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Mitchell Starc’s record in pink ball day/night Tests

Charbel Coorey
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Mitchell Starc’s record in pink ball day/night Tests

Mitchell Starc is the undisputed king of pink ball Tests. In 14 day/night matches, the left-armer has taken an incredible 81 wickets at an average of 17.08 and strike rate of 33.4.

Earlier in 2025, Starc dismantled the West Indies, taking a scarcely believable 6/9 as the hosts were rolled for 27. He took three wickets in the first over with a Dukes pink ball on a Jamaica surface that did plenty.

“I don’t think we will ever see a pink Dukes ball again,’’ Starc told CODE Sports.

“I don’t think that will ever see the light of day. It was doing plenty during the day and then we had to bowl at night. I think the (Dukes) pink ball I have on the mantelpiece at home might be the last one you will see.

“It did a lot. It was certainly skewed in the bowlers favour.’’

Mitchell Starc stats in pink ball Tests

Matches14
Wickets81
Average17.08
Strike Rate33.4
Best bowling figures6/9

81 of Starc’s 412 Test wickets have come in day/night matches. He took 3/24 in the first ever pink ball Test between Australia and New Zealand at Adelaide Oval in 2015. A year later, he picked up a six wickets against South Africa.

Starc hasn’t slowed down. Last year, Starc led the way against India after Australia went 1-0 down in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The left-arm seamer took 6/48 in the first innings to help bowl India out for 180.

Starc’s 81 wickets are nearly double the amount of the next-highest. Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon both have 43 wickets in day/night Tests.

Despite his success, Starc still prefers traditional Test cricket with the red ball.

“My stance has probably softened a bit on it. I still love the red-ball cricket. I did think the Adelaide pink-ball Test was a great event with everything that went with it,” Starc said.

“It will change slightly with the pink ball in Brisbane.’’

BAN vs IRE 3rd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
BAN vs IRE 3rd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

The T20I series between Bangladesh and Ireland has its decider, and it promises to be a fascinating encounter given how this series has transpired so far.

After thrashing Bangladesh in the opening T20I, Ireland came close to sealing the series two days later, but ultimately fell short in the key moments. They couldn’t quite capitalise on a very fast start in the powerplay, and a few crucial misses in the field (despite some outstanding efforts) meant Bangladesh prevailed in the final over.

The Tigers are aiming for a more clinical performance. They bounced back well after a tough powerplay, but they made things trickier than they should have been in the backend of their chase. They lost unnecessary wickets, so calm is the order of the day with the series on the line.

BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 Possible Playing XIs

This encounter kicks off at 2:00pm local time, so dew won’t be a factor. Both teams will look to their spinners to produce the goods.

Curtis Campher could return in this game after he missed the second T20I with muscle stiffness.

Bangladesh: 1. Parvez Hossain Emon, 2. Tanzid Hasan, 3. Litton Das (c & wk), 4. Saif Hassan, 5. Towhid Hridoy, 6. Nurul Hasan/Jaker Ali, 7. Mohammad Saifuddin, 8. Mahedi Hasan, 9. Tanzim Hasan Sakib, 10. Nasum Ahmed/Rishad Hossain, 11. Mustafizur Rahman

Ireland: 1. Paul Stirling (c), 2. Tim Tector, 3. Harry Tector, 4. Lorcan Tucker (wk), 5. Ben Calitz/Curtis Campher, 6. George Dockrell, 7. Gareth Delany, 8. Mark Adair, 9. Barry McCarthy, 10. Matthew Humphreys, 11. Josh Little

Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, Chattogram Pitch Report and Weather

Given this is an afternoon match, batting first can be a good tactic. Teams batting first have won three of the past five T20Is on this ground. Also, teams setting a score won seven of 12 matches in BPL 2025.

In this series, spinners have taken 10 wickets at an average of 23.7 and economy of 7.65. Pacers have picked up 12 wickets at a higher average (34.08) and economy (8.45).

A cloudy day is forecast but there is no chance of rain according to AccuWeather.

BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 Fantasy Cricket Tips: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Litton Das won man of the match in the second T20I. He is the top run-scorer in BAN-IRE T20Is (193) at an average of 38.60 and strike rate of 178.70.

Key batter picks:

  • Paul Stirling is striking at 156.25 in this series. He has made scores of 29 and 21, and has looked good for more runs. The opener has a strong record against Nasum Ahmed (see below).
  • Harry Tector was unlucky in the second T20I as he copped a delivery that stayed low. Ireland’s number three played superbly in the first match (69*).
  • Towhid Hridoy fares a lot better when chasing. Since the start of 2024, Hridoy averages just 19.6 when batting first in all T20s compared to 37.9 batting second.

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Mahedi Hasan has the ability to take the ball away from the right-handers. The offspinner was excellent in the second T20I (3/25). He can also contribute with lower order runs.
  • Mark Adair has the most wickets in BAN-IRE T20Is (9). He takes a wicket every 12.88 deliveries on average.

Key bowler picks:

  • Matt Humphreys is a must-pick especially in an afternoon match. He is also a threat against the left-handers as he can curve the ball away. The left-arm spinner missed out in the second T20I (0/38) but was player of the match in the first (4/13).
  • Tanzim Hasan Sakib has been Bangladesh’s most impressive pacer in this series. He has dismissed Paul Stirling twice in the powerplay.

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Tanzid Hasan has missed out twice in this series. Is this his day? The left-hander is Bangladesh’s top run-scorer in T20Is this year (720) at an average of 30 and strike rate of 134.07.
  • Tom Tector opens the batting and has shown plenty of promise, striking at 159.09 in this series.
  • Lorcan Tucker bats in the top four and is coming off some runs in the second T20I.
  • Barry McCarthy is conceding just 6.25 per over. Bowling into the pitch can work in this day game. The seamer took 3/23 in the first T20I.
  • Mustafizur Rahman is wicketless this series but can be a difference-maker on his day. He is a differential pick for your fantasy cricket teams.

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • Head-to-head: Matches 10, Bangladesh 6, Ireland 3, N/R 1.
  • Nasum Ahmed vs Paul Stirling in T20Is: 24 balls, 46 runs, no dismissals.
  • Tanzim Hasan Sakib vs Paul Stirling in this series: 6 balls, 0 runs, 2 wickets.
  • Mark Adair has dismissed Litton Das twice in this series.

BAN vs IRE 1st 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, Chattogram Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for BAN vs IRE 3rd T20 2025 today.
BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today
Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Chattogram Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for BAN vs IRE 3rd T20 2025 today.
BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?

A tough match to predict. In home conditions, I’ll back Bangladesh to win in a close encounter.

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.

Gabba Brisbane weather forecast for 2nd Ashes Test

Charbel Coorey
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0
Gabba Brisbane weather forecast for 2nd Ashes Test

The weather is one of the key focus points ahead of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba. A December Test in Brisbane can be a risky proposition, as seen in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy last year where the third match ended in a rain-affected draw.

ALSO READ: Australia’s possible XI for the 2nd Ashes Test

Promising weather forecast at the Gabba for the 2nd Ashes Test

The weather forecast looks promising for days 1-3. This is welcome news given the contest can move along quickly, if Perth is anything to go by.

According to Bureau of Meteorology, no rain is expected on the first three days. Temperatures will hover around 30 degrees.

Gabba weather forecast for 2nd Ashes Test: Days 1-4 (BOM)

AccuWeather paints a similar picture. Warm and humid conditions are forecast for the first three days, with RealFeel temperatures in the mid-30s. This can aid swing, especially under lights where the pink ball often does plenty.

Days four and five could be problematic weather wise should the Test reach that stage. AccuWeather forecasts “humid with more clouds than sun; a heavy thunderstorm in the afternoon” on day four (Sunday), followed by “mostly cloudy with occasional rain and a thunderstorm” on day five (Monday).

However, given there is nearly a week until day four from the time of writing, there is every chance the forecast changes.

