Pakistan players, fans heartbroken after NZ cancel tour | NZ cancel Pakistan tour on security grounds | Pakistan cricketers and fans heartbroken as NZ cancel Pakistan tour hours before first ODI
Rawalpindi was gearing up for just its fourth ODI since 2006. The whole of Pakistan was ready for New Zealand’s first visit since 2003.
In the blink of an eye, it was all over before it began. The Black Caps, following a security alert by the New Zealand government, abandoned the tour comprising of three ODIs and three T20Is.
“The BLACKCAPS are abandoning their tour of Pakistan following a New Zealand government security alert. Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure,” read the tweet.
The news caused widespread reactions from heartbroken Pakistan players, fans and followers. Pakistan has worked tirelessly to get international cricket back in the country on a regular basis after the events of 2009, and these circumstances make this a disappointing day for all associated with Pakistan cricket.
Despite trying to reassure the Black Caps that the right security arrangements were in place, the tour couldn’t be saved.
Pakistan players, fans and others react after NZ cancel tour
Skipper Babar Azam took to social media to express his disappointment. As did other current players such as Fakhar Zaman. Newly elected PCB chairman Ramiz Raja also didn’t hold back, as was the case with former players such as Shoaib Akhtar.
“Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan Cricket Fans. I’ve full trust in the capabilities and credibility of our security agencies. They are our pride and always will be! Pakistan Zindabad!” tweet Babar.
Ramiz Raja vowed to not let New Zealand forget about this.
“Crazy day it has been! Feel so sorry for the fans and our players. Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it’s not shared!! Which world is NZ living in??NZ will hear us at ICC,” tweeted Raja.
Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan Cricket Fans. I've full trust in the capabilities and credibility of our security agencies. They are our pride and always will be! Pakistan Zindabad!
Crazy day it has been! Feel so sorry for the fans and our players. Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it’s not shared!! Which world is NZ living in??NZ will hear us at ICC.
The security situation in Pakistan is great and satisfactory. Extraordinary security has been provided to the New Zealand team. After complete assurance and satisfaction, Call for this last minute withdrawal of the series by NZ is so sad. Sorry to our cricket fans ? #PAKvNZ
Pakistan has made monumental efforts to get international cricket back on track. We’ve lost a lot with no international cricket for 6 years in the past and today might set us back again. The pulling out and the abrupt timing of the decision is extremely disappointing. #PAKvNZ
Heartbreaking that the NZ cricket board & govt have cancelled this imp tour despite knowing that all their security concerns were cleared n a call was made by our PM to ensure the security. All the efforts ?? made are ignored. Was that really a threat or something else??? #PAKvNZ
A very sad day for the game of cricket! When Pakistan was well on way for the revival of cricket, this unfortunate turn takes place. Pakistan has one of the best security agency in the world and when u get that kind of security, it surely means it’s safe! #PAKvNZ
Everyone including Pakistan supported NZ after the tragic incident of Christchurch. And now a historic tour is unilaterally canceled by them because of a so-called threat. This abrupt move is disappointing especially when our brilliant security forces ensured zero-threat. Sad!
This is heartbreaking. Pakistanis love cricket so much, we have worked really hard to bring cricket back here. PSL & other teams visiting Pakistan is evidence of our hospitality & security arrangements. We will continue our efforts. #PakistanZindabad
The whole world knows that we're a cricket and peace-loving nation. we have been making all possible efforts to get cricket back home. The decision of the NZ cricket board & govt has broken our hearts, damaged our cricket by ignoring our efforts & struggles of past years. #PAKvNZ
Utterly disappointed with NZ decision of abandoning #PAKvNZ cricket series. We as a nation stand beside our security forces and appreciate the efforts made by ?? Government to ensure a foolproof security arrangement.
Childish behavior by NewZealand! PCB must raise issue infront of ICC. NZC on just speculations made a damage to Pakistan Cricket. PCB not only faced financial damage due to suspension of matches but this is a damage to reputation aswell. PCB should take strong action now! #PAKvNZ
If you don’t trust the host nations security or all the recce/processes that precede a tour then it’s soo much more than just a slippery slope. A terrible precedent set #PAKvNZ
Top 3 fantasy apps with 2nd innings feature | Looking at 3 fantasy apps that have the 2nd innings feature in their gameplay
There are a lot of matches being played around the globe currently. The second leg of the Indian Premier League will start from 19th of September followed by the ICC World T20 in October.
So, there’s no shortage of action for the cricket fans in the upcoming couple of months. This can be a very exciting and rewarding time for you if you are into fantasy cricket. Fantasy cricket is a very satisfying and rewarding way of following cricket for the fans. You can use your cricketing knowledge and earn some cash by creating fantasy teams and competing with other players.
There are a lot of fantasy apps with many features of their own. There is a lot of competition on apps like Dream11, MyTeam11, My11Circle, etc. So there’s a chance of you losing even with a decent fantasy team due to the competition. You can only play traditional fantasy cricket on these apps which can be difficult to crack with the level of competition.
So, we are going to tell you about 3 such fantasy apps/platforms where you can play a unique “2nd Innings Fantasy” with less competition and more chances of winning.
Before we proceed, first let us explain What is 2nd Innings Fantasy? In this feature, users need to create a team of 11 only for the 2nd innings of a particular game instead for both the innings. This is easier as the users get an idea of the pitch and the match situation and can predict the result of the game more accurately which eventually will help in creating a good 2nd Innings Fantasy team. Now let’s tell you about the 3 fantasy apps where you can play 2nd Innings Fantasy hassle free without any interruptions.
