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IND vs SA 5th T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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IND vs SA 5th T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

After the abandoned match at Lucknow, the action moves to Ahmedabad for the final encounter of the T20I series. South Africa have the opportunity to finish their successful tour on a high, while India are aiming for another triumph in T20I cricket.

The third T20I was all India. The bowlers, left by Arshdeep Singh, dominated the Proteas lineup as only Aiden Markram displayed any meaningful resistance. However, India’s batting still doesn’t have that same confidence or swagger it did in previous months. Runs for Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav will be very welcome as the World Cup quickly approaches.

For South Africa, a lot depends on whether Quinton de Kock can produce the type of innings he did in the second T20I. If a platform is set, the Proteas’ exciting middle order can cause damage. Also, can the South African attack cause a few more headaches for the Indian lineup?

IND vs SA 5th T20 2025 Possible Playing XIs

Jasprit Bumrah was back from personal leave in Lucknow. However, Axar Patel is ruled out with illness. Also, Sanju Samson could play with Shubman Gill reportedly nursing a toe injury, according to ESPNcricinfo.

India: 1. Abhishek Sharma, 2. Shubman Gill/Sanju Samson, 3. Suryakumar Yadav (c), 4. Tilak Varma, 5. Jitesh Sharma (wk), 6. Hardik Pandya, 7. Shivam Dube, 8. Harshit Rana/Washington Sundar, 9. Arshdeep Singh, 10. Jasprit Bumrah, 11. Varun Chakravarthy

South Africa could bat Tristan Stubbs up the order as Reeza Hendricks has missed out twice.

South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Aiden Markram (c), 3. Reeza Hendricks/Tristan Stubbs, 4. Dewald Brevis, 5. David Miller, 6 Donovan Ferreira, 7 Marco Jansen, 8 Corbin Bosch, 9 George Linde/Keshav Maharaj, 10 Lungi Ngidi, 11 Ottneil Baartman/Anrich Nortje

Narendra Modi Stadium Ahmedabad Pitch Report and Weather

Clear and warm conditions are forecast in Ahmedabad for this match. Whoever wins the toss could have a tricky decision to make as teams batting first won seven of the nine matches in IPL 2025.

The average first innings score on this ground in this year’s IPL was a mammoth 215.67 at a run rate of 10.78. During the season, pace bowlers took 80 wickets here at an average of 32.79 and economy of 10.28. Spinners picked up 31 wickets at 29.29/9.56.

Expect more excellent batting conditions in this match.

Fantasy Cricket Tips for IND vs SA 5th T20 2025: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Quinton de Kock has had an up and down series, but his 46-ball 90 in the second T20I shows what he is capable of. He has six 50+ scores in 13 T20I innings against India.

Key batter picks:

  • Shubman Gill has struggled for rhythm in T20Is this year. But, if he’s fit and available for this game, he is certainly worth a pick in Dream11. Gill loves batting at Ahmedabad, scoring 1,157 runs at an average of 52.59 and strike rate of 162.04.
  • Abhishek Sharma showed glimpses of his best in the third T20I. He is striking at 187.4 during the powerplay in all T20s this year (813 runs).
  • Tilak Varma averages 70.50 with a strike rate of 161.45 in nine T20Is against South Africa. This includes a fifty and two hundreds.

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Hardik Pandya knows this ground well. He has 261 runs in T20s at Ahmedabad (avg. 29, SR 126.09), along with eight wickets at a strike rate of 21.75.
  • Marco Jansen has had the tour of a lifetime. Can he finish on a high? Abhishek Sharma has been out seven times in 98 balls against left-arm seam, but strikes at 200 against this bowling type. Key matchup.
  • Aiden Markram played a lone hand in the third T20I (61). It was a welcome innings as he averages 23.06 as captain compared to 38.21 when not skipper in T20Is.

Key bowler picks:

  • Varun Chakravarthy has been simply outstanding in this series, taking six wickets at an average of 9.83. He has amassed 282 Dream11 points in the process. Overall, he has a superb 18 wickets against the Proteas at an average of 10.94 and strike rate of 9.00.
  • Arshdeep Singh produced a man of the match performance in the third T20I (2/17). His matchup against Quinton de Kock (5/66 off 56 balls in all T20s) remains key.
  • Lungi Ngidi is the equal leading-wicket taker in this series (6), striking every 10.16 balls. He is also conceding just 7.86 per over.

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Jasprit Bumrah is expected to feature in this game. He has three wickets in two T20s at Ahmedabad at an economy of just 6.75.
  • Suryakumar Yadav is having a horror year in T20Is, averaging just 14.20. He has the class, experience and record against South Africa (401 runs, avg. 33.41, SR 158.49) to bounce back. Will this be his day?
  • Dewald Brevis has looked in promising touch but is yet to make the big score in this series. He is South Africa’s leading run-scorer in T20Is this year (433) and is striking at 181.9 against spin in all T20s in 2025 (avg. 73.7).
  • Sanju Samson is worth a pick in Dream11 if selected in the XI as he is looking to prove a point. Samson averages 31.00 with a strike rate of 147.62 in T20s at Ahmedabad.
  • David Miller has the most runs in IND-SA T20Is (545). He also has plenty of T20 experience at Ahmedabad: inns 12, 254 runs, avg. 42.33, SR 151.19.

