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T20 WC 2021 Match 4: SL vs NAM Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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T20 WC 2021 Match 4: SL vs NAM Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

T20 WC 2021 Match 4: SL vs NAM Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SL vs NAM Dream11 Prediction Today | Sri Lanka vs Namibia Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report

Seven years ago, Sri Lanka were the talk of the town as they raised the T20 World Cup aloft. Their magnificent triumph came after consistent appearances in the business end of ODI World Cups in the 2000’s and 2011, and were a team to be feared.

So, the fact that Sri Lanka are now in the qualifiers is proof of such a steep decline in recent years. It is only until the last couple of months where optimism is beginning to grow again thanks to the arrival of some fine talent, but that alone won’t be enough to qualify out of a very competitive group that also includes Ireland and Netherlands.

As Sri Lanka have declined, Namibia have risen. The men from Southern Africa have gone from strength-to-strength over the past five years, and look in good shape to compete in their first global tournament since the 2003 ODI World Cup. They are certainly not here as pushovers, with 18 victories in 22 completed T20Is to date, including their last three against UAE, Scotland and PNG.

Namibia base their game around six hitting, which was crucial to their qualification back in 2019. Craig Williams is in superb touch, while Stephan Baard and Gerhard Erasmus will also look to lead the way. The Namibians also welcome David Wiese, who has the most five-wicket hauls of any bowler in T20 history.

Sri Lanka will have to be on their game. If they think they can just turn up and win, they have another thing coming. A good performance in such a competitive Group A will be key to qualification to the Super 12s stage.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Sri Lanka:

  • Avishka Fernando has historically struggled in T20Is, but is enjoying a strong run of form batting at number four. He has struck 83*, 33, 62* and 61 in his last four matches vs Oman, Bangladesh and PNG.
  • Sri Lanka will be hoping Kusal Perera is fit enough to play as he nurses a hamstring injury. He has 1,416 runs in T20s at a strike rate of 132.21.
  • Can Pathum Nissanka impact this game at the top of the order? He is coming off a 58-ball 76 in his last game – the warm up match vs PNG.
  • A firing Dhanajaya de Silva adds a different dimension to the Sri Lankan team. However, the all-rounder has struggled in T20s this year, with just 97 runs in 11 matches at an average of 13.86.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga will have a key role to play. He didn’t make an impact in his limited opportunities in IPL 2021, but he remains an excellent talent. He has 20 wickets in 14 T20s this year at an economy rate of just 6.09, in addition to 1/24 and 2/16 the warm ups.
  • However, Hasaranga will be out to make an impact with the bat. He has produced some fine knocks in ODIs, but has struggled in T20s this year with just 78 runs at an average of 7.80.
  • Dushmantha Chameera was in fine touch in the warm ups, taking 3/27 and 2/20 against Bangladesh and PNG respectively. Chameera has been one of Sri Lanka’s bright spots this year, with 15 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 17.86.

Namibia:

  • What Craig Williams has done for Namibian cricket has been outstanding, and he will be keen to deliver on the world stage even at the age of 37. He has struck 57, 50, 57, and 81 in his last four T20Is, part of a total of 259 runs this year at a strike rate of 142.
  • Skipper Gerhard Erasmus was Namibia’s top run-scorer in the 2019 T20 World Cup Qualifier (9 inns, 268 runs, avg. 38.28, SR 137.43). He will be seeking to improve on a bit of a lean run in recent matches (27, 0, 11, 32 and 4 in his last five matches).
  • Erasmus will also be seeking an improvement on just 25 runs in four T20s on this ground at an average of 6.25.
  • Stephen Baard was under par in the warm ups, scoring 1 and 0 vs Oman and Scotland respectively. He did strike 42, 39, 39 and 8 in his four T20s before that. Namibia’s third-highest run-scorer ever in T20Is (496 runs, avg. 33.08, SR 121.86) will be key at the top.
  • JJ Smit has struck 22 sixes in 18 matches, only behind Erasmus’ 24 for Namibia in T20Is. Smit hit the most sixes in the 2019 World Cup Qualifier in the UAE, with 14 maximums in nine matches. He also took 16 wickets in the same campaign.
  • David Wiese has six five-wicket hauls in T20s – the most of any bowler. Two of them came recently in the CPL. Also, Wiese had a fine hit out in the warm up vs Scotland, scoring 31 and taking 2/23.
  • Jan Frylinck has the most wickets of any Namibian in T20Is, with 35 scalps in 20 matches at a superb average of 10.80 and strike rate of 11. This includes a remarkable 6/24 against UAE recently.

Stats and Facts

  • This will be the first ever meeting between Sri Lanka and Namibia in international cricket.
  • Sri Lanka have lost nine of 12 T20Is this year. Two of their three wins came against a very depleted India.
  • Avishka Fernando has struck three fifties in his last four matches, but none were official T20Is. He is still looking for his first official T20I fifty.

Possible Playing 11

Kusal Perera is in doubt with a hamstring problem. If he is fit, he will certainly be a key addition at number three.

Sri Lanka: 1. Dinesh Chandimal (wk), 2. Pathum Nissanka, 3. Kusal Perera/Bhanuka Rajapaksa, 4. Avishka Fernando, 5. Dhananjaya de Silva, 6. Charith Asalanka, 7. Dasun Shanaka (c), 8. Chamika Karunaratne, 9. Wanindu Hasaranga, 10. Dushmantha Chameera, 11. Maheesh Theekshana/Akila Dananjaya

Namibia: 1. Stephan Baard, 2. Zane Green (wk), 3. Craig Williams, 4. Gerhard Erasmus (c), 5. David Wiese, 6. JJ Smit, 7. Pikky Ya France, 8. Jan Frylinck, 9. Ben Shikongo, 10. Bernard Scholtz, 11. Michael van Lingen

Abu Dhabi Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score at Abu Dhabi in the recent IPL was 159, with the chasing team winning five of the eight matches. However, the last game saw Mumbai Indians smash 235 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, who themselves scored a strong 193 in reply.

A warm, clear evening is forecast.

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 4: SL vs NAM Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SL vs NAM Dream11 Prediction Today | Sri Lanka vs Namibia Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Match 4: SL vs NAM Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

T20 WC 2021 Match 4: SL vs NAM Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SL vs NAM Dream11 Prediction Today | Sri Lanka vs Namibia Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Match 4: SL vs NAM Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Dinesh Chandimal
  • Batsmen: Avishka Fernando, Craig Williams
  • All-rounders: David Wiese, Wanindu Hasaranga, JJ Smit
  • Bowlers: Dushmantha Chameera

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

Match Prediction

Sri Lanka need to be wary of a motivated and talented Namibia side. But, they should have enough T20I experience to win.

T20 WC 2021 Match 3: IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
T20 WC 2021 Match 3: IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

T20 WC 2021 Match 3: IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction Today | Ireland vs Netherlands Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report

Who said the T20 World Cup will only become interesting at the Super 12s stage? After a fascinating day one where Scotland produced a magnificent comeback to beat Bangladesh, Group A gets underway in Abu Dhabi.

And this is the group that looks most fascinating on paper. Sri Lanka are not the force they once were, and Namibia have made wonderful strides in the past five years. With them are Ireland and Netherlands, who both have strong cases for progressing through to the Super 12s stage.

