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.
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).
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:
BBL 2025/26 3rd Match: HUR vs THU Dream11 Prediction Today
Option 2:
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 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.
What was the point in giving Shoaib Bashir 19 too many Test caps in preparation for the #Ashes and then not playing him?
— James Buttler | Cricket Badger Podcast 🏏🦡🇺🇦 (@cricket_badger) December 15, 2025
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.
Key, McCullum, Stokes handling of Bashir is awful. Over the past year (excl. Zim), Bashir played 12 tests, taking 33 wkts at 51. But the England brains trust knew better than those figures and his county. And now they've turned away from him and he's just 22 yrs old. https://t.co/bh99UMCAWQ
So no Bashir in Adelaide unlike what people seemed to tell me when he wasn’t picked for Brisbane, further proving it’s an experiment that’s failed and a massive waste of 2 years https://t.co/I5TfFRWAMF
Bringing Bashir on this tour has to be one of the worst England selection decisions I've ever seen. Perfect time to play a front line spinner and they still overlook him. Total waste of a spot. https://t.co/8x2uzfmHQ7
Shoaib Bashir now in such a strange position, no matter that he’s only 22.
If he loses his England place for good, he’ll struggle to be a regular in the County Championship – for most the season, counties aren’t keen on picking spinners who don’t contribute with the bat
I don’t understand the logic in not playing Shoaib Bashir on a strip that is likely to take spin … when the last year / 18 months has all been geared to him playing Ashes Cricket ?? .. a big mistake in my opinion..which could cost us dearly !!! https://t.co/rljyx2oqnf
More importantly I'm just so glad we've spent the last few years gearing Shoaib Bashir up for an Ashes tour to take him over there and still not play a second. Exceptional management. https://t.co/OnvQ7WCATw
Playing Bashir for nearly 3 years with a view that he would be the spinner for Australia and then not picking him for the first 3 tests is absolutely mental https://t.co/Wg4zf2B9wg
Lol what's the point if they ain't picking Shoaib Bashir in Adelaide! Apparently they were preparing him for this Ashes since last 2 yrs 😂 https://t.co/g60hDnf18S
Bashir has gone from being Eng's number 1 spinner to being left out of 1st 3 #Ashes Tests. Remains without county contract too. Don't remember Eng player having such an uncertain future, not just in international cricket but in professional cricket #Cricket
Im not a big Shoaib Bashir fan BUT England have picked him for 2 years… on the back of ZERO stats… he doesn't even play County🏏all to NOT play him in the Ashes🙄It's crazy, I feel sorry for him…🤔 #Ashes#Ashes2025
For clarity, I don't think Bashir should play. He's not good enough at this level. But that has been abundantly clear for quite some time to everyone bar the England management.
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.
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.
Usman Khawaja, Josh Inglis and Beau Webster all start Australian training in the cordon. pic.twitter.com/bwgcjSiw7x
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.
After Perth began the BBL 2025/26 season with a victory, the action moves to Geelong for the 2nd match between Melbourne Renegades and Brisbane Heat.
Both teams will be looking for improved seasons after missing the playoffs in 2024/25. The Renegades, perennial underachievers since winning the title in 2020, have a host of talented players. However, the big question is whether they can bring it all together and produce consistent performances on the field.
The spotlight is on Jake Fraser-McGurk and whether he can deliver regularly. Josh Brown, Tim Seifert and Muhammad Rizwan forms the batting core with a deep batting lineup. Also, the Renegades possess plenty of experience with AJ Tye and Jason Behrendhorff now in their ranks.
The Heat are aiming for a positive start but face a tough test. They have a host of unavailable players due to injury and Ashes duty. But, they still have experience with the likes of Colin Munro, Nathan McSweeney, Matt Renshaw, Xavier Bartlett and Shaheen Shah Afridi needing to play central roles in the Heat’s quest for victory today.
BBL 2025/26 2nd Match: REN vs HEA Possible Playing XIs
Adam Zampa is unavailable for personal reasons. Fergus O’Neill, Andrew Tye and Jason Behrendhorff will likely be the three frontline seamers with Tom Rogers also unavailable due to a shoulder injury.
