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AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Australia Women vs New Zealand Women Key Players | Allan Border Field Brisbane Pitch Report

For the first time since a Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe T20I in March, an international cricket match will have a crowd in attendance. Two traditional rivals will lock horns in front of spectators in at the Allan Border Field in Brisbane.

While the capacity is capped at just 50%, the public will witness Australia, the T20 World Cup Champions, in action after their magnificent performance in front of over 84,000 people on International Women’s Day earlier in 2020. So much has happened around the world since then, but the great Australian side will be keen to continue their magnificent momentum, and there is no better way to kick off the international season than with a win. However, there will be no Ellyse Perry, as she continues to work hard in her quest to return from a serious hamstring injury, suffered in the T20 World Cup against New Zealand.

It has been a disappointing year for New Zealand’s team of talented cricketers. They failed to qualify out of the group stages of the T20 World Cup earlier this year, losing a virtual Quarter Final against Australia by four runs. Sophie Devine, arguably their greatest cricketer, called it a “crappy feeling”, so there is the opportunity here to right the wrongs of a disappointing World Cup campaign. Can they overcome Australia this time to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series?

Also read: Do you write cricket blogs? Here are 6 tips to writing great cricket blogs!

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • Beth Mooney is undoubtedly the unsung hero of this Australian team. Her consistency is testament to her ability, and it shows in her numbers in 2020: 11 T20Is, 467 runs, avg. 58.37, SR 124.20. This includes 60 (50) vs NZ in the World Cup.
  • Also, Mooney loves batting at Allan Border Field, where this match will be played. In the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2019, Mooney scored 268 runs on this ground in five matches at an average of 89.33.
  • Her opening partner, Alyssa Healy, was enduring a quiet 2020 until she burst into life in the T20 World Cup Final (75 off 39 balls). She has the second-most runs against NZ out of any current Australia player (391).
  • Suzie Bates has the most runs in Australia-NZ T20Is, with an 911 runs (and 23 wickets) to her name. These runs come at a respectable T20 average of 26.03, so she will be key for NZ.
  • As will Sophie Devine. She has 374 runs and 24 wickets in 23 T20Is against Australia. Also, Devine is having a splendid 2020 with the bat: 8 T20Is, 429 runs, avg. 71.50, SR 132.40, 4 50s, 1 100.
  • Devine dominated the Women’s Big Bash League in 2019, scoring the most runs (769, avg. 76.90). Plus, she is coming off 89 runs in the 40-over warm up match vs Australia on Thursday.
  • Meg Lanning has the most runs of any current Australia player in AUS-NZ T20Is (489).
  • Sophie Molineux scored 57 and took 5/29 in a superb all-round in the 40-over warm up match vs NZ on Thursday. Rachael Haynes also starred, scoring 54.
  • Amy Satterthwaite is back from maternity leave. She scored 48 in the warm up match, and looked in good touch.
  • Watch out for the very talented Amelia Kerr. The young all-rounder took six wickets in four matches at the T20 World Cup, and scored a superb 34* (19) vs India.
  • Georgia Wareham was player of the match against NZ in the World Cup earlier this year (3/17). Megan Schutt took 3/23 in the same match.
  • Also, Schutt has 18 wickets in 15 matches vs NZ. Lea Tahuhu will be key for NZ, as she has 13 wickets in 16 T20Is vs Australia.
  • Jess Jonassen has been superb for Australia in 2020: 11 T20Is, 17 wickets, avg. 13.52.
AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Australia Women vs New Zealand Women Key Players | Allan Border Field Brisbane Pitch Report | Weather Report
AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20I Preview Dream11: Alyssa Healy will be key.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 41, Australia 21, New Zealand 19, 1 abandoned.
  • Australia have won their past five T20Is against New Zealand.
  • New Zealand’s last win against Australia in a T20I was back in 2017.
  • Amy Satterthwaite is set to play her 100th T20I match.
  • Beth Mooney scored 80 (retired out) in the warm up match vs NZ on Thursday.

Possible Playing 11

Ellyse Perry is out of the first T20I as she has undertaken minimal training in the leadup to the match up. Earlier in the year, Perry said she was willing to miss part of the new season to fully recover from a serious hamstring injury.

There is a chance that seamer Belinda Vakarewa could make her debut in this T20I, after impressing in the practice match. Speaking on the eve of the match, captain Meg Lanning said, “Belinda Vakarewa was really impressive, especially with the new ball. Suzie Bates came out pretty hard at her and she was able to hold her back and get her wicket in the end,” she said.

Sophie Molineux did brilliantly in the warm-up match (half century and five wickets), and is a good chance to play.

Australia: 1. Alyssa Healy (wk), 2. Beth Mooney, 3. Meg Lanning (c), 4. Ashleigh Gardner, 5. Rachael Haynes, 6. Sophie Molineux, 7. Jess Jonassen, 8. Nicola Carey, 9. Georgia Wareham/Molly Strano, 10. Delissa Kimmince, 11. Megan Schutt

Amy Sattherthwaite is set to slot into New Zealand’s top order in her first international after maternity leave. She played well in the warm up match, scoring 48 runs. Also, Holly Huddlestone performed well in the warm up match, dismissing both Alyssa Healy and Meg Lanning.