Ireland, despite their up-and-down form in T20Is in recent years, can never be counted out. They were disappointing in their 2-1 series defeat against UAE in the leadup to the tournament, but as history has showed, a global tournament can bring the best out of the Irish. With the confidence of two comfortable warm up victories against Papua New Guinea and Bangladesh, Ireland will believe that they can make the perfect start to a very competitive group.

And it looks to be a challenging start indeed. The Netherlands are many’s pick to qualify to the main round courtesy of their experience and capable bowling attack. Ryan ten Doeschate will call time on a decorated career after this tournament, which will no doubt increase his and his team’s motivation to send him out on a high.

This should be a cracker. These two sides have history in the T20 World Cup, where Netherlands pulled off a miraculous chase in 2014 to qualify for the main round. And, the Dutch have enjoyed other great moments, particularly beating England in 2009 and 2014. So, what will be the great moment this time, and for whom?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Ireland:

  • Paul Stirling is in wonderful form and you feel he is key to Ireland’s hopes. He has struck 737 runs this year in 27 matches at an average of 29.48 and strike rate of 141.46.
  • Stirling will be out to improve on his record against The Netherlands. The right-hander is yet to hit a half-century in nine matches, averaging just 18.89 overall (170 runs). He does have a fine record at this ground, with 565 runs in 17 matches at an average of 33.24 and strike rate of 137.80.
  • It has been a tough year for Kevin O’Brien in T20 cricket (18 inns, 332 runs, avg. 18.44, SR 102.15). However, his scores of 46, 12 and 54 against UAE can do his confidence the world of good.
  • O’Brien averages 22 in seven matches against the Dutch and 21.88 in 17 matches on this ground. Ireland will be hoping he can crack the 20 mark and carry on.
  • Skipper Andy Balbirnie has a solid record against The Netherlands. In five matches, he has struck 199 runs at an average of 39.80 and strike rate of 143.17.
  • George Dockrell is more of a batting all-rounder these days, but he could have an impact with the ball if called on. He has 16 wickets in 11 matches vs the Dutch at an average of 16.50.
  • Simi Singh is one to watch, without a doubt. He has struck 240 runs in 16 matches this year (avg. 24), along with 17 wickets. He has a half-century in three T20Is against the Dutch as well as four wickets.
  • Craig Young comes into this match in fine form, with figures of 3/15 (vs PNG) and 2/21 (vs Bangladesh) in the warm up matches.

Netherlands:

  • Netherlands have plenty of experience, but the man who can turn the game in their favour is Max O’Dowd. The opener has scored 235 runs in seven T20Is vs Ireland at an average of 33.57 and strike rate of 141.57.
  • O’Dowd smashed a 73-ball 133 earlier this year, albeit against the inexperienced Malaysia outfit.
  • Stephan Myburgh played one of the memorable knocks in T20 World Cup history in 2014. He slammed a 23-ball 63 to help Netherlands chase Ireland’s 190 within the 14.2 overs they had to in order to qualify.
  • Ben Cooper has a magnificent record against Ireland. In eight innings, Cooper has struck 287 runs at an average of 57.40 and strike rate of 128.13. He scored 40 (vs Oman) and 19 (vs Scotland) in the warm ups.
  • Can Ryan ten Doeschate influence this game as many know he can? He has played just the three matches vs Ireland to date (75 runs, avg. 37.50, one wicket). However, he did struggle in the T20 Cup in England (11 inns, 73 runs, avg. 10.43, SR 97.33), so it will be interesting to see how he responds.
  • Roelof van der Merwe will also be key with both bat and ball. His 86 runs vs Ireland come at an average of 28.67 and strike rate of 132.31. He also has seven wickets in six matches at an average of 19.57.
  • Paul van Meekeren is coming off a successful CPL campaign, where he won the title with St Kitts. He has a superb record against Ireland, with 14 wickets in seven matches at an average of just 12.71.
  • Skipper Pieter Seelaar has the potential to swing the game in his team’s favour. He has 11 wickets in 10 matches vs Ireland (avg. 21.73).

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 13, Ireland 4, Netherlands 7, N/R 2.
  • Ireland and Netherlands met four times in 2019, with both teams winning two matches apiece. Ireland won both games in Oman, while Netherlands won in the UAE (Dubai).
  • Harry Tector has struck 50, 55, 13*, 38 and 23 in his last five white-ball matches.
  • Mark Adair has taken seven wickets in his last four white-ball matches.
  • Tim van der Gugten took 2/11 (vs Scotland) and 1/29 (vs Oman) in the warm ups. The seamer can be a point of difference for the Dutch.
  • Colin Ackermann will be key as one of the limited spin options in the Netherlands’ squad. He is coming off a solid performance vs Oman, scoring 37* (21) and taking 1/11.

Possible Playing 11

Ireland: 1. Paul Stirling, 2. Kevin O’Brien, 3. Andy Balbirnie (c), 4. Harry Tector, 5. George Dockrell, 6. Lorcan Tucker/Niel Rock (wk), 7. Simi Singh, 8. Mark Adair, 9. Andy McBrine, 10. Craig Young, 11. Josh Little/Ben White

Brandon Glover was the second-highest wicket-taker in the 2019 Qualifier, which further highlights the Netherlands’ pace bowling depth.

Netherlands: 1. Max O’Dowd, 2. Stephan Myburgh, 3. Ben Cooper, 4. Colin Ackermann, 4. Ryan ten Doeschate, 5. Roelof van der Merwe, 6. Bas de Leede, 7. Scott Edwards (wk), 8. Pieter Seelaar (c), 9. Tim van der Gugten/Brandon Glover, 10. Paul van Meekeren, 11. Vivan Kingma/Philippe Boissevain

Abu Dhabi Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score at Abu Dhabi in the recent IPL was 159, with the chasing team winning five of the eight matches. However, the last game saw Mumbai Indians smash 235 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, who themselves scored a strong 193 in reply.

A warm and clear day is forecast, which comes as no surprise.

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 3: IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction Today | Ireland vs Netherlands Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Match 3: IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

T20 WC 2021 Match 3: IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction Today | Ireland vs Netherlands Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Match 3: IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Scott Edwards
  • Batsmen: Ben Cooper, Paul Stirling
  • All-rounders: Roelof van der Merwe, Simi Singh, Colin Ackermann
  • Bowlers: Craig Young, Paul van Meekeren

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

Match Prediction

A difficult match to predict. Ireland have played more cricket of late, while Netherlands have to gel quickly. However, I will predict Netherlands, with their experience and bowling depth, to win.

T20 WC 2021 Match 3: IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | IRE vs NED Dream11 Prediction Today | Ireland vs Netherlands Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report

T20 WC 2021 Match 2: BAN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
-
0
T20 WC 2021 Match 2: BAN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

T20 WC 2021 Match 2: BAN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BAN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction Today | Bangladesh vs Scotland Key Players | Al Amerat Pitch Report

The two favourites to qualify out of Group B do battle in the quest to take a big step in the quest for qualification to the Super 12s stage.

