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T20 World Cup Match 4: ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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T20 World Cup Match 4: ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

T20 World Cup Match 4: ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction Today | WACA Pitch Report | England Women vs South Africa Women Preview Dream11 | ENG-W vs SA-W Key Players

After a double header in Perth on Saturday, we move to arguably the most anticipated match of Group B.

England, perennial runners-up, will be looking to go one better this time around. They have an excellent core of players, led by in-form captain Heather Knight and terrific all-rounder Nat Sciver. So, can England make a strong start in their push for the Title?

South Africa have won just eight of 23 World T20 matches. However, the experience in their squad can hold them in good stead – eight of the 15-member squad have been on the international circuit for over 10 years. So, can South Africa overcome higher-ranked England and West Indies in Group B?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • England captain Heather Knight has been in good touch. She scored 67 and 78 in the recent Tri-Series vs Australia and England, and scored 45* in the warm up match vs New Zealand.
  • Her opposite number, Dane van Niekerk, will have a key role to play for South Africa. She is the highest run-scorer among active players in England-SA matches (375 runs, avg. 28.85).
  • Lizelle Lee was fifth-highest run-scorer in the WBBL late last year (475 runs, avg. 36.53, SR 131.94). This included a century on this ground.
  • Mignon du Preez is also a key player for South Africa. She has made plenty of starts in recent T20Is to build on: 20, 40, 23, 14.
  • Can Amy Jones and Dani Wyatt improve on under-par showings in the recent Tri-Series?
  • Nat Sciver holds a big key to England’s fortunes, but can improve vs SA. She averages just 11.67 with the bat in six innings, with five wickets in eight matches.
  • Marizanne Kapp in warm up matches: 44 vs SL, 22 & 4/16 vs AUS.
  • Tammy Beaumont enjoys playing South Africa: 237 runs, avg. 47.40.
  • Katherine Brunt looked determined in the recent Tri-Series, taking five wickets.
  • Anya Shrubsole has the most wickets in England-SA matches (18). Shabnim Ismail is next best among active players (10).
  • Sune Luus took 4/20 vs Sri Lanka in the warm up match. Her batting and legspin bowling can be key for South Africa. She also took 6/45 in a recent ODI in New Zealand.
  • Sophie Ecclestone was impressive in the recent Tri-Series, conceding just 6.00 per over with five wickets in four games.
T20 World Cup Match 4: ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction Today | WACA Pitch Report | England Women vs South Africa Women Preview Dream11 | ENG-W vs SA-W Key Players
T20 World Cup Match 4: ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11: England to do well?

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-Head: Matches 18, England 15, South Africa 2, NR 1.
  • South Africa’s two wins have come in the last five meetings between the teams.
  • England have won the three meetings between the sides in T20 World Cups.

Possible Playing 11

England: 1. Amy Jones (wk), 2. Danielle Wyatt, 3. Natalie Sciver, 4. Heather Knight (c), 5. Fran Wilson, 6. Tammy Beaumont, 7. Katherine Brunt, 8. Lauren Winfield, 9. Sophie Ecclestone, 10. Anya Shrubsole, 11. Sarah Glenn/Katy Cross

Marizanne Kapp batted at three in South Africa’s warm up matches. She scored 44 and 22 vs Sri Lanka and Australia respectively. She also took 4/16 vs Australia.

However, South Africa might make some changes to their order throughout the game, such as sending the big-hitting Chloe Tyron up the order.

South Africa: 1. Lizelle Lee, 2. Dane van Niekerk (c), 3. Marizanne Kapp, 4. Laura Wolvaardt, 5. Mignon du Preez, 6. Sune Luus, 7. Trisha Chetty (wk), 8. Chloe Tyron, 9. Ayabonga Khaka, 10. Shabnim Ismail, 11. Nonkululeko Mlaba

WACA Pitch Report and Conditions

The WACA surface had some carry during the double header on Saturday. More of the same can be expected here, with a warm day forecast. There is a small chance of a thunderstorm.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

T20 World Cup Match 4: ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction Today | WACA Pitch Report | England Women vs South Africa Women Preview Dream11 | ENG-W vs SA-W Key Players
T20 World Cup Match 4: ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11

Option 2:

T20 World Cup Match 4: ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction Today | WACA Pitch Report | England Women vs South Africa Women Preview Dream11 | ENG-W vs SA-W Key Players
T20 World Cup Match 4: ENG-W vs SA-W Dream11

Match Prediction

A potentially excellent game in store in a day/night match.

South Africa have the talent to cause England problems, but England might have enough quality to prevail.

Thanks for reading!

T20 World Cup Match 3: NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
T20 World Cup Match 3: NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

T20 World Cup Match 3: NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11 Prediction Today | NZ-W vs SL-W Key Players | New Zealand Women vs Sri Lanka Women Dream11 Prediction

The first double-header of the 2020 T20 World Cup sees one of the heavyweights play the challengers.

New Zealand, ranked third in T20I cricket, are a largely consistent side. After a tough time recently in the ODIs vs South Africa (3-0 defeat), they bounced back in the T20Is, winning 3-1. They certainly have talent in their team, and will be keen to make a good start in their quest to win their first T20 World Cup.

Sri Lanka have the fearless Chamari Atapattu. However, she needs support if the Sri Lankans are to spring an upset in this tournament. They come into the tournament in an awful run of form, having lost 18 of their last 19 matches, so will Sri Lankans play with a carefree attitude?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • Suzie Bates is the all-time leading run-scorer in Women’s T20Is (3,195). Also, Bates has the most runs in NZ-SL T20Is (253, avg. 42.17).
  • Sophie Devine had an incredible WBBL campaign last year. She scored 769 runs in 16 matches at an average of 76.90 and SR: 130.33.
  • Devine vs South Africa recently: 54*, 61, 77, 105.
  • Katie Perkins scored the most runs in the recent NZ Super Smash (485), followed by Devine (441).
  • Rachel Priest vs Sri Lanka: 158 runs, avg. 52.67.
  • Chamari Atapattu is undoubtedly the key for Sri Lanka. She is the highest run-scorer for Sri Lanka against New Zealand (155) and scored a superb century vs Australia on these shores last year.
  • Shashikala Siriwardene, along with Atapattu, is the only other Sri Lankan player to reach 1,000 T20I runs. She also has the most wickets for Sri Lanka (70 in 77 matches).
  • Among the top five T20I run-scorers for Sri Lanka, Dilani Manodara (752) has the best average (19.78).
  • Leigh Kasperek has the most wickets in NZ-SL T20Is (7).
  • Veteran NZ seamer Lea Tahuhu is back after a paternity break. She has four wickets in three games vs Sri Lanka.
  • Udeshika Prabodhani will be key in the crunch overs. She has just one wicket in three games vs NZ, so SL need her to step up.
  • Amelia Kerr is always one to watch with her legspin.

