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
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.
Selling your priced asset down the river just because you want the new glittery toy thats available is pure betrayal. Ravindra Jadeja's 6 and 4 to win CSK the 2023 title is so easily forgotten by the franchise just because they want Samson. Not surprised since this franchise did…
Hats off to #RR management, Sanga & Manoj Badale, this is not some heist but RR had everything to lose right from the start, the face of their franchise in #SanjuSamson
Getting all-rounders in Jadeja (38 but face of CSK) & utility player in Sam Curran is a good deal!! #CSKhttps://t.co/3u6huBFhgi
CSK trading Ravindra Jadeja for Sanju Samson, this is unreal 😳 ⁰How can any team let go of a player like Jadeja? The heart of CSK, their clutch finisher, their best all-rounder
On other side, we should actually appreciate Rajasthan Royals that after always being on the "majboor" side as they had to release Samson, they have pulled out a pretty good deal out of it.
Ravindra Jadeja should be retained again. He is a gun player for CSK. He has done really, really well for the team over the years.#WhistlePodu#IPL#CSK#IPL2025
Whether the trade goes through or not I'm just happy that CSK is finally moving like a serious club That conventional, experience based CSK has now tried out young talents shifted its approach to modern T20s and is actively engaging in trades too..Big Wpic.twitter.com/i0OKFIFMxn
CSK fans should leave emotions aside & analyse what did Jadeja do in last two seasons being our main finisher ? He flopped like anything..He won us 2023 cup but that doesn't give him free pass to damage us for too long!! Bold move from CSK & hope it doesn't proves them costly 🙏
Jadeja gave everything for CSK — took countless wickets, scored crucial runs, showed brilliant fielding, even won them an IPL final. He gave us unforgettable memories. How can CSK management be this cruel and shameless? 💔 #Jadejapic.twitter.com/kdGcAK8Xfb
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.
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.
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:
PAK vs SL 1st ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
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.
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.
KG Rabada. Can't get enough of this shot. Have lost count how many times I've watched it.pic.twitter.com/NxrVMtptHG
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.
I Genuinely believe we can do a NZ on IND. If India prepares rank turners with the form our spinners has shown in PAK I think the Indian batters might be in for a massive surprise. #CricketTwitterpic.twitter.com/KMWeXjp3vO
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.
Sam Konstas has been left out of Australia’s squad for the first Ashes Test. Truth be told, he shouldn’t have even been in there in the first place, despite the highs of a memorable Boxing Day debut.
That is not a knock on Konstas or his ability. The talent is there. I simply cannot agree with those who say they can’t see what the selectors see. It points to the need for a cultural shift; the kind where fans and media resist the urge to judge too quickly. One good score doesn’t mean a young player is the next Steve Waugh or Ricky Ponting. Similarly, not every failure is a crisis.
Unfortunately, this is the reality Konstas has faced since his twin-ton effort against South Australia to start the 2024/25 Sheffield Shield season. He was catapulted into Test contention off the back of just one standout performance. Every innings since has been met with increased attention, with each score defining his Test chances.
All this while Konstas was learning and evolving with just a handful of Sheffield Shield appearances under his belt.
Sam Konstas’ twin centuries thrust the spotlight on him too quickly.
George Bailey needs to understand the Sam Konstas situation is partly selector-induced
Imagine a life where you are judged by every success or failure. A good score and you’re on the doorstep the Test team. A low score? Your ability is in question and your every move is scrutinised, including questions as to whether you even have a cover drive.
A spot in Australia’s Test team should come from a bedrock of consistent performances and processes. Konstas is a player still learning his game, specifically in terms of his technique and style of play.
At 20 years of age, this is completely fine and it’s time we accept that. The fact that Australia is an ageing team should not mean we unfairly place the weight of national expectation on a player who isn’t quite ready for the top level.
Sam Konstas has shown glimpses of his class but consistency is the next step.