Bangladesh struggled in the warm ups against Sri Lanka and Ireland, but will be looking to build on a wonderful run in T20 Internationals. Series wins against Zimbabwe, Australia and New Zealand has increased optimism that the Tigers can be a dark horse in the tournament, particularly given the slow pitches of the UAE.

However, they will first have to perform well in Oman on a surface expected to be vastly different to those of Dhaka. Also, their batting is in the spotlight as they have often failed to chase challenging scores since the start of the Australia series, and a good start here with the bat can be a wonderful confidence booster. Indeed, having Shakib Al Hasan available less than 48 hours after the IPL Final is a big boost in their attempt to improve on a poor T20 World Cup record.

This is also a wonderful opportunity for Scotland. You feel they have been building for something bigger in recent years until the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt on things. Now, they have the chance to impress on the world stage, with experienced players keen to make a mark. The Scots will be aiming to build on their strong showings in the warm up matches, and will no doubt remind Bangladesh that they shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Bangladesh:

  • If Shakib Al Hasan delivers, Bangladesh will be hard to beat. He made plenty of starts at home vs Australia and New Zealand, but will be looking forward to playing on a different kind of surface here.
  • Bangladesh could pick Soumya Sarkar, who struck two starts in the warm up matches (34 and 37). Like Shakib, Soumya prefers to bat on truer surfaces, as he showed against Zimbabwe earlier this year with a player of the series performance (126 runs, three wickets).
  • Mushfiqur Rahim’s form is also a concern for Bangladesh. One of Bangladesh’s greatest ever players was enduring a poor run of form against New Zealand, and scored just 13 and 4 in the warm ups.
  • Skipper Mahmudullah was Bangladesh’s top run-scorer in their series against New Zealand with 120 runs at an average of 60 on tough batting pitches. He missed the warm ups with “slight back pains”, but should be right to go here according to reports.
  • Mustafizur Rahman will be key, particularly in the death overs. He was performing well in the IPL until the last couple of matches where he went wicketless and was expensive. If there is any grip in the surface, watch out.
  • Shoriful Islam was expensive in the warm up matches (0/41 and 1/41). However, the left-arm seamer has proven to be a genuine wicket-taker, with 17 wickets in 11 T20Is this year at an average of 17.35 and strike rate of 13.

Scotland:

  • If George Munsey gets going, watch out. No Scottish player with at least 150 T20I runs comes close to Munsey’s strike rate of 153.36. The hard-hitting left-hander is coming off a 41-ball 67 in the warm up against Namibia.
  • Also, in three T20s on this ground, Munsey has struck 98 runs at a strike rate of 208.51.
  • Kyle Coetzer missed out in the warm ups (17 and 10), but remains key to Scotland’s hopes. He has scored 78 runs in three matches on this ground at an average of 26.00 and strike rate of 144.44.
  • Richie Berrington smashed a century in Scotland’s only T20I to date vs Bangladesh, back in 2012. Berrington was in some fine form last month against Zimbabwe, striking scores of 82*, 42 and 44.
  • Calum MacLeod is one of the four players (Munsey, Coetzer and Berrington) to hit at least 1,000 T20I runs for Scotland. He prefers to bat first (avg. 34) compared to batting second (avg. 22.26) in T20s. Also, MacLeod has struck 117 runs in three matches on this ground for just the one dismissal (SR 113.59).
  • Mark Watt comes into this form on the back of some fine bowling form. The left-arm spinner took 2/11 and 2/34 in recent matches vs Namibia, as well as 4/10 to bowl Ireland out for 91.
  • Safyaan Sharif is the only Scottish bowler with at least 50 T20I wickets (45 inns, 53 wickets, avg. 24.18, SR 17.8).

Stats and Facts

  • Scotland won the only T20I between the two sides, back in 2012. They won by 34 runs in a comprehensive display against a Bangladesh side that had Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah.
  • Matthew Cross is coming off a 33-ball 57 against Namibia.
  • Bangladesh have won just five of 25 matches at the T20 World Cup.

Possible Playing 11

Mohammad Naim has been in poor form, so it could be between he and Soumya Sarkar for the opening slot.

Bangladesh: 1. Soumya Sarkar/Mohammad Naim, 2. Liton Das, 3. Shakib Al Hasan, 4. Mushfiqur Rahim, 5. Mahmudullah (c), 6. Afif Hossain, 7. Nurul Hasan (wk), 8. Mahedi Hasan, 9. Mohammad Saifuddin, 10. Shoriful Islam, 11. Mustafizur Rahman

Scotland: 1. George Munsey, 2. Kyle Coetzer (c), 3. Matthew Cross (wk), 4. Richie Berrington, 5. Calum MacLeod, 6. Dylan Budge, 7. Michael Leask, 8. Mark Watt, 9. Safyaan Sharif, 10. Josh Davey, 11. Alasdair Evans

Al Amerat Pitch Report and Weather

Scores in the region of 160 were common in the recent series between Sri Lanka and Oman. Expect an easy-paced track here, with the batsmen to have a say in the game.

The forecast is for warm and clear weather, as is the case for the rest of the week in Muscat.

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 2: BAN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BAN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction Today | Bangladesh vs Scotland Key Players | Al Amerat Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Match 2: BAN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

T20 WC 2021 Match 2: BAN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BAN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction Today | Bangladesh vs Scotland Key Players | Al Amerat Pitch Report
T20 WC 2021 Match 2: BAN vs SCO Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Mushfiqur Rahim
  • Batsmen: Liton Das, George Munsey
  • All-rounders: Shakib Al Hasan, Richie Berrington
  • Bowlers: Mustafizur Rahman, Safyaan Sharif

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

Match Prediction

Scotland can certainly challenge Bangladesh in this contest. But, Bangladesh’s experience and Oman conditions should be enough to get them over the line.

T20 WC 2021 Match 1: OMN vs PNG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
-
0
T20 WC 2021 Match 1: OMN vs PNG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

T20 WC 2021 Match 1: OMN vs PNG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | OMA vs PNG Dream11 Prediction Today | Oman vs Papua New Guinea Key Players | Al Amerat Pitch Report

From another wonderful moment for the decorated Chennai Super Kings to another less than 48 hours later. The people of Oman will witness their national side host the opening match of a global tournament in what is a fantastic opportunity for their team. 3,000 will be in attendance, while many others will tune in on their televisions and smartphones.

The T20 World Cup – a year late – is finally upon us, and phase one of the tournament promises to be quite fascinating. Oman, hosting phase one of the T20 World Cup, have a great opportunity to make that home advantage count in their quest to qualify for the Super 12s. Facing them today is a critical game given that Bangladesh and Scotland are the favourites to qualify from Group B.

Papua New Guinea is the most winnable match in the group for Oman, given this is PNG’s first appearance at a global tournament and are enduring a bad run of form. However, don’t let that distract you from what is a brilliant story. Most of their squad hails from Hanuabada Village, a conclave on the western side of PNG capital Port Moresby, and here they are looking to make a mark on the world stage. In fact, this will be the first time ever that PNG will play in front of a televised audience back home. A big occasion indeed.