Melbourne Renegades: 1. Jake Fraser-McGurk, 2. Josh Brown, 3. Tim Seifert (OS), 4. Muhammad Rizwan (OS, wk), 5. Caleb Jewell/Ollie Peake, 6. Hassan Khan (OS), 7. Will Sutherland (c), 8. Fergus O’Neill, 9. Andrew Tye, 10. Matthew Spoors, 11. Jason Behrendhorff
Brisbane Heat are scrambling to field a XI even for the first game of the season. Matt Kuhnemann (side strain), Callum Vidler (back injury) and Tom Alsop (knee) are all out. Spencer Johnson (back) is out for the whole season. Michael Neser, Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne are on Ashes duty.
Left-arm pace bowler Liam Haskett and left-arm spinner Paddy Dooley have been brought in as replacement players.
Brisbane Heat: 1. Colin Munro (OS), 2. Nathan McSweeney (c), 3. Matt Renshaw, 4. Max Bryant, 5. Lachlan Hearne/Hugh Weibgen, 6. Jimmy Pierson (wk), 7. Jack Wildermuth, 8. Xavier Bartlett, 9. Shaheen Shah Afridi (OS), 10. Paddy Dooley, 11. Liam Haskett/Oli Patterson
GMHBA Stadium Geelong Pitch Report and Weather
Pace bowlers have fared well in T20s at Geelong, taking 97 wickets at an average of 19.66 and economy of 7.53. Spinners have taken 33 wickets at an average of 32.45 and economy of 7.07.
Since the start of 2020, chasing teams have won seven of 13 T20s on this ground. The average first innings score is 141.62.
A cool and cloudy night is forecast with temperatures around 15 degrees. No rain is forecast according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for REN vs HEA 2025/26: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Muhammad Rizwan is a vital player for the Renegades and should bat in the top four. He is enjoying a strong year in T20 cricket with 594 runs at an average of 54.00 and strike rate of 134.7.
Tim Seifert has plenty of T20 cricket under his belt this year, with 1,483 runs at an average of 32.2 and strike rate of 146.3.
Key batter picks:
Jake Fraser-McGurk smashed 95 off 46 balls against the Heat last season. He has an outstanding record against Xavier Bartlett with an incredible 30 runs off eight balls.
Matt Renshaw is also enjoying a strong season with runs in all formats. In nine matches for the Heat against Renegades, Renshaw has struck 243 runs at an average of 34.71 and strike rate of 135.75.
Top all-rounder picks:
Nathan McSweeney comes into this match in good form. The Heat captain has scores of 49 (List A), 68 (FC), 63 (tour match) and 226* (FC) in his last four matches.
Will Sutherland is key for the Renegades. He strikes every 16.83 balls in T20s at Adelaide. However, he will be looking to improve his poor numbers against the Heat, against whom he has just three wickets at an average of 73.33 and economy of 10.56.
Key bowler picks:
Since the start of 2024, Jake Fraser-McGurk has been dismissed 19 times by left-arm seam in T20s at an average of 17.6. This represents a great opportunity for Shaheen Shah Afridi in the powerplay. The Heat’s key recruit has 49 T20 wickets this year at an average of 20.2 and strike rate of 15.9.
Xavier Bartlett is also crucial for the Heat. He has nine wickets in seven matches against the Renegades but needs to bring that economy (10.35) down. He has figures of 1/15 off 11 balls against Tim Seifert in T20s.
Jason Behrendhorff has taken 28 wickets in 17 matches against Brisbane Heat at an economy of 6.93. He has a dominant record againt Matt Renshaw, dismissing him three times in 19 balls (18 runs).
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Jack Wildermuth can offer value with bat and ball. He is picked by just 17.38% of Dream11 players in this game, so he can be a good differential pick as he bowls a few overs and can strike a big ball down the order.
AJ Tye has 29 wickets in 17 matches against Brisbane Heat. He bowls in the death overs which can bring wickets.
Fergus O’Neill can generate movement on a pitch that has suited seam bowlers in the past.
Other Stats and Important Matchups
Head-to-head: Matches 22, Renegades 14, Heat 8.
Xavier Bartlett vs Caleb Jewell in T20s: 13 balls, 23 runs, no dismissal.
Jason Behrendhorff vs Colin Munro in T20s: 12 balls, seven runs, one wicket.