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • Head-to-head: 34 matches, India 19, South Africa 13, N/R 2.
  • No player has scored more T20 runs on this ground than Shubman Gill’s 1,157.
  • Suryakumar Yadav also has a good record in T20s at Ahmedabad with 176 runs in four matches at an average of 44 and strike rate of 169.23.
  • Arshdeep Singh in T20s at Ahmedabad: 5 inns, 8 wickets, avg. 22.62, SR 14.38.
  • Varun Chakravarthy vs Quinton de Kock in all T20s: 38 balls, 48 runs, two wickets.
  • Marco Jansen vs Hardik Pandya in all T20s: 31 balls, 52 runs, one wicket.

IND vs SA 5th T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams. 

Option 1:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Ahmedabad Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for IND vs SA 5th T20 2025 Today.
IND vs SA 5th T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

Option 2:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Ahmedabad Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for IND vs SA 5th T20 2025 Today.
IND vs SA 5th T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

IND vs SA 5th T20 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?

South Africa have the talent to challenge India. That being said, I’m backing India win on a batting-friendly ground.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes for Dream11 free contests in line with the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The stats and writer’s views are in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

All statistics and matchups in this article have been verified by ESPNcricinfo and Cricmetric.

HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – BBL 2025/26 6th Match

Charbel Coorey
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0
HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – BBL 2025/26 6th Match

Brisbane Heat will be looking to bounce back as they take on Perth Scorchers in the 6th match of the 2025/26 BBL season.

The Heat, admittedly missing a host of players, had a disappointing start against the Melbourne Renegades earlier this week. Their star recruit, Shaheen Shah Afridi, was banned from the attack after 2.4 expensive overs as the attack struggled to keep Tim Seifert in check.

Now, they welcome back Matt Kuhnemann who will partner Shaheen and Xaxier Bartlett as the experienced core. The Heat’s third specialist pace bowler is the key concern, with Liam Haskett struggling a few nights ago.

So, it certainly won’t be easy against a powerful Perth Scorchers lineup. Cooper Connolly stood tall in a run chase against the Sydney Sixers, navigating a tricky situation in a shortened game. He picked up an IPL deal on Tuesday night and this can help increase his confidence further after a strong few months.

BBL 2025/26 6th Match: HEA vs SCO Possible Playing XIs

The experiment to open with Jack Wildermuth didn’t pay off for the Heat against Renegades. But, expect them to persist with the tactic for the second match.

Matt Kuhnemann is back in the squad and should replace Paddy Dooley in the XI.

Brisbane Heat: 1. Colin Munro (OS), 2. Jack Wildermuth, 3. Nathan McSweeney (c), 4. Matt Renshaw, 5. Max Bryant, 6. Hugh Weibgen, 7. Jimmy Pierson (wk), 8. Xavier Bartlett, 9. Shaheen Shah Afridi (OS), 10. Matt Kuhnemann, 11. Liam Haskett/Oli Patterson

At the time of writing, Perth Scorchers are yet to name their squad. They could stick with the same team that beat Sydney Sixers on Sunday.

Perth Scorchers: 1. Mitch Marsh, 2. Finn Allen (OS, wk), 3. Cooper Connolly, 4. Aaron Hardie, 5. Ashton Turner (c), 6. Laurie Evans (OS), 7. Nick Hobson, 8. Ashton Agar, 9. Joel Paris, 10. Brody Couch, 11. Mahli Beardman

Gabba Brisbane Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings in the last 10 BBL matches at the Gabba is 173.2 at a run rate of 8.69. Chasing teams have won the past four matches, but the team batting first won the previous six.

Since the start of 2023, pace bowlers have taken 123 wickets at an average of 23.33 and economy of 8.68 in BBL matches at the Gabba. Spinners have struggled in comparison, taking 33 wickets at an average of 44.21 and economy of 8.30.

A warm and clear night is forecast in Brisbane, with temperatures around 30 degrees at 6:15pm local time.

Fantasy Cricket Tips for HEA vs SCO 2025/26: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Finn Allen is the safest wicket-keeper pick as he opens the batting. In all T20s this year, Allen has smashed 830 runs at an average of 29.6 and strike rate of 200.5.

Key batter picks:

  • Mitch Marsh has a magnificent record against the Brisbane Heat. He’s hammered 467 runs at an average of 77.83 and strike rate of 168.59. But, this will be his first match against the Heat since January 2022.
  • Colin Munro amassed 115 Dream11 points against the Renegades. He will be looking to improve his record at the Gabba: 11 inns, 231 runs, avg. 23.10, SR 119.69.

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Cooper Connolly is in great touch and is coming off a man of the match performance against the Sixers (59 off 31 balls). He also has recent scores of 70 (FC), 47 (list A) and 88 (FC).
  • Aaron Hardie bats in the top four and will contribute overs. The all-rounder has scored 208 runs against the Heat (avg. 29.71, SR 135.95) along with five wickets (avg. 28.20, econ. 8.81).
  • Jack Wildermuth is an excellent pick in fantasy cricket if he opens the batting again. He will likely bowl four overs as well, especially as he took 3/34 in the last game, with two wickets coming at the death.

Key bowler picks:

  • Xavier Bartlett has an excellent record at the Gabba, with 31 wickets at an average of 16.84 and strike rate of 12.42. His matchup against Finn Allen is one to watch as Allen has been dismissed 19 times in the powerplay in all T20s this year (30 innings).
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi had a night to forget on Monday (2.4-0-43-0). Mitch Marsh has been dismissed six times in 84 balls against left-arm seam in T20s this year (avg. 23.2). Finn Allen has a worse record with nine dismissals at an average of 16.3.