Gabba weather forecast for 2nd Ashes Test: Days four and five (AccuWeather).

How the Gabba pitch plays is also a huge point of interest. The surface for the last day/night Test – between Australia and West Indies in 2024 – was a bowler-friendly one, with Shamar Joseph producing one of the all-time performances.

With sunny conditions forecast for the first three days, batting could be best in the afternoon on days two and three. Time will tell as to whether that eventuates.

Australia come into the match with a 1-0 series lead following a manic two days in Perth. Steve Smith will lead the team again after selectors opted to give Pat Cummins more time to recover from the lumbar stress injury he picked up in the West Indies earlier this year.

Sir Geoffrey Boycott Exclusive Interview: Australia was the most important series for us until West Indies arrived

Arvind Kalyana Krishnan
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Sir Geoffrey Boycott Exclusive Interview: Australia was the most important series for us until West Indies arrived

The frenzy around The Ashes 2025/26 has taken the cricketing world by storm. The first of the five-match Test series saw Australia beat England by eight wickets with Mitchell Starc and Travis Head ensuring that the hosts started the marquee series on a positive note.

In the meanwhile, the cricket fraternity in England is utterly unhappy with their team’s performance, as several former players and experts have pointed out the fact that the Ben Stokes-led side had the edge after the first day and yet, ended up losing in a rather shocking manner.

Such hostile criticisms shouldn’t come as a shock as this series means a lot to the fans of England and Australia. After all, it is arguably the greatest series in the history of cricket. Several legends rate it as the pinnacle of Test cricket. Whilst The Ashes has seen some amazing performers since its inception, the name of Sir Geoffrey Boycott stands tall even today.

During an exclusive interview with Arvind Kalyana Krishnan for CricBlog, England legend and cricket great Sir Geoffrey Boycott spoke about how much the Ashes meant to him and the English players during his playing days. He stated that playing against the Aussies was of the utmost importance for the Brits for a very long time. Further on, he also spoke about some of his favourite players.

Interestingly, when asked if he rated Jacques Kallis in the same league as Sachin Tendulkar and Brian Lara, Boycott only included the Indian and Windies batters in his list of icons and not Kallis. While acknowledging Virender Sehwag’s record as a red-ball opener, the former England captain was of the opinion that he was poor in England. Boycott also named Alan Knott as his favourite wicket-keeper and said that he judges keepers based on the chances they miss.

Sir Geoffrey Boycott: Alan Knott my favourite wicket-keeper

Boycott, who scored 8,114 Test runs at 47.72, is widely regarded as one of the most respected English cricketers in history.

Below is the entire conversation between Arvind Kalyana Krishnan and Sir Geoffrey Boycott for CricBlog

Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: How highly do you rate Jacques Kallis? Considering he was an all-rounder, do you think a case can be made for him to be a greater overall player than the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting and Brian Lara in Test cricket?

Sir Geoffrey Boycott: I think there are good players, very good players, a few great players, and then come the elite icons. In my playing and watching years my icons would be Sachin Tendulkar. Brian Lara, Viv Richards, Gary Sobers and maybe Graeme Pollock. Unfortunately Graeme’s Test career was hampered by his Governments apartheid policy so a touch difficult to know how he would have done in India and Pakistan. The food, the travel for months and months, not weeks. West Indies etc. And over many years. I think he would have been fine as I saw a lot of him in South Africa and his Rest of the World performances were good.

Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: During your playing days, how highly was The Ashes considered in England and in the English team? Can you draw light on how much The Ashes meant to the English players during your time and the build-up to it every time a series against Australia took place?

Sir Geoffrey Boycott: Playing Australia was the biggest and most important series for us English until the great West Indian teams arrived with all their fast bowlers and wonderful batsmen.

Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: What is your opinion on Virender Sehwag the Test opener? Despite his technical flaws, his record in red-ball cricket is superb. How would you summarize the career of an aggressive Test opener like him?

Sir Geoffrey Boycott: Sehwag an extraordinary talent on certain pitches. Mind blowing at times but again only on certain surfaces only. In England he was poor.

Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: Your all-time favourite wicket-keeper/wicket-keepers?

Sir Geoffrey Boycott: Alan Knott. Why? Because wicket-keepers stats regarding catches/stumpings depend on the bowlers creating chances for him. Therefore I base my judgement on how many he misses. Very rare in his case. His batting……He was a touch unorthodox but got runs when it mattered and many times when his team were under pressure.

Australia possible 11 for 2nd Ashes Test at the Gabba

Charbel Coorey
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0
Australia possible 11 for 2nd Ashes Test at the Gabba

Australia’s XI for the second Ashes Test at the Gabba is a hot topic of debate. The Perth Test finishing in just two days has given fans and pundits more time to speculate, especially given Travis Head played a blinder of an innings as opener in Australia’s successful run chase of 205.

However, Usman Khawaja was ruled out two days out from the second Test due to back spasms. He didn’t open in either innings at Perth and looked in discomfort all match.

Also, Pat Cummins has not been named in the second Test squad, as reported by cricket.com.au. But, journalist Daniel Cherny reports selectors are yet to rule out a late inclusion for Cummins.

“I’m not sure a decision’s been made on that yet,” Boland said, as quoted by CODE Sports.

“I’d love to see him out there playing. He looked in red hot form the other night. It’s as good as you’ll see a fast bowler charging in the nets, and we know how good he is. He’s the best bowler in the world, so we want him out there as desperately as what everyone else does.”

Australia possible XI for 2nd Ashes Test at the Gabba: 1. Travis Head, 2. Jake Weatherald, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Steve Smith (c), 5. Josh Inglis, 6. Cameron Green, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Mitchell Starc, 9. Nathan Lyon, 10. Scott Boland, 11. Pat Cummins/Brendon Doggett

According to journalist Robbert Craddock, selectors were considering playing Khawaja had he been fit. However, now that Khawaja is out, Craddock fears it’s the end of his career.

“I’m hearing that it’s a really tight call [between Khawaja and Travis Head for opener],” Craddock said on SENQ Breakfast.

“Usman is coming towards the end. This will be his last season.

“He averages 50 at the Gabba in first-class cricket; it’s his home ground for Queensland.

“He averages 37 (at the Gabba) in Tests, which is not great but passable. So, he may just hang on and be returned to the team.

“If the back injury keeps him out of the team, that will probably be the end of him, but if he is passed fit from the back injury, I think he might just sneak into the team.”

Australia have the option of either Josh Inglis or Beau Webster for the middle order. According to CODE Sports, Inglis may be preferred as he spent time fielding at third slip.

Matt Renshaw, who has been in excellent form this season, is expected to feature for Australia A against England Lions next week.

Another point of contention is whether Nathan Lyon will play. The offspinner has been on the periphery for large parts of the past two seasons as pace continues to dominate. If Australia make the call to drop Lyon, room opens up for both Webster and Inglis to play.

However, former captain Michael Clarke said Australia must pick Lyon.

“He’s in for sure,” said Clarke to ESPNcricinfo. “He’s in my XI every Test match. Unless it’s an absolute raging green seamer.

“If Hazlewood and Cummins are not 100% fit, I’m going in with the same XI.”

Squad for second Test: Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster

Darren Lehmann calls for an end to sandpaper sledging towards Steve Smith

Charbel Coorey
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0
Darren Lehmann calls for an end to sandpaper sledging towards Steve Smith

Darren Lehmann has called for an end to the abuse and sledging aimed at he and Steve Smith regarding the sandpaper ball-tampering scandal. The former coach, who was in charge at the time in Cape Town, said its time to move on.

Speaking on ABC Sport after Australia’s eight-wicket win at Perth, Lehmann praised Smith for how he handles himself amid the attention. Lehmann said he also receives abuse daily on social media and believes it would be worse for Smith given he is still playing.

Not great for mental health – Darren Lehmann on sandpaper abuse

“It is unbelievable. He (Smith) is playing every day. It would be worse for him,” Lehmann said, as quoted by Fox Sports Australia.