Stats and Facts

  • New Zealand have won all seven meetings between the sides.
  • Four of these seven have come during T20 World Cups.
  • New Zealand have been runners-up twice, semi-finalists twice and exited the group stage twice in T20 World Cups. They were out in the group stage in 2018.
  • Sri Lanka have never made it out of the group stage, in six attempts.

Possible Playing 11

New Zealand: 1. Sophie Devine (c), 2. Rachel Priest (wk), 3. Suzie Bates, 4. Katie Perkins/Maddy Green, 5. Katey Martin, 6. Hayley Jensen, 7. Amelia Kerr, 8. Lea Tahuhu, 9. Leigh Kasperek, 10. Anna Peterson/Holly Huddlestone, 11. Jess Kerr

Sri Lanka: 1. Chamari Atapattu (c), 2. Hasini Perera, 3. Harshitha Madavi, 4. Anushka Sanjeewani (wk), 5. Nilakshi De Silva, 6. Hansima Karunaratne, 7. Shashikala Siriwardene, 8. Ama Kanchana, 9. Sugandika Kumari, 10. Udeshika Prabodhani, 11. Kavisha Dilhari

WACA Pitch Report and Conditions

This match will be played on the same pitch as the Thailand vs West Indies earlier in the day. Usually, the WACA is a true pitch, where the ball comes onto the bat.

There is the chance of a shower or two.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

T20 World Cup Match 3: NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11 Prediction Today | NZ-W vs SL-W Key Players | New Zealand Women vs Sri Lanka Women Dream11 Prediction
T20 World Cup Match 3: NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11

Option 2:

T20 World Cup Match 3: NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11 Prediction Today | NZ-W vs SL-W Key Players | New Zealand Women vs Sri Lanka Women Dream11 Prediction
T20 World Cup Match 3: NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11

Match Prediction

New Zealand have won all their T20Is vs Sri Lanka. While the Sri Lankans have talent in their team, New Zealand are a more rounded team and should win this.

Thanks for reading!

T20 World Cup Match 2: TL-W vs WI-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
T20 World Cup Match 2: TL-W vs WI-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

T20 World Cup Match 2: TL-W vs WI-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | TL-W vs WI-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Thailand Women vs West Indies Women Preview Dream11 | TL-W vs WI-W Key Players

After India put on a fine display to beat favourites Australia in the opening game of the T20 World Cup, the action moves out west in Perth where one team is looking for an even bigger upset.

Thailand are playing in their first ever T20 World Cup. Their players are home-grown, which is part of their wonderful journey so far. There is no doubt they will give it their all, and if they can test their opponents, they’ll take some great confidence out of their time in Australia.

Their first opponent is West Indies. The return of Deandra Dottin is a boost for a team that has struggled since the 2018 T20 World Cup, possessing the second-worst win ratio (0.4) of any team in this period. So, can the women’s team, like the men, turn it on in the big T20 World Cup?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • Naruemol Chaiwai (774) and Nattakan Chantam (719) are the two Thai players with over 500 T20I runs.
  • Stafanie Taylor is West Indies’ leading run-scorer in T20Is (2,900). The next highest is the returning Deandra Dottin with 2,399.
  • Also, Taylor was top run-scorer in West Indies’ triumphant 2016 campaign (246). So, she will be key.
  • Hayley Matthews is one of seven Windies players with 1,000+ T20I runs (1,046, avg. 25.51).
  • Nattaya Boochatham has the most wickets for Thailand in T20Is (63). She will be looking to make a mark on the big stage.
  • As will Suleeporn Laomi (56), Sornnarin Tippoch (55) and Chanida Sutthiruang (52) who are the other three bowlers with at least 50 wickets for Thailand in T20Is.
  • Also, Sutthiruang held her own pretty well with the bat in the warm-up game vs New Zealand (36 off 31).
  • Anisa Mohammed will be a key player for West Indies, as always. She has the most wickets in T20Is for her nation (121). Stafanie Taylor is next with 84.
  • Can Afy Fletcher make a big impact? She will want to improve on 39 wickets in 44 T20Is.

Stats and Facts

  • This will be Thailand’s first ever T20 World Cup match.
  • Thailand have won 31 of 53 T20Is to date. However, the level of opposition will be different in this World Cup.
  • West Indies have won just four of 15 T20Is since the 2018 T20 World Cup.

Possible Playing 11

Thailand: 1. Nattakan Chantam, 2. Nattaya Boochatham, 3. Nannapat Koncharoenkai (wk), 4. Naruemol Chaiwai, 5. Sornnarin Tippoch (c), 6. Chanida Sutthiruang, 7. Wongpaka Liengprasert, 8. Onnicha Kamchomphu, 9. Ratanaporn Padunglerd, 10. Suleeporn Laomi, 11. Soraya Lateh

West Indies: 1. Hayley Matthews, 2. Deandra Dottin, 3. Stafanie Taylor (c), 4. Chedean Nation, 5. Lee-Ann Kirby, 6. Shemaine Campbelle (wk), 7. Chinelle Henry, 8. Anisa Mohammed, 9. Afy Fletcher, 10. Shamilia Connell, 11. Aaliyah Alleyne

WACA Pitch Report and Conditions

The WACA was a pleasure to bat on in the WBBL late last year. Lizelle Lee scored a century in the tournament on this ground. Thailand’s strength is their spin, but it will likely be nullified on what is typically a pitch with more pace.

There is the chance of some showers during the day in Perth.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

T20 World Cup Match 2: TL-W vs WI-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | TL-W vs WI-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Thailand Women vs West Indies Women Preview Dream11 | TL-W vs WI-W Key Players
T20 World Cup Match 2: TL-W vs WI-W

Option 2:

T20 World Cup Match 2: TL-W vs WI-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | TL-W vs WI-W Dream11 Prediction Today | Thailand Women vs West Indies Women Preview Dream11 | TL-W vs WI-W Key Players
T20 World Cup Match 2: TL-W vs WI-W

Dream11 and Fantasy Cricket content for you to enjoy on CricBlog:

Match Prediction

West Indies possess enough experience and quality to get the job done here. If they lose, it will be considered one of the biggest upsets in recent memory.

Thanks for reading!

BAN vs ZIM Test Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
BAN vs ZIM Test Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

BAN vs ZIM Test Preview Dream11 | BAN vs ZIM Test Dream11 Prediction Today | Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe Test Preview Dream11 | BAN vs ZIM Test Key Players | Mirpur Pitch Report | BAN vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Today

Just like India and Sri Lanka play each other so often, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe do so, too.