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Brody Couch has been in good wicket-taking form. He picked up two wickets in the opening BBL match, after 10 wickets in his last three Shield matches.
  • Matt Renshaw has struggled against the Scorchers, scoring just 117 runs at an average of 14.63 and strike rate of 114.71. But, this is new-look Scorchers attack compared to the days of Behrendhorff and Tye.
  • Nathan McSweeney has been in solid form recently (49 in List A, 68 in FC, 63 vs England Lions, 226* in FC). He averages just 12.80 in five matches against the Scorchers.
  • Hugh Weigben impressed in Heat’s tournament opener (38* off 20 balls). Jimmy Peirson was also superb (50 off 22), but faces a touch matchup as he averages 18.57 against the Scorchers.

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • Head-to-head: Matches 24, Heat 8, Scorchers 16.
  • Scorchers have won eight of the past nine matches against the Heat.
  • Heat lead Scorchers 4-3 at the Gabba.
  • Mitch Marsh in T20s at the Gabba: 3 inns, 100 runs, avg. 50.00, SR 138.89.
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi vs Finn Allen in all T20s: 76 balls, 116 runs, four wickets.
  • Joel Paris vs Matt Renshaw in T20s: 9 balls, 11 runs, two wickets.

BBL 2025/26 6th Match: HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction Today

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams. 

Option 1:

Screenshot from the Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Gabba Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for the 6th Match of BBL 2025/26: STA vs HUR Today
BBL 2025/26 6th Match: HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction Today

Option 2:

Screenshot from the Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Gabba Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for the 6th Match of BBL 2025/26: STA vs HUR Today
BBL 2025/26 6th Match: HEA vs SCO Dream11 Prediction Today

BBL 2025/26 6th Match: HEA vs SCO Match Prediction – Who will win?

This promises to be a tight game but the Heat are still a little depleted. Scorchers look strong particularly on the batting front and are my pick to win.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes for Dream11 free contests in line with the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The stats and writer’s views are in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

All statistics and matchups in this article have been verified by ESPNcricinfo, Bigbashboard and Cricmetric.

Snicko vs UltraEdge: What’s the difference?

Charbel Coorey
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0
Snicko vs UltraEdge: What’s the difference?

The Snicko vs. UltraEdge debate has reared to its head during the second Ashes Test in Adelaide. A host of controversial calls has dominated headlines, with the snicko technology proving unreliable in the quest for correct decisions.

“They’ve got a third umpire sitting up in there that’s got to make decisions based on what he’s seeing that the technology is providing, and sometimes they have a gut feel that it’s not right,” Ricky Ponting said on Channel 7, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

“That can’t happen. You’ve got to be able to trust the technology that’s in place.”

Is UltraEdge better than Snicko? A look at the difference

Calls are growing louder for UltraEdge to be introduced in Australia. Currently, Real-Time Snicko (RTS) is employed down under and in New Zealand. UltraEdge is used in the rest of the world.

Speaking on the Western Province Cricket Umpires Assocation YouTube channel in February 2025, ex-umpire Marais Erasmus explained the difference between the two technologies

“They are set up slightly differently and the outcome works slightly differently,” he said. “Real-Time Snicko; we always have the snick just maybe one frame later than when it actually happened. Therefore the umpires are taught to interpret it in that way.

“Where with the UltraEdge, which is a Hawkeye product, the snick is at the time when it’s in the frame. Sometimes it might go into the next frame or start in the previous frame, but it’s more immediately, I think, probably easier for the viewers to understand, where RTS can give the impression that it’s after the fact.”

UltraEdge is considered superior as Hawkeye offers a higher frame-rate analysis of 340 frames per second. RTS’ tracking cameras offer 50 frames per second, as reported by Daily Mail.

Trent Copeland criticises the ICC for their stance

Calls are also growing louder for the ICC to fund use of Ultra Edge around the world. Currently, the choice of technology is paid for by the host broadcaster, who makes their decision based on factors such as budget.

Trent Copeland was critical of the ICC in his feature for Channel 7 after day two of the second Ashes Test in Adelaide. He said the governing body shouldn’t leave it up to the broadcasters to make the call.

“I just want to take a step back from snicko for a moment and say the ICC make the host broadcaster make this choice. Then, they’re also asking them to foot the bill. Not only is the technology letting the sport down, but I think the ICC is as well,” Copeland said.

CA CEO Todd Greenberg reacts to snicko fiasco in 2nd Ashes Test

Charbel Coorey
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0
CA CEO Todd Greenberg reacts to snicko fiasco in 2nd Ashes Test

Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Todd Greenberg has expressed his discontent with snicko during the second Ashes Test at Adelaide. There have been a number of controversial moments relating to snicko on the opening two days, leading to Mitchell Starc saying “snicko needs to be sacked. That’s the worst technology there is,” near the stump microphone.

Starc’s frustration was in relation to the third umpire deeming the ball missed Jamie Smith’s glove and only hit his helmet off Pat Cummins’ bowling. Usman Khawaja’s attempted catch hit the ground first, but the decision had the Australians bewildered.

“They make a mistake the other day, and they make another mistake today,” Starc continued.

Smith was in the action soon after, given out caught behind as snicko showed a spike on the first frame after the ball passed the toe end of the bat. On-field umpire Nitin Menon didn’t formally make a decision, but the fact he sent it upstairs to check whether Alex Carey’s catch was legal suggests he thought England’s keeper-batsman had hit the ball.

Smith, Ben Stokes and England fans were left furious after the Alex Carey not out call yesterday. The spike came well before the ball reached Carey’s bat, but BBG Sports, the company who manages snicko, says there was a calibration error.

CA CEO Todd Greenberg not happy with snicko

“It certainly caused me some heartburn because the whole idea of technology is to take away the clanger or the howler,” Greenberg said on SEN radio.

“From what I can understand having dug into it last night and this morning is human error.