New Zealand: 1. Sophie Devine (c), 2. Jess Watkin, 3. Suzie Bates, 4. Amy Satterthwaite, 5. Maddy Green, 6. Katey Martin (wk), 7. Amelia Kerr, 8. Hayley Jensen, 9. Jess Kerr, 10. Holly Huddlestone, 11. Lea Tahuhu

Allan Border Field Brisbane Pitch and Weather Report

The Allan Border Field track is usually on the slower side. In the men’s domestic one day (50 overs) competition in 2019, the average first innings score was 227.25 in four matches, with the chasing team winning all four matches. In the Women’s Big Bash League 2019, the average first innings score was 141.25 in eight matches. The chasing team won seven times in those eight matches.

The weather forecast looks outstanding, with a temperature of 25 degrees and sunshine.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Australia Women vs New Zealand Women Key Players | Allan Border Field Brisbane Pitch Report | Weather Report
AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20I Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20 Dream11 Prediction Today | Australia Women vs New Zealand Women Key Players | Allan Border Field Brisbane Pitch Report | Weather Report
AUS-W vs NZ-W 1st T20I Dream11 Prediction

Fancy a bet on the cricket? today.

Match Prediction

Australia look good for a win against a side they have an excellent recent record against. New Zealand’s experienced players need to lead the way, but Australia, even without Perry, look a well-rounded team.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Do you write cricket blogs? Here are 6 tips to writing great cricket blogs!

IPL 2020 Day 6 Twitter Reactions: KL & KXIP thrash RCB

Charbel Coorey
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IPL 2020 Day 6 Twitter Reactions: KL & KXIP thrash RCB

IPL 2020 Day 6 Twitter Reactions: Kings XI thrash RCB | IPL 2020 Day 6 Twitter reactions as Kings XI Punjab, led by KL Rahul, thrashed RCB by 97 runs

KL Rahul left no stone unturned to take his team beyond the finishing line, dismantling Royal Challengers Bangalore’s hopes for second victory at the Dubai International Stadium on Thursday. Kings XI Punjab posted 206 runs for three in 20 overs, and RCB were never in the hunt, bundled out for 109 in 17 overs. RCB captain Virat Kohli dropped two crucial catches of former RCB player KL Rahul, which eventually made things very tricky for the them.

Rahul’s 132 in 69 balls was the first century of 2020 and his second in IPL. Also, it is the highest ever score by an Indian player in IPL history. RCB, on the other hand, started off with a poor chase and lost their first three wickets in the first three overs including captain Kohli, who was dismissed by Sheldon Cottrell. The RCB and IPL fans took to social media to share their disappointment, and the meme fest followed.

Here are some of the quirky reactions from Twitter:

Kohli had tried pulling Josh Philippe ahead of him, so that he and AB would bring more depth in the middle overs as the chase was high. However, things fell apart. “He’s batted at the top of the order for Western Australia. He’s done well in the Big Bash as well. It’s still early days in the tournament, so we thought we’ll try and maximize his ability, and see how we go from there on because I know I can bat at No. 3 if I need to, and we have a solid opening partnership. So we just thought chasing a big total tonight we’ll give ourselves a bit more depth in the middle overs and Josh can go in and play a counterattacking knock, then AB and myself can really put pressure in the middle overs. But it just didn’t come off”, Kohli said in the post-match presentation.

Written by Anjali Jha. Follow Anjali on Twitter today.

IPL 2020 Match 7: CSK vs DC Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
IPL 2020 Match 7: CSK vs DC Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IPL 2020 Match 7: CSK vs DC Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | CSK vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report

What’s an IPL tournament without significant focus on MS Dhoni?

The Chennai Super Kings captain was the centre of attention a few days ago, after sending himself in at number 7 and hitting three sixes when the game against Rajasthan was all but over. Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir was particularly vocal about Dhoni’s approach, which will have viewers waiting to see what CSK’s tactics will be in their third match of IPL 2020.

Truth be told, CSK might very well be glad that they move away from Sharjah for a little while. Their bowlers – particularly Piyush Chawla and Lungi Ngidi – struggled badly on the smaller field, copping the brunt of Sanju Samson, Steve Smith and Jofra Archer. The longer boundaries of Dubai will provide CSK’s bowlers with the extra insurance they desire, and will be looking to get back to winning ways after defeating MI first up and then losing to Rajasthan.

It was a whirlwind first match for Delhi Capitals five days ago, beating KXIP in a thrilling super over. Their record against CSK is woeful, so they will be banking on their new-found confidence since 2019 to help them over the line here. However, their tendency to collapse with the bat is an area where they need to improve, especially given Marcus Stoinis showed he can hit big in the death overs. With Kagiso Rabada, a genuine Purple Cap contender, leading the bowling attack brilliantly, DC can go into the match with strong belief that they can win their second of as many games in 2020.

Another thing to keep an eye on is the injury concerns in both camps. For CSK, Ambati Rayudu, who performed billiantly in game one, is down with a hamstring niggle, and is very unlikely to play. For DC, spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who is so important to the Delhi side, will also be assessed. Ashwin did say he felt fine after the KXIP match, but the decision will ultimately come down to whether management feel it is worth playing him with any niggle so early in the season.

