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USA Cricket respond after suspension from the ICC

Charbel Coorey
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USA Cricket respond after suspension from the ICC

USA Cricket has responded with a plan of action after they were suspended by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The ICC made this decision at a Board Meeting due to what it termed “repeated and continued breaches” of USA Cricket’s obligation as a member of cricket’s governing body.

In a media release on their official website, USA Cricket says they aim to provide clarity on recent issues and how they can move forward. The board opened up on the challenges they have had with American Cricket Enterprises (ACE), with disputes resulting in “drained resources, distracted leadership, and created instability within the cricketing ecosystem.”

Who are American Cricket Enterprises (ACE)?

ACE is a private consortium and parent company of Major Cricket League (MLC). In 2019, ACE and USA Cricket signed a Term Sheet agreement to help grow the sport in the United States.

However, it has been a rocky road since. In August 2025, USA Cricket announced the termination of its commercial agreement with ACE. It claims ACE failed to meet obligations under the Term Sheet agreement. This includes financial commitments, infrastructure development, organisational structure, and governance responsibilities.

Soon after, ACE took USA Cricket to court, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.

“We’re disappointed with the actions of USA Cricket,” said ACE Chief Executive Johnny Grave. “For the last six years, ACE has been focused on the athletes, fans, and partners who have helped develop US cricket. We have commenced legal proceedings against USA Cricket to prevent the irreparable harm caused by its wrongful termination of the ACE agreement and to protect the thriving cricket community that ACE has cultivated in America.”

USA Cricket opens up on breach of trust from American Cricket Enterprises (ACE)

In their news release, published on November 12, USA Cricket described the ACE partnership as one “built on unequal terms.” Venu Pisike, USA Cricket Chairman, said the organisation faced persistent defiance.

“For six years, USA Cricket sought good-faith cooperation to finalise a fair, balanced agreement,” he said. “Instead, we faced persistent defiance, withheld payments, and increasing attempts to erode our authority as the sport’s National Governing Body.”

“We were made to feel like a tenant in our own house,” the Chairman continued. “Every time we raised compliance issues, the response was intimidation or financial withholding. That is not partnership, that is control through deprivation.”

USA Cricket also provided a PDF attachment summarising the major events leading to their suspension from the ICC. “This record is not intended to assign blame, but to provide an honest account of how the organisation arrived here, and how it plans to rebuild with integrity,” read their news release.

In October, USA Cricket declared bankruptcy. The ongoing crisis has left players considering their future in cricket, as reported by Wisden. It remains to be seen how USA Cricket picks itself up off the canvas.

“USA Cricket is resolute in ensuring that American cricket has a strong, sustainable future. We will continue to work closely with the International Cricket Council, domestic stakeholders, and partners to deliver on this vision,” said Pisike back in August.

For now, USA are still eligible to compete in major tournaments. They will participate in the 2026 T20 World Cup and build-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

USA qualified for the next World Cup courtesy of their magnificent performance in 2024. They qualified for the Super Eights courtesy of a memorable win over Pakistan and dominant victory over Canada.

“Make him feel guilty” – Monty Panesar calls for England media and players to target Steve Smith

Charbel Coorey
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“Make him feel guilty” – Monty Panesar calls for England media and players to target Steve Smith

Monty Panesar has called on the England players and media to target Steve Smith. The former England spinner said the visitors need to get under Smith’s skin by mentioning sandpaper and that it’s not right he’s captain.

Smith will lead Australia in the first Test in Perth with Pat Cummins recovering from a back injury. The number four has a magnificent record as captain, averaging nearly 20 runs more per innings as skipper, but Panesar believes England must sledge Smith to try get him off his game.

England should say that it’s not ethical Steve Smith is the captain – Monty Panesar

“Ben Stokes and the England team have got to make Steve Smith feel guilty and play on that,” Panesar said in an interview with aceodds.com.

“Say something like, ‘I don’t think it’s ethical that he’s the captain, I don’t think he played the game fairly’.

“Really get into him and make him feel guilty about it [sandpaper]. Make him feel like. ‘they’re probably right, I shouldn’t be here, I shouldn’t be doing this.’”

