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

Charbel Coorey
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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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0
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.

What does grovel mean? Shukri Conrad uses word during IND vs SA 2nd Test

Charbel Coorey
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What does grovel mean? Shukri Conrad uses word during IND vs SA 2nd Test

South Africa coach Shukri Conrad said he wanted India to “grovel” during the second Test at Guwahati. Speaking to the media after day four, Conrad shed light on why the Proteas chose to bat on in the final session.

“We obviously looked at how best we were going to use the new ball, because in the morning we still wanted a newish, hardish ball,” Conrad said in the press conference, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “What we felt is that when the shadows come across the wicket in the evening, there’s something in it for the quick bowlers, so we didn’t want to declare too early and not be able to use that.

“And then, obviously, we wanted the Indians to spend as much time on their feet out in the field, we wanted them to really grovel, to steal a phrase, bat them completely out the game, and then say to them ‘Come and survive on the last day and an hour this evening.’ So, so far so good, but we also know that they’re not just going to roll over, we’re going to have to be at our very best in the morning.”

Grovel meaning: Word in the spotlight again after nearly 50 years

According to the Oxford Language Dictionary, grovel means to “lie or crawl abjectly on the ground with one’s face downwards” or “act in an obsequious way in order to obtain someone’s forgiveness or favour.”

In a cricketing context, the world can mean to drive home an advantage and have no mercy on the opposition. However, the term has long had racial connotations too. Its meanings include submission and humiliation, and many believe it reinforces division and power.

This reared to its head in 1976. The late Tony Greig, captaining England at the time, used this word before their series against the West Indies.

“I’m not really sure they’re as good as everyone thinks,” Greig said on the BBC’s Sportsnight programme. “These guys, if they get on top they are magnificent cricketers. But if they’re down, they grovel, and I intend, with the help of Closey [Brian Close] and a few others, to make them grovel.”

West Indies captain Clive Lloyd spoke very passionately about it in the aftermath. Vivian Richards, on his first four of England, described it as a great motivator for the Windies team.

“The word ‘grovel’ is one guaranteed to raise the blood pressure of any black man,” said Lloyd. “The fact they were used by a white South African made it even worse. We were angry and West Indians everywhere were angry. We resolved to show him and everyone else that the days for grovelling were over.”

“Everyone was stunned,” Richards. “This was the greatest motivating speech the England captain could have given to any West Indian team.”

ALSO READ: Fans react on social media to Shukri Conrad using the term “grovel”

South Africa need eight wickets to seal a 2-0 series win. India, 27/2 at stumps, need a very improbable 522.

Shukri Conrad grovel comment: Fans react to South Africa coach’s reaction to 2nd Test against India

Charbel Coorey
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0
Shukri Conrad grovel comment: Fans react to South Africa coach’s reaction to 2nd Test against India

Shukri Conrad has caused a stir after he said South Africa wanted India to “grovel” during the second Test at Guwahati.

The Proteas batted on until midway through the final session despite having a lead of 500+ at the lunch break. The coach said the reason was to keep India out there in the field in what has been a very difficult Test for the hosts.

“We wanted to make India grovel” – Shukri Conrad on why South Africa batted on

South Africa raised eyebrows by opting to bat on as long as they did. Fans and pundits assumed it was to give Tristan Stubbs the opportunity to reach a Test hundred, especially as he went hard after the break and the Proteas declared as soon as he was dismissed for 94.

However, Shukri said South Africa wanted a newish ball for the morning and to tire India further.

“We obviously looked at how best we were going to use the new ball, because in the morning we still wanted a newish, hardish ball,” Conrad said in the press conference, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “What we felt is that when the shadows come across the wicket in the evening, there’s something in it for the quick bowlers, so we didn’t want to declare too early and not be able to use that.

“And then, obviously, we wanted the Indians to spend as much time on their feet out in the field, we wanted them to really grovel, to steal a phrase, bat them completely out the game, and then say to them ‘Come and survive on the last day and an hour this evening.’ So, so far so good, but we also know that they’re not just going to roll over, we’re going to have to be at our very best in the morning.”

“Grovel” comment causes a stir on social media

“Grovel” was a term infamously used by the late Tony Greig in 1976. The then-England captain said he wanted to make the West Indies grovel after the team from the Caribbean were beaten 5-1 in Australia in the previous summer.

“I’m not really sure they’re as good as everyone thinks,” he said on the BBC’s Sportsnight programme. “These guys, if they get on top they are magnificent cricketers. But if they’re down, they grovel, and I intend, with the help of Closey [Brian Close] and a few others, to make them grovel.”