Fan2Play
Fan2Play is a relatively new fantasy platform but it has got the attention of many of the fantasy players due to its unique features and excellent bonus offers for the users. Fan2Play provides 2nd Innings fantasy as well as their unique “Challenge Fantasy” of 2,3, & 4 players team where you have to create a team of only 2,3 or 4 players and compete with other users.
The challenge fantasy is easy to win if you are not confident of playing the classic 11 member fantasy. The 2nd Innings as told earlier is easy to win as well.
Ballebaazi is an excellent fantasy cricket platform. It offers the 2nd Innings feature and many other exciting fantasy cricket modes like batting & bowling leagues, reverse fantasy, etc.
Ballebaazi: 2nd innings fantasy
Alongside the 2nd innings feature, users get the option to compete in batting and bowling leagues where they have to create a team of 5 batters or 5 bowlers and compete with other players. The competition is less compared to normal fantasy and there’s more chances of winning. BalleBaazi provides instant withdrawal for e-wallets and same day withdrawal if you choose to withdraw your money directly into your bank account.
Gamezy is another very good platform to play fantasy cricket. It also provides 2nd Innings feature along with it’s very unique live fantasy where users need to pick a team for a few overs live during the game. This is a very unique and easy fantasy cricket mode if you know how to read the game well. Gamezy provides instant withdrawals for banks as well as e-wallets. There is less competition on Gamezy when compared with other platforms like Dream11, My11Circle, etc and even less in 2nd Innings and Live fantasy. You can give it a try if you are having difficulty in winning on the other fantasy platforms.
SCO vs ZIM 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SCO vs ZIM 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Scotland vs Zimbabwe 2nd T20I Key Players | Edinburgh Pitch Report
It’s not often you win a T20 match after losing four wickets in the powerplay. However, Scotland bucked that trend to post a morale-boosting seven-run victory against Zimbabwe in a predictably closely-fought contest on Wednesday.
Not only that, Scotland, courtesy of Safyaan Sharif, held their nerve with the ball when it looked like Sean Williams and Milton Shumba would see Zimbabwe over the line. Zimbabwe’s failure to win from a position where they needed 33 off 24 balls with two set batsmen is cause for disappointment, as well as the fact that they conceded 141 after reducing the Scots to 30/4.
Richie Berrington, Scotland’s second-highest T20I run-scorer, played a blinder. His innings served a reminder that Scotland have a number of batsmen who can deliver on any given day. However, they will be aiming for a more complete batting performance here after Berrington scored more than half the team’s runs.
For Zimbabwe, it is about building on positions of strength rather than letting them slip away as they aim to keep this series alive.
Richie Berrington’s 61-ball 82 put Scotland right back in the game. His innings was worth more than half of Scotland’s total, with the next highest score just 14. Berrington has scored 36 and 82* in his two T20Is vs Zimbabwe to date.
Berrington prefers to bat first in T20Is. In 27 such matches, Berrington has struck 757 runs at an average of 34.40 and strike rate of 134.45. When chasing, Berrington has scored 572 runs at an average of 26.00 and strike rate of 123.01.
Interestingly, skipper Kyle Coetzer struggles in T20Is on this ground. In six matches, he has struck just 93 runs at 15.50, so eyes will be on whether the captain can turn these numbers around.
No Scotland player with at least 120 T20I runs has a better strike rate than George Munsey’s 153.89. Like Berrington, Munsey much prefers to bat first in T20Is, with 514 runs in 15 such matches at an average of 36.71 and strike rate of 165.27. Batting second, Munsey averages 23.70 in 22 matches, with a strike rate of 143.20.
Also, Munsey will be aiming to turn around a sub-par record at The Grange Cricket Club. In six matches on this ground, Munsey has struck 94 runs at an average of 18.80.
Calum McLeod has the most 50+ scores (7) of any Scotland player in T20Is. He too will be looking to improve on his batting record on this ground (6 inns, 87 runs, avg. 17.40, SR 90.62).
Safyaan Sharif will be key in the death overs once again for Scotland. Before the first T20I, Sharif, who took 4/24, only had the one wicket in five previous T20Is on this ground. Sharif averages 19.73 when bowling second in T20Is compared to 25.77 bowling first.
Alasdair Evans has the most wickets of any bowler in T20Is on this ground (10 in six matches, avg. 16.40, econ. 6.83). He averages 17.96 in T20Is where Scotland bowl first, compared to 23.00 bowling second.
Zimbabwe:
Sean Williams has made a couple of starts in recent times that he will aim to build on today (39, 3 in ODIs vs Ireland, 28 in first T20I vs Scotland). Williams has scored 81 runs in his two T20Is vs Scotland, including a half-century back in 2016.
Williams prefers to bat first in T20Is. In 19 such matches, he has scored 468 runs at an average of 26.00 and strike rate of 137.24. In 29 matches chasing, he has scored 505 runs at an average of 20.20 and strike rate of 119.38.
Can promising batsman Wessley Madhevere bounce back from his duck in the first match? Like Williams, Madhevere prefers to bat first, with 300 runs in 11 T20Is at an average of 30.00. Batting second, he has 105 runs to his name in eight matches at an average of just 13.12.
Craig Ervine has made at least a double-figure score in each of his last seven white-ball matches across Ireland and Scotland (17, 15, 33, 28, 67*, 64, 57 and 26). He is in some good touch, and will be looking to make it count today.
Milton Shumba will be looking to build on his promising 30-ball 45* in the first T20I.
Ryan Burl will be key as Zimbabwe’s finisher. He averages 38.80 and strikes at 129.46 in 13 matches batting first, compared to an average/strike rate of 20.76/108.00 batting second.
Luke Jongwe bowled an expensive final over in the first T20I, but his wicket-taking ability is clear in T20Is. He has taken seven wickets in his last four T20s.