England fans are often quick to mention sandpaper in the seven years since Cape Town. Panesar believes the players and media need to do the same.

“They say, ‘look, we’re getting the ball to swing guys and we’re not even using sandpaper and you’re missing it, what’s going on?’”

“Things like that get into his head because the Australians would do the same,” Panesar continued.

“If it was the opposite, the Australian media would be all over it. They would have said, if it was any of the English players, ‘the cheaters have arrived’. Right?”

The first Ashes Test begins on November 21. Steve Smith averages 56.01 in 37 Tests against England, including 1,417 runs in home Ashes matches.

PAK vs SL 2nd ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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PAK vs SL 2nd ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

After uncertainty regarding the tour, the second ODI between Pakistan and Sri Lanka will go ahead albeit a day later than originally scheduled.

The first ODI between the sides was thriller. The contest ebbed and flowed, with Sri Lanka enjoying a strong start in each innings. However, Pakistan clawed their way back both times, with Salman Agha and Haris Rauf leading the way with bat and ball respectively.

Charith Asalanka’s team will be disappointed at how they let things slip. Their pace bowlers had the ball moving around in the powerplay and had Pakistan in trouble. However, their death bowling left plenty to be desired. Also, a great start with the bat went to waste until Wanindu Hasaranga threatened to pull off a magnificent chase towards the end.

However, take nothing away from Pakistan. Hussain Talat and Mohammad Nawaz were terrific alongside Agha. Also, defending totals is not easy in Rawalpindi where the dew and a true batting pitch makes chasing the way to go. Rauf’s gamechanging spell will be something he will look to repeat once again.

PAK vs SL 2nd ODI 2025 Possible Playing XIs

Abrar Ahmed missed the first ODI. He could return in this game.

Pakistan: 1. Fakhar Zaman, 2. Saim Ayub, 3. Babar Azam, 4. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 5. Salman Agha, 6. Hussain Talat, 7. Mohammad Nawaz, 8. Faheem Ashraf, 9. Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), 10. Haris Rauf, 11. Abrar Ahmed/Naseem Shah

Sri Lanka could look to bat Wanindu Hasaranga higher up the order after his excellent half-century in the first ODI.

Sri Lanka: 1. Pathum Nissanka, 2. Kamil Mishara, 3. Kusal Mendis (wk), 4. Sadeera Samarawickrama, 5. Charith Asalanka (c), 6. Janith Liyanage, 7. Kamindu Mendis, 8. Wanindu Hasaranga, 9. Dushmantha Chameera, 10. Maheesh Theekshana, 11. Asitha Fernando

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report and Weather

In four ODIs since the start of 2023, the average first innings score is 289.75 with the chasing team winning three times. There were also six List A games on this ground last year in the President’s Cup Grade-I (1-Day) tournament. The average first innings score was 258.83 (run rate 5.53), with teams batting first and second winning three games each.

A beautiful, sunny day is forecast with a top of about 22 degrees. Expect the captain who wins the toss to bowl with the possibility of dew.

Fantasy Cricket Tips for PAK vs SL 2nd ODI 2025: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Mohammad Rizwan and Kusal Mendis missed out in the first ODI, but both are still worth a pick in this game. Rizwan has two fifties, a century, and averages 119.33 in seven ODI innings against Sri Lanka. Mendis has three consecutive ducks in international cricket, but has a fifty and hundred in six ODIs against Pakistan.

Key batter picks:

  • Pathum Nissanka started well in the first ODI, although he was dropped early. He is one of Sri Lanka’s key players. Since the start of 2023, Nissanka has scored 2,198 runs at an average of 45.8 and strike rate of 92.
  • Babar Azam is picked in just 52.39% of Dream11 teams. He is struggling for his best form but can deliver on his day. Pakistan’s number three averages 51.27 in 12 innings against Sri Lanka (564 runs).

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Wanindu Hasaranga put on a show in the first ODI (3/54 and 59). He has fabulous fantasy value, especially if Sri Lanka fields first and gets to bowl with a dry ball.
  • Salman Ali Agha is having a year to remember in this format. He was man of the match in the first ODI (105*) and is averaging 50.8 in 15 innings in 2025. He is a must-pick in your Dream11 teams in this form.
  • Saim Ayub missed out in the first ODI, but remains a dangerous player especially if Pakistan bats second. He averages 59.8 when chasing compared to 34.3 batting first.