“In England they just don’t forget. It is like they have never done anything wrong in their life.”

However, Lehmann said most of the Barmy Army are supportive, with a select few carrying on. He called for fans to move on given the incident occurred nearly eight years ago and severe punishments were served.

“It is only the ones that drink too much and carry on like pork chops. It just borders on abuse, but we did the wrong thing, you’ve got to accept it. It’s not great for your mental health, to be completely honest,” Lehmann said.

“We did the wrong thing, accept it and move on. You try to move on the best you can. You get reminded every day and that is part and parcel.

“Steve Smith can hold his head high with how he handles everything. The Barmy Army should be better than that. Most of them are and are very supportive of what goes on in the game.”

Smith led Australia to a big win in the first Ashes Test. Australia’s bowlers needed just 67.3 overs to take the 20 English wickets, before Travis Head produced one of the great Ashes knocks to put Australia 1-0 up.

PAK vs SL Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 6th Match

Charbel Coorey
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0
PAK vs SL Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 6th Match

Sri Lanka picked up the win they needed against Zimbabwe, winning comfortably by eight wickets with 22 balls to spare. Their net run rate is still worse than Zimbabwe’s, shedding light on how poor Sri Lanka were at the start of this tri-series.

Dasun Shanaka’s team will be looking to build on that performance. Their equation is simple – win today and reach Sunday’s final, also against Pakistan. The hosts have comfortably been the best team in this tri-series, but a Sri Lankan victory can further boost confidence and set up an interesting narrative ahead of the decider.

Pathum Nissanka was excellent against the Zimbabweans after the bowlers kept them in check. However, Sri Lanka will face a tougher test against a Pakistani bowling attack in the groove, with their spinners in particular in good form. Usman Tariq, who took a hat-trick against Zimbabwe, is performing well along with Mohammad Nawaz and Abrar Ahmed who have also been bowling nicely in recent times.

Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 6th Match: PAK vs SL Possible Playing XIs

Pakistan could persist with Fakhar Zaman down the order after his cameo of 27 off 10 balls against Zimbabwe. The hosts may also experiment further given they have already qualified for the final. Whether they can fit both Abrar Ahmed and Usman Tariq in the XI remains to be seen.

Shaheen Shah Afridi could return from a minor foot injury.

Pakistan: 1. Sahibzada Farhan, 2. Saim Ayub, 3. Babar Azam, 4. Fakhar Zaman, 5. Salman Agha (c), 6. Usman Khan (wk), 7. Mohammad Nawaz, 8. Faheem Ashraf/Shaheen Shah Afridi, 9. Mohammad Wasim/Naseem Shah, 10. Usman Tariq, 11. Abrar Ahmed

Sri Lanka could persist with the same team that thrashed Zimbabwe two nights ago.

Sri Lanka: 1. Pathum Nissanka, 2. Kamil Mishara, 3. Kusal Mendis (wk), 4. Kusal Perera, 5. Janith Liyanage, 6. Dasun Shanaka (c), 7. Pavan Rathnayake, 8. Wanindu Hasaranga, 9. Dushmantha Chameera, 10. Maheesh Theekshana, 11. Eshan Malinga

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report and Weather

Spinners have enjoyed success in this tri-series. After Usman Tariq took 4/18, Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana took two wickets each to limit Zimbabwe. Expect spin to play a key role again.

The average first innings score is 155.6. The chasing team has won three of the five matches. Sri Lanka managed just 128/7 against Pakistan last week.

Another cool and clear evening is forecast with dew likely in the second innings.

Fantasy Cricket Tips for PAK vs SL T20I Today: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Sahibzada Farhan inspires the most confidence from a fantasy cricket perspective. The Pakistan opener is the leading run-scorer in this tri-series (159) with a strike rate of 157.42. This includes two fifties.