Also read: How many of these IPL 2020 predictions will come true?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • Eyes on MS Dhoni. When he bats at five or higher in IPL, CSK has a win percentage of 57%. When he bats at six or lower, this drops to 37%.
  • Also, Dhoni has the most runs in CSK-DC matches (529, avg. 40.69). Last season, Dhoni hit 32* (35) and 44* (22) against DC during the league stage.
  • What a performance by Marcus Stoinis for DC vs KXIP. He turned the match with an incredible 53 off 21 balls, before taking two wickets in the final over to force a Super Over (2/29).
  • Faf du Plessis has been in outstanding form in IPL 2020, with scores of 58* (44) and 72 (37). Also, du Plessis was player of the match in Qualifier 2 against DC in IPL 2019 (50 off 39 balls).
  • Shikhar Dhawan will be key for DC at the top of the order. In 21 matches against CSK, Dhawan has struck 641 runs at an avg. of 35.61 (SR 122.56). This includes 166 runs for Delhi against CSK at an average of 41.50.
  • Shreyas Iyer looked in good touch vs KXIP in DC’s last match (39 off 32 balls). Also, Iyer made three starts against CSK in 2019 (18, 44 and 13). Can he build on the starts and make a significant contribution?
  • Like Iyer, can Rishabh Pant build on his own starts? His last two IPL campaigns have been excellent: A total of 1,172 runs, avg. 45.08, SR: 173.89.
  • Shane Watson looked promising in his knock of 33 (21) vs RR last match. Also, Watson struck 50 off 32 balls vs DC in IPL 2019, Qualifier 2.
  • Sam Curran has been a breath of fresh air for CSK. He has taken four wickets in two matches (1/28 and 3/38), and is capable of producing important cameos with the bat (18 off 6 balls and 17 off 6 balls so far in 2020).
  • Kagiso Rabada continues to impress. Shreyas Iyer said that all is fine with KG at the backend of an innings. His performance vs KXIP (2/28 & two Super Over wickets) shows he can build on his superb campaign in 2019, where he took 25 wickets in 12 matches.
  • R Ashwin has six wickets in four matches vs CSK.
  • Time for CSK to unleash Imran Tahir? He was the top wicket-taker in IPL 2019 (26), including six wickets in three games vs DC.
  • Can Deepak Chahar cause problems for DC’s inconsistent top order? Chahar has taken 26 wickets in the powerplay overs since IPL 2018.
IPL 2020 Match 7: CSK vs DC Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | CSK vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report | Weather Report
IPL 2020 Match 7: CSK vs DC Preview Dream11 – Rishabh Pant to fire?

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 21, CSK 15, DC 6.
  • CSK have won four of the last six matches against DC since IPL 2018.
  • Will CSK play Lungi Ngidi, given his great record vs Rishabh Pant? Six balls, seven runs, two dismissals.
  • Axar Patel has a magnificent record vs Shane Watson in IPL: 38 balls, 42 runs, five dismissals.
  • Kagiso Rabada has picked up at least two wickets in each of his last eight IPL matches. If he achieves the same today, he will break Lasith Malinga’s record.

Possible Playing 11

What is CSK’s best batting lineup? Dhoni at five? The statistics say yes. So, it will be interesting to see if he pushes himself up the order today. Also, Murali Vijay has looked out of sorts, and could be replaced by someone like Shardul Thakur, who can hit late runs and provide Dhoni with another bowling option. Plus, CSK could persist with Piyush Chawla due to the bigger boundaries of Dubai.

Ambati Rayudu is likely to sit out as CSK don’t want to risk him (details here). Also, Lungi Ngidi has been expensive in IPL 2020 so far, so they might look to replace him with Imran Tahir.

Also read: The brilliance of the MS Dhoni & Suresh Raina’s partnership

Chennai Super Kings: 1. Shane Watson, 2. Faf du Plessis, 3. Ruturaj Gaikwad, 4. Kedar Jadhav, 5. MS Dhoni (c & wk), 6. Sam Curran, 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. Shardul Thakur, 9. Deepak Chahar, 10. Piyush Chawla, 11. Imran Tahir/Lungi Ngidi

Whether DC persist with the same team that beat KXIP depends on R Ashwin’s fitness. Reports suggest he will be assessed today (details here).

Delhi Capitals: 1. Prithvi Shaw, 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Shimron Hetmyer, 4. Shreyas Iyer (c), 5. Rishabh Pant (wk), 6. Marcus Stoinis, 7. Axar Patel, 8. R Ashwin/Amit Mishra, 9. Kagiso Rabada, 10. Anrich Norje, 11. Mohit Sharma

Dubai Pitch and Weather Report

KL Rahul smashed 132* off 69 balls at Dubai yesterday – the highest ever score by an Indian player in IPL history. While RCB performed poorly with bat and ball, the pitch looked a good one for batting. With grass still evident on the track, more of the same can be expected here.

Interestingly, the team batting first has won all three games so far at Dubai in IPL 2020. There is the issue of dew in the second innings, but a good score first up can be difficult to chase. More hot weather is on the way.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

IPL 2020 Match 7: CSK vs DC Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | CSK vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report | Weather Report
IPL 2020 Match 7: CSK vs DC Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

IPL 2020 Match 7: CSK vs DC Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | CSK vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report | Weather Report
IPL 2020 Match 7: CSK vs DC Dream11 Prediction

Fancy a bet on the cricket? today.