Top bowler picks:

  • Haris Rauf turned the game on Tuesday. He is a genuine wicket-taker and has six wickets in two ODIs against Sri Lanka.
  • Asitha Fernando finished with figures of 1/42 in the first ODI. He could have easily had a few more wickets given how well he bowled in the powerplay. His matchup against Saim Ayub is key. The Pakistan opener is an LBW candidate as he can fall over to the offside.

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Shaheen Shah Afridi has picked up just three wickets in his past four ODIs. He is worth a try in your Dream11 teams especially if Pakistan bowl first.
  • Mohammad Nawaz picked up 112 Dream11 points in the opening match. He offers all-round value as a finisher and key bowler in the middle overs.
  • Charith Asalanka wasn’t at his fluent best in the first ODI, but he is still one of Sri Lanka’s most consistent players. The skipper averages 49.6 in ODIs since the start of 2024.
  • Kamil Mishara looked promising on debut and is a decent Dream11 pick if you’re looking for more batters.
  • Naseem Shah came back very well in the opening ODI. He has five wickets in his past three matches.

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • Head-to-head in ODIs: 158 matches, Pakistan 94, Sri Lanka 59, 1 tie, 4 N/R.
  • Babar Azam has scored 364 runs at an average of 72.80 and strike rate of 95.78 in ODIs at Rawalpindi.
  • Fakhar Zaman struggled in the first match but he has had success on this ground with 331 runs at a superb average of 110.33 and strike rate of 105.07.
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi vs Kusal Mendis: 36 balls, 45 runs, no wickets.

PAK vs SL 2nd ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction

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 and Dream11 Prediction for the 2nd PAK vs SL ODI on November 113h 2025.
PAK vs SL 2nd ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Rawalpindi Pitch Report and Dream11 Prediction for the 2nd PAK vs SL ODI on November 113h 2025.
PAK vs SL 2nd ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction

PAK vs SL 2nd ODI 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?

Expect another close match. Chasing team is still favoured to win, although Pakistan start as favourites.

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.

“He won’t get a run” – Mark Waugh predicts Ollie Pope will fail in the Ashes

Charbel Coorey
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“He won’t get a run” – Mark Waugh predicts Ollie Pope will fail in the Ashes

Mark Waugh believes Ollie Pope will struggle in the Ashes. According to a report in The Guardian, Pope is poised to retain the number three spot ahead of Jacob Bethell. The former was selected as England’s number three in their tour match against England Lions at Perth.

Mark Waugh predicts Ollie Pope will struggle in the Ashes down under

Speaking on The Grade Cricketer Podcast, Waugh said England’s batting lineup has the potential to perform in Australian conditions, but the number three position is an issue.

“England, you look at their batting lineup, their top three… I think [Ben] Duckett’s a good player, Zak Crawley is a good player on his day but he’s inconsistent. Ollie Pope, he won’t make a run out here, he will not make a run. I’d be surprised if they play him at three.

“He sort of pushes the ball outside offstump,” Waugh said a little earlier in the podcast. “You can get away with it in England, out here he’ll nick those sort of deliveries on these pitches.

“But then you’ve got [Joe] Root who is an elite player. Harry Brook’s so dangerous, bit like Kevin Pietersen. Ben Stokes at six, he can change the game, and then the keeper [Jamie Smith] at seven.

“So it’s a powerful batting lineup with probably their number three their weakness. With Zak Crawley, I don’t mind Zak Crawley, I think he’s a bit dangerous against Australia on these pitches where he just stands and hits on the up.

“So I don’t if they’re a great batting side, but they’ve got some dangerous players.”

Can Ollie Pope produce consistent performances in Australia?

Ollie Pope’s career has been an interesting one. There have been some memorable knocks throughout his 61 Tests – perhaps none more so than the 196 in Hyderabad in 2024. However, the feast or famine nature of his returns has cast doubts as to whether he can influence matches across a whole series.