Will Sutherland vs Matt Renshaw in T20s: 28 balls, 56 runs, no dismissal.
AJ Tye vs Jimmy Peirson in T20s: 30 balls, 44 runs, one wicket.
BBL 2025/26 2nd Match: REN vs HEA 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:
BBL 2025/26 2nd Match: REN vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today
Option 2:
BBL 2025/26 2nd Match: REN vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today
BBL 2025/26 2nd Match: REN vs HEA Match Prediction: Who will win?
Backing Melbourne Renegades to win against a Brisbane Heat side missing too much experience.
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.
South Africa came roaring back into the T20I series, inflicting their own thumping over India after they copped a heavy defeat in the opening match.
Quinton de Kock led the way superbly, laying the platform for a strong total. Donovan Ferreira, who was particularly outstanding against Jasprit Bumrah, combined with David Miller to ensure the Proteas reached the 200+ score they were on course for.
For India, the defeat is a rare one. It is just their fifth loss in the last 32 completed matches, but the manner of the performance worried fans. The form of Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav, plus the tactical blunder of batting Axar at three, are key areas India need to sort out ahead of the T20 World Cup.
South Africa could bring Tristan Stubbs back in the XI.
South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Aiden Markram (c), 3. Tristan Stubbs/Reeza Hendricks, 4. Dewald Brevis, 5. David Miller, 6. Donovan Ferreira, 7. Marco Jansen, 8. George Linde/Keshav Maharaj, 9. Lungi Ngidi/Corbin Borsch, 10. Ottneil Baartman, 11. Anrich Nortje/Lutho Sipamla
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium Dharamsala Pitch Report and Weather
Chasing teams have won four of the five night T20Is at Dharamsala, which is often a fine batting ground. Punjab Kings (236/5) beat Lucknow Super Giants (199/7) with ease in IPL 2025. In 2024, Delhi Capitals hit 213/2 and Royal Challengers Bengaluru thumped 241/7 on this ground.
Since the start of 2024, pace bowlers have taken 33 wickets in all T20s at an average of 27.06 and economy of 10.02. Spinners have picked up 14 wickets at an average of 26.14 and economy of 9.89.
A cold night is forecast with temperatures to drop below 10 degrees. There is the possibility of dew, although mostly cloudy conditions are expected.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for IND vs SA 3rd T20 2025: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Quinton de Kock showed what he is capable of after getting through his troublesome Arshdeep Singh matchup. The keeper-batter has scored 441 runs in 12 innings against India in T20Is (avg. 44.10, SR 146.51).
Key batter picks:
Is this the day Abhishek Sharma goes big? He has scores of 17 (8) and 17 (12) this series. Getting through the powerplay can mean a huge score for Abhishek as he still strikes at 208.9 from overs 7-20 in all T20s this year.
If India bat Tilak Varma in the top four, he can cause serious damage. Tilak has three 50+ scores in eight innings against the Proteas, including two centuries. He was India’s standout batter in the second T20I (62 off 34 balls).
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 (431) and is striking at 181.9 against spin in all T20s in 2025.
Top all-rounder picks:
Hardik Pandya didn’t reach the heights of the first T20I but he remains a top fantasy pick. The all-rounder has 310 runs (avg. 38.75, SR 128.63) and 12 wickets (avg. 34.91, SR 24) against South Africa.
Marco Jansen is having a tour to remember. He will be key again against Abhishek Sharma as the India opener has been dismissed seven times by left-arm seam in T20s this year.
Axar Patel should enjoy bowling to South Africa’s right-handers. There is also the chance he bats up the order again which means opportunity in fantasy cricket.
Top bowler picks:
Can Arshdeep Singh bounce back after poor outing in the second T20I? He has the most wickets in SA-IND T20Is (20) and most wickets on this ground (7). Jasprit Bumrah also rarely has two bad games in a row.
Varun Chakravarthy continues to produce the goods. He has now bagged 16 wickets in just six T20Is against South Africa, striking every 8.62 deliveries. This includes Aiden Markram three times in 25 balls in T20Is (37 runs).
Lungi Ngidi has dismissed Shubman Gill twice in this series. The seamer has five wickets in the two matches and is bowling nicely in the crunch overs.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Ottneil Baartman was outstanding in the second T20 (4/24). He is striking every 15.1 deliveries in all T20s this year.