Key batter picks:

  • Pathum Nissanka stormed back into form against Zimbabwe. How he fares against spin will be key for Sri Lanka (see below).
  • Babar Azam has looked in good touch in recent times, but will be looking to improve on his record against Sri Lanka (9 inns, 130 runs, avg. 16.25, SR 86.66). Babar has 741 runs in all T20s at Rawalpindi at an average of 39 and strike rate of 148.5.

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Mohammad Nawaz is the leading wicket-taker this series with seven at a superb average of 8.42 and strike rate of 10.28. He took Sri Lanka apart last week with figures of 3/16.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga has also been in the wickets, with five scalps at a strike rate of 14.40. He has 16 wickets in seven T20Is against Pakistan (avg. 11.37, econ. 10.50).
  • Dasun Shanaka will contribute overs given the makeup of the Sri Lankan attack. He is also one of their key players in the middle order.

Key bowler picks:

  • Will Pakistan pick Usman Tariq again? The mystery spinner can challenge Sri Lanka who have had their challenges against spin this series.
  • Maheesh Theekshana will be key in the powerplay, especially if bowling first against Saim Ayub. Saim averages 16.3 when batting first in T20s this year compared to 22.3 batting second.

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Saim Ayub is yet to get going with the bat in this tri-series but he can fire on his day. He can also contribute overs.
  • Kusal Mendis spent some time at the crease against Zimbabwe. But, he has just three runs in four T20Is against Pakistan, including three golden ducks.
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi took 3/28 against Sri Lanka in the 2025 Asia Cup. He dismissed both openers Nissanka and Mendis. Keep an eye on team lists to see if he returns.

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • Head-to-head: Matches 25, Pakistan 15, Sri Lanka 10.
  • Sahibzada Farhan smashed 80* off 45 balls against Sri Lanka last week.
  • Pakistan could look to test Pathum Nissanka with spin early. The Sri Lanka opener averages 24.3 with a strike rate of 118.9 against spin in all T20s this year.

Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 6th Match: PAK vs SL 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, Rawalpindi Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for PAK vs SL today - 6th Match of Pakistan T20 Tri-Series
Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 6th Match: PAK vs SL Dream11 Prediction Today

Option 2:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Rawalpindi Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for PAK vs SL today - 6th Match of Pakistan T20 Tri-Series
Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 6th Match: PAK vs SL Dream11 Prediction Today

PAK vs SL Match Prediction: Who will win?

A game that can go either way with Sri Lanka needing to win. This match means more for Sri Lanka, so will back them for a 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.

BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Bangladesh host Ireland in a three-match T20I series starting on Thursday November 27. The Tigers will be looking to build on the momentum of their Test series win, while improving their performances in T20I cricket.

Bangladesh have had a mixed year. They reached the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup and beat Afghanistan 3-0 soon after. However, the missed opportunities in the Asia Cup plus 3-0 whitewash against the West Indies shows there is plenty of room for improvement.

For Ireland, this will be just their seventh T20I of the year. But, they have players who have experience in Bangladesh, including all-rounders who can turn matches. A good start in the series can give them plenty of confidence moving forward as the T20 World Cup approaches.

BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 Possible Playing XIs

Bangladesh have a few options for their XI, especially the middle order. Also, they may prefer Nasum Ahmed given Ireland have many right-handers.

Bangladesh: 1. Tanzid Hasan, 2. Parvez Hossain Emon, 3. Litton Das (c & wk), 4. Saif Hassan, 5. Towhid Hridoy/Jaker Ali, 6. Nurul Hasan/Mahidul Islam Ankon, 7. Rishad Hossain, 8. Mahedi Hasan/Nurul Hasan, 9. Shoriful Islam, 10. Tanzim Hasan Sakib, 11. Mustafizur Rahman

With no Ross Adair in the squad, Ireland may open with Gareth Delany alongside Paul Stirling. Josh Little and Mark Adair are available, which is a boost for Ireland.

