23 matches at Dubai.
  • Shoaib Malik was outstanding in the last match against Scotland, smashing an 18-ball 54*. Against Australia, Malik has scored 262 runs in 15 innings at an average of 32.75 and strike rate of 119.63.
  • Asif Ali is yet to be dismissed in the tournament. Not only that, his finishing has been simply outstanding, including four sixes in an over vs Afghanistan on this ground.
  • Can Shaheen Shah Afridi get the better of David Warner and Aaron Finch? He has taken just one powerplay wicket since his brilliant performance vs India, so it will be interesting to see what he produces today.
  • Afridi has a good haul of eight wickets in just four matches vs Australia at an average of 15.88 and economy rate of 8.47. Also, he has taken 19 wickets in 13 matches at Dubai.
  • Haris Rauf is Pakistan’s leading wicket-taker in this T20 World Cup with eight wickets in five matches at an average of 17.00 and economy rate of 6.80.
  • Shadab Khan has the most wickets of any current Pakistan player against Australia (nine wickets, avg. 21.67, econ. 7.05). He also has 23 wickets in 20 matches at Dubai at a fine economy rate of 6.35.

Australia:

  • David Warner struck an unbeaten 89* vs West Indies to find some form, but this will be a bigger test. Warner has the most runs of any Australia player vs Pakistan with 348 runs at an average of 29.00 and strike rate of 135.94.
  • Warner has a solid record at Dubai (620 runs, avg. 38.75, SR 135.37), although he has been inconsistent on this ground in this tournament (65 vs Sri Lanka, 1 vs England, 18 vs Bangladesh).
  • Aaron Finch has been dismissed by left-arm pace 10 times in T20 cricket at an overall average of 18.3. So, whether he can overcome Shaheen Shah Afridi early could be key to Australia’s hopes.
  • Finch has smashed 326 runs in 12 innings vs Pakistan at an average of 36.22 and strike rate of 140.52.
  • Steve Smith has not had a say in Australia’s last couple of matches, but you can count on him to perform in big matches. He was brilliant against Pakistan in their tour of Australia in 2019 (80* off 51 balls).
  • Glenn Maxwell has also had a limited role with the bat and has a modest record vs Pakistan: 11 inns, 229 runs, avg. 20.82, SR 144.94. But, he was superb in the recent IPL, with three fifties in as many matches on this ground. In a big game, expect Maxwell to at least get the chance to make a mark.
  • Josh Hazlewood has been outstanding in the powerplay in this World Cup. His battle with Pakistan’s excellent openers could be key to the result. He has taken eight wickets in five matches at an average of 13.75 and economy rate of 6.87.
  • Adam Zampa is Australia’s leading wicket-taker in this tournament with 11 scalps at an average of 9.90 and economy rate of 5.73. He will be aiming to improve on his record vs Pakistan: six matches, four wickets, avg. 42.75, econ. 7.43.
  • Mitchell Starc has the most wickets for any Australia bowler against Pakistan in T20Is: 13 scalps in eight matches at an average of 13.54 and economy rate of 5.83.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 23, Pakistan 13, Australia 9, N/R 1.
  • Except for the match against Namibia, Shaheen Shah Afridi has not conceded more than a run-a-ball in the tournament. His battle with Warner and Finch will be fascinating.
  • Australia have won all four ICC tournament matches vs Pakistan: 1987 World Cup Semi Final, 1999 World Cup Semi Final, 2010 T20 World Cup Semi Final and 2015 World Cup Quarter Final.
  • Pakistan have won 16 consecutive T20Is in the UAE.
  • Fakhar Zaman scored 91 (46) vs Australia in 2018, albeit against a different attack.

Possible Playing 11

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

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

Dubai Pitch Report and Weather

The Dubai track has had something in it for the seam bowlers early, but runs are on offer for the batsmen. Chasing teams have dominated on this ground, winning 10 off the 11 matches in this World Cup. In fact, the chasing team has won all eight night matches at Dubai in this tournament.

So, with dew expected again, the team batting first needs to put together a score of at least 165-170 to feel competitive.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

T20 WC 2021 SF 2: PAK vs AUS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | PAK vs AUS Dream11 Prediction Today | Pakistan vs Australia Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 SF 2: PAK vs AUS Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

T20 WC 2021 SF 2: PAK vs AUS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | PAK vs AUS Dream11 Prediction Today | Pakistan vs Australia Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 SF 2: PAK vs AUS Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Mohammad Rizwan
  • Batsmen: Babar Azam, David Warner
  • All-rounders: Glenn Maxwell
  • Bowlers: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Adam Zampa

Match Prediction

Pakistan start as favourites. They look a more complete unit. However, the team batting first needs at least 165-170 to feel competitive as chasing is the way to go at Dubai.

How solar at the MCG can help Melbourne reach net-zero target

Charbel Coorey
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0
How solar at the MCG can help Melbourne reach net-zero target

Cricket News: How solar at the MCG can help Melbourne reach net-zero target | Rooftop solar at the MCG can help Melbourne reach net-zero target

Australia has more sunshine per square metre than any other continent in the world. The solar opportunity is immense, and the country is one of the leaders in the uptake of renewable energy.