Aiden Markram is a classy player but struggles as captain in white-ball internationals. He averages 21.75 in 33 innings as captain compared to 38.21 in 27 innings when not skipper in T20Is.
Suryakumar Yadav is having a horror year in T20Is, averaging just 14.35. He has the class, experience and record against South Africa (389 runs, avg. 35.36, SR 160.74) to bounce back. Will this be his day?
Shubman Gill is also in poor form in T20Is. Will the law of averages work in his favour? He is yet to score a half-century in this format in 2025.
Donovan Ferreira can be worth a pick as a differential player given his ability to finish the innings well. He smashed 17 off six balls against Jasprit Bumrah in the second T20I, which included two sixes.
Other Stats and Important Matchups
Head-to-head: 33 matches, India 19, South Africa 13, N/R 1.
Quinton de Kock has five 50+ scores in 12 T20I innings against India.
David Miller has the most runs in IND-SA T20Is: 545 runs, avg. 34.06, SR 146.90.
Varun Chakravarthy vs Quinton de Kock in all T20s: 38 balls, 48 runs, two wickets.
Arshdeep Singh vs Quinton de Kock in all T20s: 55 balls, 65 runs, five wickets.
Marco Jansen vs Hardik Pandya in all T20s: 31 balls, 52 runs, one wicket.
IND vs SA 3rd 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:
IND vs SA 3rd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today
Option 2:
IND vs SA 3rd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today
IND vs SA 3rd T20 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?
India start as favourites but need to get their act together. That being said, I’m backing India to bounce back at home and 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 and Cricmetric.
The 2025/26 season of the Big Bash League (BBL) kicks off with a blockbuster. Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers, two of the most successful teams in BBL history with eight titles between them, both look strong again in the quest for another successful campaign.
The Scorchers endured an uncharacteristically inconsistent season in BBL 2024/25, finishing fifth with just four wins. They have the players to make amends in this campaign, with a powerful top order backed by strong finishers. However, they lose plenty of experience in the bowling department with the likes of AJ Tye and Jason Behrendhorff no longer available, so how they cope will make for interesting viewing.
For the Sydney Sixers, Babar Azam has been making most of the headlines. The star batter will be looking to make a big impact and lead the Sixers to a fourth BBL title. He joins a very settled squad with a long batting lineup and multiple bowling options. But, the Sixers have multiple experienced players unavailable for this match.
BBL 2025/26 1st Match: SCO vs SIX Possible Playing XIs
Finn Allen returned to cricket recently after suffering a foot injury in the 2025 Major League Cricket tournament. He could keep wickets in this match.
Jhye Richardson (Ashes duty), Josh Inglis (Ashes duty) and Lance Morris (injured) are unavailable for this match.
Perth Scorchers: 1. Mitch Marsh, 2. Finn Allen (wk, OS), 3. Aaron Hardie, 4. Cooper Connolly, 5. Ashton Turner (c), 6. Laurie Evans (OS), 7. Nick Hobson, 8. Ashton Agar, 9. Brody Couch, 10. Joel Paris, 11. Mahli Beardman
Jafer Chohan is not available due to illness. Harjas Singh, who smashed 314 off 141 balls in Sydney Grade Cricket earlier this season, joins the squad as a local replacement player.
Singh could play as Jordan Silk is not in the Sixers 14-man squad. Sean Abbott, Kane Richardson and Sam Curran (UAE ILT20) are also not in the squad for this match.
Sydney Sixers: 1. Josh Philippe (wk), 2. Babar Azam (OS), 3. Jack Edwards, 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Daniel Hughes/Harjas Singh, 6. Lachlan Shaw/Joel Davies, 7. Ben Dwarhuis, 8. Hayden Kerr, 9. Charlie Stobo, 10. Todd Murphy, 11. Mitch Perry
Bowlers often have joy at Perth Stadium. In five BBL matches last year, the average first innings score was 159.2. Chasing teams won three times, scoring slightly faster (8.40) compared to teams batting first (8.03).