Match Prediction

CSK have a superb record against DC, and will be keen to bounce back after a loss last match vs RR. DC certainly have the players to cause problems, but CSK’s greater reliability could come up trumps. Perhaps a lot depends on where Dhoni chooses to bat.

Thanks for reading!

What is Chennai Super Kings’ best batting lineup?

Vaibhav Tripathi
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What is Chennai Super Kings’ best batting lineup?

What is Chennai Super Kings’ best batting lineup? | Discussing what CSK’s top 7 should be in their quest for the IPL 2020 Title

Chennai Super Kings started their IPL 2020 campaign with a last-over win over the Mumbai Indians in the season opener. In their next assignment against Rajasthan Royals, chasing a total of 217 at the iconic Sharjah, they didn’t make a brisk start and that resulted in wickets in quick succession.

Chasing a big total, all eyes were on MS Dhoni.

However, Dhoni again baffled everyone when he promoted the likes of Sam Curran and Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of him. Dhoni came in at 7 and when he launched sixes, it was already too late for CSK. This move also caught an eye of many former cricketers, most notably Gautam Gambhir, questioning his batting position and approach. MS himself said after the match that lack of match practice since the World Cup Semi Final and to try new things in the early stage of the tournament made him take that decision.

What this suggests is that CSK is still trying to find their perfect combination. So, let’s take a look at what could be CSK’s best top 7 to best enable them to pick up their fourth IPL Title:

1. Shane Watson

What is Chennai Super Kings' best batting lineup? | Discussing what CSK's top 7 should be in their quest for the IPL 2020 Title
What is Chennai Super Kings’ best batting lineup? Watson to open.

The dynamic opener is a vital cog in the CSK batting lineup. When on song, Watson can be as destructive as anyone. The experience of Watson and his ability to clear the ropes will makes him the best option for the opening slot.

2. Ruturaj Gaikwad

The 23-year-old sensation, Ruturaj Gaikwad, who didn’t feature in a single game before IPL 2020, was retained by the franchise and that suggests that they’re investing in him.

And Ruturaj’s record for his domestic team Maharashtra and India A suggests why they did so. With Murali Vijay not firing at the top, this gives him a chance to showcase his talent. The promising top-order batsman has the skill to build the innings and switch gears when the situation demands, making him an ideal choice to partner Watson at the top.

3. Faf du Plessis

What is Chennai Super Kings' best batting lineup? | Discussing what CSK's top 7 should be in their quest for the IPL 2020 Title
What is Chennai Super Kings’ best batting lineup? Faf du Plessis has been excellent.

After Raina pulled out of this edition of the IPL, the question was who’ll play his role in the team, i.e. who’ll bat at 3. Dhoni decided to go with Faf at 3 and it seems like Faf is enjoying this role as he has started the tournament with a bang: two consecutive half-centuries in two games.

Faf is the best suited to play the role of an anchor in this team as he has done this for his country in the past. The thing with Faf is he adapts to the situations and conditions well and then decides his tempo accordingly.

4. Ambati Rayudu

Ambati Rayudu started his journey with the franchise as an opener and now he has made the number 4 position his own. Rayudu has the game to bat anywhere in the batting order. He’s a very valuable player to this batting line-up, especially with tracks expected to be on the slower side in the later phase of the tournament. Before the start of this season, he accumulated 502 runs batting in the middle overs with an average of 41.83 coming at a strike rate of 125.19.

Rayudu’s part in the middle order will hold a key to CSK’s trophy hunt this year.

5. MS Dhoni

What is Chennai Super Kings' best batting lineup? | Discussing what CSK's top 7 should be in their quest for the IPL 2020 Title
What is Chennai Super Kings’ best batting lineup? Dhoni must bat in the top 5.

There were some questions raised when he came into bat at 7 in the game vs RR. With age not by his side, MS needs to bat higher up the order and 5 is the position where he should be batting. His numbers suggest the same. While batting at 5, his average is over 50 (50.08) and he strikes at 145.87 with 11 half-centuries to his name. The Thala of CSK will be playing as a floater like he has been doing since the last two years, his batting number will depend more on the number of overs left in an innings and the match situation.

Why MS Dhoni shouldn’t bat at 7:

  • He takes his time before going after the bowlers, so batting at 7 will mean he has to go from ball one which obviously is a difficult task for any batsman.
  • MSD will have more responsibility on his shoulders in absence of his trusted lieutenant Suresh Raina. Batting higher up the order will give him the desired opportunity to take his time early on and finishing up things in his style.

6. Kedar Jadhav

Not a big Striker of the ball, but MSD’s one of the most trusted players, Kedar Jadhav is one who’s very good at finding the gaps. He’s a very Street smart player, can play those cheeky shots, and can accumulate runs at a healthy strike-rate. With the top order already filled, Kedar has to find a way to score runs at 6. This isn’t new to him as he has batted at 6 for India as well, the format was different but his role was the same.