In that India series, Pope’s 196 made up 62% of his runs as he finished with an average of 31.50. Other examples include his 154 against Sri Lanka last year that made up 78.57% of his runs in three three-match series. Against India earlier this year, Pope’s 106 in the first Test made up 34.64% of his runs in the five-match series played largely on excellent batting pitches.

England assistant coach Marcus Trescothick said he’s “presuming the same No 3 we’ve had for a period of time” will be picked for the Perth Test. “We’ve not really chopped and changed a great deal. It’s definitely not going to change dramatically before the start of an Ashes series,” he said as quoted by The Guardian.

Pope will get the chance to bat on day two of England’s tour match against England Lions at Perth. The Lions hit 382 in 79.3 overs on an action-packed day at Lilac Hill with Ben Stokes taking 6/52.

Josh Hazlewood hamstring injury: Will he be fit for the 1st Ashes Test?

Charbel Coorey
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Josh Hazlewood hamstring injury: Will he be fit for the 1st Ashes Test?

In relieving news for Australia just over a week out from the Ashes, Josh Hazlewood has been cleared of a hamstring strain.

Hazlewood and Sean Abbott did not return to the field after lunch during New South Wales’ Sheffield Shield loss against Victoria at the SCG. Both were being assessed for hamstring concerns, as reported by CODE Sports.

Unfortunately for Abbott, he picked up a strain and is ruled out of the first Test starting November 21.

Josh Hazlewood set to feature in 1st Ashes Test after scans revealed no strain

With a little over a week until the first Ashes Test, Hazlewood will train as planned.

“He [Hazlewood] will train as planned in the lead up to the first Test in Perth,” a Cricket Australia spokesperson said, as quoted by cricket.com.au.

The pace bowler felt hamstring tightness in the Sheffield Shield match. Steve Smith, who was captaining New South Wales, told Hazlewood to leave the field immediately and get it checked.

“He [Hazlewood] literally bowled his last ball and I looked at him and said, ‘how are you going?’ Smith said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “He’s like, ‘I’m a bit tight in my hamstring.’ I was like, ‘Get off the field. Disappear. You’re done, go and figure it out.’ Fortunately, it was just some tightness and he’s good.

“It’s hard when you’re playing in a game and you want to try and do well for your state as well,” Smith continued. “Then you’ve got an eye on, obviously, next week. Didn’t know about Josh [being cleared] while we were still bowling. I was like, I just don’t want Starcy [Mitchell Starc] to get injured. I was like, [Scott] Boland, you can bowl one spell and be done as well. That’ll be good.”

On Wednesday afternoon, Pat Cummins told reporters Hazlewood was feeling positive after his scan.

“Joshy was pretty confident when he walked out, so hopefully shouldn’t be too much of an issue,” Cummins said.

“(Josh) knows his body really well. I think he was a little bit worried. Wanted to get it checked out. I only saw him briefly, but he was a bit happier afterwards.”

Hazlewood is one of Australia’s key players. An injury would have been of huge concern. He has been in terrific form across formats this year and will play a lead role with Pat Cummins out of the first Test at least.

Optus Stadium Perth pitch report for 1st Ashes Test

Charbel Coorey
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Optus Stadium Perth pitch report for 1st Ashes Test

The Perth pitch for the first Ashes Test could play similarly to the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy match a year ago. That is according to head curator Isaac McDonald, who said that surface is ideal.

In that match, 17 wickets fell on day one. Australia bowled India out for 150 and that is where their joy ended. Jasprit Bumrah and India ran rampant, reducing the hosts to 67/7 by stumps to open up the game.

Isaac McDonald reveals Perth pitch plan for first Ashes Test

Macdonald said the focus is not producing a pitch that ensures a Test lasts five days. Rather, he wants the best possible balance between bat and ball.

“As long as us as a curating team try to produce the best surface we can given the circumstances, then that’s our job well done. If we’ve done our absolute best and we’ve executed our plans and are really happy with the end result,’ McDonald told CODE Sports.

“We don’t score the runs or bowl the balls for anyone playing on it, and that’s kind of how we look at it. We don’t really base our success as a groundskeeping team off the result. And we kind of base our success off how well we executed our plans and if the plans were suitable for that time.