Konstas’ former batting mentor Neil D’Costa warned everyone before last year’s India’s series. “He could be a good player for 100 Tests. If they put him in now, he might only play 10 Tests,” D’Costa told Sydney Morning Herald. “Let him understand the grounds [in Australia], understand the flows [of the game], understand himself and understand the game. If he’s good enough, he will get the runs, and he’ll be in [the team in] a little bit.”
However, it didn’t stop the Australian selectors taking a chance on Konstas, and they haven’t made it easy. They played him as a trump card against India and Jasprit Bumrah, who was near unplayable for most of the 2024/25 series. Konstas played a memorable innings on Boxing Day, but what was his Plan B when fielders were set for the ramp shots?
Soon after, Australia refused to play him in Sri Lanka and then selected the opener for a West Indies series played on very bowler-friendly surfaces.
Consistency is the next step for Konstas
Since then, Konstas scored a fine century for Australia A in India, but has found the going tough in the ongoing Sheffield Shield season as he felt the weight of being the incumbent Test opener. Now that he has been left out of the Ashes squad, it’s important Konstas regularly speaks to people he trusts and focuses on doing well for New South Wales, shutting out any outside noise of a potential Test spot.
If Konstas produces a strong performance in his next one or two Sheffield Shield matches, you just know sections of the media will mention Test cricket. The Australian selectors must ignore this and demand consistency from Konstas, rather than get carried away by the odd good innings.
Sam Konstas needs trusted people around him to give good advice
The great Steve Waugh hit the nail on the head. The former captain sees a bit of his career with Konstas.
“I feel a little bit sorry for Sam Konstas,” Waugh said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “He’s been in and out of the side a bit, and it actually reminds me a bit of myself when I first started playing for Australia. Not fully confident of being in the side, and up and down, and form not quite there. So he’s probably lacking a bit of confidence.”
The great Steve Waugh speaking to the media ahead of the 2025/26 Ashes.
Waugh then provided some advice for Konstas. He called for the 20-year-old to spend time in First Class cricket and understand his game inside out.
“[My advice to Konstas would be] not to listen to everybody. Just trust one or two people around you. Go back to basics. At the end of the day, it’s really hard to learn how to play Test cricket while you’re playing Test cricket, and that’s what happened to me for a few years.
“I wasn’t really that finished product. I’d go back to Shield cricket, try and build some long innings, bat for as long as you can, and just get to know your game really well. And then [when] you walk out to play for Australia, you’re confident in what you’re doing.
“I think, at the moment, he’s guessing how he’s meant to play. There’s a lot of expectations, so he’s probably not playing with a clear mind.”
Konstas has the talent to succeed for Australia. He’s impressed at Under-19 level, has First Class centuries, and has shown glimpses of his shotmaking in limited overs cricket.
However, it’s all just a little too early. Konstas is figuring out his style of play and how to pace his innings, and Test cricket is not the place for that.
If Australian cricket truly wants to nurture its future, it must give Konstas the breathing room to develop at Sheffield Shield level. Time is on his side, so let’s see what he can do without the weight of the world on his shoulders.
Babar Azam’s last century in international cricket came against Nepal in 2023. He scored 151 in their Asia Cup clash, which was in the ODI format ahead of the World Cup in India.
Babar’s wait for a century now stretches to 83 innings across formats. It the most innings without an international hundred for a top four Pakistani batter, beating Mohammad Rizwan’s 82.
In terms of most innings without a century among batters, Babar (83) is equal with Virat Kohli (83) and only behind Sanath Jayasuriya (88), as reported by sportingnews.com.
Babar Azam hasn’t scored a century in international cricket since 2023
Babar’s 151 against Nepal was his 19th ODI hundred. Following that innings, Babar’s ODI batting average stood at an impressive 59.5. It has since dropped to 53.04.
Babar’s numbers in the past two years have been moderate across formats. Here are his stats in Tests, ODIs and T20Is since his last international century.