Wellington Masakadza has taken five wickets in two innings vs Scotland. However, he bowled just two overs in the first T20I (1/21).
Stats and Facts
Head-to-head: Matches 2, Scotland 1, Zimbabwe 1.
George Munsey is 12 runs away from becoming the fourth Scot to register 1,000 T20I runs.
Before the first T20I, Scotland’s previous T20I was back in 2019.
Possible Playing 11
Scotland: 1. George Munsey, 2. Kyle Coetzer (c), 3. Ollie Hairs, 4. Richie Berrington, 5. Calum MacLeod, 6. Matthew Cross (wk), 7. Michael Leask, 8. Safyaan Sharif, 9. Mark Watt, 10. Chris Sole, 11. Alasdair Evans
It remains to be seen if Blessing Muzarabani plays in this match after missing the first T20I.
Zimbabwe: 1. Wessley Madhevere, 2. Tadiwanashe Marumani, 3. Regis Chakabva (wk), 4. Craig Ervine (c), 5. Sean Williams, 6. Milton Shumba, 7. Ryan Burl, 8. Luke Jongwe, 9. Wellington Masakadza, 10. Tendai Chatara, 11. Richard Ngarava/Blessing Muzarabani
The Grange Cricket Club Pitch Report and Weather
Another cloudy day is forecast, which can assist the seamers with some seam movement in the powerplay overs. The pitch is a pretty decent one for batting, but there is the propensity for quick wickets to fall given that both batting lineups are finding their feet.
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:
SCO vs ZIM 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
SCO vs ZIM 2nd T20 Dream11 Prediction
Fan2Play Prediction
SCO vs ZIM 2nd T20 Fan2Play Prediction
Match Prediction
Another closely fought match in the offing here. A score of 150 or so batting first could prove crucial.
Cricket News: Virat Kohli steps down as India T20 captain: Twitter reactions | Twitter reactions to Virat Kohli stepping down as India’s T20 captain
After rumours and speculation were rife on social media over the past few days, Virat Kohli confirmed he will be stepping down as India’s T20 captain after the T20 World Cup.
The skipper took to social media to announce the news. He pointed to his immense workload over the past 8-9 years and his desire to perform at optimum level for years to come as major factors in his decision.
Kohli also revealed he had discussions with coach Ravi Shastri and vice-captain Rohit Sharma about the decision. He will lead India at the T20 World Cup, where the men in blue will aim to win their second-ever title after their triumph in South Africa in 2007.
“I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability,”Kohli’s statement read.
“Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for the last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian team in Test and ODI Cricket.”
“Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I’ve decided to step down as the T20 Captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October,”the statement also read.
Kohli steps down as India T20 captain: Twitter reactions
Fans and pundits sent their messages of thanks via Twitter.
Thanks @imVKohli for your contribution as the #TeamIndia captain. As a young talent the focus and determination you have showed as the captain is unmatched. The most impressive aspect was the way of maintaining balance between captaincy and individual performance.
Led India to T20I series wins in – Australia (2-1 in 2020) – England (2-1 in 2018) – South Africa (2-1 in 2018) – New Zeland (5-0 in 2020) – West Indies (3-0 in 2019) – Sri Lanka (1-0 in 2017)
Test series wins in South Africa & New Zealand and ODI series win in England remain. https://t.co/QohfdHKyD1
Virat Kohli’s contribution to the Indian T20 cricket team as captain was immense. It can never be forgotten. This is his personal decision and we respect it. @imVkohli@BCCIhttps://t.co/JtGIcJBkom
So much to rant but some other day maybe. As of now would just request you to win the cup for yourself @imVkohli, not just as a Captain but as a batsman too. Channelize your inner beast. You owe it to him, you got to do it for this guy who lost a piece of his heart in 2016. pic.twitter.com/GgukC8CDIs
Surely it came as a shock to hear @imVkohli stepping down from the T20 captaincy after the World Cup. Looking forward to India winning the world cup as it will be a perfect tribute to his captaincy and hope the team carries his legacy forward.
The emotional attachment with an ICC trophy is real and true. Ofc, means a lot. But Virat just won a 5 match T20I series against a fxn full strength England, without Bumrah. will be his greatest achievement in T20Is for me alongside T20 wc (if Ind wins under him that is).
Appreciate the selflessness of Virat, celebrate his stint rather than cooking conspiracy theories. Leading ?? in all formats for such a long time beside being the best batsman isn't easy. And Covid has made things even more difficult.
I have never hated Virat, not hating now and won't hate in future. In these tough times, I stand with you virat. U are always a King for us ? pic.twitter.com/k0oSTRCYym
Greatest transition ever happened. It was like nothing happened. Virat was still open to Dhoni leading from behind the wickets as nothing happened really. Kudos to this duo for such a smooth transition. There will never be anyone like this duo. pic.twitter.com/Sd16nQugG6
In search of IPL trophy, we lost our T20I captain!!
I want this fuckin World T20 for him! He deserves World Cup more than anyone in this team. I wish he will spend more time in County or other long form cricket after this WT20. Virat Kohli 2.0 will be there soon!! #ViratKohli
As an admirer of Virat and fan of Indian Team, I would just want that Virat leaves his last T20Is as captain with a Bang ? With a WT20 Trophy in his hands…. #ViratKohlipic.twitter.com/kzi4jW8KXg
Expect VK to pick and choose T20s from now onwards considering workload and bubble life. Major reason which influenced this decision ahead of another WT20 in 2022
PAK vs NZ 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | PAK vs NZ 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Today | Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st ODI Key Players | Rawalpindi Pitch Report
The packed cricketing calendar leaves little room for matches with no context. Given the absence of DRS here, this series is no longer part of the ODI Super League.