“There’s two human errors there – one is the actual decision from the umpire, and then there’s supposed to be a failsafe with the technology and it didn’t happen. In my view it’s not good enough.

“We’re asking a lot of questions of the provider through the broadcasters and we’re hoping to get some answers so we can be assured it won’t happen again.”

Ricky Ponting sympathises with the TV umpire Chris Gaffaney. The former Australian captain says Gaffaney doesn’t have the tools to be confident in his decision-making.

“This technology that we are using here is simply not as good as technology that’s used in other countries,” Ponting said on Channel 7. “You talk to the umpires, they’ll tell you the same thing. They can’t trust it.”

Snicko wasn’t the only source of controversy on day two. Joe Root was given the benefit of the doubt in the morning session with Gaffaney deeming the ball bounced before Carey’s gloves after an inside edge onto Root’s pad.

However, England’s all-time leading run-scorer couldn’t make an impact as the visitors crumbled in the face of disciplined Australian bowling on a flat Adelaide pitch. The Australian attack worked magnificently as a unit in very hot conditions, with even Cameron Green producing a peach to remove Harry Brook.

The visitors ended day two on 213/8, still 158 runs behind. Ben Stokes is unbeaten on 45 off 151 balls, while Jofra Archer has batted fluently for his 48-ball 30.

STA vs HUR Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – BBL 2025/26 5th Match

Charbel Coorey
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0
STA vs HUR Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – BBL 2025/26 5th Match

The defending champions Hobart Hurricanes are back in action in the 5th match of the BBL 2025/26 season. They take on the Melbourne Stars, who have enjoyed some great moments against the Hurricanes at the MCG.

Hobart’s title last season means the Stars are the only team not to win a BBL title. Surely this has to increase the motivation for Marcus Stoinis’ team. They thumped the Hurricanes by 40 runs last season, and anything similar will be the perfect start to this campaign.

The key question for the Stars, however, is whether they still rely too much on Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis. Both have excellent numbers against the Hurricanes, but they need others to contribute. Also, whether the Stars have the bowling depth to keep Hobart in check remains to be seen.

BBL 2025/26 5th Match: STA vs HUR Possible Playing XIs

Melbourne Stars have named their squad. Overseas players Joe Clarke, Tom Curran and Haris Rauf are available. Where the likes of Marcus Stoinis and Sam Harper bat will be interesting to see.

Melbourne Stars: 1. Joe Clarke (OS), 2. Thomas Fraser Rogers/Campbell Kellaway, 3. Sam Harper (wk), 4. Glenn Maxwell, 5. Marcus Stoinis (c), 6. Hilton Cartwright, 7. Tom Curran (OS), 8. Mitchell Swepson, 9. Peter Siddle, 10. Haris Rauf (OS), 11. Liam Hatcher

Jackson Bird has replaced Mac Wright in the Hurricanes squad. The defending champions could stick with the same team that defeated Sydney Thunder on Tuesday.

Hobart Hurricanes: 1. Mitch Owen, 2. Nikhil Chaudhary, 3. Ben McDermott, 4. Tim David, 5. Matthew Wade (wk), 6. Rehan Ahmed (OS), 7. Chris Jordan (OS), 8. Nathan Ellis (c), 9. Rishad Hossain (OS), 10. Riley Meredith, 11. Billy Stanlake

MCG Pitch Report and Weather

Chasing teams have won five of the past eight BBL matches at the MCG. The average first innings score is 155.75 at a run rate of 8.13. Chasing teams have scored at 8.50 per over.

In the BBL since the start of 2023, pace bowlers have taken 86 wickets at an average of 24.84 and economy of 8.02. Spinners have fared well, taking 50 wickets at an average of 24.32 and lower economy of 6.92.

A very hot and clear day is forecast in Melbourne with a top of 36 degrees. Temperatures will remain around 32 degrees at 7:15pm local time.

Fantasy Cricket Tips for STA vs HUR BBL 2025/26: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Ben McDermott began the season in positive fashion, striking 38 off 24 balls against the Thunder. He has a good record against the Stars: 14 inns, 466 runs, avg. 35.85, SR 133.52.
  • Joe Clarke will likely open the batting or bat in the top four at the very least. He has scored 192 runs against the Hurricanes at an average of 64.00 and strike rate of 144.36.

Key batter picks:

  • Tim David has belted 271 BBL runs since December 2024 at an average of 38.7 and strike rate of 178.3. However, he averages just 16.57 against the Stars (nine games) and 16.44 at the MCG (nine games). Can he turn these numbers around?
  • Glenn Maxwell has smashed 677 runs at an average of 67.70 and strike rate of 185.48 against the Hurricanes. He also has an outstanding T20 record at the MCG (1,594 runs, avg. 40.87, SR 153.71).

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Marcus Stoinis also has excellent numbers against the Hurricanes (451 runs) at an average of 45.10 and strike rate of 145.48. Stoinis has a good matchup against Nathan Ellis, smashing 61 off 38 balls without dismissal.
  • Mitch Owen started the BBL 2025/26 season in promising fashion, smashing a 14-ball 31 against the Thunder. Since the start of last season, Owen has hit 484 runs at an average of 44 and strike rate of 205.1.
  • Nikhil Chaudhary opens the batting now for the Hurricanes. He is coming off a 40+ score against the Thunder soon after his maiden First Class century last month.
  • Chris Jordan picked up 113 Dream11 points against the Thunder. He can contribute in all three facets of the game. He took a catch, two wickets and scored 16*.