7. Ravindra Jadeja/Sam Curran

If CSK choose Jadeja or Curran for the top 7, the selected player will be the only left-hander in the top 7. With Raina not there, it’s most likely that MS might use either as a pinch hitter (as we saw with Curran), but again it all depends on the situations. Also, in the nets, Jadeja was particularly working on his ball-striking, preparing himself to face the minimum number of balls in an innings and to play a good hand with the bat. So, CSK have options here.

Another toss-up will be between Bravo and Curran. Bravo, who’s been their proven performer in the past, and Curran who already has impressed many with his all-round skills. Bravo of late has found to be guilty of scoring at a low strike rate with the bat in death overs whereas Curran’s addition has given the cushion to MSD and Jadeja.

To further strengthen their batting line-up, they can swap in Tahir for Lungi Ngidi, so that Shardul Thakur can come in place of Piyush Chawla. Shardul provides something extra with the bat. On some occasions, he has shown his potential with the bat for CSK and for the Indian team as well.

So, for CSK to go far in IPL 2020, they will need to nail down their batting lineup. Given Dhoni’s experience and know-how, you expect him to.

Written by Vaibhav Tripathi. Follow Vaibhav on Twitter today.

Dean Jones passes away: A fan’s tribute to a cricketing legend

Charbel Coorey
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Dean Jones passes away: A fan’s tribute to a cricketing legend

Dean Jones passes away: A fan’s tribute to a cricketing legend | Australia cricket legend Dean Jones passes away: A tribute to the legend.

Shock. Total shock. After catching up with a friend for dinner, I came back home to watch some rugby league before attention turns fully to another day of IPL 2020. Then, out of nowhere, I see “Dean Jones 1961-2020” appear on the screen, and wonder if my eyes are deceiving me. Surely not. Surely.

It was meant to be another day of coverage for the great Dean Jones, part of Star Sport’s Select Dugout commentary team for the IPL. Instead, the whole cricketing world is stunned at his sudden passing due to cardiac arrest, aged only 59. The sheer number of tributes and outpouring of emotion is testament to the man Jones was – passionate, enthusiastic and incredibly likeable.

Dean Jones passes away: A fan's tribute to a cricketing legend | Australia cricket legend Dean Jones passes away: A tribute to the legend.
September 19, 2020. The look on Dean Jones’ face says it all. He just loved cricket.

When describing a great player, one can refer to whether you can count on that player in times of need. Against the magnificent West Indian juggernaut of the 80s, the packed stadium of Australian fans, and millions at home, always believed Australia could win if Jones has one of his great days. And those great days were in spades, with 6,068 runs at an average of 44.61 in 164 One Day Internationals for his country.

The numbers are outstanding, but there is a greater story. There is a reason why he is referred to as an “icon”, as it’s the manner in which he achieved those numbers. Jones played a key role in revolutionising ODI cricket, executing such incredible skill that made him ahead of his time. Walking down the pitch to a fast bowler was unthinkable then. But Jones did it. Jones turned seemingly risky singles into twos, which reflected his belief and positivity. The brilliant outfielding we see today? Jones helped transform fielding into a key asset for any team. By the late 80s, Jones formed part of a crucial core that enabled Australia to lift the World Cup for the first time, back in 1987.

His white ball prowess was more than matched by his red ball game. 3,631 Test runs at 46.88 are superb numbers in a challenging era for batting. His double century in Chennai against India in 1986 is one that sticks out in particular. It still stands as one of the great Test knocks, as Jones battled not only the Indian bowlers, but so much more. In just his third Test, and first in over two years, Jones dug in for 503 minutes in unspeakable heat, during which he threw up multiple times, including on the pitch. He also couldn’t control his bodily fluids. The conditions were ridiculous, but Jones’ resolve even more so, continuing on to reach 210 that told the world that Australia well and truly has a star in their side.

A superb international career, along with a magnificent first class career comprising of 19,188 runs at 51.85, makes anyone who watched him play quite devastated at the news. However, one thing that has caught my eye is the number of young fans also shocked and devastated, such is the impact Jones had as a commentator and pundit. A man with a sheer love for the game, Jones’ passion and enthusiasm was infectious. Whether it was his memorable call of a young Michael Clarke on debut taking on the great Anil Kumble at Bangalore in 2004, Bangladesh’s great win in their 100th Test in 2017 or his countless displays of gratitude, passion and enthusiasm, Jones had the ability to lift the callers around him, as well as the viewer.

Jones’ sudden passing due to a heart attack leaves a hole in cricket that no one can fill. Dean Jones the commentator, just like the player, was unique, enthusiastic and always seemed to be counting his lucky stars that he was talking about a game he loved so much.

“Deano” will be greatly missed. We thank you for everything. Rest in Peace.

Ambati Rayudu might miss CSK’s next match due to injury

Charbel Coorey
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0
Ambati Rayudu might miss CSK’s next match due to injury

After making a great start to IPL 2020, a mild hamstring niggle might hold Ambati Rayudu back from performing in the upcoming matches. CSK’s top order batsman scored 71 runs in the first match against Mumbai Indians and then missed the second one against Rajasthan Royals.

In a PTI report, CSK’s chief executive officer Kasi Viswanathan said that the injury is not serious however they can’t be sure if Rayudu will play. “It is not a serious injury. He has a mild niggle in hamstring. His participation in next game will be known only on match day”, he said.