“I don’t know if pressure really comes into it at all. I certainly don’t make a (Sheffield) Shield wicket, ‘Oh, this has to go for four days’. Definitely, it’s not playing on my mind how long the game goes. Execute our plans and make sure that’s an absolute cracker, and it’s the best pitch we can produce for that period of time as well.”

McDonald spoke about the pitch for the Australia-India Test. After 17 wickets fell on day one, the surface eased out and India cashed in with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli scoring centuries.

“I think last year (is the one to replicate), albeit, 50 per cent of the wickets fell on day one, the characteristics of that pitch were pretty close,” McDonald said.

“I reflect on that Test match, and there were hundreds and there were five-fers, I mean, that’s a really nice kind of reflection that I look back on. If I took that wicket (which was) eight mil (of grass), if I cut it for six, I don’t think I’m slowing down the pace of that game, regardless if it’s that six (mm),” McDonald continued.

“The build-up to that Test and how good Bumrah was, I think everything Test prep pitch preparation wise, is kind of almost null and void. Like, there’s nothing else left to be done. That’s just almost how the game was going to play out, right? It was just unbelievable.”

Perth Stadium track could be good for batting even from day one

However, cooler conditions in Perth in the leadup to the Ashes has put a different spin on pitch preparation. In hot weather, curators water the pitch more to ensure the surface holds up for longer periods. With the weather expected to be mild throughout the Test, it is not as essential to leave more moisture in the pitch.

“The pitch itself… they don’t need to leave as much moisture in it, it’s not that hot in Perth at the moment,” said Adam Collins on The Final Word Podcast which was recorded at the stadium.

“It’s unseasonably mild, and the curator here has said that they can afford to leave not quite as much moisture in. So, you would think that would mean it would be even better for batting on day one whereas last year (against India), it was going to be hot, they left far more moisture in, and that meant in sessions one and two, it (the ball) did bits.”

Isaac McDonald’s job is on the line after Ashes pitch comments – Ian Healy

Former keeper-batsman Ian Healy was critical of McDonald’s comments. In his column for Sports Nation NZ, Healy wrote that 50% of the wickets shouldn’t fall on day one.

“Early on Day 2, the world’s two best batting orders were out for 150 and 104 respectively,” Healy wrote. “That surely can’t be the best surface his team can prepare. If it happens again, Cricket Australia won’t be happy.”

“Jasprit Bumrah took 8 wickets. Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal made hundreds. That’s a balance between bat and ball, according to McDonald.

“But this needs to be a balance over a much longer period, don’t have 50 per cent of the wickets taken falling in one day.”

The team batting first has won every Test so far at Perth’s Optus Stadium. If faced with another fast, bouncy pitch, it will be an interesting decision for the captain who wins the toss on November 21.

Ian Healy believes Jake Weatherald should open in the Ashes

Charbel Coorey
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Ian Healy believes Jake Weatherald should open in the Ashes

Ian Healy has thrown his support behind Jake Weatherald ahead of the hugely anticipated Ashes series.

The former keeper-batsman believes Weatherald should open with Marnus Labuschagne to slot in at three. Healy then went on to say that Cameron Green should get the nod over Beau Webster provided he is bowling well enough.

“Beau Webster hasn’t convinced me his form his good enough” – Ian Healy on Ashes XI

Jake Weatherald was dismissed for 23 on day one of Tasmania’s clash against South Australia in Hobart. However, Healy said Weatherald shouldn’t be judged too harshly given the bowler-friendly conditions at Bellerive Oval.

“Even though Weatherald didn’t make many yesterday (Monday), I don’t mind him making 23 out of 209,” Healy said on SENQ Breakfast.

“When you lose a toss in Hobart and you see how green that wicket is, it can be dynamite to bat on a Shield wicket.”

Healy then explained that it can be a challenge for Weatherald to bat with a potential Ashes callup on his mind. The 31-year-old was selected in the squad last week and is a chance of featuring in Perth.

“He [Weatherald] would have been working hard and this is the hardest cricket Jake Weatherald will ever play, waiting to see whether he’s going to get selected in the XI,” Healy continued.