Since the start of 2024, fast bowlers have taken 87 wickets in BBL matches on this ground at an average of 23.36 and economy of 8.33. Spinners have had a lesser role on the bouncy pitch, taking 31 wickets but at a respectable average (25.23) and economy (7.89).
A very hot afternoon is forecast in Perth with temperatures reaching 40 degrees. There is a chance of afternoon showers which could prompt the captain who wins the toss to chase. The game starts at 4:15pm local time.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for SCO vs SIX: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Josh Philippe is one of the Sixers’ key players. He has 394 runs at 30.31 with a strike rate of 139.22 against the Scorchers. However, he does have a poor record on this ground with just 72 runs in six matches.
Finn Allen has had an up and down time in the BBL, averaging just 18.10 in ten matches. But, he is worth a pick in some of your Dream11 teams as the Sixers are missing plenty of experience in their squad.
Top batter picks:
Mitch Marsh is picked in 91.75% of Dream11 teams and with good reason. Marsh is having a year to remember, smashing 1,081 runs in all T20s at an average of 41.6 and strike rate of 161.1.
Ashton Turner can be an excellent differential pick as he is currently selected by 34.26% of Dream11 players. The Scorchers captain has the most runs in SCO-SIX matchups with 610 at an average of 35.88 and strike rate of 158.03.
Babar Azam is a star but how quickly can he adjust to the bouncy pitch in Perth? This is the big question for a player who averages 35.3 with a strike rate of 122.3 in all T20s this year.
Key all-rounder picks:
Since the start of 2023, Aaron Hardie has scored 779 BBL runs at an average of 35.4 and strike rate of 129.4. He should bat in the top three and can contribute overs.
Cooper Connolly should bat in the top five and can contribute overs with his left-arm spin. He also fields in the hotspot positions. The all-rounder has scored 70 runs in two innings against the Sixers at a strike rate of 170.73.
Moises Henriques will be the key cog in the Sixers middle order with experience missing. The Sixers skipper has the second-most runs in SCO-SIX matches (545) at an average of 27.25 and strike rate of 129.45.
Top bowler picks:
Ben Dwarshuis boasts the most experience among bowlers in this game. He has 18 wickets in 19 games against the Scorchers and also strikes at 189.33 with the bat.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Jack Edwards could bat in the top order and is also a key bowler. He is tall in stature and can generate good bounce off the Perth surface. However, keep in mind that Edwards averages just 13.83 with the bat in six innings against the Scorchers.
Mahli Beardman has taken multiple wickets in each game in the Australian One Day Cup. He is sharp and can surprise the Sixers with his pace.
Hayden Kerr has dismissed Aaron Hardie twice in 24 balls in the BBL (30 runs). Kerr can also contribute runs down the order.
Laurie Evans has an outstanding record on this ground, smashing 240 runs in six innings at an average of 60.00 and strike rate of 179.10.
Scorchers lead the Sixers 4-2 in six meetings at Perth Stadium.
Finn Allen in T20s at Perth Stadium: 5 inns, 103 runs, avg. 20.60, SR 180.70.
Aaron Hardie vs Sydney Sixers: 10 inns, 223 runs, avg. 24.78, SR 144.81.
Ashton Agar vs Sydney Sixers: 15 inns, 8 wickets, avg. 52.25, econ. 7.60.
Joel Paris vs Josh Philippe in T20s: 36 balls, 42 runs, one wicket.
Ben Dwarshuis vs Mitch Marsh in T20s: 15 balls, 19 runs, one wicket.
Ben Dwarshuis vs Ashton Turner in T20s: 56 balls, 90 runs, three wickets.
BBL 2025/26 1st Match: SCO vs SIX 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:
BBL 2025/26 1st Match: SCO vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today
Option 2:
BBL 2025/26 1st Match: SCO vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today
BBL 2025/26 1st Match: SCO vs SIX Match Prediction – Who will win?
An even contest is on the cards between two teams missing a host of experienced players. At home, I’ll back Perth Scorchers 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.
South Africa have come roaring back in the T20I series against India, exacting revenge with a thumping 51-run win at New Chandigarh.
Quinton de Kock set up the Proteas’ huge score of 213/4, smashing a 46-ball 90 that put India on the backfoot. Donovan Ferreira (30* off 16 balls) and David Miller (20* off 12 balls) ensured South Africa crossed 210 as India were uncharacteristically loose with the ball.