“The word ‘grovel’ is one guaranteed to raise the blood pressure of any black man,” said West Indies captain Clive Lloyd. “The fact they were used by a white South African made it even worse. We were angry and West Indians everywhere were angry. We resolved to show him and everyone else that the days for grovelling were over.”

Nearly 50 years on, the term has created a stir once again. “Imagine if an Indian or a gora coach has used that grovel word after beating Sa in Sa. Life goes around in circles, remember Shukri Conrad. Congrats on your monumental victory, you totally outplayed us, but remember this comment will come back to bite you in the future,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).

Here are some of the reactions.

After declaring with a lead of 548, South Africa picked up two wickets before the close of play on day four. Marco Jansen dismissed Yashasvi Jaiswal with the opener again out trying to cut too close to his body. Simon Harmer then dismissed KL Rahul with a dream delivery.

India closed on 27/2 still needing another 522 for the most improbable of victories. Whether South Africa can pick up the eight wickets required is the main topic of the day. 12 World Test Championship points are at stake should they get the win.

Regardless, South Africa are assured of a first Test series win in India since 2000.

SL vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 5th Match

Charbel Coorey
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0
SL vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report – Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 5th Match

The 5th match of the Pakistan T20 Tri-Series is a battle regarding who will face the hosts in Sunday’s final. Sri Lanka, who have been very disappointing so far, must win this match as victory for Zimbabwe will seal qualification.

Despite the heavy defeat to Pakistan on Sunday, Zimbabwe have made a pretty good account of themselves in this tri-series. They were competitive in the tournament opener and then bowled Sri Lanka out for less than 100 for the second time this year.

Zimbabwe’s top order will be key as the middle order continues to struggle for consistency. Also, the bowling attack will fancy its chances against a Sri Lankan side devoid of any batting rhythm. A great opportunity awaits.

For Sri Lanka, the time is now to step up. They have been thrashed in both their matches so far, but a win here puts destiny in their own hands. For that to happen, they need their senior batters to deliver the goods.

Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 5th Match: SL vs ZIM Possible Playing XIs

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

Zimbabwe: 1. Brian Bennett, 2. Tadiwanashe Marumani, 3. Brendan Taylor (wk), 4. Sikandar Raza (c), 5. Ryan Burl, 6. Tony Munyonga, 7. Tashinga Musekiwa, 8. Wellington Masakadza/Graeme Cremer, 9. Brad Evans, 10. Tinotenda Maposa, 11. Richard Ngarava

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score in this tri-series is 158. Teams batting first and second have won two matches each. There has been some movement available for the pace bowlers in the powerplay, while the spinners have enjoyed success.

Another cool and clear evening is forecast. The team who wins the toss will likely choose to chase, but batting first can be a good tactic too.

SL vs ZIM T20 Fantasy Cricket Tips: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • The wicket-keeping pick is a bit of a lottery with Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera and Brendan Taylor out of form. Mendis has the higher ceiling.

Key batter picks:

  • Brian Bennett has two scores of 49 in this tri-series, including against Sri Lanka. He has the most runs in ZIM-SL T20Is (226) at an average of 37.66 and strike rate of 132.94.
  • Will the law of averages apply for Pathum Nissanka? The opener has scores of 0 and 17 in this tri-series. He can go big on his day which makes it a risk leaving him out of your Dream11 team.
  • Kamil Mishara scored 93 runs in two T20Is against Zimbabwe earlier this year at a strike rate of 147.61. This includes a match-winning innings of 73* in the series decider. He also looked in good touch against Pakistan.

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Sikandar Raza is always a top pick in Dream11. He bats in the top five and is a key bowler. He won player of the match against Sri Lanka earlier this tournament thanks to his 32-ball 47 and 1/23.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga will be crucial against Zimbabwe’s inconsistent middle order. He took 3/32 against them earlier in the series. The legspinner has 10 wickets in just four T20Is against the Zimbabweans (avg. 10.70).
  • Brad Evans had a tough game against Pakistan two nights ago, but he remains a good Dream11 pick. The pace bowler has looked sharp in this series and bowls in the death overs. He benefitted against Sri Lanka last week, taking 3/9.

Key bowler picks:

  • Dushmantha Chameera has a good record against Zimbabwe: 7 T20Is, 12 wickets, avg. 15.83, SR 13.
  • Richard Ngarava has a good matchup against Sri Lanka’s top order. He has overall figures of 2/47 off 40 balls against Pathum Nissanka and 1/25 off 33 balls against Kusal Mendis in T20Is.