In another episode in one of international cricket’s lower profile rivalries, both teams, who are starved of Test victories, have the chance to add one to their tally at the Shere-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.

Bangladesh have been very poor in Test cricket in recent times. They have lost their last six Tests – five by an innings – to take significant backward steps after the positive signs from 2011-2017.

Zimbabwe pushed Sri Lanka in their recent two-match series at home, but the subcontinent is always a different test. However, they can take some heart in the fact that just over a year ago, they did beat Bangladesh in away territory, so they will be hoping to do so again.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • Mushfiqur Rahim is back for Bangladesh after missing the Pakistan tour. He has 643 runs vs Zimbabwe at 45.92.
  • Brendan Taylor is arguably Zimbabwe’s most important player: He is the top run-scorer in Bangladesh-Zimbabwe Tests (1,039 runs, avg. 64.93). In Bangladesh, he averages a solid 45.33 in seven Tests.
  • Bangladesh skipper Mominul Haque enjoys playing Zimbabwe: 555 runs, avg. 50.45. His opposite number, Craig Ervine, has struggled: 153 runs in four Tests, avg. 21.85.
  • Regis Chakabva showed some good fight vs Sri Lanka recently. Also, his record vs Bangladesh is handy: 411 runs, avg. 37.36.
  • With Shakib still missing, Bangladesh also need the experience of Tamim Iqbal, who has 422 runs vs Zimbabwe at 42.20, with two centuries.
  • Sikandar Raza was Player of the Match in Zimbabwe’s last Test, where he took 7/113. Also, Raza scored 164 runs in the two Tests at 41.00.
  • Taijul Islam has the most wickets in Bangladesh-Zimbabwe Tests (35, avg. 21.11). This includes 8/39 on this ground in 2014.
  • Mehidy Hasan Miraz returns to the Bangladesh squad for this Test. He loves playing at home, where he averages 21.44 in 11 Tests, compared to 57.68 in 11 away Tests.

Stats and Facts

  • Bangladesh have lost five of their past six Tests by an innings. The only one where they avoided an innings loss was a 224-run defeat to Afghanistan in a rain-affected Test.
  • Bangladesh won three Tests in a row at home in 2018 (one vs ZIM, two vs WI). However, the key was Bangladesh batted first in each of the Tests. When bowling first, they have lost their last three Tests at home.
  • One of those was against Zimbabwe at Sylhet.
  • Bangladesh have won five of the past six Tests vs Zimbabwe.

Key to a Bangladesh win

Bangladesh’s lack of fight with the bat has been the key reason for their awful run of form. They are often unable to string partnerships together, and when they do, they then lose wickets in clumps. Here, Tamim, Mominul and Mushfiqur will be key, but who else will step up?

Also, could this be the re-emergence of Taskin Ahmed or Mustafizur Rahman? When they burst onto the scene in 2014/15, these two seamers were touted as Bangladesh’s long-term partnership. It hasn’t materialized, but at least one may have the chance to partner well with the promising Abu Jayed, as well as spinners Taijul Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz.

BAN vs ZIM Test Preview Dream11 | BAN vs ZIM Test Dream11 Prediction Today | Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe Test Preview Dream11 | BAN vs ZIM Test Key Players | Mirpur Pitch Report | BAN vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Today
BAN vs ZIM Test Preview Dream11: Mushfiqur is back for the Tigers.

Key to a Zimbabwe win

Opening batsmen Prince Masvaure and Kevin Kasuza didn’t score big runs vs Sri Lanka recently. However, they batted for significant amount of time, facing 667 balls between them in two Tests (and did well in the tour game). Bangladesh often display less patience than other teams, so if the openers can grind things out, they can set the perfect platform for the likes of Taylor, Ervine and Raza.

But, perhaps the bigger test for Zimbabwe is getting the most out of their bowlers. They are missing plenty of experience for this Test, including Kyle Jarvis and Tendai Chatara, so bowling as a unit will be crucial against a Bangladesh side prone to collapses. The likes of Donald Tiripano and Chris Mpofu need to lead the way so the spinners have a platform.

BAN vs ZIM Test Preview Dream11 | BAN vs ZIM Test Dream11 Prediction Today | Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe Test Preview Dream11 | BAN vs ZIM Test Key Players | Mirpur Pitch Report | BAN vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Today
BAN vs ZIM Test Preview Dream11: Sikandar Raza: Key player.

Possible Playing 11

Mahmudullah, Soumya Sarkar and Rubel Hossain were dropped from the Bangladesh squad.

Bangladesh: 1. Tamim Iqbal, 2. Saif Hassan, 3. Mominul Haque (c), 4. Mushfiqur Rahim, 5. Najmul Hossain Shanto, 6. Mohammad Mithun, 7. Liton Das (wk), 8. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 9. Taijul Islam, 10. Abu Jayed, 11. Ebadot Hossain/Mustafizur Rahman

Craig Ervine will lead Zimbabwe in the absence of Sean Williams.

Zimbabwe: 1. Prince Masvaure 2. Kevin Kasuza, 3. Craig Ervine (c), 4. Brendan Taylor, 5. Timycen Maruma, 6. Sikandar Raza, 7. Regis Chakabva (wk), 8. Tinotenda Mutombodzi, 9. Donald Tiripano, 10. Carl Mumba, 11. Victor Nyauchi

Mirpur Pitch Report and Conditions

The Mirpur track has been very different in Test cricket over the past 2-3 years. Since 2017, the track has spun big early, which has made batting difficult.

Bangladesh might look to target Zimbabwe with this approach, but risk batting fourth if they lose the toss.

The forecast is for warm days right throughout the Test, with the only chance of rain being on day five.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

BAN vs ZIM Test Preview Dream11 | BAN vs ZIM Test Dream11 Prediction Today | Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe Test Preview Dream11 | BAN vs ZIM Test Key Players | Mirpur Pitch Report | BAN vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Today
BAN vs ZIM Test Preview Dream11

Option 2:

BAN vs ZIM Test Preview Dream11 | BAN vs ZIM Test Dream11 Prediction Today | Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe Test Preview Dream11 | BAN vs ZIM Test Key Players | Mirpur Pitch Report | BAN vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Today
BAN vs ZIM Test Preview Dream11

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Match Prediction

Neither side has shown consistent ability to compete after having to bowl first. So, the team who bats first will likely go on to win the Test.

SA vs AUS 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
SA vs AUS 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

SA vs AUS 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs AUS 1st T20I Dream11 | SA vs AUS Johannesburg Pitch Report | South Africa vs Australia 1st T20I Dream11 | SA vs AUS 1st T20I Dream11 Prediction

Five days after the end of one of the greatest T20I series, a potentially great one is set to begin.