In fact, Australia recently went past 3 million solar power installations, with the last year seeing a record number of installs. This is despite lockdowns and COVID-19 restrictions, indicating Australians are committed to making a difference.

With Australia committing to a net-zero greenhouse emissions target by 2050, the focus is not only on a national level, but also on a state and city level to help achieve this goal. One such city is Melbourne, which has a solar potential of a mammoth 2,354 gigawatt hours (GWh) per year, or 75% of the city’s current consumption.

MCG makes a difference by installing 220 solar panels

In late 2020, the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), whose annual energy demands is equivalent to about 4,000 Victorian households, made the switch to solar energy. The project saw 220 solar panels installed to power the stadium’s innovative water recycling facility and contribute to a sustainable future.

Research by the Monash University suggests that the Melbourne city centre could meet about two-thirds of its energy needs if photovolatic panels are installed on enough sunny rooftops. The MCG, which hosts a number of sporting events right throughout the year concluding with the iconic Boxing Day Test, gives Melbourne a huge boost towards achieving its net-zero targets.

The ground could generate up to 2,200 kilowatts (kW) of solar energy. It leads the way in a push to have more environmentally-friendly buildings in cities. Peter Wearne, General Manager – Facilities of the Melbourne Cricket Club, spoke of the MCG’s desire to make a difference.

“Sustainability is embedded into the operation of the stadium. From strict waste management programs, water recycling and monitoring of our energy consumption, to being a part of local and global action groups committed to furthering environmental principles,” said Wearne.

“The use of solar power is an exciting next step for the stadium and we are looking forward to seeing how the panels perform across the coming summer and beyond.”

This follows a move to install LED technology in the famous light towers back in late 2019 and early 2020. The lights are much more energy efficient than the old globes. Plus, they last longer which results in fewer replacements.

“The new lights are approximately 50% more energy efficient than the old globes and also have a much longer lifespan, meaning less need for replacements and therefore less waste,” said Wearne.

Cricket News: How solar at the MCG can help Melbourne reach net-zero target | Rooftop solar at the MCG can help Melbourne reach net-zero target
How solar at the MCG can help Melbourne reach net-zero target. The famous lights at the MCG.

T20 WC 2021 Semi Final 1: ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
T20 WC 2021 Semi Final 1: ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

T20 WC 2021 Semi Final 1: ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | England vs New Zealand Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report

For the first time since the all-enthralling, all-engrossing and all-engaging 2019 ODI World Cup Final, England and New Zealand meet again in a global white-ball tournament.

And just as was the case then as it is now, England begin as favourites. But, just as was the case then as it is now, New Zealand are more than capable of matching it with any team in the crunchiest of crunch matches.

Yet again, the Black Caps have highlighted their remarkable consistency at ICC tournaments. Finalists in the last two ODI World Cups, consistent Semi Final appearances before that and a breakthrough World Test Championship triumph is testament to a team that can’t simply be referred to as one that “punches above their weight” anymore. They are truly part of the big boys.

They come into this match on the back of four straight victories, including a comfortable win under pressure against Afghanistan to seal qualification ahead of India. Their bowling has been outstanding, with their seam attack complimenting their spinners perfectly to make life difficult for all batting lineups. Also, the form of Martin Guptill, time at the crease for Kane Williamson and Devon Conway and finishing capabilities of Glenn Phillips and James Neesham makes New Zealand a very dangerous proposition.

So, England will have to be on their game. The loss of Jason Roy is a blow, but we don’t talk about England’s great depth for the sake of it. They can slot in Jonny Bairstow in his place and turn to Sam Billings if they so wish – a luxury that any team around the world would love to have. Their loss against South Africa in their last match might just be the reminder needed to be on their game in this crunch Semi Final.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

England:

  • What a tournament Jos Buttler has had. Arguably player of the World Cup so far. He scored the second-most runs in the Super 12s (240) at an average of 120.00 and strike rate of 155.84.
  • Buttler has scored 176 runs in eight innings against New Zealand at an average of 35.20 and strike rate of 155.75. Also, Buttler has a terrific record at Abu Dhabi, with 209 runs in seven innings at an average of 52.25 and strike rate of 143.15.
  • Dawid Malan has had a quiet tournament. But, today could be his day as he has had great past success vs New Zealand, including a century. Overall, he has scored 320 runs in six innings against them at an average of 64.00 and strike rate of 157.64.
  • Eoin Morgan has the most runs of any England player against New Zealand. The skipper has smashed 424 runs at an average of 35.33 and strike rate of 146.21.
  • Liam Livingstone has scored 54 runs at an average of 54.00 and strike rate of 120 on this ground. He also has two wickets at an economy rate of 5.00, and he could be key here against New Zealand’s right-handers.
  • Livingstone looked in fine touch against South Africa (28 off 17 balls) before just missing out on a six at long off. He has scored 1,284 runs in short-form matches this year at an average of 37.76 and strike rate of 154.89.
  • Moeen Ali has taken at least one wicket in each innings he has bowled in at this World Cup. But, New Zealand have three right-handers in their top three, so England may hold Moeen until the left-handers come to the crease.
  • Chris Jordan has the most wickets of any current England bowler against New Zealand (8 matches, 9 wickets, econ. 8.26). Adil Rashid has the most wickets for England in this tournament (8), and has seven wickets in as many matches vs NZ (econ. 8.48).