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Ryan Burl is in good touch. His 521 T20I runs this year come at a strike rate of 142.34. This includes 67* against Pakistan in the last match.
  • Dasun Shanaka top-scored for Sri Lanka against Zimbabwe earlier in the tri-series. The skipper can also chip in with overs and fields in the hotspot positions.
  • Maheesh Theekshana has taken nine wickets in six T20Is against Zimbabwe at an average of 16.77 and economy of 6.51.
  • Eshan Malinga bowled nicely on T20I debut against Zimbabwe last week (2/27). He bowls in the tough overs which can bring about some wicket-taking opportunities.

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • Head-to-head: Matches 10, Sri Lanka 7, Zimbabwe 3.
  • Zimbabwe have bowled Sri Lanka out for 80 and 95 in T20Is this year.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga vs Sikandar Raza in all T20s: 59 balls, 58 runs, no wickets.

SL vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Today – Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 2025 5th Match

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 SL vs PAK today - 5th Match of Pakistan T20 Tri-Series
SL vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Today – Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 2025 5th Match

Option 2:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Rawalpindi Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for SL vs PAK today - 5th Match of Pakistan T20 Tri-Series
SL vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Today – Pakistan T20 Tri-Series 2025 5th Match

SL vs ZIM Match Prediction: Who will win?

Sri Lanka are in woeful form. Zimbabwe have a great chance. However, the Lions have enough experience and should bounce back.

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Brendon McCullum’s reaction to Perth hammering a sight to behold for Australia fans

Charbel Coorey
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Brendon McCullum’s reaction to Perth hammering a sight to behold for Australia fans

Coach Brendon McCullum had his say following England’s two-day demolition at the hands of Australia in Perth. His comments should inspire further confidence among Australian players and fans.

“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, as quoted by The Roar.

Brendon McCullum says England are “married” to their Bazball blueprint

McCullum’s comments indicate England won’t adjust their style after it was brutally exposed in Perth. Effectively 105/1 in the second innings on a Perth pitch getting better for batting, England gave the game away courtesy of reckless driving on the up. They lost 5/23 in a manic spell that handed the advantage to Australia.

McCullum employed plenty of the buzzwords in his interview following the loss.

“Just because we’re 1-0 down doesn’t change what we believe in. We’ve just got make sure we stay calm, stay together, and we start plotting and planning how we’re going to bounce back, as we have done before. Keep the faith,” he said, as quoted by The Guardian.

“We know what our best game is, we know what gives us the greatest opportunity. We’ve been in this situation before, we’ve been insulating against the drop in camaraderie and morale for the past few years. We’ll head to Brisbane with high hopes and high expectations.”

However, winning in Australia requires grit, determination and humility rather than just team camaraderie. England’s unhealthy Bazball obsession has their fans losing faith by the minute, while Australia’s optimism of another Ashes retention grows.

England have also come under fire for opting not to send any of the players from the Perth Test to Canberra for the pink-ball match against the Australia Prime Minister’s XI. They will have the regroup and bounce back strongly in the second Test, which is a day/nighter in Brisbane starting December 4.

“Beyond pathetic” – England fans react to thumping loss in 1st Ashes Test at Perth

Charbel Coorey
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0
“Beyond pathetic” – England fans react to thumping loss in 1st Ashes Test at Perth

What a difference a day makes. 24 hours ago, England fans were cockahoop as their much spoken about pace attack dismantled the Australian batting lineup on a bouncy Perth pitch. Bowling beautifully as a unit, England reduced the hosts to 123/9 and took the honours despite only batting 32.5 overs themselves.

England entered day two with visions of taking control of the Test, just like India did last year. They were going nicely until lunch, finishing the first session 59/1 and leading by 99.

Going off past evidence at Perth Stadium, the pitch was only going to get better for batting. Ricky Ponting hit the nail on the head on commentary. “It was about 28 degrees yesterday and looking at it this morning, you could see the cracks but it actually looked like a really good surface for batting,” Ponting said on Channel 7 broadcast.

“We know the history of this venue last year… day two last year, Australia lost 3/37. India then went in for the second-half of the day… were none for 172 at stumps.

“Jaiswal 90 not out, KL Rahul 62, and we know what happened after that… day three is when Virat Kohli made a hundred. So it will definitely get better for batting, but it might just be the second-half of day two where it’s at its absolute best.”

England fail to drive home advantage after taking lead

However, England failed to drive home the advantage in dramatic fashion. The downfalls of Bazball came to the fore once again, with a number of their players perishing playing the dreaded drive on the up. There was a lack of match awareness given the surface was due to improve from a batting point of view. Travis Head and Australia certainly took advantage.