Key bowler picks:

  • Haris Rauf is a proven performer in the BBL with 36 wickets in 22 matches. This includes eight wickets in two matches against the Hurricanes.
  • Riley Meredith has the most wickets in STA-HUR matches, with 20 at an average of 16.55 and economy of 7.44. He has a good matchup against Marcus Stoinis (2/39 off 36 balls).
  • Nathan Ellis concedes just 6.28 per over against the Stars (13 wickets in 10 matches). Also, Ellis has taken 17 wickets between overs 14 and 20 in all T20s this year at a strike rate of 13.9.

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Tom Curran has 411 runs (avg. 27.4, SR 154.5) and 23 wickets (avg. 33.9, SR 21.4) in all T20s this year. His all-round value makes him an attractive option for fantasy cricket.
  • Matthew Wade has batted five times in the middle order (no. 5 or 6) in the BBL in 2025, striking 129 runs at an average of 43 and strike rate of 153.6.
  • Billy Stanlake (3/34 against Thunder) enjoyed a strong start to the BBL 2025/26 season.
  • Peter Siddle dismissed Ben McDermott three times for 40 runs in 36 balls between 2018 and 2023. Can he still make an impact?
  • Hilton Cartwright in all T20s this year: 18 inns, 385 runs, avg. 29.6, SR 172.6.

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • Head-to-head: Matches 22, Melbourne Stars 14, Hobart Hurricanes 8.
  • Stars lead Hurricanes 7-4 at the MCG.
  • Haris Rauf in T20s at the MCG: 10 inns, 15 wickets, avg. 16.40, SR 14.
  • Riley Meredith in T20s at the MCG: 7 inns, 13 wickets, avg. 18.85, SR 12.46.
  • Glenn Maxwell hammered 76* (32) against Hobart Hurricanes last season.
  • Tom Rogers averages just 13.9 in the BBL. Nathan Ellis has figures of 2/11 off 12 balls against him.
  • Tim David has a strong record against Haris Rauf in all T20s: 38 balls, 70 runs, one wicket.
  • Nathan Ellis vs Glenn Maxwell in T20s: 15 balls, 13 runs, one wicket.
  • Nathan Ellis vs Joe Clarke in T20s: 19 balls, 22 runs, one wicket.
  • Riley Meredith vs Glenn Maxwell in T20s: 39 balls, 52 runs, two wickets.
  • Glenn Maxwell vs Ben McDermott in T20s: 23 balls, 44 runs, no wickets.

BBL 2025/26 5th Match: STA vs HUR Dream11 Prediction Today

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams. 

Option 1:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, MCG Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for the 5th Match of BBL 2025/26: STA vs HUR Today
BBL 2025/26 5th Match: STA vs HUR Dream11 Prediction Today

Option 2:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, MCG Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for the 5th Match of BBL 2025/26: STA vs HUR Today
BBL 2025/26 5th Match: STA vs HUR Dream11 Prediction Today

BBL 2025/26 5th Match: STA vs HUR Match Prediction – Who will win?

Stars have a good record against the Hurricanes at the MCG, but do they have the bowling depth this time around? Not so sure. Hurricanes to win.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes for Dream11 free contests in line with the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The stats and writer’s views are in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

All statistics and matchups in this article have been verified by ESPNcricinfo, Bigbashboard and Cricmetric.

SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – BBL 2025/26 4th Match

Charbel Coorey
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0
SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – BBL 2025/26 4th Match

Sydney Sixers are back in action as they take on Adelaide Strikers in the 4th match of BBL 2025/26. The Sixers lost a shortened encounter against Perth on Sunday, and will be looking to repond in style back home at the SCG.

The Sixers were on track to defend 113/5 in their 11 overs after Jack Edwards (46 off 21) played the kind of innings he is capable of. Cooper Connolly then produced a similar innings to lead the Scorchers to a win.

For the Strikers, their goal is improving significantly on their last-placed finish in BBL 2024/25. They won just three matches in a disappointing campaign, and enter this season with talent in their ranks and renewed hope.

The last two matches between the Strikers and Sixers have been thrillers. Is there another in store today?

BBL 2025/26 4th Match: SIX vs STR Possible Playing XIs

Sydney Sixers have named their squad for this match. Sean Abbott is still unavailable due to a hamstring injury. Jordan Silk is back and will replace Lachlan Shaw in the XI.

Sydney Sixers: 1. Daniel Hughes, 2. Babar Azam (OS), 3. Josh Philippe (wk), 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Jack Edwards, 7. Ben Dwarshuis, 8. Joel Davies/Hayden Kerr, 9. Charlie Stobo, 10. Todd Murphy, 11. Mitchell Perry

Adelaide Strikers have also named their squad. Overseas players Hassan Ali, Luke Wood and Jamie Overton are available.

Strikers could look to play Mackenzie Harvey. The left-hander has been in fine form this season, hitting 240 runs in the 2025/26 Australian One Day Cup at an average of 60.00 and strike rate of 99.17.

Adelaide Strikers: 1. Matt Short (c), 2. Chris Lynn, 3. Jason Sangha, 4. Alex Ross/Mackenzie Harvey, 5. Harry Nielsen (wk), 6. Jamie Overton (OS), 7. Liam Scott, 8. Luke Wood (OS), 9. Hasan Ali (OS), 10. Lloyd Pope, 11. Henry Thornton

SCG Pitch Report and Weather

In the last eight BBL matches, teams batting first and second have each won four times. The average first innings score is 170.56 at a run rate of 8.53.

Since the start of 2023, pace bowlers have taken 104 BBL wickets at the SCG at an average of 23.53 and economy of 8.44. Spinners have picked up 43 wickets at an average of 29.77 and economy of 7.23.