New Zealand:

  • Martin Guptill is New Zealand’s highest run-scorer so far in this tournament (176, avg. 35.20, SR 131.34). He has made at least a start in each game (lowest score of 17), including looking good in his 28 vs Afghanistan on this ground.
  • Guptill has the most runs of any player in ENG-NZ T20Is (467, avg. 33.36, SR 145.48). However, he will be looking to improve on a poor record at this ground: 7 inns, 97 runs, avg. 13.86, SR 108.99.
  • Kane Williamson has a solid record against England. In six matches, the NZ skipper has struck 210 runs at an average of 42.00 and strike rate of 128.05. Also, he loves batting at Abu Dhabi, with 269 runs in seven matches at an average of 53.80 and strike rate of 121.72.
  • Devon Conway averages 54.60 in eight T20Is batting at number four. This includes an assured 36* vs Afghanistan on this ground.
  • Trent Boult has taken the third-most wickets of any bowler so far in this tournament (5 matches, 11 wickets, avg. 10.45, econ. 5.84). He has nine wickets in seven matches vs England, but is usually very expensive (econ. 10.64).
  • Mitchell Santner has the most wickets of any bowler in ENG-NZ T20Is. His 16 wickets come at a brilliant average of 16.13 and economy rate of 8.28.
  • Ish Sodhi has taken at least one wicket in each of his five matches in this tournament (total of eight wickets). However, he has historically struggled vs England, with eight wickets in as many matches at an expensive rate of 11.04 per over. But, these conditions (slower pitch, bigger ground) should suit Sodhi.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 21, England 13, New Zealand 7, N/R 1.
  • Jonny Bairstow has been under-par in this World Cup. But, he is likely to return to opener, where he can make a mark. He averages 20.29 in eight matches vs New Zealand and 25.60 in five matches at Abu Dhabi.
  • Mitchell Santner has dismissed Bairstow three times in T20Is at an average of just six.
  • Glenn Phillips will be key as a finisher. He scored a 21-ball 39* against Namibia after helping rescue the innings in the previous game vs Scotland with 33.
  • Tim Southee is conceding just 5.70 runs per over in this T20 World Cup. His seven wickets cost just 16.28 runs a piece.

Possible Playing 11

Jason Roy is out of the tournament with a calf injury. So, England could look at replacing him with either Sam Billings or another bowling option in David Willey.

England: 1. Jos Buttler (wk), 2. Jonny Bairstow, 3. Dawid Malan, 4. Eoin Morgan (c), 5. Liam Livingstone, 6. Moeen Ali, 7. Sam Billings/David Willey, 8. Chris Woakes, 9. Chris Jordan, 10. Adil Rashid, 11. Mark Wood

New Zealand look settled and should stick with the same XI.

New Zealand: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Daryl Mitchell, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Devon Conway (wk), 5. Glenn Phillips, 6. James Neesham, 7. Mitchell Santner, 8. Adam Milne, 9. Tim Southee, 10. Ish Sodhi, 11. Trent Boult

Abu Dhabi Pitch Report and Weather

Chief curator Mohan Singh was tragically found dead on the morning of the New Zealand-Afghanistan match. Singh has produced some superb pitches in recent times, with three scores of over 189 in the last five matches.

Pitch 7 will be the surface used in this one. This was the same surface used in the South Africa-Bangladesh and Pakistan-Namibia matches, where there was bounce and assistance for both bowlers and batsmen.

Dew is likely to be around, so expect the captain who wins the toss to choose to chase.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

T20 WC 2021 Semi Final 1: ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | England vs New Zealand Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Semi Final 1: ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

T20 WC 2021 Semi Final 1: ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | England vs New Zealand Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Semi Final 1: ENG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Jos Buttler
  • Batsmen: Kane Williamson, Martin Guptill, Dawid Malan
  • All-rounders: Moeen Ali, Mitchell Santner
  • Bowlers: Trent Boult, Chris Jordan

Match Prediction

England start as favourites in this clash, but never count New Zealand out. If the team batting first doesn’t cross at least 160, then this will put the chasing side in a very good position.

Most disappointing team in the T20 World Cup? Fans have their say

Charbel Coorey
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Most disappointing team in the T20 World Cup? Fans have their say

Cricket News: Most disappointing team in the T20 World Cup? Fans have their say | Fans have their say on underperforming teams in T20 WC

After a number of debates and predictions heading into the T20 World Cup, the final four has been set. Pakistan, England, Australia and New Zealand have qualified for the Semi Finals, who, alongside South Africa, were the most consistent teams in the tournament.

Pakistan finished as the only team with a perfect five wins from five matches. Babar Azam’s side were superb right from the beginning, displaying the kind of motivation and drive that they promised everyone before the tournament. England produced great cricket to confirm their passage to the Semi Finals with a game to spare, while Australia and New Zealand were efficient in times of need.

However, with the strong performers were disappointing ones. CricBlog put out a question on Twitter asking fans to name their most disappointing team of the tournament to date, with three teams dominating the responses.