South Africa’s duel with England was one for the ages. Now, in what is perfect preparation for this year’s World T20, they come up against another powerhouse – Australia.

The Australians smashed all before them in their home season, which included five wins in five completed T20Is – all one-sided against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Add to this the backstory of the return of David Warner and Steve Smith to South Africa for the first time that incident at Cape Town, and you have drama everywhere you look.

Warner and Smith, along with the Australia side, will want to show that they have moved on. The Proteas, who welcome back Kagiso Rabada, will be out to turn their tight series defeat against England into a win.

This one has the makings for a classic – who will hold their nerve best?

SA vs AUS 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs AUS 1st T20I Dream11 | SA vs AUS Johannesburg Pitch Report | South Africa vs Australia 1st T20I Dream11 | SA vs AUS 1st T20I Dream11 Prediction
SA vs AUS 1st T20I Preview Dream11: QdK has been in fine touch.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • David Warner will surely have to deal with crowd noise on his return to South Africa. He had to block it out in the World Cup in England, and will need to do so here.
  • Warner has the most runs of any active player in SA-Australia T20Is (329, SR 155.18) and was Player of the Match on this ground in 2016.
  • Spotlight will be on Steve Smith, too. His T20I performances vs SL and PAK in late 2019: 53* (36), 13 (9) and 80* (51).
  • Faf du Plessis is back in the Proteas squad. After giving up the captaincy, it will be interesting to see how he goes: He has 242 runs in four T20Is at Jo’Burg, including a fifty and century.
  • Quinton de Kock is always one to watch. The new permanent South Africa T20I skipper is second behind Warner for SA-Australia runs: 274, SR: 141.96. Also, de Kock has scores of 43 and 44 at Jo’Burg.
  • There will be no Temba Bavuma, so the likes of Rassie van der Dussen (31, 43* and 11 vs England) will be key.
  • Of course, Aaron Finch will be key in the top order battle. He is yet to score a 50 in eight T20Is vs South Africa.
  • What about Heinrich Klaasen storming onto the scene in the England series? With SA needing consistency in the middle, one wonders if he can follow up his 66 (33) last game with another big effort.
  • David Miller at Johannesburg: 194 runs, avg. 38.80, SR: 167.24.
  • Matthew Wade’s last four scores in the recently-concluded BBL: 66 (29), 56 (34), 130* (61) and 14 (11).
  • Also, Mitchell Marsh had a strong BBL tournament: 14 matches, 382 runs, avg. 34.72, SR: 145.24.
  • Andile Phehlukwayo has the most wickets in Johannesburg T20Is (8).
  • Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins took 15 wickets between them in five T20Is vs Sri Lanka and Pakistan in late 2019.
  • Adam Zampa has taken 18 wickets in his last 10 white-ball matches, including fine performances in the India ODIs last month.
  • Lungi Ngidi (8) took the most wickets in the SA-England T20I series. Kagiso Rabada, who has six wickets in six T20Is vs Australia, will be keen to make more of an impact.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-Head: South Africa 7, Australia 11. In South Africa, it is locked at 5-5.
  • Australia won their last T20I in Johannesburg, back in 2016, where they chased down 204.
  • The average first innings score in the past five T20Is at the Wanderers is 181.2, with four scores over 180. The only score that brings this average down significantly is South Africa’s 113 all-out vs Sri Lanka in 2017.

Possible Playing 11

Temba Bavuma is out with a hamstring strain. Reeza Hendricks hasn’t been called up to the squad, so either JJ Smuts or Rassie van der Dussen will open, with Faf du Plessis a chance to slot back into the middle order. Also, Kagiso Rabada is back.

South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (c & wk), 2. Rassie van der Dussen, 3. Faf du Plessis, 4. Heinrich Klaasen, 5. David Miller, 6. Jon-Jon Smuts, 7. Andile Phehlukwayo, 8. Kagiso Rabada, 9. Dale Steyn, 10. Lungi Ngidi, 11. Tabraiz Shamsi

Australia suffered a blow before the tour with Glenn Maxwell ruled out through injury. So, plenty rests on the top order to perform, with the likes of Matt Wade and Mitch Marsh needing to take their opportunities.

Australia: 1. David Warner, 2. Aaron Finch (c), 3. Steve Smith, 4. Matthew Wade, 5. Mitchell Marsh, 6. Alex Carey (wk), 7. Ashton Agar, 8. Mitchell Starc, 9. Sean Abbott/Kane Richardson, 10. Pat Cummins, 11. Adam Zampa

Johannesburg Pitch Report and Conditions

It is usually an absolute belter of a batting wicket at the Wanderers; there have been four first innings scores of 180+ in the past five T20Is.

However, late afternoon thunderstorms could impact this game, possibly prompting the captain who wins the toss to bowl first for D/L reasons.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

SA vs AUS 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs AUS 1st T20I Dream11 | SA vs AUS Johannesburg Pitch Report | South Africa vs Australia 1st T20I Dream11 | SA vs AUS 1st T20I Dream11 Prediction
SA vs AUS 1st T20I Preview Dream11

Option 2:

SA vs AUS 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs AUS 1st T20I Dream11 | SA vs AUS Johannesburg Pitch Report | South Africa vs Australia 1st T20I Dream11 | SA vs AUS 1st T20I Dream11 Prediction
SA vs AUS 1st T20I Preview Dream11

Dream11 and Fantasy Cricket content for you to enjoy on CricBlog:

Match Prediction

This one could genuinely go either way. The fact that South Africa played such competitive T20I cricket vs England can hold them in good stead, but Australia have that threatening top three that can swing the game in their favour.

It could all depend on which team can slice through the other’s top order with the least damage. With Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and potentially Sean Abbott (consistent wicket-taker), Australia might sneak home.

Thanks for reading!

World T20 Match 1: AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
World T20 Match 1: AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

World T20 Match 1: AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 | Sydney Showground Pitch Report | Australia Women vs India Women Preview Dream11 | AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 Prediction Today

Here we are. Arguably the biggest tournament in recent times for the Australian Women’s Team, who are looking to become just the second host nation since England in 2009 to win a World T20.

The Final will be played at the MCG on March 8 – International Women’s Day – in front of what will be a bumper crowd, should Australia qualify.

However, as you can see, it is easy to get caught up in the possibility of such a great event. So, the Aussies need to focus on the here and now, which is their tournament opener against an India team that more than held their own in the recent Tri-Series also involving England.

India reached the Final. They chased 170+ against Australia along the way, and pushed the Aussies in the Final, too. Australia start as favourites, but India will fancy their chances of giving their opponents a good run for their money in the quest to make a very strong statement.