“He didn’t fail, he could have made none on that wicket, because plenty of them did.”

Down the order, Healy prefers Cameron Green to play at number six provided he is fit enough to bowl quality overs.

“If Green overcomes his body issues and bowls today (Tuesday) against Queensland, then that could cover the bowling,” said Healy.

“Only recently I had Green at three with Webster in the team as well for bowling security. But Beau hasn’t convinced me that his form is anywhere near as good as it was.”

Green made a good start with the ball in round four of the Sheffield Shield. He took a wicket off his 13th delivery of the day against Queensland at the WACA. By lunch, Green had figures of 1/7 from four overs, displaying good pace and rhythm.

Webster also impressed with the ball, taking 5/50 to help hand Tasmania a first innings lead. However, the incumbent all-rounder has had a slow start to his season since returning from an ankle injury, scoring 11, 8 and 13 in three innings.

Ian Healy’s Australia Ashes XI: 1. Usman Khawaja, 2. Jake Weatherald, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Steve Smith (c), 5. Travis Head, 6. Cameron Green, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Mitchell Starc, 9. Nathan Lyon, 10. Josh Hazlewood, 11. Scott Boland

Twitter Reactions to Ravindra Jadeja reportedly leaving CSK as part of Sam Curran and Sanju Samson RR swap

Charbel Coorey
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Twitter Reactions to Ravindra Jadeja reportedly leaving CSK as part of Sam Curran and Sanju Samson RR swap

Ravindra Jadeja is reportedly set to leave Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. According to ESPNcricinfo, Rajasthan Royals (RR) will trade Sanju Samson to CSK for Jadeja and England’s Sam Curran.

The aforementioned publication also wrote that both CSK and RR have spoken to all three players. The next step is the two franchises sending an expression of interest to the IPL governing council. From there, discussions can be made for a final agreement once players’ written consent is provided. This also needs to be ratified by the governing council.

The news has sent shockwaves across social media. Jadeja and Samson have been key parts of their respective franchises over an extended period of time.

Jadeja has played 254 IPL matches with 186 of them for CSK. His heroics in the 2023 final, where he struck a six and four off the final two balls to seal the title, will live long in the memory of CSK fans. The all-rounder also has the most man-of-the-match awards (16).

Samson is RR’s leading run-scorer (4,027). Since the start of 2022, Samson has often led the way in RR’s title push, scoring 1,636 runs at an average of 34.8 and strike rate of 149.1.

Reactions to reports Jadeja set to leave CSK: Good decision or mistake?

Opinions were split on the news. Some fans believe CSK should persist with Jadeja, while others believe they are making a good move with these trades.

“Selling your priced asset down the river just because you want the new glittery toy thats available is pure betrayal,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).

“Chennai Streets will miss you Ravindra Jadeja. Best wishes for your Journey in Rajasthan Royals,” wrote another.

PAK vs SL 1st ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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PAK vs SL 1st ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Pakistan are in action immediately after their ODI series victory against South Africa. The hosts now take on Sri Lanka in a three-match series starting Tuesday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Sri Lanka are having a solid year in ODIs. Charith Asalanka’s team have won their past three series, beating Australia (2-0), Bangladesh (2-1) and Zimbabwe (2-0). This includes seven wins in their past eight matches.

For Pakistan, they had some shaky moments against an inexperienced South Africa team. However, they stepped up when it mattered to win the series. Abrar Ahmed improved as the series went on as the spinners dominated.

Spin is expected to play a key role again in Rawalpindi. Both teams have experienced and skillful spinners who will be aiming to turn the game in their favour. A good start to the series will be important for both sides.

PAK vs SL 1st ODI 2025 Possible Playing XIs

Pakistan dropped Hasan Nawaz from their squad. The hosts could stick with the same team that won the third ODI against South Africa on Saturday.

Pakistan: 1. Fakhar Zaman, 2. Saim Ayub, 3. Babar Azam, 4. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 5. Salman Agha, 6. Hussain Talat, 7. Mohammad Nawaz, 8. Faheem Ashraf, 9. Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), 10. Abrar Ahmed, 11. Haris Rauf/Naseem Shah

Sri Lanka have the option of opening with Kusal Mendis and handing a debut to Pavan Rathnayake at number four or five. Rathnayake has 2,510 List A runs at an average of 44.82 and strike rate of 92.51.