In reply, India were never in the contest despite Tilak Varma’s fighting 34-ball 62. Fans and pundits have again questioned Gautam Gambhir and the Indian team management with regards to their top three as Shubman Gill and Axar Patel didn’t have an impact.
Gill, who is without a T20I fifty in 14 matches this year, was out to a fine delivery first ball to Lungi Ngidi. With the likes of Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal capable openers in T20 cricket, pressure is growing on Gill to deliver in this format.
However, the decision that had Indian fans most concerned was batting Axar Patel at three. Axar, typically a number five or six, was sent ahead of Tilak, Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya in a chase of 214. The left-hander struggled for rhythm, batting 21 balls for 21 runs as wickets fell around him.
IND vs SA 2nd T20 Reactions: Fans, pundits question decision making in India’s T20 team
India boast a terrific 27-5 record in T20Is since winning the 2024 World Cup. Fans believe the constant tinkering and experimentation with batting orders is unneccessary given the talent available. Also, India never gave themselves a chance of chasing 210+ for the first time in T20Is.
“Trying to wrap my head around the move to promote Axar at 3 yesterday. One could understand if india were 25/3 and you wanted to stem the collapse. But at 3 while chasing 214? It also didn’t align with the left-right strategy,” wrote Aakash Chopra on X (formerly Twitter).
“How long a rope for Gill? Remember, you are keeping someone like Samson out of the XI,” wrote former India and Karnataka cricketer Dodda Ganesh.
Here are some of the reactions.
Trying to wrap my head around the move to promote Axar at 3 yesterday. One could understand if india were 25/3 and you wanted to stem the collapse. But at 3 while chasing 214? It also didn’t align with the left-right strategy. It didn’t play to his strengths to hit spinners…
In the last match Axar batted above Pandya and today he batted over Captain Surya…Tikal Varma…and Pandya… can anyone explain this because I sometimes feel Gauti is even more confused than Greg Chappell
Till only a few months back India had a perfect batting template in T20s; and then they tried to probably fix something that wasn’t broken. Axar Patel being sent in tonight at No.3 is an admission of the lack of confidence in this batting#IndvsSA
Shubman Gill’s T20i form is a big worry ahead of the T20 World Cup. Hopefully he finds his touch soon, otherwise it could turn into a real catch-22 situation for Team India.
This Indian batting unit is suddenly looking off form. It has all the ingredients but entry points of players need to be spot on. Gill and SKY are not among runs. Tilak vs spin, Axar vs pace. Dube's batting numbers have also taken a hit. Hopefully, they'll peak at the right time
Downside of flexible batting order – there needs to be enough game time for a player at a particular position. On days like these when 214 is needed you'd expect Top 4 to fire. Axar at 3 is an experiment but in a tough situation you'd love to see someone you see batting at 3 in…
– Asia Cup, failed. – Australia series, failed – Vs South Africa: first game 4 – Vs Souta Africa second game 0. – 20 straight innings without even a fifty. – So on what logic is Shubman Gill getting this endless backing? – Why overload him when he clearly isn’t ready for T20Is… pic.twitter.com/zGejMItc53
Dear @GautamGambhir, if Shubman Gill isn’t able to deliver, then give Sanju the chance. Why does one player get 20 chances and others only 1 or 2? Why this unfairness?
Cannot watch such a destruction of my beautiful T20 team. We were bullying opponents not long ago with 240 scores and more regularly. Wtf is this? GG is hell bent on picking Gill and SKY has forgotten how to score. Plus more experiements and no stability. God save this team.…
13(17) for Axar came in the powerplay that too when you're chasing 213… Finished on 21(21)… Not his role so can't blame him… In the name of flexibility, this team does a circus
Another concern for India is Suryakumar Yadav. The captain has struck just 201 runs in T20Is this year at an average of 14.35 and strike rate of 126.41.
These next three T20Is against South Africa will be vital in regaining some form. Continuity in the batting lineup could prove key.
The third T20I will be played at Dharamsala on Sunday December 14.
The brand value of the Indian Premier League (IPL) dropped from $12 billion in 2024 to $9.6 billion in 2025. According to reports from D&P Advisory and Brand Finance, there are several reasons for this 20% decline, which is just the second time the IPL’s value has gone backwards after the COVID-affected year of 2020.