Fans have their say on the most disappointing team in the T20 World Cup

India was a common answer even before their fate was officially sealed. Heading into the tournament as the favourites, India’s heavy defeats to Pakistan and New Zealand respectively were too much to come back from as they had to rely on other results to go their way.

In the end, India missed out on the Semi Finals despite winning their last three matches comfortably. They seemed to play within themselves in the early part of the tournament, seeking to choose the safe route rather than take the game on. Going forward, India will need to assess and fix that aspect of their T20 cricket, along with sorting out their plans when batting first.

West Indies were also a big disappointment. The defending champions, who boast so much power and depth, finished the tournament with just one victory. And, they could have easily ended up with no wins as they only beat Bangladesh by the skin of their teeth.

Their powerplay batting was disastrous, and they never got going with the bat after the 55-all out debacle against England. They were thrashed by South Africa and Australia, and fell well short against Sri Lanka as well. It was certainly not the ideal way to send out Dwayne Bravo and Chris Gayle after great careers respectively.

Bangladesh also disappointed greatly. Arguably even more so than West Indies and India.

The Tigers came into the tournament ranked sixth in the world after series wins against Zimbabwe away, followed by Australia and New Zealand at home. However, Bangladesh were horribly out of their depth in this tournament, losing all five matches in the Super 12s after losing to Scotland in the first round. They were unable to adjust to the UAE conditions after a diet of slow, turning tracks in Mirpur, and their fielding was abysmal too.

They surrendered meekly against South Africa and Australia, getting rolled for 84 and 73 respectively. There is a lot of thinking for Bangladesh to do if they are to make a mark in ICC tournaments going forward.

T20 WC 2021 Match 42: IND vs NAM Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
T20 WC 2021 Match 42: IND vs NAM Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

T20 WC 2021 Match 42: IND vs NAM Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NAM Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs Namibia Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report

Today will officially mark the end of Virat Kohli’s reign as India’s T20I captain and Ravi Shastri as coach. It is a bittersweet feeling for India as both gave their all, but once again the men in blue will fall short at an ICC tournament.

Coming into this T20 World Cup as favourites, not many would have envisaged that India would be out before the Semi Finals. New Zealand, who continue to cause India hurt, confirmed this yesterday with an emphatic eight-wicket win vs Afghanistan, making this match a dead rubber.

India will need to revitalise their T20 approach, particularly given their struggles when batting first. Today is another chance to play with total freedom as they have against Afghanistan and Scotland, and give their fans something to smile about before they embark on a T20I series against New Zealand so soon after this tournament concludes.

For Namibia, this is another chance to stand up and be noticed. They have made a mark in this tournament not only in the first round, but also the Super 12s where they beat Scotland and had their moments against Pakistan and New Zealand. If they can pull off something special tonight, who knows just what that might do for cricket in the country. As a result, there is no way that Namibia will view this as a dead rubber, but an opportunity to achieve something magnificent.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

India:

  • KL Rahul has smashed 69 and 50 in his last two matches. He loves batting at Dubai, with 677 runs in 15 matches at an average of 56.42 and strike rate of 147.82.
  • Rohit Sharma has also had a good last couple of matches (74 and 30). However, if India rest Rohit, they can play Ishan Kishan who has a terrific record at Dubai: 8 inns, 290 runs, avg. 58.00, SR 151.83.
  • Virat Kohli struck scores of 57, 9 and 2* at Dubai in this tournament. He averages 30.46 in 15 T20s on this ground. Expect him to get a decent hit if one of the openers are dismissed relatively early.
  • Rishabh Pant finished really strongly two games ago against Afghanistan (27* off 13 balls). He has a good record at Dubai, with 397 runs in 15 innings at an average of 36.09 and strike rate of 120.30.
  • Jasprit Bumrah has taken 19 wickets in 11 matches at Dubai at an economy rate of just 6.37. He has taken figures of 1/25 and 2/10 in his last two matches in this World Cup.
  • Mohammed Shami has taken six wickets in his last two matches (3/32 and 3/15). He has 19 wickets in 15 matches at Dubai at an economy rate of 7.34.
  • Ravindra Jadeja was player of the match on this ground vs Scotland (3/15).

Namibia:

  • David Wiese will be key to Namibia’s hopes. The all-rounder has scored the most runs for Namibia in this tournament (201, avg. 50.25, SR 131.37) and has six wickets as well.
  • Skipper Gerhard Erasmus has been battling a broken finger and hasn’t been able to score big in the Super 12s. However, he has a strong record at Dubai (196 runs, avg. 39.20, SR 148.48), so Namibia will be hoping today is his day.
  • Craig Williams is also key to Namibia putting up a good score. However, he will be aiming to improve a poor record at Dubai: 8 inns, 99 runs, avg. 14.14, SR 94.29.
  • Jan Frylinck is likely to return for Namibia today. He is their leading wicket-taker in this tournament with eight scalps. Also, he has seven wickets in four matches at Dubai.
  • Ruben Trumpelmann to have a good day? India average less than 15 and have scored at only 5.7 per over against left-arm pace in the powerplay since 2020.