Another solution is opening with Kamil Mishara, who played in the recent Asia Cup. Mishara has 1,794 List A runs at an average of 40.77 and strike rate of 78.47.

On the bowling front, Dilshan Madushanka is not in the squad due to a knee injury. Also, Matheesha Pathirana is unavailable due to an infection, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.

Sri Lanka: 1. Pathum Nissanka, 2. Kamil Mishara, 3. Kusal Mendis (wk), 4. Sadeera Samarawickrama/Pavan Rathnayake, 5. Charith Asalanka (c), 6. Kamindu Mendis, 7. Wanindu Hasaranga, 8. Janith Liyanage, 9. Dushmantha Chameera, 10. Maheesh Theekshana, 11. Asitha Fernando

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report and Weather

Rawalpindi aided the spinners in the recent Pakistan-South Africa Test. However, this ground is often a good one for batting in limited overs cricket.

In the Champions Trophy, New Zealand (240/5) beat Bangladesh (236/9) with 23 balls to spare. Michael Bracewell (4/26) won player of the match, but it was a good batting surface.

In three ODIs since the start of 2023, the average first innings score is 286.67 with the chasing team winning all three. There were also six List A games on this ground last year in the President’s Cup Grade-I (1-Day) tournament. The average first innings score was 258.83 (run rate 5.53), with teams batting first and second winning three games each.

A beautiful, sunny day is forecast with a top of about 25 degrees. There is the possibility of dew in the second innings.

Fantasy Cricket Tips for PAK vs SL 1st ODI 2025: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Pick Mohammad Rizwan in your Dream11 teams with confidence. Rizwan has scored 353 runs against Sri Lanka at an average of 176.50 and strike rate of 109.62.
  • Kusal Mendis has a century and half-century in five ODIs against Pakistan. Overall, Mendis has 252 runs at an average of 50.40 and strike rate of 112.

Key batter picks:

  • Pathum Nissanka is picked in 84.92% of Dream11 teams. He is one of Sri Lanka’s top batters. Since the start of 2023, Nissanka has struck 2,169 ODI runs at an average of 46.1 and strike rate of 92.3.
  • Babar Azam has struggled for consistent form but enjoys playing against Sri Lanka with three centuries in 11 innings. He has 535 runs at an average of 53.50.

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Wanindu Hasaranga is selected in over 90% of Dream11 teams and with good reason. He hasn’t played Pakistan in an ODI since 2019 but offers plenty of fantasy value as he is a crucial bowler and can provide lower order runs.
  • Saim Ayub is a top Dream11 captaincy pick for this match. He had an excellent all-round series against South Africa, scoring 169 runs and taking two wickets.
  • Charith Asalanka is a consistent performer in ODIs. He has 1,867 runs since 2023 at an average of 42.4 and strike rate of 91.6. In fact, he is averaging above 50 since the beginning of 2024. Also, Asalanka should fill in with some overs.

Key bowler picks:

  • Abrar Ahmed’s battle against the Sri Lankan batting lineup will make for interesting viewing. He took the most wickets (7) in the recent South Africa series.
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi hasn’t been in the best of form recently but has wicket-taking potential in the powerplay and death overs. He can also provide runs down the order.

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Salman Agha had a terrific series against South Africa, scoring 136 runs and taking two wickets. He is suited to the ODI format. Overall in 2025, Agha has scored 556 runs at an average of 42.76 and strike rate of 90.11.
  • Asitha Fernando has the sixth-most wickets in ODIs this year (22) at an average of 17.36 and strike rate of 18.81.
  • Mohammad Nawaz can be a good differential pick. The all-rounder scored 59 and took 2/31 in his last two ODIs.
  • Dushmantha Chameera bowls in the crunch overs, especially the death. This can bring about wicket-taking opportunities.
  • Fakhar Zaman bats when conditions are often the best. He has 332 ODI runs at an average of 36.88 and strike rate of 36.88.