So, this places emphasises on players gaining international experience and form. This is particularly the case for New Zealand, who come into the series with a significantly inexperienced side. However, they had some fine moments in foreign conditions in their recent T20I series against Bangladesh, and a number of their players will be aiming to stake their claim for more international cricket in the future.
For Pakistan, this series provides an opportunity to right the wrongs of a disappointing England series earlier this year. They will come up against an understrength side again, but the importance of this series for the home side lies in their need to sort out their middle order issues. They have made some key squad changes in this area, and will be looking for the complete performance at Rawalpindi.
Skipper Babar Azam struck a half-century and century at Rawalpindi vs Zimbabwe; a total of 221 runs at an average of 110.50 and strike rate of 101.84 in three ODIs. He loves batting on this ground, with a superb record overall in List A cricket: 8 inns, 575 runs, avg. 82.14, 3 100s, 2 50s.
Babar averages 41.50 in 11 ODIs against New Zealand, who will now be without their key stars. Also, Babar loves batting first in ODIs, averaging 62.10 compared to 51.52 batting second.
Will we see the best of Fakhar Zaman in this series? He has scored 313 runs in eight matches vs NZ at an average of 44.71 and strike rate of 85.75. Also, Fakhar averages 50.26 batting first (24 innings), compared to 44.96 batting second (29 innings).
Mohammad Rizwan has been one of Pakistan’s linchpins in 2021, although his ODI form hasn’t been too flash this year. In six innings, he has struck just 134 runs at an average of 22.33. Also, Rizwan will be aiming to improve his average batting in the second innings of ODIs (24.93), which is quite lower than batting first (33.21).
Shaheen Shah Afridi has enjoyed plenty of success against New Zealand thus far. The left-arm pacer has taken 12 wickets in four ODIs against them at an average of 10.83. Shaheen averages 23.46 bowling first in ODIs compared to 26.38 bowling second.
Hasan Ali is conceding runs at 7.08 per over in ODIs this year. He will be looking to replicate his good T20 form in 2021 (30 wickets in 21 matches) into the ODI format.
Also, Hasan Ali much prefers to bowl first in ODIs. He averages 22.95 in 28 such ODIs, compared to 45.64 in 28 ODIs bowling second.
New Zealand:
Henry Nicholls’ experience will be important for New Zealand. He has struck three fifties in nine ODI innings’ vs Pakistan (238 runs overall, avg. 34.00).
Finn Allen is set to make his ODI debut. While his List A average of 25.25 can do with improvement, his strike rate of 103.94 indicates the kind of damage he can do at the top of the order. He scored a 24-ball 41 in the last T20I vs Bangladesh.
Tom Latham has a poor ODI record vs Pakistan. For New Zealand to be as competitive as possible, skipper Latham needs to turn the following numbers around: 14 inns, 238 runs, avg. 19.83.
Also, Latham typically performs better whilst chasing. He averages 38.45 in 52 such ODIs, compared 30.45 in 50 ODIs batting first.
Matt Henry has a fine record vs Pakistan. In nine matches, he has notched up 20 wickets at an average of 21.50. Also, he generally performs well in ODIs whether he bowls first or second (avg. 24.70 bowling first vs 27.36 bowling second).
Ajaz Patel was impressive in the recent T20I series against Bangladesh, but New Zealand will need further control and consistency in conditions expected to be less conducive to such spin.
Stats and Facts
The last meeting between the two teams was in the 2019 World Cup. Pakistan won by six wickets, with Babar Azam winning player of the match thanks to his superb 101*. The out-of-form Colin de Grandhomme scored 64 in that same game.
There have been just three ODIs played at Rawalpindi since 2006: all Pakistan vs Zimbabwe in 2020.
The last ODI at Rawalpindi was a thriller. Blessing Muzarabani held his nerve to seal a Super Over victory for Zimbabwe.
Possible Playing 11
The likes of Khushdil Shah are in the Pakistan squad. Shah could slot in at five – a position held by Sohaib Maqsood in England.
Pakistan: 1. Fakhar Zaman, 2. Imam-ul-Haq, 3. Babar Azam (c), 4. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 5. Khushdil Shah, 6. Saud Shakeel, 7. Faheem Ashraf, 8. Hasan Ali, 9. Shadab Khan/Usman Qadir, 10. Shaheen Shah Afridi, 11. Haris Rauf/Shahnawaz Dahani
Tom Blundell is out of the series with a quadricep injury sustained in Bangladesh. Daryl Mitchell will join the squad, but not in time for the first ODI due to isolation. Expect Henry Nicholls, Will Young and Tom Latham to bat in their usual ODI positions, with Rachin Ravindra likely to bat at three.
New Zealand: 1. Finn Allen, 2. Henry Nicholls, 3. Rachin Ravindra, 4. Will Young, 5. Tom Latham (c & wk), 6. Colin de Grandhomme, 7. Cole McConchie, 8. Scott Kuggeleijn, 9. Ajaz Patel, 10. Hamish Bennett/Blair Tickner, 11. Matt Henry
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report and Weather
Rawalpindi is generally a nice batting surface. The average first innings score in Zimbabwe’s tour of Pakistan last year was 255 in three ODIs. The team batting first won two of those three matches.
In the Pakistan Cup List A competition in 2019, the average first innings score was 318.67. Despite the high scores, the chasing team still won five of the 10 completed matches.
A sunny and very warm, humid day is forecast for Rawalpindi. Chasing may be the order of the day if dew sets in later in the evening.