While qualification out of the group looks a distant possibility for PNG, a good performance here will certainly raise further attention as to the strides they have made. They will want to put their best foot forward in what also looks like their best opportunity to compete in this group. Here’s to a good match.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Oman:

  • Aqib Ilyas has been the man in form for Oman. He struck 59, 30 and 78 in the T20 World Cup warm up matches against Sri Lanka, Namibia and Netherlands respectively. Also, he struck 34 and 56 in ODIs vs PNG on this ground a few weeks ago.
  • Can Jatinder Singh make his mark on the World Cup right away after a poor run of form (scores of 7, 5, 8 and 1) in the warm up matches? He has the most runs for Oman in T20Is (697, avg. 27.88, SR 114.07).
  • Jatinder has a solid record on this ground in T20Is, with 215 runs in seven matches at an average of 35.83 and strike rate of 117.48.
  • Khawar Ali’s all-round ability will be key for Oman. He has both the second-most runs (601, avg. 20.72) and wickets (35, avg. 16.85) for his country. He recently decimated the PNG lineup in an ODI, taking 5/15 on October 1.
  • Skipper Zeeshan Maqsood will be keen to lead from the front on a big day for his team. He has the third-most runs for Oman in T20Is (26 inns, 547 runs, avg. 24.86, SR 11.63), along with 18 wickets with his left-arm spin. He struck 26 and 17* in ODIs vs PNG a few weeks ago.
  • Will PNG be able to handle Bilal Khan? The left-arm seamer is the only Oman bowler to have at least 50 T20I wickets (51, avg. 16.25, SR 14.3). He recently took 1/12 and 1/32 in ODIs vs PNG.
  • In fact, Bilal Khan is the joint-sixth-fastest, along with Dale Steyn, to 50 T20I wickets (35 matches).

Papua New Guinea:

  • Tony Ura is the face of PNG cricket. He is PNG’s only centurion, with a total of 768 T20I runs in 26 innings at an impressive average and strike rate of 37.70 and 141.46 respectively.
  • Ura struck 69 recently against Namibia in Dubai, before making scores of 2 (vs Ireland) and 24 (vs Srl Lanka) in the World Cup warm ups.
  • Skipper Assad Vala showed fine form in two ODIs against Oman at the turn of the month. He struck scores of 27 (49) and 62 (78). He is PNG’s second-highest run-scorer in T20Is, with 516 at an average of 23. Also, he is PNG’s third-highest wicket-taker with 22 scalps at an average of just 13.
  • The skipper also top-scored for PNG in the 2019 T20 World Cup Qualifier tournament, with 197 runs in eight innings at an average of 28.14 and strike rate of 121.60.
  • Sese Bau has the second-highest average for any PNG player with at least 300 T20I runs (26.73), only behind Ura’s 37.70. Bau has had a bit of a lean patch leading into the tournament (7, 12, 3 in his last three matches), so PNG will be hoping he hits form here.
  • Damien Ravu has the second-highest number of wickets for any PNG bowler in T20Is. His 24 scalps in 18 matches come at an average of 10.66 and economy rate of just 5.66. However, he has gone wicketless in each of his last seven matches across ODI and T20 matches.
  • Nosaina Pokana will be key for PNG. The left-armer has 21 wickets in as many T20Is at an average of 18.14 and economy rate of 5.96. He took 1/48 vs Oman in an ODI a few weeks ago, and will be looking to improve on two wickets in his last four T20 matches.

Stats and Facts

  • This will be the first meeting between Oman and Papua New Guinea in a T20 International. Oman did beat PNG comfortably in two ODIs recently as part of the Cricket World Cup League 2 tournament.
  • Oman have been in some decent form. They beat a strong Mumbai domestic team 2-1 in a T20 series last month, and pushed Sri Lanka recently in their two matches against them.
  • PNG have lost their last 12 matches (eight ODIs, two T20Is and two unofficial T20s). Can they turn that around here?

Possible Playing 11

Oman: 1. Jatinder Singh, 2. Aqib Ilyas, 3. Khawar Ali, 4. Kashyap Prajapati, 5. Zeeshan Maqsood (c), 6. Suraj Kumar, 7. Sandeep Goud, 8. Naseem Khushi (wk), 9. Mohammad Nadeem, 10. Fayyaz Butt/Kaleemulah, 11. Bilal Khan

Papua New Guinea: 1. Tony Ura, 2. Lega Siaka, 3. Assad Vala (c), 4. Charles Amini, 5. Kiplin Doriga (wk), 6. Sese Bau, 7. Norman Vanua, 8. Chad Soper, 9. Simon Atai, 10. Nosaina Pokana, 11. Damien Ravu

Al Amerat Pitch Report and Weather

The recent T20s between Sri Lanka and Oman saw scores of 160. Sri Lanka finished well in the first game to reach 162/4, followed by the Lankans then chasing Oman’s 150 in the next match. Expect another easy-paced surface here.

The forecast is for clear and hot weather, with a top of about 35 degrees.

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 1: OMN vs PNG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | OMA vs PNG Dream11 Prediction Today | Oman vs Papua New Guinea Key Players | Al Amerat Pitch Report | T20 World Cup Round 1 match 1 OMA vs PNG Dream11 | OMN vs PNG Best Dream11 Team
T20 WC 2021 Match 1: OMN vs PNG Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

T20 WC 2021 Match 1: OMN vs PNG Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Simon Atai
  • Batsmen: Tony Ura, Jatinder Singh, Aqib Ilyas
  • All-rounders: Khawar Ali, Neeshan Maqsood, Assad Vala
  • Bowlers: Bilal Khan

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

Match Prediction

Oman at home look good for a win. They have been in decent form lately and should beat a PNG side finding its feet at this level.

Twitter reactions as CSK win their 4th IPL Trophy

Nash Sant
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0
Twitter reactions as CSK win their 4th IPL Trophy

Cricket News: Twitter reactions as CSK win their 4th IPL Trophy | MS Dhoni leads CSK to their 4th IPL trophy after victory over KKR

When IPL 2021 began in April in India, not many gave CSK a chance to win the trophy seven months later. And when the second phase began in the UAE in September, no one really gave KKR a chance of reaching the Final.

But here we were.

After beginning the second phase at the seventh spot, KKR won five of their remaining seven games to end up in the fourth spot at the end of the league stage. 

Pressure was high at Dubai Sports City and the game sure was going to be a thriller. It all started with KKR winning the toss and putting CSK into bat first. In the past, that has worked for them when they won their two titles back in 2012 and 2014. On both occasions they ended up chasing over 190. 

CSK got off to a steady start. It was not a flier by any means but they kept the scoreboard ticking just over seven and at the start Ruturaj was the aggressor in the partnership with Faf. After that, CSK kept the run rate at a steady pace and Uthappa made full use of the opportunity that he got. Playing at a SR of 206, Uthappa made sure that the loss of Gaikwad wasn’t felt and it was important to keep the scoring rate above eight, which he was successful in doing.

After getting rid of Uthappa, KKR felt like they were pulling things back until Moeen Ali and Faf Du Plessis kept nailing boundaries each over and never looked out of sorts. The enigma of Faf struck again as he scored 86 and was only dismissed on the last ball of the innings. He missed the Orange cap by two runs to his fellow opening partner Ruturaj Gaikwad.

