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Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 6: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 6: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 6: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Ireland vs Scotland Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction

For the first time in the Ireland Tri-Series, the bowlers had a day to remember.

Scotland, less than a month out from the World T20 Qualifier, took the Netherlands apart on Thursday. The seamers and spinners were equally as effective in limiting the Dutch, which has now given the Scots a chance to finish the series top of the table.

Hot on the heels are hosts Ireland, who have a fine record against Scotland in T20I cricket. Their performance last time out against the Netherlands was disappointing, so this final game is a chance to build some confidence ahead of the Qualifier tournament in the UAE next month.

Also read: Will Rohit Sharma succeed as a Test opener?

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Key to an Ireland win

The absence of Paul Stirling has not been ideal for Ireland. Despite this, the batsmen, led by Andy Balbirnie, have held their own. However, plenty rests on the top order to score well and quickly, given that the middle order contains quite a few accumulators. Skipper Gary Wilson, if needed, needs to deliver runs at a quicker rate. With Gareth Delany, Balbirnie and Harry Tector showing good form, a strong platform is needed.

Also, can the Irish bowlers restrict Scotland? They were able to do so earlier in the week, with Boyd Rankin and Gareth Delany particularly impressive. With a run rate of 10 an over common in this series, how many of Ireland’s bowlers can deliver an economy rate of less than 10? Can they get the better of Scotlands top order, who have looked dangerous this series?

Key to a Scotland win

Scotland’s net run rate of 1.845 is evidence of the good cricket they have played. They have been too strong for the Netherlands, but a win over Ireland will be a further boost given their less-than-impressive T20I record against the hosts. Yesterday, George Munsey, Calum McLeod, Richie Berrington and Ollie Hairs all made starts. Can one or two go on to make significant scores today?

Also, Scotland’s attack gelled very well yesterday against the Netherlands. The loss of Alasdair Evans to injury did not hamper the Scots, as five of the seven bowlers used were in the wickets. With Ireland relying significantly on their top order for quick, effective runs, early wickets will hold Scotland in good stead. Can the likes of Hamza Tahir and Adrian Neill keep Ireland quiet in the powerplay? With Tom Sole, Calum MacLeod and Richie Berrington capable of being miserly, they can build pressure on Ireland’s middle order.

Possible Playing 11

Ireland: 1. Kevin O’Brien, 2. Gareth Delany, 3. Andy Balbirnie, 4. Harry Tector, 5. Gary Wilson (c & wk), 6. Lorcan Tucker, 7. Mark Adair, 8. Stuart Thompson, 9. David Delany, 10. George Dockrell, 11. Boyd Rankin

Scotland: 1. Kyle Coetzer (c), 2. George Munsey, 3. Calum MacLeod, 4. Richie Berrington, 5. Ollie Hairs, 6. Michael Leask, 7. Matthew Cross (wk), 8. Tom Sole, 9. Safyaan Sharif/Mark Watt, 10. Adrian Neill, 11. Hamza Tahir

Pitch and Conditions

Plenty of rain is expected from Saturday onwards in Dublin. Thankfully, the series ends today and the weather looks good. In regards to the pitch, it still remains good for batting even though there is signs of tiredness due to a number of matches on the square this week.

Stats and Facts

  • The team chasing has won the last four games in this Tri-Series.
  • Scotland have won just one of eight T20Is against Ireland.
  • No team has won back-to-back matches in this Tri-Series. Scotland can do so today.

Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction

Option 1:

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 6: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11

Option 2:

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 6: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11

Match Prediction

An interesting final game in store. Scotland have been the form side, but Ireland have a great record against them.

Ireland could take this one out in a tight match.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Will Rohit Sharma succeed as a Test opener?

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Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 5: AFG vs ZIM Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 5: AFG vs ZIM Preview Dream11

Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 5: AFG vs ZIM Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11

That’s it. Two teams have now been confirmed as finalists in the Bangladesh Tri-Series tournament, with two league matches still left to play.