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:
PAK vs NZ 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
PAK vs NZ 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction
Fan2Play Prediction
PAK vs NZ 1st ODI Fan2Play
Match Prediction
Pakistan at near full strength, at home, should be too strong for a very inexperienced Black Caps team.
Cricket News: IPL 2021 Updated Squads and Possible Playing XIs | Player replacements in IPL 2021: Updated squads
The cricket festival is back with Indian Premier League 2021 starting its second phase of the tournament in UAE. The tournament was indefinitely postponed in May 2021 and BCCI moved it to the UAE to complete the remaining games and recoup the losses incurred by the organization and the franchises.
For the franchises there have been quite a few changes as players have pulled out due to variety of reasons. But IPL teams have been successful in signing some brilliant replacements and the team managements will be hoping they will see the returns from these new players.
See below for your favourite teams’ squad and a possible playing XI:
Cricket News: 5 Replacement Players to watch out for in IPL 2021 | 5 replacement players to watch out for in phase 2 of IPL in UAE
The joy of masses across the globe returns as the second leg of the most luxurious and competitive T20 league. The Indian Premier League (IPL), is going to resume from 19th of this month, with the two giants Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings facing off in Dubai.
Ahead of the resumption of the second leg, some teams tweaked their squads a bit owing to the unavailability of some of their players. Some replacements sound very relevant and interesting considering the overall combination of various sides. In this article, I am going to mention five replacements who might play significant roles for their respective teams. Here we go.
Shamsi has replaced Andrew Tye in the RR squad and his inclusion is really significant considering two factors. The first is the ineffective performance of the RR spinners in the recent past. The second is Shamsi’s current form in the shortest format of the game.
Let’s see these factors statistically. The table below describes the dismal performances of the two RR spinners since IPL 2020.
NAME
WKTS
AVG
SR
ECO
Shreyas Gopal
10
50.2
33.6
8.96
Rahul Tewatia
12
43.41
33
7.89
RR spinners since IPL 2020: @Plumb_infront
On the other hand, Shamsi’s rise as a T20 spinner has been quite phenomenal as suggested by the following table.
Shamsi in T20Is in 2021:
Matches
Wickets
AVG
SR
ECO
16
28
11.89
13.07
5.45
Shamsi in T20Is 2021: @Plumb_infront
These exceptional numbers indicate that Shamsi has been fabulous since the start of 2021 and therefore is surely expected to play as the leader of RR’s spin attack.
4. Tim David (Royal Challengers Bangalore)
Known for his hard-hitting abilities, Tim David has replaced Finn Allen in the RCB squad. It can prove to be a vital selection considering the lack of effective finishers apart from AB de Villiers in the RCB squad.
RCB are over-reliant on AB as far as finishing job is concerned. David is expected to ease the pressure off the South African legend in the death overs. Talking about his current form, Tim David scored 279 runs in the latest edition of the Big Bash League at a very healthy SR of 153.30. Further, in the Royal London ODI Cup, David smashed 340 runs in eight innings at a superb average of 68 and a magnificent strike rate of 150.44 (second best in the tournament) playing for Surrey.
These facts certainly indicate his outstanding current form with the bat and therefore he will be one of the replacements to watch out for in the IPL.
3. Evin Lewis (Rajasthan Royals)
Evin Lewis has been signed by the Rajasthan Royals as Jos Buttler’s replacement. The swashbuckling West Indian has been in great touch in T20s for quite some time now. In his last six T20I series, Lewis has smashed 565 runs at a healthy average of 35.31 and a superb strike rate of 165.20.
In the CPL, Lewis scored the second-most runs, smashing 426 runs at an average of 47.33 and a SR of 163.21. He has been able to make a comeback to the IPL on the basis of these impressive performances and I certainly expect him to carry his golden run playing for RR in the tournament.
2. Adil Rashid (Punjab Kings)
After waiting for so long, the experienced English spinner Adil Rashid has finally won a much deserved IPL contract to his name. We all have seen how good he is in the shortest format and the numbers show it.
In 62 T20Is, Rashid has picked 65 wickets at an economy of under 7.5. In his overall T20 career, Rashid has picked 220 wickets in 194 games at an economy of 7.43, which is admirable. He is a really good turner of the ball and has all the variations in his armory.
Although Ravi Bishnoi is doing decently for PBKS, they might get tempted to go with a genuine wicket-taker like Rashid especially on the bigger ground of Dubai where they are scheduled to play three out of their six remaining games. Further, the tracks of UAE will start to slow down with the progression of the tournament and having an experienced spinner like Rashid could prove to be a boon for PBKS on those tracks.
The Sri Lankan sensation Hasaranga was roped in by RCB as Adam Zampa’s replacement. In my opinion, this is the best replacement of this season as Hasaranga can be a solution to two different problems of RCB due to his all-round abilities.
He is currently the second ranked T20I bowler in the ICC rankings and can contribute some handy runs with the bat as well. Statistically, Hasaranga has picked 36 wickets in 23 T20Is at a splendid economy of 6.47. Although his batting stats in T20s are ordinary, he has scored some useful runs for Sri Lanka coming down the order in the ODI format on several occasions which proves that he can bat quite well.
Therefore, including him in the XI will definitely provide solidity to RCB’s lower order. Looking at his exceptional abilities with the ball, I won’t be surprised if he wins a few games on his own for RCB this time.
Apart from these five names, the dynamic Sherfane Rutherford is someone who can prove to be a good replacement for SRH, considering the lack of fire power in their middle order. Glenn Philips, who was picked as a replacement of Jofra Archer by RR, is also a good name to watch out for in the tournament because of his adaptability to any given role in the batting line up.
This is my list of the replacements to watch out for in the second leg of IPL 2021. Have your say!