A partly cloudy day is forecast with a top of 27 degrees. No rain is expected.

Fantasy Cricket Tips for SIX vs STR 2025/26: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Josh Philippe is the safe wicket-keeper pick in this match as he bats in the top three whereas Harry Nielsen bats in the middle order. Philippe has 277 runs in 12 matches against the Strikers at an average of 27.70 and economy of 135.12.

Key batter picks:

  • Babar Azam missed out on the bouncy Perth pitch. The easier-paced SCG surface should suit him more. In fact, Babar has two fifties in four T20s on this ground.

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Matt Short is a leading captaincy/vice-captaincy candidate in Dream11. Since the start of 2023, Short has smashed 1,059 runs in the BBL at an average of 46 and strike rate of 158.1.
  • Jack Edwards is fresh off an excellent innings in Perth and can contribute overs with the ball. He averages just 14.17 in six innings against the Strikers, which he will be looking to improve on.
  • Jamie Overton smashed 191 runs at an average of 95.50 and strike rate of 156.55 in last season’s BBL. He also took 11 wickets. He recently had an excellent ODI series against New Zealand where he made scores of 46, 42 and 68.

Key bowler picks:

  • Ben Dwarshuis has 19 wickets in 16 matches against the Strikers (avg. 26.42) and has overall figures of 2/35 off 33 balls against Alex Ross. He also loves bowling at the SCG with 51 T20 wickets at an average of 23.14 and strike rate of 17.25.
  • Luke Wood has a good matchup against Josh Philippe. Since the start of 2023, Philippe has been dismissed nine times by left-arm seam in the BBL at an average of 16.6.

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Jordan Silk has an excellent record against the Strikers, with 370 runs at an average of 37.00 and strike rate of 146.83.
  • Chris Lynn has scored 400 runs at a strike rate of 150.94 against the Sydney Sixers. He also has a 55-ball 94 at the SCG.
  • Moises Henriques has the most T20 runs at the SCG (1,216) at an average of 26.43 and strike rate of 128.81.
  • Hassan Ali is enjoying a strong year in T20s with 54 wickets at an average of 17.5 and strike rate of 11.4.
  • Henry Thornton has taken eight wickets in five matches against the Sixers at an average of 20.25 and economy of 9.08.
  • Liam Scott is a regular wicket-taker in FC and List A cricket. He can also contribute with the bat down the order.

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • Head-to-head: Matches 21, Sixers 14, Strikers 7.
  • Sixers lead Strikers 4-2 at the SCG.
  • Josh Philippe in T20s at the SCG: 36 inns, 1,019 runs, avg. 30.88, SR 139.21.
  • Jordan Silk at the SCG: 40 inns, 941 runs, avg. 36.19, SR 129.08.
  • Ben Dwarshuis vs Chris Lynn: 33 balls, 52 runs, one dismissal.
  • Ben Dwarshuis vs Matt Short: 29 balls, 50 runs, one dismissal.
  • Henry Thornton vs Josh Philippe: 10 balls, 19 runs, one dismissal.

BBL 2025/26 4th Match: SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction Today

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams. 

Option 1:

Screenshot from Dream11 Prediction. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, SCG Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for the 4th Match of BBL 2025/26: SIX vs STR Today
BBL 2025/26 4th Match: SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction Today

Option 2:

Screenshot from Dream11 Prediction. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, SCG Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for the 4th Match of BBL 2025/26: SIX vs STR Today
BBL 2025/26 4th Match: SIX vs STR Dream11 Prediction Today

BBL 2025/26 4th Match: SIX vs STR Match Prediction – Who will win?

Sixers to win.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes for Dream11 free contests in line with the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The stats and writer’s views are in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

All statistics and matchups in this article have been verified by ESPNcricinfo, Bigbashboard and Cricmetric.

Will Steve Smith play in the 3rd Ashes Test at Adelaide Oval?

Charbel Coorey
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Will Steve Smith play in the 3rd Ashes Test at Adelaide Oval?

Steve Smith will not play in the third Test at the Adelaide Oval. Smith was ruled out on the morning of the match, with reports suggesting he has suffered another bout of vertigo.

Smith was also unwell on Monday, which forced him to miss the session.

“He [Smith] doesn’t have to train today [Tuesday]. He didn’t train yesterday [Monday] for a reason – he was unwell,” McDonald said on SEN radio.

Steve Smith out of Adelaide Test

McDonald said the priority was ensuring Smith recovers ahead of day one on Wednesday. The coach said it wasn’t a big concern two days out from the match. However, Smith won’t play.

“There’s always a slight concern, but you are hoping over the next 48 hours all of that subsides. It’ll just be about recovery for him, to make sure that he is ready to go for day one,” McDonald said.

“As part of that recovery is to get moving today to connecting tomorrow. If he’s not well enough to train today, we’ll test that over the day and into tomorrow.

“It’s not a huge concern at this stage, but as time gets closer to the game, as you know, that is obviously hightened slightly.”

Smith’s health is vital especially given very hot weather is forecast across the Adelaide Test. Temperatures of up to 33 and 39 degrees are expected on days one and two. With Smith out, Usman Khawaja’s will return with Cameron Green likeliest to bat at four.

HUR vs THU Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – BBL 2025/26 3rd Match

Charbel Coorey
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0
HUR vs THU Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – BBL 2025/26 3rd Match

The 3rd match of the BBL 2025/26 is a repeat of last year’s final. Champions Hobart Hurricanes look strong once again as they host the Sydney Thunder in front of their home fans.