Tests
ODIs
T20Is
24 innings
33 innings
26 innings
594 runs
1,006 runs
817 runs
Average: 24.8
Average: 33.5
Average: 34.0
4 fifties
9 fifties
7 fifties
Pakistan will be hoping the 31-year-old can rediscover his best form. There is a T20 World Cup coming up in early 2026, followed by an ODI World Cup a year later. In between, Pakistan have a number of important Test matches as part of the World Test Championship.
If Pakistan are to succeed, the classy Babar needs to lead the way.
India have flexed their T20 muscle once again, storming to a 2-1 series lead. Their victory on the Gold Coast was impressive as it wasn’t all smooth sailing, firstly fighting their way to 167/8 and then inflicting a huge collapse on hosts Australia.
Australia now face a must-win game to salvage the series. The batting order faltered badly on a Gold Coast surface that was a little two-paced, and they should enjoy conditions more at the Gabba, weather permitting.
For India, a more impactful innings from Shubman Gill would be the big tick. Also, runs for the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma will come in handy as preparations ramp up for next year’s T20 World Cup.
In the last 10 men’s T20s, the average first innings score is 163.7 at a run rate of 8.38. The chasing team has won the last five matches.
Fast bowlers have taken 89 wickets in this period at an average of 20.29 and economy of 8.32. Spinners have also enjoyed some success with 78 wickets at an average of 22.64 and economy of 8.76.
Unfortunately, there is a chance of showers in Brisbane on Saturday evening. Because of the chance of interruptions, the captain who wins the toss will almost certainly field first.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for AUS vs IND 5th T20 2025: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Josh Inglis is searching for his best form with just 33 runs in three innings so far this series. He has scored 106 runs in five T20s at the Gabba (avg. 35.33, SR 151.43).
Key batter picks:
Abhishek Sharma is the leading run scorer in this series (140) with a strike rate of 159.09. He can fire on a true Gabba pitch. According to SPODA AI data, Abhishek has a 61.54% chance of crossing 20, which is the highest of any player in this match.
Mitchell Marsh has made numerous starts in this series. Is this the day he goes big? He has 100 runs in three T20 knocks at the Gabba at an average of 50 and strike rate of 138.89.
Tim David has looked in strong form and fields in the hotspot positions. In nine T20s at the Gabba, David has smashed 222 runs at an average of 31.71 and strike rate of 151.02.
Shubman Gill has worked hard for his runs in this series, but the fact he bats time means more run-scoring for fantasy cricket. A true Gabba surface should suit him.
Top all-rounder picks:
Axar Patel stormed back to his best at the Gold Coast. He offers plenty at no. 5 or as a finisher, as he showed in the fourth T20I. Also, Axar has 17 wickets in 11 innings against Australia (SR 14.47).
Marcus Stoinis is a genuine captain/vice captain option in Dream11. He has an outstanding batting record on this ground with 380 runs at an average of 54.29 and strike rate of 160.34. Stoinis is also a key bowler in this Australia team.
Key bowler picks:
Nathan Ellis has been superb with his variations. He is the top wicket-taker in this series (9). Ellis also has 11 wickets in seven T20s at the Gabba (avg. 18.36, SR 13.64).
Australia have struggled to deal with Varun Chakravarthy. Spinners have been in the wickets in the last 10 T20s at the Gabba, so back Varun to take more wickets.
Jasprit Bumrah is one wicket away from 100 in T20Is. He hasn’t taken the big wickets in this series, but he and Arshdeep Singh should find swing upfront in the Brisbane conditions.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Xavier Bartlett has the second-most wickets (31) of any player in men’s T20s at the Gabba. He strikes every 12.42 deliveries on average.
Glenn Maxwell offers plenty of fantasy potential. He didn’t bowl in the fourth T20I but there is a chance he bowls in the fifth game. However, Maxwell has a poor batting record on this ground: 11 inns, 154 runs, avg. 14.00, SR 165.59.