Stats and Facts

  • This will be the first ever T20 International between India and Namibia. They have met in one ODI, way back in the 2003 World Cup.
  • Today will be India’s 150th T20I. They have won 94 out of 149 matches so far.
  • If Namibia win today, both they and India will remarkably finish with two wins each in the Super 12s.

Possible Playing 11

India could look at resting a number of first-team players as they can no longer make the Semi Finals.

India: 1. KL Rahul, 2. Rohit Sharma/Ishan Kishan, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. Suryakumar Yadav, 5. Rishabh Pant (wk), 6. Hardik Pandya, 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. R Ashwin, 9. Mohammed Shami/Shardul Thakur, 10. Jasprit Bumrah/Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 11. Rahul Chahar/Varun Chakravathy

Jan Frylinck should return today for Namibia after missing the last match due to dehydration.

Namibia: 1. Stephen Baard, 2. Michael van Lingen, 3. Craig Williams, 4. Gerhard Erasmus (c), 5. David Wiese, 6. JJ Smit, 7. Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, 8. Zane Green (wk), 9. Jan Frylinck/Karl Birkenstock, 10. Ruben Trumpelmann, 11. Bernard Scholtz

Dubai Pitch Report and Weather

Bangladesh and Scotland were rolled for 73 and 85 respectively on this ground. But, that’s not to say this pitch is a bad one for batting. The ball should come onto the bat nicely especially for the chasing team.

The team batting second has won nine out of 10 matches in Dubai in this World Cup. With dew around, expect the captain who wins the toss to choose to chase.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

Option 1:

T20 WC 2021 Match 42: IND vs NAM Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NAM Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs Namibia Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Match 42: IND vs NAM Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

T20 WC 2021 Match 42: IND vs NAM Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IND vs NAM Dream11 Prediction Today | India vs Namibia Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Match 42: IND vs NAM Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Zane Green
  • Batsmen: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Gerhard Erasmus
  • All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, David Wiese
  • Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami

Match Prediction

India will throw caution to the wind and win this match.

3 ways can India revive their T20 cricket

Debashish Sarangi
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3 ways can India revive their T20 cricket

Cricket News: How can India revive their T20 cricket? | How India can revive their T20 cricket after T20 World Cup elimination

Two of the most shocking results in the T20 World Cup were India’s consecutive, heavy losses against Pakistan and New Zealand.

You might argue that in the context of a sport, a defeat can be taken casually as ‘just another off day’. But, the manner in which they lost both these games was baffling to witness as an Indian fan. If you see the list of the current Indian players including the reserves they have, it looks just too good on paper. They even defeated an invincible side like England just a few months ago prior to the World Cup.

That’s why this sort of a performance wasn’t expected at all from this Indian team. 

It’s just disheartening to see this side not having an ICC trophy. And this drought will continue at least for another year as India crashed out of the T20 World Cup at the group stage. Why do they lose in big games in white ball cricket? Do these losses raise some big questions? Should we expect some changes going forward? Let’s analyze some key points to get our answers.

1. India needs to work on their approach while batting first

Considering the T20Is India played after the 2019 ODI World Cup prior to this World Cup, they elected to bowl first on 10 out of the 14 occasions they won the toss. It shows that they are more comfortable chasing a target. When they see a target in front of them, they bat with more clarity and confidence. It is evident from the fact that they have chased the target successfully on nine out of those 10 occasions.

On the other hand, they lost seven out of the 18 games they batted second in this period.

In my opinion, they need to be clearer in their approach while batting first. They should divide the game into multiple phases, set small targets and try achieve them. More importantly, there should be a plan as per the opposition. They should pick the weak links in the bowling attack and go bonkers against them. You just can’t let the fifth or sixth bowler of the opposition finish his four overs with an economy rate of below seven or so.

Secondly, they should get out of their comfort zone and treat the bilateral series as an opportunity to develop their T20 cricket. For the same, they need to bat first more often when winning the toss. In this way, they can face several scenarios while batting first and get an opportunity to act accordingly in those situations. This, in turn, will make those scenarios familiar for them in the big events and they won’t seem to be clueless.  

2. BCCI needs to manage the workload of the India players

Cricket News: How can India revive their T20 cricket? | How India can revive their T20 cricket after T20 World Cup elimination
3 ways can India revive their T20 cricket: India couldn’t get decent totals on the board.

The Indian team has had a ridiculous schedule over the past year or so. They spent months in Australia at the backend of 2020 and start of 2021, followed by Tests, ODIs and T20Is against England at home. This was soon followed by the first phase of IPL 2021, before they were on a plane to England and thereafter played the second half of the IPL which finished just before the World Cup.

They have been shifting from one bio-bubble to another throughout the year. Yes, they might seem supremely fit from their physique, but after such a busy year as professional cricketers, anybody would be mentally drained and exhausted. The BCCI should consider their workload and manage it in an appropriate manner. They are humans after all and not machines.

3. India needs to follow the English model to rebuild their T20 cricket

Cricket has three separate formats each having its own significance. Each format needs players as per its demands. If we talk about India, it has the biggest talent pool in the world. It is so broad that India can practically field three different elevens in each format simultaneously.