So, in a challenging group that includes New Zealand, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, who will get a crucial win first up?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • Harmanpreet Kaur has the most runs in Australia-India T20Is (401, avg. 30.85). However, she was below her best in the recent Tri-Series, striking at 94.44 per 100 balls. The skipper needs to step up.
  • Meg Lanning, who scored 37 (22) and 26 (19) vs India in the Tri-Series, is next on the list with 388.
  • However, Australia’s best player in the series was Beth Mooney. Mooney scored three fifties in five matches, including 71* (54) in her last game vs India.
  • Smriti Mandhana was India’s star. She scored the most runs in the recent Tri-Series (216, avg. 43.20), with scores of 35, 55 and 66 vs Australia. She now has 308 runs vs Australia (avg. 44.00, SR: 130.51).
  • A player who struggled badly was Alyssa Healy. The star keeper-batswoman has five single-figure scores in her past T20Is, along with just 9 in the warm-up game vs South Africa.
  • Ashleigh Gardner’s last two scores vs India: 93 (57) and 26 (24).
  • Shafali Verma (49 off 28 recently vs Australia) and Jemimah Rodrigues make up India’s crucial top order. They scored 184 runs between them in the recent Tri-Series at an average of 18.40, so they need to deliver.
  • If Australia are to go all the way, Ellyse Perry will need to deliver. The champion cricketer has 181 runs (avg. 30) and 20 wickets (most out of anyone) vs India.
  • Jess Jonassen was Player of the Match in the Tri-Series Final vs India last week (5/12) – a series where left-arm spinners dominated (27 wickets).
  • Deepti Sharma has a key role to play for India. She took seven wickets in the Tri-Series, including 1/18, 2/27 and 2/30 vs Australia.
  • Rajeshwari Gayakwad took 10 wickets in five matches in the Tri-Series – the most of any bowler. She took 2/18, 1/34 and 2/32 vs Australia.
  • Poonam Yadav has returned to competitive cricket. She took 3/20 in a close two-run win against West Indies in a warm-up match.
World T20 Match 1: AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 | Sydney Showground Pitch Report | Australia Women vs India Women Preview Dream11 | AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 Prediction Today
World T20 Match 1: AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11: Mandhana will be key.

Stats and Facts

  • Australia were well below their best in the Tri-Series, but still won it.
  • The scoring rate in the first innings of matches at Sydney Showground in the recent men’s BBL was 8.68, boosted by Tom Banton’s big hitting. Usually, it is a slow deck.
  • Head-to-Head: Matches 17, Australia 12, India 5.
  • India won the last meeting in a T20 World Cup between the sides, beating Australia by 48 runs in 2018.

Possible Playing 11

In a big blow for Australia, young pace bowler Tayla Vlaeminck could be out of the tournament after suffering a foot injury. Delissa Kimmince could take her place for this one.

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

Poonam Yadav is fit again, and should slot into the XI as India’s premier spinner. It remains to be seen who she comes in for – i.e. do India go with just one seamer or replace one of the spinners from the Tri-Series? Or, does Richa Ghosh miss out with Deepti Sharma to bat at five?

India: 1. Shafali Verma, 2. Smriti Mandhana, 3. Jemimah Rodrigues, 4. Harmanpreet Kaur (c), 5. Richa Ghosh/Veda Krishnamurthy, 6. Deepti Sharma, 7. Taniya Bhatia (wk), 8. Arundhati Reddy, 9. Shikha Pandey, 10. Poonam Yadav, 11. Rajeshwari Gayakwad

Sydney Showground Pitch Report and Conditions

The Sydney Showground pitch is typically on the slower side. With spin playing a key role in the recent Tri-Series, and this pitch suiting spin, look for the slow bowlers to play a big role in the middle overs.

In terms of the weather, Sydney has copped plenty of rain and storms in recent weeks. But, rain should be minimal on Friday for the tournament opener.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

World T20 Match 1: AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 | Sydney Showground Pitch Report | Australia Women vs India Women Preview Dream11 | AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 Prediction Today
World T20 Match 1: AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11

Option 2:

World T20 Match 1: AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 | Sydney Showground Pitch Report | Australia Women vs India Women Preview Dream11 | AUS-W vs IND-W Dream11 Prediction Today

Dream11 and Fantasy Cricket content for you to enjoy on CricBlog:

Match Prediction

A cracking match potentially awaits us in the World T20 2020 Opener.

Australia have the quality, as well as the recent confidence of winning the recent Tri-Series without being at their best. We will get an early glimpse of whether hosting the tournament is a driver or a burden, but with their depth, they are a good pick for a win.

Thanks for reading!

NZ vs IND 1st Test Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
NZ vs IND 1st Test Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

NZ vs IND 1st Test Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | NZ vs IND 1st Test Dream11 | NZ vs IND 1st Test Wellington Pitch Report | New Zealand vs India 1st Test Preview Dream11 | NZ vs IND 1st Test Dream11 Prediction Today

There is a World T20 coming up later this year, so the five-match T20I series held significance. There was the small matter of a World Cup Semi Final that caused heartbreak for billions around the world, so the ODI series had a bit of rivalry feel.

However, the Test leg of India’s tour of New Zealand is arguably the main event. India, the top ranked side in Test cricket, face their biggest challenge in their perfect World Test Championship campaign so far. They face a New Zealand side coming off a forgettable series in Australia, where they lost all three Tests by a significant margin.

But, the Black Caps are often rock solid in home Tests. Their batting, so heavily under the microscope in Australia, will come under fire once again against a fine Indian bowling attack. India, who are also so strong at home, will be up against a determined New Zealand attack.