Scott Boland, after a poor first day, came to the party. He dismissed both Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope in quick succession after lunch. The latter’s dismissal was particularly disappointing, slashing wildly at a length ball after making a start. Harry Brook and Joe Root soon made similar mistakes to deliveries not there for the drive, out courtesy of the outside and inside edge respectively.

From 65/1 and leading by 105, England collapsed to 104/7. The Jamie Smith dismissal was a controversial moment, but focusing on the third umpire is a deflection tactic as England let another promising position slip in an Ashes Test.

A lower order counterpunch from Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse took England past a 200-run lead. Such a total looked defendable in such a low-scoring game. However, the game was over 28.4 overs later as England’s pace attack simply had no answers to the Travis Head onslaught.

In the process, England’s winless run in Australia stretched to 16 Tests.

England fans slam team for horror show on day two of the Perth Ashes Test

“I think that is, by some distance, England’s most embarrassing loss in Australia since 2010-11. No caveats, no excuses, no big mismatch on paper, won the toss, all the buildup over the past few years focussed exclusively on this, all the opportunities within the game. Pathetic,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).

The likes of Michael Vaughan and Piers Morgan were bitterly disappointed. The latter, who was full of confidence before the Ashes, described the performance as “so disappointing.” Vaughan lamented England making the same mistakes as 2023.

Here are some of the reactions.

England need to bounce back quickly. The second Test, a day/nighter in Brisbane, begins on December 4. A 2-0 deficit likely means series gone for England, so the pressure is on already.

Ashes 2025/26 1st Test: Reactions to all-time Travis Head 123 off 83 balls as Australia smash England

Charbel Coorey
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0
Ashes 2025/26 1st Test: Reactions to all-time Travis Head 123 off 83 balls as Australia smash England

And breathe. The craziest rollercoaster ride that is the last two days has come to an end. England, 59/1 at lunch and leading by 99, were smashed by eight wickets just a few hours later.

Usman Khawaja, struggling with back spasms, didn’t open again. This time, Australia were prepared. Given the talk of batting potentially getting easier after the 30-over mark, there may have been the temptation to keep Travis Head at number five and try time his entry point to perfection.

However, there was no need for such overthinking. Travis Head is made for the big occasion. Opening the batting for the ninth time in Tests, the left-hander produced one of the all-time Ashes knocks on a memorable Saturday afternoon, taking the English pace attack apart in an unbelievable onslaught.

Ben Stokes tried to remain upbeat. Jake Weatherald’s wicket sparked a celebration from Stokes to get his team going again after the opening stand yielded 75. But, the captain was soon left speechless as Head continued on his merry way, smashing England’s short-pitched barrage to all parts of Optus Stadium.

With England clearly targeting the body, Head created different angles by either giving himself room or getting inside the line and hitting fine. The execution was outstanding, leaving England shellshocked and devoid of answers. 205 looked a defendable score in such a low-scoring game. 28.2 overs later, the game was over.

Travis Head 123 (83) and Mitchell Starc 11 wickets lead Australia to thumping eight-wicket win in opening Ashes Test

Earlier, England surrendered the advantage courtesy of more poor batting in the second session. They fell from 65/1 to 104/7 in the blink of an eye, before eventually getting bowled out for 164.

Ben Stokes’ team batted just 67.3 overs across both innings. It further raises the question of whether the Bazball style can deliver when it matters most in the biggest series.

Mitchell Starc (3/55) was outstanding again. His magnificent caught and bowled in the first over gave Australia an opening. He then dismissed Joe Root and Ben Stokes (yet again) as Scott Boland (4/33) found his groove after a disappointing first innings.

In the chase, Jake Weatherald (23) started confidently before Marnus Labuschagne played his most intentful Test innings in some time. Australia’s number three looked switched on from the word go, punishing anything too straight or slightly short in an excellent showing. By the end, he was backing away and smashing short deliveries in the V. A sight to behold.

“This is beyond outrageous from Travis Head. This is one of the more remarkable hundreds in Test history. He doesn’t just write his own scripts, he directs them & then also stars in them & it’s always something you’ve never seen before,” wrote SEN Cricket’s Bharat Sundaresan on X (formerly Twitter).

Here are some of the reactions to Australia’s eight-wicket win.

Australia take a 1-0 series lead into the day/night Test in Brisbane starting December 4. England, after bowling so well and ruthlessly yesterday, have plenty of work to do to bounce back in the series.

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