However, we see many players playing multiple formats as a result of our conservative thought in white-ball cricket. This often keeps the players in a confused state regarding their approach while switching formats, which in turn affects the overall performance of the team.

Therefore, India needs to adopt the English model and groom different players for different formats. Each player should have an assigned role in the team and asked to do so in a particular situation in the game. Further, there should be some decent backups in the team for each role. They shouldn’t just warm the bench and should get decent enough opportunities at times to remain prepared for the big events.

India’s elimination further highlights the fact that this side has underachieved in the shortest format of the game. Their focus must immediately shift to the T20 World Cup in Australia next year. They should:

  • Create their gameplan as per the demands of the Australian tracks;
  • Utilize the international series as preparations for the World Cup;
  • Groom the backups for their first-choice players; and
  • Keep themselves mentally fit for the mega event.

If they do these things perfectly, they can surely revive their T20 cricket and lift the T20 World Cup in Australia next year.

Written by Debashish Sarangi. Follow Debashish on Twitter today

Twitter reacts as India eliminated from World Cup, NZ qualify

Charbel Coorey
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Twitter reacts as India eliminated from World Cup, NZ qualify

Cricket News: Twitter reacts as India eliminated from World Cup, NZ qualify | India eliminated from group stage of T20 World Cup

Yet again, New Zealand have qualified to the Semi Finals of a major ICC tournament. And yet again, it’s at the expense of India. After reaching the 2019 World Cup Final, where they were left heartbroken, Kane Williamson’s team then bounced back to win the World Test Championship and then produce the goods in the group stage of the 2021 T20 World Cup.

The best all-format side in the world.

New Zealand’s high stakes match against Afghanistan was tailor made for them. Instead of crumbling under pressure, the Black Caps were in control from the first ball, making inroads into Afghanistan’s top order. Despite a recovery led by Najibullah Zadran, New Zealand’s bowling and superb fielding never let up, snapping up just about everything that went their way.

The Black Caps join Pakistan, England and Australia in the final four. While New Zealand weren’t at their best in the group stage, they were efficient in the key moments, and ultimately qualified courtesy of that thumping victory over India.

Speaking of India, it is a big blow for the pre-tournament favourites. It was a tall order to qualify for the Semi Finals after such a bad start. They let go of the handbrake against Afghanistan and Scotland respectively, but the damage was already done as they were left relying on other results to go their way.

With the elimination comes the end of Virat Kohli’s reign as T20I skipper. Kohli has helped drive great processes in Indian cricket such as the emphasis on their pace bowling, but at the end of the day, it is another ICC event gone by without lifting the trophy at the end of it. Soon after the tournament, India will embark on a new journey with Rahul Dravid and a new T20I skipper at the helm.

Twitter reactions as India eliminated and New Zealand qualify

3 reasons why Australia qualified for the T20 World Cup Semi Finals

Charbel Coorey
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3 reasons why Australia qualified for the T20 World Cup Semi Finals

3 reasons why Australia qualified for the T20 World Cup Semi Finals | 3 key reasons why Australia qualified for the 2021 T20 WC Semi Finals

It’s safe to say that Australia had question marks about them heading into the World Cup. Sure, eight defeats across West Indies and Bangladesh in the leadup to the tournament had certain mitigating factors such as the absence of key stars, but it must be reminded that the Australians did lose their previous three T20I series with stronger teams.

How will Australia cope with David Warner’s loss of form? Is there enough runs in the top order to cover for a middle order that still has its question marks? Is a strategy of four specialist bowlers – including just the one specialist spinner – too risky for UAE conditions? What about the fact that Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins ply their best trade in the red ball format?

In the end, Australia answered these questions quite well, qualifying for the Semi Finals in what looked to be a very competitive group on paper. Spare a thought for South Africa, who missed out on the Semi Finals despite four of their own victories, including being the only team to beat England. For Australia, four victories out of five represents a team that has what it takes to win consistently, and here are three key reasons why Australia overcame the doubters to qualify for the final four.

Why Australia qualified for the Semi Finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup

1. Making a huge headstart in the powerplay

Heading into the tournament, many believed that Aaron Finch and David Warner would hold the key to Australia’s hopes. Specifically, how they would navigate the powerplay could set the perfect platform for the middle order to then tee off.

Instead, it was the other way around, with the bowling attack often dominating in this phase. Led by Josh Hazlewood in particular, who continues to be revelation in T20 cricket, Australia took a total of 11 powerplay wickets in the tournament – 10 of which came in the crunch matches against South Africa, Bangladesh and West Indies. By the end of those six overs, Australia were so far ahead that they could play from in front and make up some crucial ground in the net run rate equation.

Hazlewood finished as Australia’s leading seamer with eight wickets in five matches at an average of 13.75 and economy rate of 6.87. The way he responded to being taken apart by Chris Gayle early in the West Indies match is testament to Hazlewood’s form and ability as he continues to produce the goods after playing a key role in CSK’s IPL 2021 triumph.

2. The form of Adam Zampa

3 reasons why Australia qualified for the T20 World Cup Semi Finals | 3 key reasons why Australia qualified for the 2021 T20 WC Semi Finals
Why Australia qualified for the Semi Finals: Adam Zampa continues to come of age.