CPL 2021 Final: SLK vs SKN Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SLK vs SKN Dream11 Prediction Today | St Lucia Kings vs St Kitts and Nevis Patriots Key Players | St Kitts Pitch Report
History will be made. For the first time in CPL history, either St Lucia Kings or St Kitts and Nevis Patriots will win the title, after both teams produced brilliant performances in yesterday’s Semi Finals.
St Lucia looked up against it against champions TKR, especially without regular captain Faf du Plessis. Mark Deyal started things off with a fearless showing, before Tim David and the magnificent all-round show of David Wiese catapulted the Kings into the Final. Led by Fletcher – who himself struggled badly with the bat – St Lucia held their nerve and won the key periods to book their place in today’s showdown.
Heading into yesterday’s Semi Final, St Kitts had only won one of their previous five matches. However, thanks to Evin Lewis’ continued brilliance, they threw the form guide out the window to book their place in CPL’s showpiece match. They had conceded more than they would have liked with the ball, so death bowling will be of key focus for St Kitts today against a St Lucia side that possesses some wonderful finishers.
The party has been terrific, and it all comes down to this. St Lucia have thumped St Kitts twice this season, but this is a different ball game. Who will hold their nerve to lift the CPL trophy for the first time?
No player has more five-wicket hauls than David Wiese in T20 history (six). Wiese, who was selected in Namibia’s T20 World Cup squad, has two five-wicket hauls in his last three matches. Plus, he is coming off a brilliant knock of 34* (21) yesterday.
Roston Chase scored two unbeaten, dominant half-centuries against St Kitts in the league stage (64* off 31 balls and 51* off 38 balls). He looked good in his 21-ball 36 yesterday, part of 403 runs this season (second-most) at an average of 50.37 and strike rate of 149.81.
Mark Deyal played a blinder of a knock in yesterday’s Semi Final (78 off 44 balls). Can he back it up with another today?
Andre Fletcher has been inconsistent this season, but he still has a key role to play. No St Lucia player has more runs against St Kitts than Fletcher’s 319, at an average of 26.58.
Alzarri Joseph took 3/27 vs St Kitts earlier this year, and was trusted with bowling key overs in yesterday’s Semi Final vs TKR (1/24 off four overs).
Jeavor Royal took 3/20 in his last match vs St Kitts. He bowled just the one over yesterday, so it will be interesting to see if he is called upon to bowl more today. However, St Kitts have a number of left-handers, so St Lucia may look to protect Royal against that.
St Kitts and Nevis Patriots:
Evin Lewis is in imperious form. He has smashed 102* (55) and 77* (39) in his last two innings, and is in prime touch at the most important stage of the season.
Also, Lewis has the most runs in SKN-SLK matches with 373 runs at an average/strike rate of 31.80/163.60. He scored 73 (42) and 7 (5) against St Lucia in the CPL 2021 league stage.
Chris Gayle is showing glimpses of his best form again since moving back to opener: 35 (18), 5 (4) and 42 (27) in his last three games. Also, Gayle has an outstanding record vs St Lucia: 14 inns, 409 runs, avg. 45.44, SR 156.70.
Sherfane Rutherford has fallen away a little after three fifties in his first four games this season (9 inns, 237 runs, avg. 39.50, SR 128.80). Can he overcome a poor record vs St Lucia? (7 inns, 81 runs, avg. 16.20, SR 109.46). He scored 11 (9) and 14 (16) against them in the league stage.
Fabian Allen has shown glimpses of his hitting in CPL 2021. SKN will be hoping he can go big today, if he gets the chance. He scored 34 (32) vs SLK earlier this season, and has four wickets in four games for SKN against them, including 1/26 and 2/30 in the league stage.
Dominic Drakes has taken the most wickets for SKN this season (15 in 10 matches). However, he had a tough time of things vs St Lucia this season (0/40 off 2.4 overs).
Fawad Ahmed took 1/23 and 0/27 in economical spells vs St Lucia in the league stage. He has nine wickets in as many matches this season at an economy rate of just 6.33. He also has seven wickets in seven matches vs St Lucia (econ. 6.33, avg. 21.00).
Stats and Facts
Head-to-head: Matches 14, SKN 5, SLK 7, N/R 2.
St Lucia thumped St Kitts twice this season. In the first meeting, Faf du Plessis scored 120* en route to 224/2. The next day, St Lucia chased down St Kitts’ 118 with ease.
Dwayne Bravo is yet to bowl since his return from a groin strain. In 16 matches vs St Lucia, Bravo has scored just 65 runs at an average of 10.83. His strength is his bowling, with 23 scalps against them.
Possible Playing 11
St Lucia Kings: 1. Andre Fletcher (c), 2. Rakheem Cornwall, 3. Mark Deyal, 4. Roston Chase, 5. Tim David, 6. David Wiese, 7. Keemo Paul, 8. Wahab Riaz, 9. Alzarri Joseph, 10. Kadeem Alleyne/Kesrick Williams, 11. Jeavor Royal
St Kitts and Nevis Patriots: 1. Evin Lewis, 2. Chris Gayle, 3. Dwayne Bravo (c), 4. Fabian Allen, 5. Sherfane Rutherford, 6. Joshua da Silva (wk), 7. Dominic Drakes, 8. Sheldon Cottrell, 9. Naseem Shah, 10. Jon-Russ Jaggesar, 11. Fawad Ahmed
Warner Park Basseterre St Kitts Pitch Report and Weather
The team batting first has won 17 of 32 matches in CPL 2021, which indicates pretty even success for either option. The scores were high in the Semi Finals, indicating that the surface remains good for batsmen, while offering assistance for the bowlers, too.
There is a chance of some showers during the day, but there should hopefully be a full match.