Ireland: 1. Paul Stirling (c), 2. Gareth Delany, 3. Harry Tector, 4. Lorcan Tucker (wk), 5. Curtis Campher, 6. George Dockrell, 7. Mark Adair, 8. Barry McCarthy/Benjamin Calitz 9. Matthew Humphreys, 10. Craig Young, 11. Josh Little

Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, Chattogram Pitch Report and Weather

As confirmed by Mohammad Isam for ESPNcricinfo, Chattogram offered movement for the pace bowlers in the second innings of matches between Bangladesh and West Indies in October. The Windies defended 165 and 149, and chased 151 in the other.

Since the start of 2023, pacers have taken 258 wickets on this ground at an average of 26.01 and economy of 8.47. Spinners have taken 172 wickets at a very similar average of 26.66 and economy of 7.68.

In 12 BPL matches on this ground in January, the team batting first won seven times. A clear evening is forecast with a top of around 24 degrees at the start of the match. Dew is likely in the second innings.

BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 Fantasy Cricket Tips: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Litton Das has scored 135 runs in three T20Is against Ireland, averaging 45.00 with a magnificent strike rate of 198.52.

Key batter picks:

  • Tanzid Hasan has shown promise this year. The left-hander is Bangladesh’s top run-scorer in T20Is in 2025, scoring 711 at an average of 32.31 and strike rate of 136.20.
  • Harry Tector struck 61* and 28 in the T20Is against England earlier this year. He is arguably Ireland’s key batter.

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Mahedi Hasan is the top all-rounder pick at 85.43% of selections. He offers value with bat and ball, but keep in mind Ireland have a lot of right-handers.
  • Mark Adair went for runs in the 2023 series against Bangladesh (econ. 11.02), but he takes wickets. He typically bowls in the death overs and can provide runs down the order.
  • Gareth Delany is a chance to open the batting. He is picked in 73.76% of Dream11 teams. Keep an eye on the team list.

Key bowler picks:

  • Rishad Hossain can offer plenty of value with ball and bat. Ireland have plenty of right-handers in their lineup and Rishad will fancy his chances. The legspinner took six wickets in three matches against West Indies last month (SR 11).
  • Mustafizur Rahman has taken 31 wickets in 29 innings on this ground at an average of 25.6 and strike rate of 19.3. He bowls in the death overs which brings wicket-taking opportunities.

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Josh Little is a strike bowler but has been short of cricket in recent times. His last competitive match was a List A match for Middlesex in August.
  • Paul Stirling has the second-most runs in BAN-IRE T20Is (141) at an average of 23.50 and strike rate of 154.94.
  • Curtis Campher was one of Ireland’s best in the Test series. He should contribute a few overs and has a key role in the middle order.
  • Matt Humphreys also showed promising signs in the Tests. He will be key against Bangladesh’s right-handers. He took 2/10 in his only T20I against the Tigers, in 2023.
  • Keep an eye on where Saif Hassan is listed to bat. If he bats in the top four, he is worth a pick as he also can contribute some overs with the ball.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 8, Bangladesh 5, Ireland 2, N/R 1.
  • Tanzid Hasan (165 runs) was the leading run-scorer in the BAN-WI T20I series last month.
  • Rishad Hossain has taken seven wickets in five T20s on this ground at an average of 16.71 and strike rate of 12.
  • Tanzim Hasan Sakib has taken 13 wickets in the powerplay in all T20s this year, striking every 15.2 deliveries.

BAN vs IRE 1st 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, Chattogram Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 today.
BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

Option 2:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Chattogram Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 today.
BAN vs IRE 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

BAN vs IRE 1st T20 Match Prediction: Who will win?

Bangladesh 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 and Cricmetric.

Brendon McCullum must go if England get smashed in Ashes – Ian Healy

Charbel Coorey
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Brendon McCullum must go if England get smashed in Ashes – Ian Healy

Ian Healy believes Brendon McCullum should be sacked if England lose the 2025/26 Ashes series by a big margin. The former Australia keeper-batsman was scathing of England’s performance in the first Test, where they lost inside two days.

“England, try the hard way, rather than the two-day slogging and shot selections at Perth,” Healy wrote in his column for SEN.