Key reasons why the IPL brand value dropped to $9.6 billion
1. IPL 2025 was halted due to India-Pakistan tensions
The 2025 season had to be paused midway during the India-Pakistan tensions. In May, the match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals at Dharamshala was abandoned due to a blackout in the area. PTIreported this was caused by air raid alerts in nearby areas. The tournament was halted before restarting a week later.
2. Nine out of the ten franchises drop in value
With the uncertainty came a drop in franchise values, according to reports. Only Gujarat Titans had an increase in brand value year-on-year, growing 2% to $70 million. Among the heaviest falls were Kolkata Knight Riders (33%) and Chennai Super Kings (24%), while Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru fell by approximately 10%.
3. Ban on real money applications such as Dream11
According to FirstPost, the ban on real money gaming has also had an impact. In August, the Indian Government passed the Online Gaming Bill which bans money-based games due to the high risk of financial harm.
Fantasy cricket platforms like Dream11 play a key role in fan engagement. Those against the ban argued reform was a better way forward. Also, Dream11 was also a major sponsor of the IPL.
The bill was passed in August – post the IPL 2025 season – so it remains to be seen how this impacts the 2026 edition. However, Dream11 still offers numerous free contests.
4. Other reasons
Fans took to social media to share their view on why the IPL brand value declined from 2024 to 2025. Some believe there are fewer competitors in the media space after Jio and Star merged. This, in turn, can impact the value of media rights.
Another reason is global economic uncertainty. With tigher budgets comes reduced advertising spend, impacting the league’s revenue.
Also, numerous players retiring is believed to have an impact. The likes of Lasith Malinga, Keiron Pollard and Dwayne Bravo have been household names. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni (who is involved a lot less in recent seasons) are also close to retirement.
The recent 20% drop in the IPL’s ecosystem value (from $12B to $9.6B) is a necessary market correction driven by several structural factors —
1. Media Rights Market Correction: Valuations normalize when hyper-aggressive bidding ends. Broadcasters are prioritizing profit… https://t.co/Iy5OGU3IHw
Former Australia captain Tim Paine has warned against writing England off in the ongoing Ashes series.
Ben Stokes’ team are 2-0 down in what has been a bitterly disappointing start to their campaign. However, Paine believes conditions in Adelaide should suit their style.
England can get back in the Ashes series at Adelaide – Tim Paine
Speaking to reporters at Adelaide Oval on Thursday [December 11], Paine said Australia have played the percentages better, but expects a great third Test.
“England, at times, are probably giving them [Australia] opportunities they shouldn’t,” said Paine, as quoted by cricket.com.au.
“It’s like Australia are just playing the percentages really well and England are making the same mistakes.
“Having said that, I think if England get it right, they’re going to be really dangerous.
“If there’s any wicket and ground in the country that suits them more than this, I don’t think there is one – so there will be a fascinating Test match.”
England’s batting has been particularly disappointing in this Ashes series. They have largely failed to adjust to conditions, continuously playing with fire by driving on the up and regularly taking on the short ball in particular.
However, Paine said he enjoys their brand of cricket and expects the visitors to stick with their style.
“I don’t mind ripping into them, like most Australians, but I enjoy watching them play,” he said.
“It hasn’t worked out for them yet in Australia… but I really enjoy what they’re trying to do, the mindset around it, and freeing players up to play their best.
“There is a lot of talented players playing first-class cricket and Test cricket who can’t get into that sweet spot so I like where they’re heading with it.”
England face must-win Test at Adelaide to keep Ashes hopes alive
England must win the third Test to keep their slim hopes of a stunning Ashes victory alive. Not since 1936/37 has a team come back from 2-0 down to win an Ashes series. Also, England have not won a Test in Australia since 2010/11, spanning 17 matches.
“We are 2-0 down but there’s three games left. If we lose hope over the next couple of weeks… even from next week, then we might as well not turn up,” Stokes said after the Gabba defeat.
“I haven’t lost hope, that dressing room hasn’t lost hope.”
To make matters more difficult for England, Pat Cummins is set to return to the Australian XI. The Adelaide Test begins on Wednesday, December 17.