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:
CPL 2021 Final: SLK vs SKN Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
CPL 2021 Final: SLK vs SKN Dream11 Prediction
Fan2Play
CPL 2021 Final: SLK vs SKN Fan2Play
Match Prediction
This has the potential to be a cracker. St Lucia’s great record vs St Kitts holds them in good stead, but a score of at least 160-170 might be crucial to place pressure on the opponent.
CPL 2021 Semi Final 1: TKR vs SLK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | TKR vs SLK Dream11 Prediction Today | Trinbago Knight Riders vs St Lucia Kings Key Players | St Kitts Pitch Report
After 30 games and numerous scenarios heading into the final two days of the league stage, the Semi Finals of CPL 2021 are upon us. Trinbago Knight Riders, who regularly feature at this stage, will be gunning for another finals appearance with a strong performance here.
The first Semi Final will be a rematch of last year’s final where TKR beat St Lucia Kings with ease. The Kings scraped their way into this stage mainly thanks to Romario Shepherd obliterating Jamaica Tallawahs with bat and ball, which enabled St Lucia to finish in fourth position.
After an inconsistent season, the Kings now have the chance to get it right at the business end of the season. Two strong performances can win you the title, but to do that, they will have to get past a TKR team on the verge of hitting their best form as well as potentially doing it without the services of Faf du Plessis.
Both teams won a game against each other in the league stage, and will be aiming to come up with the goods here.
Kieron Pollard is TKR’s second-highest run-scorer in CPL 2021 (235 runs, avg. 39.16, SR 154.60). The captain, who is coming off a brilliant 22-ball 51 vs St Kitts, scored 41 (29) in his last game vs St Lucia. He has a magnificent batting record vs St Lucia (15 inns, 428 runs, avg. 47.56, SR 149.13), along with 20 wickets in 13 innings, including 4/30 in last year’s Final.
Colin Munro has not performed at his best in CPL 2021, but still has the most runs for TKR this season (239 runs, avg. 29.87, SR 99.17). Against St Lucia, Munro has scored 268 runs in 10 matches at an average of 33.50 and strike rate of 130.10, including 40* (47) and 1 (4) this season.
Darren Bravo simply loves playing against St Lucia. In 10 innings against them, he has struck 323 runs at an average of 107.67 and strike rate of 150.23. He scored 23* (13), 50* (42) and 58* (47) vs St Lucia in CPL 2020.
Lendl Simmons smashed 84* vs St Lucia in last season’s Final. He made scores of 25 and 11 against them in the league stage this season, part of 191 runs in six innings for TKR vs SLK at an average of 38.20 and strike rate of 131.72.
Ravi Rampaul has enjoyed some season, sitting equal-first in the wicket-taking list (18 in nine matches). This includes six wickets in two matches against St Lucia this season (3/29 and 3/34).
Ali Khan has taken eight wickets in three matches this season. He has five wickets in five matches vs SLK, and will be looking to make an impact today.
St Lucia Kings:
Andre Fletcher has the most runs in TKR-SLK matches (560), and he will be key to his team’s hopes. He scored 81* in his last game vs TKR earlier this season, and has an overall average of 32.94 in 19 matches vs TKR.
Roston Chase, the top run-scorer in CPL 2021, scored 30 (24) and 0 (5) vs TKR in the league stage. Chase has scored 367 runs this season at an average of 52.42 and a strike rate of 147.98.
Chase took 1/17 and 1/25 against TKR this season, part of nine wickets this season at an economy rate of 6.93.
Tim David struck 43 (32) and 0 (1) against TKR earlier in CPL 2021. Can he finish the innings strongly here?
Kesrick Williams took 4/24 vs TKR earlier in CPL 2021, part of 16 career wickets in 11 matches against Trinbago.
Jeavor Royal has been one of the main positives of St Lucia’s season. He has 12 scalps in eight matches.
David Wiese took 5/25 two games ago against the Royals.
Stats and Facts
Head-to-head: Matches 19, TKR 14, SLK 3, N/R 2.
Both teams won one match against each other in the CPL 2021 league stage. Roston Chase and Kieron Pollard were the players of the matches respectively.
Tim Seifert struck 40* (16) and 37 (25) vs St Lucia in the CPL 2021 league stage.
Possible Playing 11
Trinbago Knight Riders: 1. Lendl Simmons, 2. Denesh Ramdin (wk), 3. Colin Munro, 4. Darren Bravo, 5. Kieron Pollard (c), 6. Tim Seifert, 7. Isuru Udana/Sunil Narine, 8. Akeal Hosein, 9. Jayden Seales, 10. Ali Khan, 11. Ravi Rampaul
St Lucia Kings: 1. Andre Fletcher, 2. Faf du Plessis/Samit Patel, 3. Mark Deyal, 4. Roston Chase, 5. Tim David, 6. David Wiese, 7. Keemo Paul/Rakheem Cornwall, 8. Kadeem Alleyne/Kesrick Williams, 9. Wahab Riaz, 10. Alzarri Joseph, 11. Jeavor Royal
Warner Park Basseterre St Kitts Pitch Report and Weather
Victories between teams batting first vs second was even in CPL 2021 (16 wins to the team batting first vs 14 chasing). The average first innings score is 160.67, and a total in this region will be a competitive one in a pressure game.
The forecast is for showers throughout the day. If there is a no result, it will mean that TKR qualifies for the Final given they finished higher on the table.
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:
CPL 2021 Semi Final 1: TKR vs SLK Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
CPL 2021 Semi Final 1: TKR vs SLK Dream11 Prediction
Fan2Play Prediction
CPL 2021 Semi Final 1: TKR vs SLK Fan2Play
Match Prediction
A lot depends on Faf’s presence and fitness. TKR start as favourites, and should win today.