Reportedly, Rayudu picked the niggle in the match against Mumbai. The Dhoni-lead team will be playing against Delhi Capitals in Friday. IPL 2020 has started with quite a few early injuries. Recently, Mitchell Marsh has also been ruled out of IPL 2020 due to ankle injury. Jason Holder, West Indies captain and one of the world’s top all-rounders is all set to join Sunrisers Hyderabad.

SRH’s official Twitter account took the time to wish Mitch Marsh a speedy recovery. “Mitchell Marsh has been ruled out due to injury. We wish him a speedy recovery. Jason Holder will replace him for #Dream11IPL 2020,” read the tweet.

Written by Anjali Jha. Follow Anjali on Twitter today.

Pakistan all set to host Zimbabwe for white ball series

Charbel Coorey
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Pakistan all set to host Zimbabwe for white ball series

Pakistan is hosting Zimbabwe for an ODI and T20I series from October 30 to November 10. The country cricket boards is aiming to continue building Pakistan’s reputation and strengthen Pakistan’s ties with other countries by hosting international cricket series.

“The confirmation of the series schedule against Zimbabwe after having successfully hosted Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, as well as Marylebone Cricket Club and HBL Pakistan Super League V, in the 2019-20 season not only strengthens Pakistan’s reputation as a safe and secure country but also a healthy one after having successfully overcome the Covid-19 pandemic,” Zakir Khan said in a PCB statement. “This series is critical to Pakistan as it aspires to qualify directly for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 and, as such, every point in the Super League will count”, he added.

Going by the schedule, the three ODI matches will be held at Multan, after a gap of 12 years. “We have strategically scheduled Zimbabwe’s matches in Multan and Rawalpindi, the venues which will be hosting the National T20 Cup from 30 September to 18 October,” Khan said. “By the time Zimbabwe arrives, we would have gained enough experience on bio-securing hotels, player transportation, the venues and the players’ dressing rooms as delivery of this series will be under strict Covid-19 protocols to ensure the health and safety of all participants.”

Accoridng to the statement, Zimbabwe will be travelling to Pakistan with a 32-member squad and will land on October 20. The players will undergo Covid testing before taking off. After they land in Islamabad, the second round of testing will begin. “Players and player support personnel testing positive during the tour will have to observe a five-day self-isolation and will only be allowed to re-integrate with the side after two negative tests.”

After the ODI series, the teams will indulge in three T20 from November 7 to November 10 in Rawalpindi.

Pakistan vs Zimbabwe schedule:

Oct 30 – 1st ODI, Multan

Nov 1 – 2nd ODI, Multan

Nov 3 – 3rd ODI, Multan

Nov 7 – 1st T20I, Rawalpindi

Nov 8 – 2nd T20I, Rawalpindi

Nov 10 – 3rd T20I, Rawalpindi

Written by Anjali Jha. Follow Anjali on Twitter today.

No doubt that there’s going to be success: Mark Boucher

Charbel Coorey
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No doubt that there’s going to be success: Mark Boucher

South African cricket is in need of an urgent overhaul and revamp. The Proteas’ men’s team is positioned in lowly sixth spot in the ICC Test Rankings and occupies fifth place in both the ODI and T20I standings. Now, head coach Mark Boucher, along with his assistant Enoch Nkwe, are looking to turn this situation around.

Moreover, Cricket South Africa (CSA) is finalizing the future international and domestic fixtures of the team. The board is engaged in administrative mayhem currently, but Boucher is confident in improving the performances of the side on the field. Last month, the team took part in a culture camp at Skukuza in Mpumalanga. Apparently, there are now talks of formulating a new era for South African cricket. Boucher sheds light on the same.

“It was important for this team to create a new identity. It [just] happened a little bit later than expected. It was good to have a deeper squad as well. I haven’t really been given the opportunity to meet a lot of them personally so it was really nice to catch up with them – see a couple of new faces and see a couple of old faces‚ spend a bit of time together and get into the nitty-gritties about where we want to go as a team,” the former wicketkeeper-batsman was quoted as saying by Times Live.

The 43-year-old also hinted of bringing in a change in the attitude of the players. He observed that he didn’t want the bunch of cricketers to be a nice group of guys and be placed at the eighth spot in the world rankings. He added, “We’re all aligned in the right direction‚ and although it’s all still words – we still need to go out there and try and live it‚ rather than have it be words coming out of our mouths. I’m happy that the players are happy‚ but now the hard work starts.”

Boucher stressed on the importance of match practice. He expressed his satisfaction at some of his players taking part in the ongoing Indian Premier League as they would get some game-time for their respective franchises.

The stalwart hoped for the players to drive on the vision that they have developed for themselves once the group gets back to playing together. He admitted that as the side is young, they are prone to commit some mistakes. However, learning from those errors will make them a better team, according to Boucher.

The head coach stated, “I do believe that we’ve got the talent to do that and if we play in that sort of way‚ I have no doubt that there’s going to be success.”

“The players are keen to try something different in order to get different results‚ especially when we go to big tournaments,” he concluded.

Written by Anjali Jha. Follow Anjali on Twitter today.