Heading into a global tournament in the UAE with just the one specialist spinner is quite the risk. It puts onus on the spinner to not only keep the runs down, but also take wickets in those crucial middle overs.

To Adam Zampa’s credit, he did just that. The leg-spinner was terrific right throughout the group stage, taking a total of 11 wickets at an average of 9.90 and economy rate of 5.73. Five of those came against a hapless Bangladesh side with one foot already in Dhaka airport, but Zampa was also superb in the matches against South Africa (2/21), Sri Lanka (2/12) and West Indies (1/20).

If Australia are to go all the way in this World Cup, Zampa will need to continue his brilliant form. If he can continue taking wickets at a cheap rate, it significantly reduces the opposition’s chances of setting up the perfect launching pad for those death overs.

3. South Africa’s lack of batting intent

As mentioned, winning four matches out of five and still missing out on the Semi Finals is tough luck. However, it was only until their last game against England that South Africa showed enough intent with the bat. The talented Rassie van der Dussen and Aiden Markram were outstanding, but unfortunately for South Africa, they were left heartbroken in an ICC tournament once again.

This ultimately came down to the contrasting way in which South Africa and Australia approached their run chases against Bangladesh. The Proteas bowled Bangladesh out cheaply (84) which gave them a big net run rate boost over an Australian side that was pummelled by England. However, it took South Africa 14.2 overs to chase the target, leaving net run rate points out there with them.

When Australia bowled Bangladesh out cheaply (73), Aaron Finch and co. then went about chasing these runs as quickly as possible. In chasing the target in a little over six overs, Australia then jumped ahead of South Africa on net run rate heading into the final game. With the Windies out of the tournament, Australia cruised to another victory, while a brilliant victory for the Proteas over England was not enough to seal qualification.

Now, the challenge for Australia will be to produce good cricket against Pakistan, who are very much likely to be their Semi Final opponent. David Warner, with two fifties in the group stage, has looked to find some form, but the Pakistani attack is a different kettle of fish. So, Australia will need to do their bit with the ball if they wish to lift this trophy for the very first time.

T20 WC 2021 Match 40: NZ vs AFG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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T20 WC 2021 Match 40: NZ vs AFG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

T20 WC 2021 Match 40: NZ vs AFG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AFG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction | New Zealand vs Afghanistan Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report

It comes down to this. Afghanistan will be just about everyone’s favourite team for the day in India, as an Afghan victory opens up a range of possibilities in Group 2. Social media names are changing, Afghanistan flags are appearing in usernames and even Shoaib Akhtar has warned of an uproar if New Zealand loses this.

Amid the chaos of social media needs to be element of calm in both teams. The Black Caps, despite winning three of their four matches, haven’t quite been at their best. It took some superb finishing by James Neesham and Glenn Phillips to steer clear of Namibia, after Scotland also made inroads into the New Zealand top order in the previous match. So, a victory and runs for the likes of Kane Williamson will be on the agenda today.

While India will be behind Afghanistan, Mohammad Nabi’s still has a chance of qualifying. Their heavy defeat to India and then India’s huge win against Scotland has now put them behind on net run rate, so the least they can do here is produce a big performance to then put some pressure on India in their final game against Namibia. To give themselves a better chance of achieving this, they will want Mujeeb ur Rahman to be fit.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

New Zealand:

  • Kane Williamson has had a quiet tournament by his standards (25, 33*, 0, 28). He has struck scores of 79* and 43 in ODIs against Afghanistan, so the skipper will be looking to replicate that kind of form here.
  • Williamson has a solid record at this ground. In six innings at Abu Dhabi, Williamson has struck 229 runs at an average of 45.80 and strike rate of 127.93.
  • Martin Guptill has the potential to take the game away from Afghanistan and in the process cause more heartache for India fans. He scored a brilliant 93 a few days ago against Scotland. However, he has a poor record at Abu Dhabi, with just 69 runs in six innings at an average of 11.50.
  • Glenn Phillips (scores of 33 and 39* in his last two matches) put on 67 runs in the last four overs with James Neesham against Namibia. That sort of death batting can give New Zealand a big edge in this crunch game today.
  • Ish Sodhi has taken seven wickets in four matches in the Super 12s. He has taken 64 wickets in 49 T20Is since the last T20 World Cup – only Rashid Khan has more.
  • Trent Boult is New Zealand’s leading wicket-taker in the Super 12s (eight wickets). But, Boult does not enjoy Abu Dhabi as much as he enjoys Dubai or Sharjah. He has 10 wickets in 11 matches on this ground at an economy rate of 8.73.
  • Tim Southee has been brilliant for New Zealand. His five wickets in four games cost just 18.00 runs apiece with a superb economy rate of 5.62. He is wicketless in his two T20s so far at Abu Dhabi (econ. 6.57).