The Hurricanes bat deep and have plenty of bowling options to turn to. Rehan Ahmed, Chris Jordan and Rishad Hossain add plenty of depth and T20 experience to the squad in addition to the strong top order and capable pace bowling attack. If the likes of Mitch Owen and Tim David produce anything like the form they did last season, the Hurricanes will be very hard to beat.

Sydney Thunder are aiming to go one better this season, but they have suffered a few injury blows before the start of their campaign. R Ashwin was set to feature before suffering a knee injury. Now, David Warner is ruled out after suffering a freak side injury while playing with his children.

The big challenge for the Thunder is whether the bowling attack can keep the Hurricanes quiet. They were belted all over Bellerive Oval in last season’s final.

BBL 2025/26 3rd Match: HUR vs THU Possible Playing XIs

Hobart Hurricanes have named their squad for this match. Rehan Ahmed, Chris Jordan and Rishad Hossain are all available.

Hobart Hurricanes: 1. Mitchell Owen, 2. Matthew Wade (wk), 3. Ben McDermott, 4. Tim David, 5. Nikhil Chaudhary, 6. Rehan Ahmed (OS), 7. Chris Jordan (OS), 8. Rishad Hossain (OS), 9. Nathan Ellis (c), 10. Riley Meredith, 11. Billy Stanlake

Shadab Khan and Reece Topley have been named in the Sydney Thunder squad. Cameron Bancroft or Nic Maddinson will likely partner Sam Konstas at the top in Warner’s absence.

Sydney Thunder: 1. Cameron Bancroft, 2. Sam Konstas, 3. Nic Maddinson, 4. Sam Billings (OS, wk), 5. Ollie Davies, 6. Shadab Khan (OS), 7. Daniel Sams, 8. Chris Green (c), 9. Nathan McAndrew, 10. Reece Topley (OS), 11. Ryan Hadley

Bellerive Oval Hobart Pitch Report and Weather

Expect a good batting pitch once again in Hobart. The short square boundaries will also make life tricky for the bowlers. Partly cloudy conditions are forecast with temperatures to drop to around 15 degrees. No rain is expected.

In last season’s BBL, the average first innings score was 167.86. Chasing teams won five of the seven matches, scoring at 8.78 per over compared to the 8.39 by teams batting first.

Since the start of 2023, pace bowlers have taken 113 wickets on this ground in the BBL at an average of 26.77 and economy of 8.58. Spinners have picked up 46 wickets at an average of 34.89 and economy of 8.04.

Fantasy Cricket Tips for HUR vs THU 2025/26: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Matthew Wade averages 44.09 with a strike rate of 153.48 against the Thunder (485 runs). Wade has been in good form in the Australian One Day Cup this season, with scores of 40, 105, 3, 46* and 16.

Key batter picks:

  • Tim David has smashed 1,127 T20 runs this year at an average of 38.9 and strike rate of 176.6. He loves batting at number four, with a strike rate of 186.8 in that role this year.
  • Sam Konstas has plenty to prove. He comes into this match in good form after scores of 116 and 53 for New South Wales against Queensland in the Sheffield Shield last week.

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Mitch Owen had a season to remember in 2025/26, smashing the most runs (452) at a strike rate of 203.60. This includes a superb 108 (42) against the Thunder in the final.
  • Daniel Sams has taken 12 wickets in 10 matches against the Hurricanes. Expect the Thunder to use him against Tim David, whom he has dismissed four times for 50 runs in 38 balls.
  • Shadab Khan will bat in the top six and is a key bowler for the Thunder. He took 3/20 in his only T20 at Bellerive Oval so far.
  • Chris Jordan bowls the crunch overs and fields in the hotspot positions. The Englishman can accumulate plenty of fantasy points in the field.

Key bowler picks:

  • The experienced Nathan Ellis has 15 wickets in 10 games against the Thunder. He has a great matchup against Sam Billings, whom he has dismissed four times for 25 runs in 26 balls.
  • Riley Meredith has the most T20 wickets on this ground (48) at an average of 18.75 and strike rate of 14.88. He also has a good record against Sam Billings with two wickets in 24 balls (29 runs).

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Sam Billings is crucial to the Thunder’s hopes. He has scored 205 runs in seven matches against the Hurricanes at an average of 34.17 and strike rate of 146.43. However, he has poor matchups against Ellis and Meredith (as above).
  • Chris Green is picked by over 85% of players in Dream11. But, you could leave him out of some of your teams. He has just six wickets in 13 matches against the Hurricanes and is wicketless in seven matches (20 overs) at Bellerive Oval.
  • Ben McDermott has the most runs at Bellerive Oval (1,077 runs, avg. 38.46, SR 132.64) and second-most runs in HUR-THU matches (453, avg. 41.18, SR 140.25).

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • Head-to-head: Matches 23, Hurricanes 14, Thunder 8, N/R 1.
  • Hurricanes have won 10 of 12 matches against the Thunder at Bellerive Oval.
  • Tim David vs Sydney Thunder: 7 inns, 196 runs, avg. 49.00, SR 167.52.
  • Cameron Bancroft vs Hobart Hurricanes: 9 inns, 119 runs, avg. 14.88, SR 111.21.
  • Ollie Davies vs Hobart Hurricanes: 7 inns, 179 runs, avg. 25.57, SR 134.59.
  • Reece Topley in all T20s this year: 17 inns, 13 wickets, avg. 37.7, econ. 9.33.
  • Nathan McAndrew vs Mitch Owen in T20s: 10 balls, 26 runs, no dismissal.
  • Nathan McAndrew vs Ben McDermott in T20s: 41 balls, 62 runs, two dismissals.
  • Daniel Sams vs Ben McDermott in T20s: 75 balls, 108 runs, three dismissals.
  • Riley Meredith vs Nic Maddinson in T20s: 11 balls, 22 runs, two dismissals.