Shivam Dube has played a key role with the ball at times in this series. This has resulted in wickets. Also, India could use him as a floater in the batting order which offers fantasy value.
Matt Short opens the batting, so try him in some of your Dream11 teams. However, he averages just 18.50 in eight T20s at the Gabba and still has question marks in terms of how he plays spin.
Suryakumar Yadav has had a quiet series since the Canberra washout. He has the potential to fire with 323 T20I runs in Australia at an average of 46.14 and strike rate of 184.57.
Washington Sundar provides impact down the order and can drift the ball away from the right-handers. Whether India trust him to bowl more overs against Australia’s right-handers remains to be seen.
Other Stats and Important Matchups
Head-to-head in T20Is: Matches 36, Australia 12, India 22, N/R 2.
Adam Zampa in T20s at the Gabba: 10 inns, 11 wickets, avg. 22.64, SR 18.
Abhishek Sharma has been dismissed six times in 80 balls against left-arm seam in T20s this year. Can Ben Dwarshuis get this prized wicket?
Arshdeep Singh vs Mitchell Marsh in all T20s: 27 balls, 45 runs, three wickets.
Jasprit Bumrah vs Glenn Maxwell in all T20s: 65 balls, 75 runs, seven wickets.
Axar Patel vs Marcus Stoinis in all T20s: 52 balls, 36 runs, four wickets.
Axar Patel vs Glenn Maxwell in T20 Internationals: 28 balls, 32 runs, two wickets.
AUS vs IND 5th T20 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:
AUS vs IND 5th T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
AUS vs IND 5th T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction
AUS vs IND 5th T20 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?
India to win, weather permitting.
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.
Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe will compete in a tri-series as part of their T20 World Cup preparations. All three teams will be looking to build form and confidence ahead of the tournament which begins in February 2026.
Zimbabwe, who did not qualify for the 2024 edition, won the Africa Region Final against fellow African World Cup participant Namibia. Sri Lanka qualified for the tournament as co-hosts alongside India, while Pakistan qualified via the T20 rankings.
Pakistan T20I Tri-Series 2025 schedule featuring Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka
The Pakistan T20I Tri-Series begins on November 17. Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will host the first two matches before the action moves to Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
Date
Match
Location
Time (local)
Monday November 17 2025
Pakistan vs Zimbabwe
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
7:30pm
Wednesday November 19 2025
Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
7:30pm
Saturday November 22 2025
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
7:30pm
Sunday November 23 2025
Pakistan vs Zimbabwe
Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
7:30pm
Tuesday November 25 2025
Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe
Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
7:30pm
Thursday November 27 2025
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
7:30pm
Saturday November 29 2025
Final
Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
7:30pm
Pakistan and Sri Lanka’s last T20 assignment was the Asia Cup. Pakistan reached the final while Sri Lanka went winless in the Super Four stage after making a promising start to the tournament.
Zimbabwe will be looking to bounce back after they were swept 3-0 against Afghanistan at home. The final game, where they came close to chasing 211, gave Sikandar Raza plenty of hope.
“The batters challenged themselves after the last game, saying we are much better than what we are producing. We took a lot more honor in our performances today. I think we all needed a kick up the backside today,” Sikandar said in the presentation following the third T20I.
“We challenged one another and kept telling ourselves that we are better than what we were producing. We said, ‘If you look at the last T20 innings we have played against Test nations, this is not who Zimbabwe is. Let’s just demand a lot more from each other because we deserve better.’ We’re really happy with how the boys responded.”
Afghanistan were originally scheduled to participate in this Tri-Series. However, the Afghanistan Cricket Board withdrew in October following a cross-border attack that killed three local cricketers, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
The English press and fans have not wasted time in scrutising Australia’s squad for the first Ashes Test. 14 of the 15 members are above 30 years of age, and England supporters are picking apart the hosts as confidence builds ahead of the big series.
“Jofra Archer will be licking his lips looking at this Dad’s Army Australia Ashes squad”, wrote Lawrence Booth in the Daily Mail.