Afghanistan:

  • Can Hazratullah Zazai get Afghanistan off to a blistering start? He has scored 258 runs in seven T20s at Abu Dhabi at an average of 36.86 and strike rate of 165.38.
  • Rahmanullah Gurbaz has made plenty of starts in this tournament. The exciting right-hander has scored 46, 10, 4 and 19 in his four matches. He does have a similar record at Abu Dhabi with 140 runs in six matches at an average of 23.33.
  • Mohammad Nabi is having a solid tournament with the bat: 11* (4), 35* (32), 32* (17) and 35 (32). His 173 runs on this ground come at an average of 21.63 and strike rate of 139.52. He will be key against New Zealand’s left-handers.
  • Karim Janar scored 42* off 22 balls vs India.
  • Can Rashid Khan influence this game like fans know he can? The classy leg-spinner did not have a fruitful outing vs India (0/36), but he does have a superb haul of 30 wickets in 20 matches on this ground (econ. 6.22).
  • Mujeeb ur Rahman took 5/20 and 1/14 before his injury. He was in fantastic form. If he’s back today, watch out.

Stats and Facts

  • This will be the first T20 International between New Zealand and Afghanistan.
  • Martin Guptill has struck at 134.09 vs spin in this tournament. No other New Zealand batsman has struck at over 111.
  • Devon Conway has also had a quiet tournament (27, 2*, 1, 17). He will be key against the Afghanistan spinners. He averages 47.40 in seven T20Is batting at four.
  • Hazratullah Zazai is striking at just 116.88 in this tournament compared to his career strike rate of 148.64.

Possible Playing 11

Ish Sodhi is set to play in this game after passing a concussion test.

New Zealand: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Daryl Mitchell, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Devon Conway (wk), 5. Glenn Phillips, 6. James Neesham, 7. Mitchell Santner, 8. Adam Milne, 9. Tim Southee, 10. Ish Sodhi, 11. Trent Boult

Afghanistan are hoping that Mujeeb is fit for this one.

Afghanistan: 1. Hazratullah Zazai, 2. Mohammad Shahzad (wk), 3. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 4. Gulbadin Naib, 5. Najibullah Zadran, 6. Mohammad Nabi (c), 7. Karim Janat, 8. Rashid Khan, 9. Sharafuddin Ashraf/Mujeeb ur Rahman, 10. Naveen-ul-Haq, 11. Hamid Hassan.

Abu Dhabi Pitch Report and Weather

Three of the four highest totals in this World Cup have been scored on this ground. But, it is a surface where bowlers often find help in the powerplay, so the top order from each team needs to overcome this.

A warm and clear day is forecast. As this is a day game, there will be no dew.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

T20 WC 2021 Match 40: NZ vs AFG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AFG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction | New Zealand vs Afghanistan Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Match 40: NZ vs AFG Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

T20 WC 2021 Match 40: NZ vs AFG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AFG vs NZ Dream11 Prediction | New Zealand vs Afghanistan Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Match 40: NZ vs AFG Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Rahmanullah Gurbaz
  • Batsmen: Martin Guptill, Kane Williamson
  • All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib
  • Bowlers: Trent Boult, Ish Sodhi, Rashid Khan

Also read: Fan2Play vs Dream11 – What’s the difference?

Match Prediction

The pressure is on. New Zealand is a calm team that performs well under pressure. So, they should get the job done today.

Questions will be raised if New Zealand loses to Afghanistan – Shoaib Akhtar

Charbel Coorey
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Questions will be raised if New Zealand loses to Afghanistan – Shoaib Akhtar

Cricket News: Questions will be raised if New Zealand loses to Afghanistan says Shoaib Akhtar | Shoaib Akhtar says Afghanistan beating NZ will raise questions

Shoaib Akhtar is never far away from controversy, and the former Pakistan fast bowler put himself in the limelight once again.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Akhtar claimed that a lot of questions will be asked if New Zealand loses to Afghanistan, which is a result that India needs if they wish to qualify. Virat Kohli’s team needs Afghanistan to win that match as a Black Caps’ victory will put them on eight points, out of reach of India’s maximum of six.

Also, Shoaib pointed to how Pakistan fans are feeling about New Zealand, after they cancelled their tour of Pakistan just hours before the first ODI in September. It left fans and players heartbroken, and Shoaib warned that the social media storm would be a big one if New Zealand loses.

“Sentiments of Pakistan people are too high in New Zealand” – Shoaib Akhtar

“If New Zealand lose to Afghanistan, then many questions will be raised. Let me warn you beforehand, many questions will be raised. I fear it would start another trending news on social media. I don’t want to get into more controversies, I don’t want to talk on these topics but the sentiments of Pakistan people are too high in New Zealand,” Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

“I think New Zealand is a better team than Afghanistan, god forbid, if they don’t win, there will be a problem, no one will be able to stop what’s being said on social media.”

Pakistan playing India would be good for cricket

However, Shoaib then went on to say that Pakistan playing India again would be great for the tournament and cricket. He praised India for their fightback, courtesy of thumping victories against Afghanistan and Scotland.

“I really think this tournament has headed to an interesting phase. India coming back has made the tournament come back alive. There is a chance now that India will play Pakistan again. We have to wait and see. It will be good for cricket and good for the youngsters if that happens,” Akhtar said.

“If India gets knocked out, it will be quite demoralising. They have played good cricket but they have played it late.”

New Zealand will play Afghanistan in Sunday’s first match. If New Zealand win, they will confirm their passage through to the Semi Finals. India and Afghanistan would officially be out at that point.

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