So, this one has the makings for a fine Test. Who will come out on top?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • Ross Taylor is set to become the first player in history to reach 100 matches in all three formats. He will play his 100th Test at one of his favourite grounds: Basin Reserve.
  • Taylor has the most runs of any player on this ground: 1,226, avg. 64.52. Also, Taylor scored 149 runs, including a century, during India’s last visit to Basin Reserve.
  • Kane Williamson also enjoys the Basin Reserve: 1,048 runs, avg. 65.50.
  • Tom Latham (651 runs, avg. 54.25, including 264* vs Sri Lanka) and Henry Nicholls (473 runs, avg. 59.12) also have strong records at this ground.
  • Mayank Agarwal had a poor ODI series. However, his 81 in the second innings of the tour game would have done him the world of good.
  • Cheteshwar Pujara will be crucial, too. Pujara averages 54 against New Zealand in seven Tests. However, he will be keen to turn around his average of 15 in two Tests in New Zealand.
  • But, India’s key man is arguably Virat Kohli. One of the world’s premier batsmen averages 66.81 in seven Tests vs NZ (735 runs). Also, Kohli scored 105* and 38 in his last visit to the Basin Reserve.
  • One of the shining lights of NZ’s tough tour of Australia was Tom Blundell. He held his own in his new role as opener, scoring a fine century at the MCG.
  • Ajinkya Rahane is one of India’s finest overseas players. He averages 46.76 in 36 away Tests, including 54 in NZ (two Tests).
  • BJ Watling: Mr Reliable. He scored 124 for NZ vs India at Basin Reserve in 2014.
  • Could Colin de Grandhomme be the star all-rounder of this match? He has a higher batting average (37.20) than bowling (31.40) after 22 Tests.
  • It remains to be seen if India play Ravindra Jadeja or Ravichandran Ashwin in this Test. Ashwin is yet to play a Test in New Zealand and Jadeja averages 85.66 with the ball in two Tests.
  • The battle between Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah promises to be a beauty.
  • Bumrah has played all of his 12 Tests away from home, averaging 19.24 with the ball, including 17.00 in four Tests in somewhat similar conditions in Australia. Boult will be keen to improve on 25 wickets vs India at 34.00, including four wickets at 36.25 against them on this ground.
  • However, Mohammed Shami shouldn’t be forgotten. He took 3/17 in the tour game and is one of the finest red-ball bowlers going around.
  • Can Tim Southee improve on his poor record at Basin Reserve? He has 35 wickets in 12 Tests at this ground at 40.68.
  • Neil Wagner is out of the Test, as he is awaiting the birth of his child. Either or both of Matt Henry or Kyle Jamieson (star in the ODIs) could play.
  • Ishant Sharma looks to have overcome his injury and is set to play the first Test. Since January 2018, Sharma has taken 66 wickets at 19.44. Also, Ishant took 6/51 on this ground in 2014.
NZ vs IND 1st Test Preview Dream11: Bumrah is back.

Stats and Facts

  • New Zealand lead India 8-5 in Tests in NZ, with 10 draws.
  • Three of the past six Tests at Basin Reserve have been decided by an innings.
  • The average scores in the last six Tests at Basin Reserve increase as days two and three come around. Average runs per innings in first innings: 28.84, second innings: 54.36, third innings: 27.43. So, the team who wins the toss will likely bowl.
  • The last time India played a Test at Basin Reserve, Brendon McCullum scored a triple century and put on a 352-run stand with BJ Watling.
Ross Taylor is set to become the first play to play 100 matches in all formats.

Possible Playing 11

New Zealand: 1. Tom Latham, 2. Tom Blundell, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Henry Nicholls, 6. BJ Watling (wk), 7. Colin de Grandhomme, 8. Tim Southee, 9. Matt Henry, 10. Kyle Jamieson/Ajaz Patel, 11. Trent Boult

India: 1. Prithvi Shaw, 2. Mayank Agarwal, 3. Cheteshwar Pujara, 4. Virat Kohli (c), 5. Ajinkya Rahane, 6. Hanuma Vihari, 7. Wriddhiman Saha (wk), 8. Ravichandran Ashwin/Ravindra Jadeja, 9. Mohammed Shami, 10. Ishant Sharma, 11. Jasprit Bumrah

Basin Reserve Wellington Pitch Report and Conditions

According to reports, there was quite a bit of grass on the pitch in the days leading up to the Test. It is almost always a bowl first pitch, with the track flattening out on days two and three, as the figures suggest.

The forecast looks good, with minimal rain expected. However, Wellington is usually windy, with quite a bit of wind forecast throughout this Test.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

NZ vs IND 1st Test Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | NZ vs IND 1st Test Dream11 | NZ vs IND 1st Test Wellington Pitch Report | New Zealand vs India 1st Test Preview Dream11 | NZ vs IND 1st Test Dream11 Prediction Today
NZ vs IND 1st Test Preview Dream11

Option 2:

NZ vs IND 1st Test Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | NZ vs IND 1st Test Dream11 | NZ vs IND 1st Test Wellington Pitch Report | New Zealand vs India 1st Test Preview Dream11 | NZ vs IND 1st Test Dream11 Prediction Today
NZ vs IND 1st Test Preview Dream11

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Match Prediction

A difficult match to predict. Ultimately, this could come down to which team dominates the opening day of play, as teams who bowl first usually play from in front at the Basin Reserve.

India have the quality to get the win, but it could come down to how well they deal with movement early in the Test.

Thanks for reading!

SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs ENG Centurion Pitch Report | South Africa vs England 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction | SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Dream11 Prediction Today

If you ever wondered what the perfect entree to a main meal is, this series is it. With the World T20 coming up later this year, this South Africa vs England series has wet the appetite perfectly, with a combined three runs the difference over two games so far.

It’s as if the East London thriller wasn’t enough. Cricket spoiled us all on Valentine’s Day, with Durban conjuring up another thriller, making T20 memorable in a world where so much of it is played. It rained fours and sixes; more so compared to East London, but the equation on the final ball was the same: three to win, one ball.

Indeed, it is only fitting that this series goes to a decider, after England leveled the ledger. Just. After two thrilling games, it remains to be seen what mindset the two sides are in for the final game, with South Africa looking to further prove their credentials in their quest for a maiden global trophy later this year.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • Player of the Match Moeen Ali turned the Durban match with one of the most incredible cameos you’ll see.
  • Since Moeen returned to the England setup in the third ODI last week, he’s contributed 1/42 (10), 1/22 (4) and 39 (11).
  • Eoin Morgan is the top run-scorer among active players in SA-England T20Is (290, SR 136.79).
  • Quinton de Kock also turned the Durban game. His 65 (22) saw him achieve the quickest 50 by a South African in T20Is. Indeed, it is rare to see QdK fail in any format these days.
  • de Kock averages 44.25 in four T20Is vs England (SR 188.29) and is striking at 259.45 this series. Also, he scored 41 in his only T20I in Centurion to date. Signs pointing to a 40+ score here?
  • Temba Bavuma has received some unfair criticism in some parts. He looks to be a great foil for de Kock at the top of the order, with 43 and 31 so far this series (batting past the powerplay both times).
  • Jason Roy is the only player to have 100+ runs in this series so far. Scores of 70 (28) and 40 (29) now makes him the second-highest run scorer in SA-England T20Is (8 matches, 280 runs, avg. 35.00, SR 160.00).
  • Rassie van der Dussen has 105 runs in two T20Is in Centurion (64 and 41), and is in great form this series; his 43* (26) nearly took SA home last game.
  • Also, van der Dussen has crossed 30 seven times in 11 T20I innings.
  • Is this the game Jonny Bairstow goes big? He has threatened to do so in the opening two T20Is: 23 (19), 35 (17). Jos Buttler, on the other hand, has not stepped up in such a thrilling series so far (15 and 2).
  • Ben Stokes played one of his best T20Is last game. His 47* (30) is now his highest score in the format. He also took a wicket.
  • Chris Jordan has the most wickets in SA-England T20Is (12). He has four wickets this series, all at the death, with full, straight bowling. Tom Curran is in a similar boat, with strong capabilities at the death.
  • Dwaine Pretorius (1/17 and 25 off 13 balls) will be keen to have another strong outing to lock down his place in the SA team.
  • Lungi Ngidi has the most wickets this series (6). Beuran Hendricks took 4/14 on this ground, last year vs Pakistan, while Tabraiz Shamsi took 2/16 vs Sri Lanka a few weeks later.
SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs ENG Centurion Pitch Report | South Africa vs England 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction | SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Dream11 Prediction Today
SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Preview Dream11: Moeen was superb last game.