IPL 2020 Match 6: KXIP vs RCB Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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IPL 2020 Match 6: KXIP vs RCB Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IPL 2020 Match 6: KXIP vs RCB Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | KXIP vs RCB Dream11 Prediction Today | Kings XI Punjab vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report

Heading into IPL 2020, two of the big questions were whether Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kings XI Punjab would finally escape from the depths of underachievement. However, after a game each in IPL 2020, one can safely say that both teams still have significant flaws.

For example, did RCB’s playing XI against SRH suggest that there is enough quality in the middle-lower order in case the top four doesn’t have a great day? Is Josh Philippe, a player who bats at the top in T20s, the answer at five? What about the likes of Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar as the finishers? Also, is the death bowling in good hands, especially if Chris Morris is unable to play due to a lingering side strain?

Similar applies to Kings XI Punjab. After a crazy match against DC, where the momentum ebbed and flowed throughout the contest, KXIP also have questions about their death bowling and middle order batting. These are areas they looked to rectify in the auction with the additions of the likes of Chris Jordan and Glenn Maxwell, but both had underwhelming returns first up. So, will KXIP stick with Jordan for this match, after going for 30 in a game-changing over last time out? How well can the middle order – which looks good on paper – perform?

However, it’s not fair to just harp on the negatives. RCB’s fightback with the ball vs SRH, courtesy of the brilliant and smart Yuzvendra Chahal, was a sight to behold. As was Devdutt Padikkal’s glittering debut, before the great AB de Villiers added the finishing touches. For KXIP, Mohammed Shami’s great spell of 3/15 vs DC, Ravi Bishnoi’s own promising debut, and Mayank Agarwal’s superb knock means that KL Rahul’s men also have positives to build on.

It makes for a cracking contest; one where you can’t be exactly sure which way the game will go, even if one team looks to be well on top. Bring it on.

Also read: Will RCB and KXIP make the playoffs in IPL 2020? CricBlog’s tournament predictions!

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • One of RCB’s biggest mistakes was letting KL Rahul go. The talented keeper-batsman is now just two runs away from 2,000 in IPL cricket, at an average of 41.63.
  • Also, Rahul has had a superb last couple of seasons in the IPL. His 2018 and 2019 campaigns saw him muster 1,252 runs, at 54.43, SR: 146.60. Plus, he has 178 runs in six innings vs RCB, at an average of 35.60 and SR of 147.11.
  • How impressive did Devdutt Padikkal look on IPL debut? His 56 (42) set up RCB’s innings vs SRH. However, the extra pace of Mohammed Shami makes for an interesting battle. Can the pacer build on his excellent 3/15 last game?
  • AB de Villiers’ 30-ball 51 vs SRH was a thing of beauty. And, there is every chance he could perform vs KXIP, as his record against them is simply outstanding: 21 matches, 680 runs, avg. 52.31, SR 160.76.
  • de Villiers and Virat Kohli still have a key role to play for RCB. One feels that Ravi Bishnoi’s googlies vs Kohli/ABD will make for interesting viewing. Kohli has 632 runs at an avg. 30.10 (SR 131.12) vs KXIP.
  • Mayank Agarwal, another KXIP player who used to play for RCB, was outstanding last game (89 off 60 balls). His overall record vs RCB isn’t too flash (avg. 18.71 in 7 matches), but he has the quality to deliver today.
  • If Glenn Maxwell fires, then KXIP looks a completely different unit. Like Agarwal, Maxwell needs to build on an underwhelming record vs RCB (8 matches, 98 runs, avg. 14.00). He recently scored an ODI century for Australia.
  • Yuzvendra Chahal has the most wickets in RCB-KXIP matches (19). He was player of the match vs SRH with 3/18, with his excellent mind combining well with his superb control.
  • Sheldon Cottrell will have a key role to play in both the powerplay and death overs for KXIP. He is coming off 2/24 in his four overs vs DC, but will need to improve on his death bowling.
  • If KXIP stick with Chris Jordan, he needs to repay the faith after a tough outing a few nights ago vs DC.
  • Navdeep Saini bowled beautifully in RCB’s opening game, taking 2/25. Dale Steyn (1/33) and Umesh Yadav (0/48) will look for more polished performances this time around. Umesh has a great record vs KXIP: 29 wickets in 18 games.
IPL 2020 Match 6: KXIP vs RCB Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | KXIP vs RCB Dream11 Prediction Today | Kings XI Punjab vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report | Weather Report
IPL 2020 Match 6: KXIP vs RCB Preview Dream11: AB de Villiers has an incredible record vs KXIP.

Stats and Facts

  • In 24 games, both teams have won 12 times, indicating that this match could be very tight as two evenly matched teams go head-to-head. However, RCB have won the last four matches between the teams.
  • RCB could save Yuzvendra Chahal for Glenn Maxwell. Chahal has dismissed Maxwell five times in eight T20s. However, Maxwell has scored well: 80 runs off 52 balls.
  • In all T20s since the start of 2018, Virat Kohli has been dismissed by the googly three times in 32 balls. So, could Ravi Bishnoi be KXIP’s go-to man against Kohli, particularly early on?
  • Since the start of last season, both RCB (11.4) and KXIP (10.8) are in the bottom three in terms of economy rate in the death overs (16-20).
  • Moeen Ali has a strike rate of 158.20 in the middle overs since the start of IPL 2019. Will RCB pick him today?
  • If KL Rahul reaches 2,000 runs today, he will become the quickest Indian to 2,000 IPL runs (60 innings), beating Sachin Tendulkar (63 innings). Chris Gayle (48) and Shaun Marsh (52) are the two quickest to the mark.
  • Dale Steyn needs three wickets to reach 100 in IPL.