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • Head-to-head in ODIs: 157 matches, Pakistan 93, Sri Lanka 59, 1 tie, 4 N/R.
  • Pakistan beat Sri Lanka 2-0 in their 2019 home ODI series.
  • Babar Azam has scored 335 runs at an average of 83.75 and strike rate of 101.82 in ODIs at Rawalpindi.
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi vs Kusal Mendis: 36 balls, 45 runs, no wickets.

PAK vs SL 1st ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction

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 and Dream11 Prediction for the 1st PAK vs SL ODI on November 11th 2025.
PAK vs SL 1st ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Rawalpindi Pitch Report and Dream11 Prediction for the 1st PAK vs SL ODI on November 11th 2025.
PAK vs SL 1st ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction

PAK vs SL 1st ODI 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?

A match that can go either way. Logically, either team can win this. The chasing team could hold the edge on a ground that often favours batting second.

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.

3 reasons why South Africa can win the Test series in India

Charbel Coorey
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3 reasons why South Africa can win the Test series in India

It is disappointing that the upcoming India-South Africa series comprises of just two Tests. It has the makings of an excellent contest, with World Test Champions South Africa quietly confident of their first Test series win India since 2000.

India start as favourites especially as there are question marks over South Africa’s top seven in these conditions. However, the hosts still have to be on their game to beat the Proteas. South Africa are coming off a drawn series in Pakistan where they lost the toss twice. Their second Test fightback was as good as you’ll see, with their key strengths coming to the fore.

With that said, here are three key reasons why South Africa can win in India this time; a sharp contrast to a very one-sided series in 2019.

3 reasons why South Africa can win series in India for the first time since 2000

1. Long batting lineup filled with class bowlers

Lengthening a batting lineup in Test cricket is often seen as a negative move. Taking 20 wickets is usually sacrificed for extra runs down the order. However, this South African team has the luxury of a deep batting lineup filled with bowling quality, giving them a chance of competing in all conditions.

Imagine having Kagiso Rabada at 11. Plus, the spin trio of Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer and Senuran Muthusamy are streetsmart cricketers who won’t go down without a fight.

In their last Test, South Africa fell to 235/8, still 98 behind Pakistan’s 333 on a turning Rawalpindi pitch. Senuran Muthusamy (89*) combined with Keshav Maharaj (30) and Rabada (71) for stands of 71 and 98 respectively to turn the match around.

2. Top class, experienced spin attack

The likes of Paul Adams and Nicky Boje played key roles in South African Test wins on Indian soil. Imran Tahir and Simon Harmer held their own in 2015. However, they averaged 21.35 and 25.40 respectively in a series where Ashwin (11.12) and Jadeja (10.82) completely dominated.

Over the years, the fast bowlers, namely Shaun Pollock, Lance Klusener, Dale Steyn and Allan Donald, did the major damage in victories. Now, South Africa tour India with their greatest spin attack.

Keshav Maharaj has come a long way since his difficult tour of India in 2019 where he took six wickets at 85.66. The left-armer is now the only Proteas spinner to take 200 wickets. Simon Harmer, who recently took his 1,000th First Class wicket, will be his partner in crime.

The duo took a combined 17 wickets in South Africa’s recent win in Rawalpindi. Senuran Muthusamy, who took 11 wickets in the first Test and is a solid third spin option, won player of the series.

India must guard against producing rank turners. South Africa have the quality in their attack to exploit such conditions.

3. India are a little more vulnerable at home compared to previous years

India are still a force to be reckoned with at home. However, as the 3-0 loss against New Zealand showed, India aren’t as invincible as they were in previous years.

Make no mistake, South Africa’s batting lineup will be tested by India’s classy spin attack that consists of the ever-consistent Ravindra Jadeja, wily Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar whose stocks continue to rise. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant are the kind to peel off centuries for fun when in the mood.

However, the Proteas have more resources at their disposal to compete compared to 2015 and 2019. Belief, execution and avoiding losing wickets in clumps is key. How their top seven fares will make for interesting viewing, plus whether their lower order can deliver with bat and ball.

A fascinating series awaits us, and I can’t wait.

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