Zimbabwe’s tough year has continued, as they will now play their final game of the Tri-Series. Their convincing defeat to Bangladesh, a week after they should have won the first match, was a disappointing performance in an important game. Now, they have the final chance to send Hamilton Masakadza out of international cricket as a winner as they sign off from Bangladesh.

To do so, they will have to get past an in-form Afghanistan team, whom they have never beaten in T20Is in eight attempts. The Afghans are on an incredible run overall, winning their past 12 T20Is, while looking the best team in this tournament so far. With two games to play until the Final, Afghanistan can look to further boost their form, with a few areas for improvement.

Also read: Will Rohit Sharma succeed as a Test opener?

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Key to an Afghanistan win

Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi and Asghar Afghan have been irresistible in this Tri-Series so far. Afghanistan’s middle order trio have scored a total of 250 runs between them in two matches, off just 162 balls. With such force in the middle order, a great opportunity awaits the Afghanistan top order to lay a much better platform than they did last game against Bangladesh. Hazratullah Zazai has the chance to recover from his batting slump. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who was superb against Zimbabwe earlier this tournament, has the opportunity to show what he is made of again.

Also, Afghanistan’s spin attack has been brilliant. Mujeeb ur Rahman, with a classy four-wicket haul against Bangladesh, will be out to continue his form against a side that notoriously struggles against spin. The same applies to Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, forming a trio that has been central to Afghanistan’s outstanding run in T20Is. With the chance of rotating seamers, the reliability of Afghanistan’s spinners will play a key role.

Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 5: AFG vs ZIM Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
AFP. Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 5: Nabi has continued his fine T20I form.

Key to a Zimbabwe win

This is a dead-rubber but don’t tell that to Hamilton Masakadza. The Zimbabwean batsman, who made his international debut way back in 2001, has only threatened to go big in this series. 62 runs in three innings is not quite the return needed, especially considering Brendan Taylor and Sean Williams’ lack of form. Can Zimbabwe’s experienced top order get through the powerplay with flying colours, enabling the middle order to play with less pressure against Afghanistan’s spinners?

Also, Zimbabwe’s bowling is a concern. They went the distance against Bangladesh, after going the distance in their previous outing against Afghanistan. Their lack of consistency thanks to too many loose balls has hurt them this series, and if they are to send Hamilton Masakadza out a winner, the bowlers have to work better as a unit across all three stages of the innings. Is it time to bring Tendai Chatara back to boost the bowling stocks?

Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 5: AFG vs ZIM Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 5: Can Zimbabwe send Hamilton Masakadza out a winner?

Possible Playing 11

Fast bowlers Dawlat Zadran and/or Naveen-ul-Haq could get a run for Afghanistan in this match.

Afghanistan: 1. Hazratullah Zazai, 2. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), 3. Najeeb Tarakai, 4. Asghar Afghan, 5. Najibullah Zadran, 6. Mohammad Nabi, 7. Gulbain Naib, 8. Rashid Khan (c), 9. Karim Janat/Dawlat Zadran, 10. Fareed Ahmed, 11. Mujeeb ur Rahman

Richmond Mutumbami scored a nice fifty against Bangladesh which should keep him in the side. Craig Ervine had a bit of a niggle which forced him to miss the last game. It remains to be seen if he has recovered well enough. Also, Zimbabwe could look at recalling Tendai Chatara.

Zimbabwe: 1. Brendan Taylor (wk), 2. Hamilton Masakadaza (c), 3. Sean Williams, 4. Regis Chakabva/Craig Ervine, 5. Tinotenda Mutombodzi, 6. Ryan Burl, 7. Richmond Mutumbami, 8. Neville Madziva/Tendai Chatara, 9. Kyle Jarvis, 10. Ainsley Ndlovu, 11. Chris Mpofu

Pitch and Conditions

There is a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the evening in Chittagong. In regards to the pitch, the Bangladesh-Zimbabwe game saw batsmen, who were willing to assess conditions well, score runs.