“Former England legends are piling in, and rightly so, because they were dismissed as has-beens and irrelevant from a team who keep highlighting how respectful they are of the game and its history.”

Ian Healy believes Brendon McCullum must go if England lose Ashes series heavily

Speaking on radio, Healy said McCullum should go before Stokes if England lose badly. Given the nature of England’s defeat in Perth, they need a huge turnaround at the Gabba.

“The coach would go first before the captain because he’s a world class player,” said Healy on SENQ Breakfast.

“He [Stokes] will be performing, even if they are going down that badly. So, I think coach has to go because they’ve just outright flat-batted any advice from others that know the history of the game and what you should try in certain conditions and moments of the game.

“They’ve taken it upon themselves to do it this way, and if it doesn’t work, they will be in trouble,” Healy continued.

McCullum stood firm on his philosophy following England’s eight-wicket defeat. He vowed to keep playing the same way and called for fans to keep the faith.

“This is a marathon, not a sprint. We’ve had a very bad day today, but we’ve done it before. That’s our blueprint. We’re married to that, and we won’t back down from that over the next four Tests,” McCullum told the BBC following the loss.

However, it’s a view Healy disagrees with. “If you want to play this way, you’d want to get better at it. You’re up against the conditions, a good Australian bowling attack and history,” he said.

“You have to have a bit of ticker and a bit of common sense in amongst what they’re doing. If not, they’re going to get hurt.

“If they go down badly, whether that’s 4-1, 4-0 or 5-0, look out.”

England batted a total of 67.3 overs in a reckless display in Perth. Effectively 105/1 soon after lunch, Ben Stokes’ team lost a few hours later. England fans were livid.

Now, they face criticism regarding their decision to opt out of the pink ball tour match against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI. They will need a big performance in the Day/Night match at the Gabba which starts on December 4.

What rating did the ICC give for the Perth pitch?

Charbel Coorey
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What rating did the ICC give for the Perth pitch?

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has given the Perth pitch a “very good” rating. The first Ashes Test finished inside two days, but the surface received a positive rating as it eased out on day two.

This rating is the highest possible, awarded to pitches with “good carry, limited seam movement, and consistent bounce early in the match, allowing for a balanced contest between batters and bowlers,” according to cricket.com.au.

Perth pitch gets “very good” rating despite two-day finish in Ashes Test

19 wickets fell on a chaotic first day. England were bundled out in 32.5 overs, before Australia were reduced to 123/9. The English bowlers in particular were quite hostile, generating good pace and bounce. However, this is a typical characteristic of Perth surfaces.

The pitch began to ease out on day two, with England’s poor second innings display the catalyst of their defeat. Numerous batsmen – namely Ollie Pope, Harry Brook and Joe Root – were out looking to drive on the up.

England were bowled out quickly once again, leaving Australia needing 205. Travis Head took the game by the scruff of the neck, scoring one of the great Ashes hundreds to flatten Ben Stokes’ team.

Sections of India fanbase and media lash out at Perth pitch

Ravichandran Ashwin and Sunil Gavaskar were among the high profile Indian cricket personalities to mention the outcry if 19 wickets fell on a single day in India

“Only 19 wickets fell at Perth today, but an excellent days cricket. Oh no! What if the same happens tomorrow in Guwahati?, Ashwin wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Gavaskar was more scathing, expressing concerns in his Mid-Day column. “The Perth Test match has ended in less than two days with 32 wickets having fallen, including 19 on the first day,” Gavaskar wrote.

“But as yet there’s not a word of criticism about the pitch there. Last year too, 17 wickets fell on Day One at Perth between India and Australia, and I can’t recall a critical word about the pitch, which had more grass on it than usual.”

However, like day two between Australia and India last year, the surface settled down and became a good one for batting. The majority of dismissals were down to poor batting rather than the pitch playing all sorts of tricks. The bounce was consistent, with the batters not adjusting quickly enough to the conditions.

“This wicket, it kind of gets better I think at the end of day two, it’s probably at its best for the game late this evening … we saw similar last year as well,” said Steve Smith after the match.

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