“It is as if the Australia selectors picked their squad with a plan to please Jofra Archer by ignoring his potency against left-handers,” wrote Nick Hoult in his piece for The Telegraph.
“This has been to the benefit of Australia’s fast-bowling greats Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, but it has undermined their batsmen, which is why their selectors are taking a dart on [Jake] Weatherald, who averages 37.6 in first-class cricket,” continued Hoult.
“…it seems remarkable that weeks before one of the most anticipated Ashes series, Australia still don’t know what their combination is or will be,” former England captain Atherton wrote in his piece titled ‘England can exploit Australia’s muddled thinking over openers’ for The Times.
England fans bullish about their chances after Australia Ashes squad announcement
Australia announced their 15-man squad for the first Ashes Test on Wednesday. Weatherald was selected after a strong performance in last season’s Sheffield Shield, while Marnus Labuschagne earned a recall. Brendan Doggett and Sean Abbott are the reserve pace bowlers as Pat Cummins is injured.
“That’s a really old Australian squad ahead of the opening Perth Test. Should call em Dad’s Army,” wrote one England fan on X (formerly Twitter).
“Broad is right. Nothing to be scared of in that squad,” wrote another.
That’s a really old Australian squad ahead of the opening Perth Test. Should call em Dad’s Army.
This genuinely feels like the best opportunity to win the ashes in Australia since the turn of the 21st century at least. I think we should go as far as considering it a failure of England do not at least draw the series. https://t.co/Cr2S7pgkeP
This all adds to the excellent buildup ahead of what is one of the most highly-anticipated Ashes series in Australia. England have not won a Test down under since 2011, and there is a growing confidence that this will be their time.
Pakistan prevailed by two wickets in a closely-fought ODI two days ago. Shaheen Shah Afridi’s team made things a little tougher on themselves as they were well on course to chase South Africa’s 263, but a flurry of late wickets gave the Proteas hope.
Faisalabad will host the second ODI as well and it will be interesting to see how the pitch behaves. Spinners found turn and the pace bowlers were able to get reverse swing in abrasive conditions on Tuesday. Assuming the same trend eventuates, the openers from both teams will need to cash in against the brand new ball.
Victory for Pakistan will give them a welcome ODI series win in what has been a disappointing year to date in this format. South Africa’s inexperienced team will be aiming to build on their first up showing. It’s all to play for ahead of the third and final ODI at the same venue on Saturday.
Pakistan could stick with the same team that won the first ODI.
Pakistan: 1. Fakhar Zaman, 2. Saim Ayub, 3. Babar Azam, 4. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 5. Salman Agha, 6. Hussain Talat, 7. Hasan Nawaz, 8. Mohammad Nawaz, 9. Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), 10. Naseem Shah, 11. Abrar Ahmed
Rubin Hermann has replaced Dewald Brevis in the South Africa squad. Brevis is out of the series with an injury.
South Africa: 1. Lhuan-dre Pretorius, 2. Quinton de Kock (wk), 3. Tony de Zorzi, 4. Matthew Breetzke, 5. Sinethemba Qeshile, 6. Donovan Ferreira, 7. George Linde, 8. Corbin Bosch, 9. Bjorn Fortuin, 10. Lungi Ngidi, 11. Lizaad Williams/Nandra Burger
Iqbal Stadium Faislabad Pitch Report and Weather
The best time for batting was against the new balls in the first 10-15 overs of both innings in the first ODI. South Africa put on 98 for the first wicket, before Pakistan scored 87. Then, things slowed down in the middle overs for both teams. There was turn available for the spinners, reverse for the quicks, and it could be a similar story in the second ODI.
“I was expecting dew here [in the first ODI] but there was no dew, and without dew it was tough in the second innings, it was turning and staying low and reversing,” said Salman Agha in the post-most presentation.