At the mid innings break, Ruturaj had this to say, “It’s stopping, holding up, we did brilliantly well to get to 190, it’s going to be challenging for them. I think it’s enough but we need to execute well. I wanted Faf to hit a six off that last ball to add six more to our total (asked if he knew Faf was two short of the orange cap).”

KKR got off to a great start. The kind of start you would expect and hope for from your openers in a high pressure final chasing 193. But after the loss of the first wicket, KKR did not quite capitalise on that start and kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Morgan made a gutsy move promoting himself to number 5 when things had not gone his way so far in the tournament. But that move did not pay off as he only played 8 balls to score 4 and saw wickets tumble at the other end.

In the end, KKR left things a little too late and lost the IPL final by 27 runs. 

At the final presentations, Dhoni said, ”Before I start talking about CSK, need to talk about KKR. Difficult to come back and do what they have, if any team deserved to win the IPL, it’s KKR. Huge credit to the coaches, team and support staff. The break really helped them.

Coming to CSK, we shuffled players. We had match winners coming game after game and doing really well. Every final is special, if you look at stats, we may say we’re the most consistent team to lose the final too. I feel it’s important to come back strong, especially in the knockouts. Frankly no chats, we don’t talk a lot [meetings]. It’s more one-on-one, our practice sessions are meeting sessions. The moment you get into a team room, it brings about different pressure. Our practice sessions have been good. I would love to thank the fans, wherever we’ve played, even when we were in South Africa, we’ve always had a good number of CSK fans. That is what you crave for.”

Eoin Morgan after a pleasing campaign: “We are extremely proud of the fight we have shown. The character and fight is trademark. Our owners – Shahrukh, Venky have been absolutely outstanding. Guys fought incredibly hard and performed. Iyer and Gill have been outstanding. Ventakesh is new to this platform. They have been the cornerstone of our batting. Tripathi left everything out there today. Unfortunately, he picked up an injury.”

Twitter reactions as CSK lift 4th IPL trophy

Written by Nash Sant. Follow Nash on Twitter today

WBBL 07 Match 3: ST-W vs AS-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
WBBL 07 Match 3: ST-W vs AS-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

WBBL 07 Match 3: ST-W vs AS-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | ST-W vs AS-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Sydney Thunder vs Adelaide Strikers Key Players | Hobart Pitch Report

Last season’s champions play one of this season’s challengers.

However, one feels that defending the title will be a challenge for the Sydney Thunder. Skipper Rachael Haynes is likely to be out of the tournament, replaced as captain by Hannah Darlington in a wonderful moment for the youngster. Also, the loss of such quality in Rachael Trenaman (Hurricanes), Tammy Beaumont, Heather Knight and Shabnim Ismail is not easy for any team to cope with.

But, they do welcome the in-form Smriti Mandhana, who is without a doubt one of the top batters in the world. It will be a tough test right away for Mandhana and co, as Adelaide Strikers on paper look one of the contenders for the WBBL 07 Title. Star South African Dane van Niekerk joins a Strikers side that has a well-balanced, exciting bowling attack led by Megan Schutt. Also, with Tahlia McGrath coming off a player of the series performance against India, the Strikers are well placed to improve on their sixth-placed finish in WBBL 06.

Who will start off with a win?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Sydney Thunder:

  • Smriti Mandhana is in fine touch. The Indian opener has struck 422 runs in 16 white-ball matches this year at an average of 30.14 and strike rate of 132.29. She is coming off an excellent series against Australia, with a century in the Test followed by 52 in the last T20I.
  • Mandhana has played five matches at Bellerive Oval, scoring 115 runs at an average of 28.75 and strike rate of 149.35.
  • Sammy Jo-Johnson is a key X-Factor for the Thunder. She was the leading wicket-taker in WBBL 06 with 22 scalps in 14 innings at an average of 14.81 and strike rate of 13.4. Plus, she has 11 wickets in as many games vs Strikers.
  • Deepti Sharma is also a welcome addition to the Thunder. The Indian all-rounder will be key with both bat and ball. She has 149 runs in 17 T20s this year at an average of 29.80 along with 15 wickets at an economy rate of just 5.71.
  • 19-year old Hannah Darlington is now the youngest ever WBBL captain. The seamer was superb last season, taking the second-most wickets in the competition (12 inns, 19 wickets, avg. 13.68, SR 13.2). She has five wickets in four matches vs the Strikers (avg. 18.20).
  • Samantha Bates has the equal-most wickets in Thunder-Strikers matches (12 in 10 matches, avg. 17.25)

Adelaide Strikers:

  • Dane van Niekerk was the top run-scorer in the Women’s Hundred earlier this year (259, avg. 43.16, SR 105.71). She also took eight wickets.
  • In 10 matches against the Thunder, van Niekerk has struck 125 runs at an average of 25.00 and strike rate of 103.31. She also has five wickets at an economy rate of 6.91.
  • Katie Mack averages just 19.56 in 12 career matches vs Thunder. However, she has enjoyed some success playing for the Strikers against Thunder, with 90 runs in four innings at an average of 45.00, including one half-century.
  • Mack will be aiming to improve on her poor record at Bellerive Oval: 6 inns, 48 runs, avg. 12.00.
  • Laura Wolvaardt is one to watch. The South African had a solid Hundred campaign (7 inns, 181 runs, avg. 36.20, SR 116.77, and is enjoying a terrific year overall: 15 inns, 342 runs, avg. 42.75, SR 134.12.
  • So can Wolvaardt improve on a poor record vs Thunder? She has scored just 29 runs in five matches at an average of 5.80.
  • How good was Tahlia McGrath against India? The all-rounder was player of the series thanks to two crucial batting knocks (42* and 44*). She will be aiming to improve on her average of 16.44 in 10 innings vs Thunder, as well as her nine wickets in 11 innings.
  • Megan Schutt has just the four wickets in 11 innings vs Thunder at an average of 62.50. However, she enjoys bowling at Bellerive Oval, with nine wickets in eight T20s on this ground.
  • Sarah Coyte has seven scalps in nine matches vs Thunder (avg. 29, econ. 7.08). Amanda-Jade Wellington has 12 scalps in 11 games vs Thunder at an average of just 20.
  • Darcie Brown recently made an excellent start to her international career vs India, and will be looking to build on those performances here.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 12, Thunder 6, Strikers 5, N/R 1.
  • Sydney Thunder won both matches against the Strikers last season.
  • This is a big season for Pheobe Litchfield. The youngster had to train in lockdown throughout the year, so will be hoping to make a strong start. She has scored just the 35 runs in four innings vs Strikers so far, but expect her to play a key role higher up the order this season.

Possible Playing 11

Sydney Thunder: 1. Smriti Mandhana, 2. Phoebe Litchfield, 3. Sammy-Jo Johnson, 4. Corinne Hall, 5. Deepti Sharma, 6. Anika Learoyd/Olivier Porter, 7. Tahlia Wilson (wk), 8. Hannah Darlington (c), 9. Lauren Smith, 10. Issy Wong, 11. Sam Bates

Adelaide Strikers: 1. Katie Mack, 2. Dane van Niekerk, 3. Laura Wolvaardt, 4. Tahlia McGrath, 5. Bridget Patterson, 6. Maddie Penna/J Barsby, 7. Amanda-Jade Wellington, 8. Sarah Coyte, 9. Tegan McPharlin (wk), 10. Megan Schutt (c), 11. Darcie Brown

Bellerive Oval Hobart Pitch Report and Weather

Expect a true batting pitch for this match. Alyssa Healy and Ellyse Villani both struck quick half-centuries a couple of nights ago.