Other Stats and Facts

  • The team batting first has won seven of nine T20Is at Centurion.
  • Three of the last four T20Is between these two teams has been decided by single figures.
  • South Africa lead England 9-7 in the head-to-head. In South Africa, the Proteas lead 5-2.
  • A big game for David Miller. He has made just one score above 25 in his last 14 T20 innings, and averages just 17.83 with the bat in seven T20Is at Centurion.
  • The average first innings score in the last five T20Is at Centurion is 167.8. However, one of the matches was a 10-over match, where South Africa scored 126. So, the average run rate is 9.32.
SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs ENG Centurion Pitch Report | South Africa vs England 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction | SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Dream11 Prediction Today
SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Preview Dream11: Can QdK continue his great form?

Possible Playing 11

Quinton de Kock said he wishes this match was a dead rubber. That would have given him the chance to test bench strength a little more. However, with the series on the line, Dale Steyn (rested last game) for Bjorn Fortuin could be the only change to the South Africa XI.

South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (c & wk), 2. Temba Bavuma, 3. Rassie van der Dussen, 4. Jon-Jon Smuts, 5. David Miller, 6. Andile Phehlukwayo, 7. Dwaine Pretorius, 8. Beuran Hendricks, 9. Dale Steyn, 10. Tabraiz Shamsi, 11. Lungi Ngidi

Joe Denly has suffered two failures so far in the middle order this series. So, it remains to be seen if he can find success at five or six in T20Is. Also, England could potentially rest Mark Wood.

England: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Jos Buttler (wk), 3. Jonny Bairstow, 4. Eoin Morgan, 5. Joe Denly, 6. Ben Stokes, 7. Moeen Ali, 8. Tom Curran, 9. Chris Jordan, 10. Adil Rashid, 11. Mark Wood/Saqib Mahmood

Centurion Pitch Report and Conditions

Centurion is usually a belter for batting in T20Is. In fact, SuperSport Park is second only to the Wanderers for high-scoring (among SA’s regular T20 venues), with a run-rate of 9.32 in the first innings of the past five T20Is.

The forecast is for a warm afternoon with no rain.

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs ENG Centurion Pitch Report | South Africa vs England 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction | SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Dream11 Prediction Today
SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Preview Dream11

Option 2:

SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs ENG Centurion Pitch Report | South Africa vs England 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction | SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Dream11 Prediction Today
SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Preview Dream11

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Match Prediction

This has the makings of a another thriller. Both sides are equally matched, as the first two games showed.

South Africa have won three of their past four games at Centurion. After they should have won in Durban, they could go on to win this one. South Africa to win in another cracker.

Thanks for reading!

SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Durban Pitch Report | South Africa vs England 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 | SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Dream11 Prediction Today

It was a game for the ages. We have witnessed one of the best T20s in recent times; a game that meant plenty to both teams, as well as the amazing crowd at Buffalo Park in East London.

It was the bowlers who came out on top in the death overs in a classic T20I first up. Both South Africa and England went big in their opening 10 overs respectively, but when there is a different feeling associated with a T20I (with this being a World Cup year), you felt there was always going to be drama.

Chris Jordan’s excellent death bowling, as well as Jason Roy and Eoin Morgan’s power with the bat, were second best in the end. Lungi Ngidi was the star, conceding five runs in a final over of a game that looked out of South Africa’s reach.

Now, we go back to Durban, the venue of the washed out second ODI. Thankfully, the forecast is good for this clash, and if we get anything like the game we got on Wednesday, we’re in for a real treat.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

  • Fitting Jason Roy, Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow in the top three meant that Dawid Malan, England’s top run-scorer in New Zealand late last year, was left out.
  • But, Roy justified his selection. His average vs South Africa before the last game was below 30 in six games, but his 70 (38) reminded us of the power he possesses.
  • Buttler (15) and Bairstow (23) looked threatening, but got out after making starts in East London.
  • Quinton de Kock also looked threatening last game. His 31 (15) looked like it could have been plenty more given the way he was striking it. Also, de Kock has 76 runs in Durban T20Is for just one dismissal.
  • Temba Bavuma looks to be enjoying the freedom of white-ball cricket. He looked at home as opener, scoring 43 (27) last game, after scoring 232 runs at 38.66 in the 2019 Mzansi Super League.
  • David Miller was Player of the Match in the last T20I in Durban, back in 2016 (53* off 35 balls). Miller has a love for this ground across formats, as his ODI record shows: 507 runs, avg. 72.43.
  • Rassie van der Dussen could be a very reliable T20 cricketer for South Africa batting at number three. He is yet to play a T20I in Durban, but he has 130 runs on this ground in two ODIs, with one dismissal (80* and 50).
  • Eoin Morgan was superb in East London. He now has the most runs of any active player in South Africa-England T20Is (263, avg. 26.30, SR: 139.89).
  • Incredibly, Ben Stokes has a high score of just 38 in 24 T20Is (avg. 14.75), and just 11 wickets (avg. 47.27). However, everyone knows what Stokes is capable of, and with a T20 World Cup around the corner, he will be motivated to find his rhythm.
  • Chris Jordan will be trusted to bowl at the death again for England. This can bring about wickets. He has taken nine wickets in his past five T20Is.
  • Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali, who went at under six an over with a wicket each in East London, could enjoy the typically slower Durban pitch.
  • But, the star of the show last game was Lungi Ngidi. His death bowling was superb under pressure, and will be trusted on doing the job again.
  • Tabraiz Shamsi was economical but wicketless in East London. But, he was the second-highest wicket taker in the 2019 Mzansi Super League (16).
  • Eyes will be on Dale Steyn again after a wicket on his return. Also, eyes will be on Tom Curran and Mark Wood, who were both expensive last game.
  • Andile Phehlukwayo often takes wickets for the Proteas. He is coming off two last game.
SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Preview Dream11: What a performance by Ngidi

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-Head: South Africa 9, England 6, NR 1.
  • In South Africa, the Proteas lead the head-to-head 5-1.
  • England have played two T20Is in Durban (but none vs SA), losing both their games at Kingsmead in the 2007 World T20. South Africa have played seven completed games, winning five of them.