Possible Playing 11

RCB beat SRH, but there are still question marks over whether the XI they picked is indeed their best. Mike Hesson said that Chris Morris’ side strain could keep him out for another game or two, which suggests he won’t be risked for this match. Also, RCB have a decision to make on whether they bring in Moeen Ali, or keep Josh Philippe. Indeed, dropping Philippe would be very harsh considering he only faced two balls vs SRH.

Royal Challengers Bangalore: 1. Devdutt Padikkal, 2. Aaron Finch, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. AB de Villiers, 5. Josh Philippe (wk)/Moeen Ali, 6. Shivam Dube/Gurkeerat Singh Mann, 7. Washington Sundar, 8. Dale Steyn 9. Umesh Yadav, 10. Navdeep Saini, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal

KXIP captain KL Rahul admitted they made key mistakes (details here). Will KXIP persist with Chris Jordan? His 30-run over vs DC was very costly, and was in the limelight again in a controversial moment late in the game. If KXIP seek to replace him, either all-rounder James Neesham or mystery spinner Mujeeb ur Rahman could come in.

Also, this is an important game for Nicholas Pooran’s confidence, after scoring 0 twice vs DC (in normal innings and Super Over).

Kings XI Punjab: 1. KL Rahul (c & wk), 2. Mayank Agarwal, 3. Karun Nair, 4. Nicholas Pooran, 5. Glenn Maxwell, 6. Sarfaraz Khan, 7. Krishnappa Gowtham, 8. Chris Jordan/Mujeeb ur Rahman/James Neesham, 9. Ravi Bishnoi, 10. Mohammed Shami, 11. Sheldon Cottrell

Dubai Pitch Report and Conditions

Both teams played their opening matches at Dubai, so they will be familiar with the conditions. RCB successfully defended 163, while KXIP just failed to chase 158. This suggests that a score of 160 batting first could be a tough one to chase. But, given the death bowling worries of both teams, there could be big scores, despite the big Dubai boundaries.

Given it is still early in the tournament, there is still expected to be some grass on the pitch. The pace bowlers can generate some decent pace and movement, along with a little bit of uneven bounce (due to uneven covering of grass). Plus, there has been some turn for the wristspinners in particular.

The weather forecast is hot once again, but dew is likely to be a factor. The captain who wins the toss could choose to chase.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

IPL 2020 Match 6: KXIP vs RCB Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | KXIP vs RCB Dream11 Prediction Today | Kings XI Punjab vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report | Weather Report
IPL 2020 Match 6: KXIP vs RCB Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

IPL 2020 Match 6: KXIP vs RCB Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | KXIP vs RCB Dream11 Prediction Today | Kings XI Punjab vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report | Weather Report
IPL 2020 Match 6: KXIP vs RCB Dream11 Prediction

Fancy a bet on the cricket? today.

Match Prediction

Two exciting but unpredictable teams makes for a very interesting contest. One feels the death overs – an area where both struggle – could be crucial in determining the winner. So, KL Rahul might leave Mohammed Shami to bowl an over or two at this stage, which could help KXIP. This one could go down to the wire, with KXIP winning a close one.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Will RCB and KXIP make the playoffs in IPL 2020? CricBlog’s tournament predictions!

Jason Holder joins SRH as Mitchell Marsh ruled out of IPL 2020

Charbel Coorey
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Jason Holder joins SRH as Mitchell Marsh ruled out of IPL 2020

Jason Holder joins SRH as Mitchell Marsh ruled out of IPL 2020

In big news out of IPL 2020, Jason Holder, West Indies captain and one of the world’s top all-rounders, will join Sunrisers Hyderabad for the 2020 season. Holder will come in as a replacement for Australian all-rounder Mitch Marsh, who is out of the tournament due to an ankle injury suffered in SRH’s loss to RCB.

The West Indian all-rounder has played just 11 IPL matches, with the last being in 2016. However, Holder’s game has come on leaps and bounds since then, and can offer significant value to an SRH side that looks to have a very brittle middle order.

Jason Holder will replace Mitchell Marsh, who was enjoying a solid IPL 2020.

SRH’s official Twitter account took the time to wish Mitch Marsh a speedy recovery. “Mitchell Marsh has been ruled out due to injury. We wish him a speedy recovery. Jason Holder will replace him for #Dream11IPL 2020,” read the tweet.

SRH’s new recruit will likely need to quarantine for six days on his arrival to the UAE. If the case, Holder could be available for selection for SRH’s match against Chennai Super Kings on October 3.

Before then, Hyderabad will take on Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals, which are two important games as the men in orange won’t want to fall too far behind too early in a competitive league. Holder’s arrival can provide them with some crucial depth with both bat and ball – something they were lacking vs RCB.

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