There are some showers forecast during the day in Hobart, which should hopefully clear by the evening. A cool night is forecast with the top temperature during the day just 15 degrees.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

WBBL 07 Match 3: ST-W vs AS-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | ST-W vs AS-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Sydney Thunder vs Adelaide Strikers Key Players | Hobart Pitch Report
WBBL 07 Match 3: ST-W vs AS-W Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

WBBL 07 Match 3: ST-W vs AS-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | ST-W vs AS-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Sydney Thunder vs Adelaide Strikers Key Players | Hobart Pitch Report
WBBL 07 Match 3: ST-W vs AS-W Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Tahlia McGrath
  • Batters: Smriti Mandhana, Laura Wolvaardt
  • All-rounders: Dane van Niekerk, Tahlia McGrath, Sammy Jo-Johnson
  • Bowlers: Sam Bates, Darcie Brown

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

Match Prediction

Adelaide Strikers look a very well-rounded team in WBBL 07. Sydney Thunder have lost a lot of quality, which gives the Strikers the edge. Strikers to win, barring any amazing individual brilliance by a Thunder player(s).

WBBL 07 Match 2: MR-W vs HB-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
WBBL 07 Match 2: MR-W vs HB-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

WBBL 07 Match 2: MR-W vs HB-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | MR-W vs HB-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Key Players | Hobart Pitch Report

Two sides looking for redemption. Both Melbourne Renegades and Hobart Hurricanes are looking to improve on last season, and have worked hard on their recruitment to do so.

Hobart’s snap lockdown reportedly won’t affect the WBBL matches, so the two sides will get their chance to make a strong start to the season on Saturday afternoon. The Renegades welcome the in-form Jemimah Rodrigues and experienced Harmanpreet Kaur of India to help guide the Renegades side possessing some fine talent in their ranks.

On the other side, the Hurricanes welcome Aussie speedster Tayla Vlaeminck after missing WBBL 06 due to a foot injury, headlining a bowling attack that now includes the WBBL’s most prolific bowler – former Renegade Molly Strano.

Two important points are up for grabs for teams looking to build confidence early in the tournament.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Melbourne Renegades:

  • Jemimah Rodrigues has been in fine form of late, and has the potential to spark great things for the Renegades. She was the second-highest run-scorer in The Hundred earlier this year (249, avg. 41.50, SR 150.90), and looked solid in the T20Is against Australia (49*, 7, 23).
  • Skipper Sophie Molineux has a half-century vs Hurricanes, but only averages 12.80 against them in 12 matches overall. She has nine wickets in these 12 matches at an average of 23.33 and economy rate of 6.18.
  • Harmanpreet Kaur has struck eight double-figure scores in a row across the T20Is vs England, Hundred and T20Is vs Australia (31, 36, 29, 49*, 26, 12, 28, 12). Can she make an impact right away here?
  • Georgia Wareham will be aiming to improve on her bowling average of 35.50 in seven matches against the Hurricanes (four wickets). She took a wicket in each of the three T20Is against India.
  • Holly Ferling is another strong addition for the Renegades, who has shifted from cross-city rivals Melbourne Stars. She has five wickets in eight matches vs Hurricanes at an economy rate of just 5.38.

Hobart Hurricanes:

  • Skipper Rachel Priest scored 42 and 34 against the Renegades in WBBL 2020. Also, Priest has scored 108 runs at Bellerive Oval at an average of 54.00 and strike rate of 145.95.
  • Mignon du Preez is a terrific addition to the Hurricanes squad. The South African will be aiming to build on her record vs Renegades, which reads: 10 inns, 229 runs, avg. 22.90, SR 108.53.
  • Nicola Carey was player of the match in the first of two meetings vs Renegades last season (3/14). She has 16 wickets against the Renegades in her 12 career games against them, as well as 108 runs (avg. 18).
  • Richa Ghosh could prove to be a very handy signing for the Hurricanes. The Indian keeper-batter looked in fine touch across formats against Australia (32*, 44, 0, 17*, 2, 23*).
  • No bowler has more wickets in WBBL than Molly Strano (104). Her first game after leaving the Renegades will be her former team, so it will be interesting to see how she performs.
  • Strano has taken six wickets in as many games at Bellerive Oval at an economy rate of just 5.11.
  • Belinda Vakarewa has 12 wickets to her name in eight matches vs Renegades, including eight in four when playing for the Hurricanes. She took 2/12 and 2/20 against them last season.
  • Tayla Vlaeminck makes her long-awaited WBBL return. The pace bowler hit good speeds in the T20Is vs India, and will be looking to build on her two wickets in that series.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 12, Renegades 5, Hurricanes 7.
  • Hurricanes beat Renegades twice in WBBL 06.
  • Both teams have won a game against each other at Bellerive Oval.

Possible Playing 11

Melbourne Renegades: 1. Sophie Molineux (c), 2. Jemimah Rodrigues, 3. Eve Jones, 4. Harmanpreet Kaur, 5. Jess Duffin, 6. Courtney Webb, 7. Josie Dooley (wk), 8. Carly Leeson, 9. Georgia Wareham, 10. Holly Ferling, 11. Ella Hayward/Ellen Falconer

Rachel Trenaman will not be available due to a serious knee injury. Also, Lizelle Lee won’t participate in the WBBL for personal reasons.

Hobart Hurricanes: 1. Rachel Priest (c & wk), 2. Naomi Stalenberg, 3. Mignon du Preez, 4. Nicola Carey, 5. Richa Ghosh, 6. Molly Strano, 7. Maisy Gibson, 8. Belinda Vakarewa, 9. Chloe Rafferty, 10. Tayla Vlaeminck, 11. Amy Smith

Bellerive Oval Hobart Pitch Report and Weather

The track looked a good one for batting on the opening night of the tournament, with Alyssa Healy slamming 57 off 27 balls to guide Sixers to their target of 100 in less than 11 overs vs Stars. Ellyse Villani also struck a quick half-century.

Showers are forecast for the morning in Hobart, and will hopefully ease by the afternoon. A cool and cloudy day is forecast, with a top of about 15 degrees.

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:

WBBL 07 Match 2: MR-W vs HB-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | MR-W vs HB-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Key Players | Hobart Pitch Report
WBBL 07 Match 2: MR-W vs HB-W Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

WBBL 07 Match 2: MR-W vs HB-W Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | MR-W vs HB-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Key Players | Hobart Pitch Report
WBBL 07 Match 2: MR-W vs HB-W Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Rachel Priest
  • Batters: Jemimah Rodrigues, Mignon du Preez
  • All-rounders: Harmanpreet Kaur, Sophie Molineux, Nicola Carey
  • Bowlers: Belinda Vakarewa, Tayla Vlaeminck

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

Match Prediction

The Hurricanes look a balanced team, even with key personnel missing. Hurricanes to win at home.