BBL 2025/26 3rd Match: HUR vs THU Dream11 Prediction Today

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams. 

Option 1:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Hobart Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for the 3rd Match of BBL 2025/26: HUR vs THU Today
BBL 2025/26 3rd Match: HUR vs THU Dream11 Prediction Today

Option 2:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Hobart Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for the 3rd Match of BBL 2025/26: HUR vs THU Today
BBL 2025/26 3rd Match: HUR vs THU Dream11 Prediction Today

BBL 2025/26 3rd Match: HUR vs THU Match Prediction – Who will win?

Hurricanes to win.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes for Dream11 free contests in line with the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The stats and writer’s views are in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

All statistics and matchups in this article have been verified by ESPNcricinfo, Bigbashboard and Cricmetric.

England fans question why Shoaib Bashir has been left out in the Ashes

Charbel Coorey
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0
England fans question why Shoaib Bashir has been left out in the Ashes

England have not picked Shoaib Bashir for the third straight Test in this Ashes, instead opting for Will Jacks as the spin option at the Adelaide Oval.

It is certainly a strange turn of events given Bashir has been earmarked by the current regime as a spinner who could perform in Australia. England have stuck solid with him amid calls that he isn’t quite ready for Test cricket. The justification was that a tall spinner could perform well down under.

This is all despite a lack of First Class experience before the callup to Test cricket. Bashir had played just six County matches before his selection for the 2024 tour of India. Ben Stokes had noticed the offspinner in a social media clip, but the fact he wasn’t even first choice for Somerset in County Cricket this past season is a blight on the England thinktank.

“I know it’s an odd story to look at. But if he keeps putting in performances like he has done this week, hopefully one day it will properly make sense to everyone why we pick him,” Stokes said after Bashir won man of the match against Zimbabwe in May.

“What was the point of playing Shoaib Bashir for two years?” England fans question selection tactics

Bashir has struggled so far in Australia, taking 1/68 (12 overs) and 1/83 (12 overs) in the England vs England Lions match before the Perth Test. He then followed up with 0/115 off 25 overs for the England Lions against Australia A in Brisbane earlier this month.

However, Adelaide Oval is touted as the ground that should suit the spinners the most in this series. Temperatures are set to reach up to 39 degrees on day two which will bake the surface and bring the spinners into the game as the match wears on. This, in theory, is the game Bashir could have had an impact in.

“What was the point in giving Shoaib Bashir 19 too many Test caps in preparation for the Ashes and then not playing him?,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).

“Two years of passionate persistence in Bashir when anyone who dared question his place in the team was tersly dismissed, because he was going to be ideally suited to this exact test match, and we don’t select him. You’ve chewed up a young cricketer and spat him out,” wrote another.

Will Jacks has a huge role to play in England’s must-win Ashes Test. Not only is he required to bear the load of a frontline spinner, but he will also be called upon to perform with the bat at number eight.

The third Ashes Test begins on Wednesday December 17. A draw or Australian win will mean the Ashes are gone yet again for England.

Australia possible XI for 3rd Ashes Test at Adelaide

Charbel Coorey
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0
Australia possible XI for 3rd Ashes Test at Adelaide

Usman Khawaja remains a chance of returning to Australia’s XI for the third Ashes Test at Adelaide Oval. Khawaja has overcome the back spasms that limited his participation at Perth and ruled him out of the subsequent Brisbane Test.

Australia possible XI for the 3rd Ashes Test against England at Adelaide Oval: 1. Jake Weatherald, 2. Usman Khawaja, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Steve Smith, 5. Travis Head, 6. Cameron Green, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Pat Cummins (c), 9. Mitchell Starc, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Scott Boland

Michael Hussey believes selectors should play Khawaja as they started the series with him.

“If you think about it, before the Ashes series started Khawaja was at the top of the order. Would that one innings change the whole mindset of the selectors? From him being locked in as the opener for the Ashes series, to one innings later suddenly he’s just out of the team. In my mind, no,” Hussey said, as quoted by CODE Sports.

Last week, coach Andrew McDonald didn’t rule out the possibility of the 38-year-old batting in the middle order. However, Khawaja at opener allows Travis Head to bat at five, a position where he has smashed 497 Test runs at an average of 99.4 and strike rate of 86.1 at the Adelaide Oval.

According to Sydney Morning Herald, Khawaja was the second-last Australian player in the nets on Monday. He, along with Jake Weatherald and Travis Head, trained against the new ball.

CODE Sports journalist Daniel Cherney shared a photo of Josh Inglis fielding in the slips in Monday’s training session. Steve Smith skipped training as he was unwell, but is expected to train on match eve.

Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon to return

Nathan Lyon, who was left out of the XI at the Gabba, will come back into the team. A good batting surface is expected at Adelaide, with very hot conditions during the Test likely to bring spin into the game as the match wears on. The offspinner has taken 63 wickets on his favourite ground at an average of 25.37.

Pat Cummins will also return after missing the first two Tests. Cummins has trained strongly since suffering a lumbar stress injury in the West Indies earlier this year.

Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser – unluckily – are set to miss out. Neser took a fantastic five-wicket haul in the second innings at the Gabba. The only chance he plays at Adelaide is if Australia choose to rest Scott Boland and keep him fresh for the MCG. However, that seems unlikely.

A win or draw in the third Test will confirm Australia’s retention of the coveted Ashes urn for the fourth straight time after winning them back in 2017/18.

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