Possible Playing 11

South Africa could stick with the same winning combination as the last game, unless they choose to replace Dwaine Pretorius.

South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Temba Bavuma, 3. Rassie van der Dussen, 4. Jon-Jon Smuts, 5. David Miller, 6. Andile Phehlukwayo, 7. Dwaine Pretorius, 8. Beuran Hendricks, 9. Dale Steyn, 10. Lungi Ngidi, 11. Tabraiz Shamsi

England will likely avoid significant changes, unless they believe Matt Parkinson and/or Saqib Mahmood are due an opportunity. Also, there is the question of whether Joe Denly can be effective in the number five or six spot for England.

England: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Jos Buttler (wk), 3. Jonny Bairstow, 4. Eoin Morgan (c), 5. Ben Stokes, 6. Joe Denly, 7. Moeen Ali, 8. Chris Jordan, 9. Tom Curran, 10. Adil Rashid, 11. Mark Wood

Durban Pitch Report and Conditions

Durban has similar characteristics to East London when it comes to the pitch. It is often on the slower side compared to other South African pitches, which can make batting a little more challenging when the ball gets older.

After plenty of rain in Durban in recent times, the forecast looks clear for this one: mostly sunny and humid (29 degrees).

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Durban Pitch Report | South Africa vs England 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 | SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Dream11 Prediction Today
SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Preview Dream11

Option 2:

SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Durban Pitch Report | South Africa vs England 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 | SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Dream11 Prediction Today
SA vs ENG 2nd T20I Preview Dream11

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Match Prediction

It was impossible to predict the result of the first T20I with three balls left. So, making a prediction ahead of this match is equally as difficult as it was last game.

One gets the feeling it will be a tight one again. But, England, who bounced back well in the ODIs, could do so again; England to turn the corner and win another close match.

Thanks for reading!

Pros and Cons of the Rise of T20 Cricket

Robin Rounder
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0
Pros and Cons of the Rise of T20 Cricket

Pros and Cons of the Rise of T20 Cricket | What’s the most popular format of cricket? | Advantages and disadvantages of T20 Cricket

T20 Cricket is without any doubt the most popular form of the game in the modern era. It has grown so rapidly that every country now has its own T20 league, with the cricketing world indeed a world away from what it was 15-20 years ago.

T20 cricket’s rapid growth and the significant change in the nature of the sport has its pros and cons. Here, we will look at three pros and three cons of the growth of T20 cricket, and what this may mean for the future of the game.

Pros of the Rise of T20 Cricket:

More Opportunities for Players

The most significant advantage of T20 cricket is that players have a great platform to showcase their talent.

Players from small countries/towns get the opportunity to play with the great of the games in T20 leagues around the world, and make a name for themselves. Countless players over the years have burst onto the scene through T20 cricket.

Lagues around the globe have given us the likes of Rashid Khan, Haris Rauf, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Sandeep Lamichhane, Tom Banton, Hayden Walsh Jr and many more rising stars. As a result, they have all had a taste of international cricket and have solid careers ahead of them.

Rashid Khan is one of the stars of world cricket.

Attracting Audience

T20 cricket is action-packed and has everything the audience likes. Fours and sixes, thrilling last-over finishes and fast-paced action.

As a result, T20 attracts a lot of viewership and revenue, particularly as it is an easy way to introduce new cricket fans to the sport. Most of the fans and people who’ve started watching cricket now love only T20.

The Brand Value of IPL in 2019 was a whopping $6.7billion. Star India paid $2.55 billion for the broadcasting rights only. In Australia, Cricket Australia landed a $1.2 billion TV deal in 2018, with the Big Bash League a significant reason for it.

Also, up-and-coming nations across the world are having a taste of T20 cricket. There are 86 teams in the T20I rankings, which shows that T20 plays a very vital role in making cricket a global sport.

ICC. Countries such as Belgium have the opportunity to play cricket.

Changed the Dynamics of the Game

T20 cricket has changed how the game is played. Due to its competitiveness and fast-paced nature, teams/franchises hire fitness trainers/coaches, scouts and statisticians to stay on top of things. Players are fitter, stronger and do unbelievable things on the field.

And to go with that, players are now getting paid more due to the sponsors and the increased viewership. They can better support themselves and their families. In fact, recently, Pat Cummins got sold for more than 2 million USD in the recent IPL auction.

Pat Cummins’ reaction to his IPL value…

Disadvantages (Cons) of Rising of T20 Cricket:

However, like two sides of a coin, the rapid growth of T20 cricket also has some disadvantages

Cricket Calendar too Packed

With every country now having its own league, the T20 carnival is going on the whole year, in conjunction with international cricket. Leagues like IPL and BBL are about two months long and players have to play continuously without any break, putting a lot of pressure on their bodies.

Cases of Mental Stress is also showing up. Administrators often see players as commodities, and fail to understand that too much cricket leads to injuries or players not able to spend time with their families.

Also, too much cricket is also not good for viewers and often leads to viewer fatigue. There is just so much for the passionate fan to try keep up with; the recent BBL09 season was a case to that.

Glenn Maxwell is one player who took a mental break in 2019.

Killing Other Forms of the Game

The rise of T20 cricket has resulted in the decline of the other two forms of the game, mainly Test cricket. Many cricket fans still consider Test cricket to be the “real cricket”. However, in recent times, Test cricket’s popularity has still decreased.

Test cricket “tests” the temperament of an individual and demands skill and patience. Now, with the plethora of T20s, a lower number of quality Test players are coming through compared to the past. Skills like reverse-swing and patient batting in challenging times are often missing in the T20 era.

© Chrsitiaan Kotze/BackpagePix. Test cricket faces a battle to stay alive.

Disturbing the Ethics of the Game

Too much money, glamour, and celebrities can disturb the ethics of the game. Cases of spot-fixing and the like have increased in the T20 leagues. IPL is not untouched from this as CSK & RR were suspended for two years in 2016.

Other leagues like BPL, APL and PSL are also always under threat. In fact, Bangladesh star Shakib Al Hasan was banned due to not reporting that he was being contacted by a bookie.

Money, glamour and fame in theory are fine, but the rise of T20, along with online betting, has seen it hamper the ethics of the game more so than in the past.

Also read: Online Cricket Betting Tips: Key Things to Keep in Mind

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So, what’s your view? Do you like T20 cricket over other forms of the game or do you agree with Michael Holding’s point that “T20 is not cricket”? Do leave a comment!

Thanks for reading!

Written by Robin Rounder. Follow Robin on Twitter today

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