IPL 2021 Final: CSK vs KKR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
IPL 2021 Final: CSK vs KKR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IPL 2021 Final: CSK vs KKR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | CSK vs KOL Dream11 Prediction Today | Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report

Five titles between them. Plenty of pedigree. World class players in either side. And another IPL trophy up for grabs to complete the redemption after poor seasons respectively in 2020.

The IPL 2021 Final features two of IPL’s most successful teams behind the Mumbai Indians, who both had contrasting runs to the big game. Chennai Super Kings have been one of the best sides all season, sitting towards the top of the league right throughout the campaign. And, despite ending the league stage with three straight defeats, MS Dhoni did what MS Dhoni does best in leading his team to victory in Qualifier 1 against Delhi Capitals.

As a result, they are set to compete in their ninth IPL Final. An incredible feat.

On the other side, it has been quite the journey. Kolkata Knight Riders played awful cricket in the first leg of IPL 2021, sitting second-last heading into the UAE leg. However, they have won seven from nine matches since, including two crunch matches against Royal Challengers Bangalore and the top-placed Capitals. Winning in such high-pressure environments can hold KKR in great stead for this match, despite making things much more difficult for themselves in Wednesday’s Qualifier 2.

To increase the excitement further ahead of this match, CSK beat KKR by two wickets in a thriller the last time they met. It took a swipe over midwicket off the final delivery by Deepak Chahar to seal victory, and if we see anything similar today, we are in for some ride.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Chennai Super Kings:

  • What a season Ruturaj Gaikwad has had. The classy right-hander is coming off a player of the match performance in the Qualifier (70 off 50 balls), part of 603 runs in 15 matches in IPL 2021 at an average of 46.38 and strike rate of 137.35. He needs 24 runs to go past KL Rahul and become the Orange Cap winner for 2021.
  • Gaikwad struck scores of 64 (42) and 40 (28) against KKR in the league stage. Also, Gaikwad loves batting at Dubai, with four half-centuries in seven matches (325 runs, avg. 65.00, SR 130.52).
  • Faf du Plessis scored 43 (30) and 95* (60) vs KKR in the league stage. He has a fine career record against the Knight Riders, with 341 runs in 12 innings at an average of 37.89 and strike rate of 128.68.
  • Will Robin Uthappa deliver against his former franchise? He has 224 runs in 10 career matches vs KKR at an average of 22.40 and strike rate of 112.56. He produced a magnificent 63 off 44 balls in the Qualifier.
  • Can Moeen Ali make an impact after a lean run with the bat? He has scores of 17, 21, 5, 0, 16 in his last five matches.
  • Moeen struck 25 (12) and 33 (28) vs KKR in IPL 2021. Also, expect Moeen to bowl a number of overs given the number of left-handers in the KKR lineup.
  • Ravindra Jadeja was player of the match in his last meeting vs KKR (22 off 8 balls and 1/21). He has 16 wickets in 17 matches for CSK against KKR, as well as 248 runs at an average of 49.60 and strike rate of 156.96
  • Josh Hazlewood’s battle with the in form KKR opening pair can go a long way to deciding this match. Hazlewood was superb last match vs DC, with 2/29 including the dismissals of Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer.
  • Shardul Thakur had an expensive outing in the Qualifier (0/36 off 3 overs). This was his first wicketless outing in the UAE leg, as he took 13 wickets in the previous seven matches, including 2/20 vs KKR.
  • Dwayne Bravo has 11 wickets in 12 matches vs KKR at an average of 32. He has been a touch expensive in recent matches, but he remains crucial at the death for CSK.

Kolkata Knight Riders:

  • Up until four matches ago, Shubman Gill was averaging just 19 in IPL 2021. He has scored 57, 56, 29 and 46 in his last four matches, helping to provide strong starts for KKR. So, can he improve on his career average of 21 in seven matches vs CSK?
  • Gill averages 38.9 in the second innings of IPL matches compared 26.1 batting first. Also, Gill averages 34.60 in five matches at Dubai (173 runs).
  • Venkatesh Iyer has been one of the key reasons why KKR have improved in phase two. The classy left-hander was player of the match in Qualifier 2 with 55 (41), which was his fourth 25+ score in his last five matches (67, 8, 38, 26, 55).
  • Rahul Tripathi saved the day for KKR with a six off the second-last ball to win Qualifier 2. The right-hander has had a strong season, with 395 runs in 15 matches at an average of 30.38 and strike rate of 141.07. This includes a 33-ball 45 vs CSK.
  • Nitish Rana has struck a double-figure score in each of his last seven matches (37*, 36*, 31, 25, 12, 23, 12). He has a decent record for KKR vs CSK, with 179 runs in seven innings at an average of 29.83 and strike rate of 123.45.
  • Sunil Narine, who has been superb in the UAE leg, nearly pulled off a great win vs CSK earlier this season by bowling a terrific final over. He took 3/41 in that match, part of 19 wickets in 16 matches vs CSK at an average of 20.95 and economy rate of 6.28. No bowler has more wickets in CSK-KKR matches than Narine.
  • However, Dubai isn’t Narine’s favourite ground as he strikes every 48 deliveries (three wickets in 24 overs on this ground).
  • Varun Chakravarthy had nearly the identical record at Sharjah to Narine at Dubai, before bowling a terrific spell against DC (2/26). He has not conceded more than 26 in any match in the UAE leg to date, including 1/22 vs CSK.
  • Chakravarthy has five wickets in four matches vs CSK at an average of 19.40. Also, he loves bowling at Dubai, with 10 wickets in five matches at an average of 11.50 and strike rate of 12.00.
  • Lockie Ferguson’s wicket-taking ability has been key to KKR’s rise. He has taken at least one wicket in every match in the UAE leg (total of 13 scalps in seven matches), including 1/33 vs CSK.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 27, CSK 17, KKR 9, N/R 1.
  • CSK won both matches against KKR in the league stage. The latest was a thrilling two-wicket win, chasing KKR’s 171 with no deliveries to spare.
  • Kolkata Knight Riders have a 100% success rate in IPL Finals (2/2). Chennai Super Kings have won three out of eight IPL Finals to date.
  • Deepak Chahar took 4/29 in a dominant display vs KKR in the first leg of IPL 2021. He went wicketless against them in the UAE leg (0/32).
  • MS Dhoni wound back the clock in the Qualifier with his six-ball 18 to seal victory for CSK. He has 500 runs for CSK vs KKR at a superb average of 45.45 and strike rate of 139.66. He is the man to step up in pressure moments, so keep an eye on MSD.
  • Raturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis have scored 1,150 runs together this season – the most of any opening pair. However KKR could look to target Gaikwad with shorter deliveries (three dismissals to short balls out of 19 in the UAE leg).
  • Dinesh Karthik for KKR vs CSK: 8 inns, 207 runs, avg. 34.50, SR 154.48. He scored 26 off 11 balls against them in the UAE leg.
  • CSK have won all six games when chasing in IPL 2021.