SL vs SA 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SL vs SA 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Sri Lanka vs South Africa 3rd T20I Key Players | Colombo Pitch Report
And just like that, the series ends with barely a whimper. Sri Lanka, after taking a forward step with T20I and ODI series wins over India and South Africa respectively, have taken two steps backwards in this T20I series.
The concern remains their batting so close to the T20 World Cup. The return of Kusal Perera was a boost, but the batting lineup clearly lacks power as well as the ability to keep the runs flowing consistently. After huffing and puffing their way to 135 in the first T20I, the Lions were then bundled out for just 103 to have their batting top of the agenda as they look to finish this series in strong fashion.
For South Africa, let the good times roll. They have now won eight of 10 T20Is since the start of their West Indies tour. More encouraging is the fact that they have handled slow, spinning conditions well courtesy of their top order and spin attack led by the superb Tabraiz Shamsi.
There is no such thing as a dead rubber with a T20 World Cup just around the corner. Sri Lanka need confidence, while South Africa will be aiming to continue their winning form.
Kusal Perera is crucial to Sri Lanka’s hopes. The skipper was their top-scorer in the second match (30), and will be hoping to carry on for more today. Overall vs South Africa, Perera has scored 127 runs in six matches at an average/strike rate of 21.16/117.59.
Dinesh Chandimal was in good form in domestic cricket before this series (51*, 59, 40 and 14 in his last four domestic T20s). He scored 66* in the first T20I, and the aim will be to hold things together well today.
Bhanuka Rajapaksa was looking in decent touch before gifting his wicket to Markram off a full toss. The key will be to build on his innings of 20 (13) in the last game into something more substantial.
Sri Lanka desperately needs Dhananjaya de Silva to make an impact. To do that, de Silva will need to overturn a poor batting record against South Africa in T20Is (116 runs, avg. 12.88). He does have the second-most T20I runs for Sri Lanka on this ground (232, avg. 29.00), only behind skipper Kusal Perera (386, avg. 29.79).
Wanindu Hasaranga continues to be the shining light for Sri Lanka. In a tough series for his team, Hasaranga has taken three wickets at an economy rate of just 5.62. In 2021, Hasaranga has taken 20 wickets in 11 T20Is at an average of 11.40 and economy rate of 5.30.
Dushmantha Chameera is yet to produce the kind of form vs South Africa that he showed earlier in the year. He has taken 15 wickets in 2021 at an average of 17.26 and economy rate of 6.44.
South Africa:
Aiden Markram has been the star with both bat and ball this series (48, 21* and 3/21). He has continued his wonderful batting form in T20Is this year, where he now has 408 runs in 12 matches at an average of 40.80 and strike rate of 150.00. Key player.
Quinton de Kock came into this series with a poor record against Sri Lanka. The classy keeper-batsman has gone some way to turning that around, with scores of 38 and 58*. He now has 201 runs in nine T20Is vs Sri Lanka at an average of 25.12.
No Protea has more runs vs Sri Lanka than Reeza Hendricks. He was looking in decent touch in the second T20I (18) before giving his wicket away. Hendricks has 255 runs in seven innings vs Sri Lanka at an average of 36.42 and strike rate of 124.39.
What an incredible year Tabraiz Shamsi is having. The world’s number one T20I bowler was unplayable at times in the second T20I, producing a player of the match performance (3/20). He now has 28 wickets in 16 T20Is this year at an average of 11.89 and economy rate of 5.45. He will be a factor again on a surface that is expected to provide more turn.
Bjorn Fortuin has taken three wickets in two matches this series at an economy rate of just 4.50. His accuracy and consistency will make him a threat once again on a turning track. The same applies to Keshav Maharaj (two wickets this series, econ. 4.70).
Stats and Facts
South Africa have won six T20Is in a row, beating West Indies, Ireland and Sri Lanka along the way.
Tabraiz Shamsi is one wicket away from 50 in T20Is. This will be his 42nd match.
Sri Lanka have not beaten South Africa in a T20I since August 2018. The teams have played five T20Is against each other since then.
Possible Playing 11
Sri Lanka dropped Avishka Fernando in the second T20I. While he has struggled in T20I cricket (avg. 13), he has the potential to deliver.
Also, Sri Lanka will be well served bringing in Kamindu Mendis. Mendis was outstanding in Sri Lanka’s recent domestic T20 competition, striking scores of 74, 53* and 66.
With the series won, South Africa could look at rotation. They may rest Kagiso Rabada.
George Linde was a surprise omission from South Africa’s T20 World Cup squad, but could get a look in here in conditions that aid spin.
South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Reeza Hendricks, 3. Aiden Markram, 4. Heinrich Klaasen, 5. Rassie van der Dussen, 6. Dwaine Pretorius/George Linde, 7. Wiaan Mulder/Kagiso Rabada, 8. Keshav Maharaj (c), 9. Bjorn Fortuin, 10. Anrich Nortje, 11. Tabraiz Shamsi
R Premadasa Stadium Colombo Pitch Report and Weather
Batting first is an advantage here even though Sri Lanka completely squandered it in the second T20I. The surface is aiding the spinners, with plenty of turn and variable pace available. Bat first and anything in the region of 140-150 will be a challenging chase.
There is a chance of rain during the match at Colombo.
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:
SL vs SA 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
SL vs SA 3rd T20 Dream11 Prediction
Fan2Play Prediction
SL vs SA 3rd T20 Fan2Play
Match Prediction
South Africa start as clear favourites again, with Sri Lanka’s best hope batting first and putting a score of 140-150 on the board, then defending it via their spinners.