In 17 List A matches across the Champions Cup and President’s Cup Grade-I (1-Day) in October 2024, the average first innings score was 286.71 at a run rate of 5.88. The team batting first won 12 matches. No team successfully chased 200+ in these matches.
Another hazy day is forecast with 0% chance of rain.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for PAK vs SA 2nd ODI 2025: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Quinton de Kock made a strong return to ODI cricket. He struck 63 (71) two days ago. QdK has 653 runs against Pakistan at an average of 38.41 and strike rate of 88.24.
Mohammad Rizwan offers excellent fantasy value. He is proactive with the bat and has excellent numbers against the Proteas: 11 inns, 398 runs, avg. 44.22, SR 86.52.
Lhuan dre-Pretorius is a solid pick in Dream11 given batting conditions are best in the first 15 overs. He scored a 60-ball 57 on debut two days ago.
Key batter picks:
Will we see the best of Babar Azam today? He missed out in the first ODI but has enjoyed success on this ground with scores of 76 (79) and 104* (100) in the 2024 Champions One Day Cup.
Matthew Breetzke has 509 runs in seven ODIs at an average of 72.71 and strike rate of 100.39. This includes four fifties and a century. The Proteas’ skipper enjoys this format.
Top all-rounder picks:
Salman Agha has won man of the match in his last two ODIs against South Africa (134 and 62). He can also provide some overs against South Africa’s left-handed top three, although he was expensive in the opening encounter.
Corbin Bosch is a genuine Dream11 captain/vice captain in this match. He offers excellent all-round value as seen in the T20Is and first ODI, where he scored 41 and took 2/32.
Saim Ayub is also an excellent captain/vice captain option. He will be called on to bowl against South Africa’s right-handers in the middle overs and opens the batting in good conditions.
Key bowler picks:
Naseem Shah has nine wickets in five ODIs against the Proteas, including 3/40 in the first ODI. Naseem was excellent in the tricky middle and death overs. His accuracy can work wonders in this period.
Shaheen Shah Afridi also offers the possibility of lower order runs. He has 26 wickets in 14 ODIs against South Africa (avg. 27.53).
Lungi Ngidi is the experienced player in South Africa’s bowling lineup, but has some poor matchups (see below). Nonetheless, his changes of pace bring about wicket-taking opportunities at the death, as we saw in the first ODI.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Fakhar Zaman made a start in the first ODI (45) and will bat when conditions are best.
Abrar Ahmed could bowl in the final 10 overs again. Abrar has bowled well of late and will test the Proteas middle order with his variations.
George Linde didn’t have his best game two days ago but he still offers value for fantasy cricket. He can provide lower order runs and will get through his overs on a pitch that could offer turn.
Bjorn Fortuin was accurate and consistent in the first ODI, conceding 3.80 per over. It will be interesting to see if Pakistan try to take him on more and if that brings about more wicket-taking opportunities.
Other stats and Important Matchups
Head-to-head: Head-to-head: Matches 88, Pakistan 35, South Africa 52, N/R 1.
Mohammad Rizwan has made scores of 122* and 55 in his last two ODIs against South Africa.
Saim Ayub averages 57.3 batting second in ODIs compared to 36.2 batting first.
Lungi Ngidi vs Fakhar Zaman in ODIs: 61 balls, 71 runs, no wickets.
Lungi Ngidi vs Babar Azam in ODIs: 52 balls, 63 runs, no wickets.
Shaheen Shah Afridi vs Quinton de Kock in ODIs: 89 balls, 94 runs, three wickets.
Corbin Bosch vs Mohammad Rizwan in ODIs: 31 balls, 41 runs, one wicket.
Corbin Bosch has enjoyed success against Babar Azam in T20Is (14 balls, 21 runs, two wickets). Can he do the same in ODIs?
PAK vs SA 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:
PAK vs SA 1st ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
PAK vs SA 1st ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction
PAK vs SA 2nd ODI 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?
Pakistan have enough experience and quality to win again.
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.