Possible Playing 11

Chennai Super Kings: 1. Ruturaj Gaikwad, 2. Faf du Plessis, 3. Robin Uthappa, 4. Moeen Ali, 5. Ambati Rayudu, 6. MS Dhoni (c & wk), 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. Dwayne Bravo, 9. Shardul Thakur, 10. Deepak Chahar, 11. Josh Hazlewood

Kolkata Knight Riders: 1. Shubman Gill, 2. Venkatesh Iyer, 3. Rahul Tripathi, 4. Nitish Rana, 5. Eoin Morgan (c), 6. Dinesh Karthik (wk), 7. Sunil Narine, 8. Shakib Al Hasan, 9. Lockie Ferguson, 10. Varun Chakravarthy, 11. Shivam Mavi

Dubai Pitch Report and Weather

The chasing team has won the last eight matches at Dubai. With dew around, expect the captain who wins the toss to choose to chase, despite the pressure of runs on the board in a final.

Conditions are set to be all clear, as usual.

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:

IPL 2021 Final: CSK vs KKR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | CSK vs KOL Dream11 Prediction Today | Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report | IPL Finals Dream11 | IPL Finals Dream11 Team | IPL Finals CSK vs KKR Dream11
IPL 2021 Final: CSK vs KKR Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

IPL 2021 Final: CSK vs KKR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | CSK vs KOL Dream11 Prediction Today | Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report | IPL Finals Dream11 | IPL Finals Dream11 Team | IPL Finals CSK vs KKR Dream11
IPL 2021 Final: CSK vs KKR Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: MS Dhoni
  • Batsmen: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill
  • All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Sunil Narine, Venkatesh Iyer
  • Bowlers: Shardul Thakur, Lockie Ferguson

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

Match Prediction

This promises to be a cracker. KKR have the form and talent to win it, but CSK, with their experience and depth, start as favourites. CSK to win and lift the title for the fourth time.

3 players who could be the new RCB captain in IPL 2022

Charbel Coorey
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0
3 players who could be the new RCB captain in IPL 2022

Cricket News: 3 players who could be the new RCB captain in IPL 2022 | Looking at 3 candidates to be the RCB captain for the 2022 IPL season

IPL 2021 was another heartbreak for Royal Challengers Bangalore and their fans. RCB were defeated by the Kolkata Knight Riders by four wickets in the Eliminator. RCB played some very good cricket in the first-half of IPL 2021 and won four out of the seven games in the UAE leg, finishing up in third position.

RCB skipper Virat Kohli, before the start of the UAE leg, announced that this will be his last season as RCB skipper. Now that the season is over for the Bangalore boys, Virat Kohli has stepped down as the captain of the franchise and RCB will be looking for someone who can lead the team from the next IPL.

The mega auction for IPL 2022 will be held in December so there will be many players in the auction pool who can lead RCB in future, and Kohli’s captaincy replacement will be high on their agenda. While there are many players who can do that for RCB, we’ll talk about three players in particular.

Potential candidates for new RCB captain in IPL 2022

KL Rahul

Word is that KL Rahul will part ways with the Punjab Kings ahead of the mega auction. KL Rahul is a class player and one of the best batsmen in the shortest format around the globe.

Despite his poor performance as the captain of PBKS, he can be a great option for RCB. Rahul can lead the side and play his natural game as RCB has a great middle-order of Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, and AB de VIlliers (expecting them to retain/RTM them) which wasn’t the case in PBKS. Rahul’s addition will be very valuable as a batter, especially as he can play aggressively at the top while leading the side.

Glenn Maxwell

Cricket News: 3 players who could be the new RCB captain in IPL 2022 | Looking at 3 candidates to be the RCB captain for the 2022 IPL season
Glenn Maxwell had a great IPL 2021 season.

Glenn Maxwell proved to be an excellent pick in IPL 2021. Maxwell was RCB’s highest run-scorer and 5th overall in IPL 2021 with 513 runs in 15 games at an average of 42.75. He was the backbone of RCB’s batting unit. Maxwell was the only consistent batter who scored runs in almost all games, scoring six half-centuries in the process (joint-highest number of fifties in this season).

RCB can appoint Maxwell as the skipper of their team. He enjoyed himself in the RCB set-up unlike any of his previous franchises and it showed in his performances. His bonding with Virat and AB looked great as well. Maxwell also leads the Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League, and can transfer that experience over to help RCB win their first IPL trophy.

David Warner

Cricket News: 3 players who could be the new RCB captain in IPL 2022 | Looking at 3 candidates to be the RCB captain for the 2022 IPL season
David Warner to RCB in IPL 2022?

David Warner had a horrible IPL 2021 campaign and he’ll surely want to forget this season. Sunrisers Hyderabad ended at the bottom of the points table and were the first team out of the playoffs race, winning just three matches out of 14. Warner scored 195 runs at an average of 24.37 in eight games including including half-centuries.

He was sacked as the captain of SRH and dropped from the squad mid-season. Warner got an opportunity in the UAE leg after Bairstow was unavailable, but after two games he was again dropped and didn’t even travel to the stadium with the rest of the squad.

Warner has been one of the best and most consistent batters in the IPL. He was the captain of SRH in 2016 and single-handedly won SRH the title thanks to his batting. It is clear that SRH won’t be retaining Warner or will be using a RTM card for him. We all know how good David Warner is and it’s a great opportunity for RCB to pick him and appoint him as their skipper from the next season. He will strengthen their batting as well and has already proved himself as a leader in the previous editions of the IPL.

Twitter reactions as KKR reach IPL Final & break DC hearts

Charbel Coorey
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Twitter reactions as KKR reach IPL Final & break DC hearts

Cricket News: Twitter reactions as KKR reach IPL Final & break DC hearts | Twitter reactions as KKR win by 3 wickets vs DC in Qualifier 2

It looked to be a very easy chase. But, Delhi Capitals showed right throughout IPL 2021 that they have the bowling attack to get them out of trouble.

Sitting pretty at 96/0 chasing 136, and then 123/1 with 25 deliveries remaining, Kolkata Knight Riders were all set to meet Chennai Super Kings in Friday’s IPL 2021 Final. However, a flurry of wickets followed, and all of a sudden, Eoin Morgan’s team needed six runs in two deliveries in a game that looked theirs for the taking.

In a tournament filled with heists, it looked like another one was on the way. However, Rahul Tripathi, who has had a fine season, deposited R Ashwin’s delivery back down the ground to send the KKR players and fans into delirium.

Earlier, Venkatesh Iyer and Shubman Gill produced a magnificent, clinical opening stand after the Capitals huffed and puffed their way to 135/5 on a sluggish Sharjah track. Shreyas Iyer produced an important 30 not out, including a final-ball six, to give Rishabh Pant’s team a defendable total. However, as has been the case over the past three years, it was so close yet so far for the Ricky Ponting coached team.

Skipper Rishabh Pant vowed to come back stronger next season. “Can’t change anything after the match. Always we kept on believing, and stayed in the game for as long as possible. The bowlers pulled it back. They bowled really well through the middle overs. We were stuck, and unable to rotate the strike,” said Pant.

“Hopefully we can come back net year for a stronger season. We played really good cricket throughout the season. We stuck together, and cared for each other. Hopefully we will improve next year and come back strongly.”

Twitter reactions as KKR progress to the IPL 2021 Final

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