Stats and Facts

  • Hamilton Masakadza will retire as Zimbabwe’s most-capped T20I player (65). He is also their highest run-getter (1,566), with the next best, Elton Chigumbura, on 852.
  • Mohammad Nabi, Asghar Afghan and Naijibullah Zadran have 250 runs between them off 162 balls in this Tri-Series.
  • Hazratullah Zazai has not scored a fifty in his last 14 international innings.
  • Afghanistan have won all eight T20Is against Zimbabwe. In all, they have won 12 straight T20Is.
  • This match will be played on Rashid Khan’s birthday.

Fantasy Cricket Prediction

MyTeam11 (regular) Prediction: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Hamilton Masakdaza, Asghar Afghan, Najibullah Zadran, Sean Williams, Ryan Burl, Mohammad Nabi (c), Gulbadin Naib, Kyle Jarvis, Rashid Khan (vc), Mujeeb ur Rahman

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 5: AFG vs ZIM Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 5: AFG vs ZIM Preview Dream11

Option 2:

Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 5: AFG vs ZIM Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 5: AFG vs ZIM Preview Dream11

Match Prediction

Zimbabwe will do what they can to send Hamilton Masakadza out a winner. However, Afghanistan are on a great run and playing fine cricket in this format. They have the wood over Zimbabwe, and it should continue.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Will Rohit Sharma succeed as a Test opener?

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Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 5: SCO vs NED Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 5: SCO vs NED Preview Dream11

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 5: SCO vs NED Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Scotland vs Netherlands Dream11 & MyTream11

The even nature of the Ireland Tri-Series is on show, with all three teams gaining a win each. No side has won two straight matches yet, which is something they’d like to get right with the World T20 Qualifier less than a month away.

Scotland’s huge win over Netherlands on Monday was followed by a convincing defeat to Ireland. The Netherlands bounced back superbly against the Irish yesterday, and they have the chance to gain some revenge for the massive onslaught against Scotland earlier this week. Which way will this game go?

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

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Key to a Scotland win

Kyle Coetzer and George Munsey put on a show last time out against the Netherlands. Their 200-run stand – third such partnership in T20I history – was some show of power hitting. Avoiding powerplay wickets will be key, as they lost both openers relatively early against Ireland. With Calum MacLeod, Richie Berrington and Ollie Hairs looking in good touch in the middle, a strong platform puts Scotland on the front foot in a high-scoring series.

However, Scotland’s bowlers have not been able to keep the runs down. The score of 194 by the Netherlands against them earlier in the tournament was followed by an easy chase by Ireland, putting onus on the likes of Alasdair Evans and Mark Watt to make inroads early. The Scots were able to take early wickets in their last game against the Netherlands, and will need to do so again with the likes of Max O’Dowd, Ben Cooper and Pieter Seelaar in good touch.

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 5: SCO vs NED Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Scotland vs Netherlands Dream11 & MyTream11
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 5: George Munsey is in fine touch.

Key to a Netherlands win

Restricting Ireland to a sub-190 score was a fine effort by the Dutch in a high-scoring series. Brandon Glover was outstanding in his return to the team, with the 22-year old restricting Ireland in the middle overs – the period where Scotland ran riot against the Dutch on Monday. With Philippe Boissevain and Pieter Seelaar also going for under the 10 an over mark against Ireland, the key will be for at least three or four bowlers to again achieve this against Scotland.

But, Ben Cooper stole the show with magnificent batting yesterday against Ireland. The Australian-born batsman was in fine touch, along with Max O’Dowd who made his first significant contribution of the series. However, the Dutch will want more from Tobias Visee who has looked out of touch in his two games to date. With Pieter Seelaar and Scott Edwards showing form in the middle order earlier this series, a strong platform can set the Netherlands up really well.

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 5: SCO vs NED Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Scotland vs Netherlands Dream11 & MyTream11
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 5: Netherlands achieved their highest chase vs Ireland.

Possible Playing 11

Scotland: 1. Kyle Coetzer (c), 2. George Munsey, 3. Calum MacLeod, 4. Richie Berrington, 5. Michael Leask, 6. Ollie Hairs, 7. Matthew Cross (wk), 8. Safyaan Sharif, 9. Mark Watt, 10. Alasdair Evans, 11. Hamza Tahir/Adrian Neill

Netherlands: 1. Tobias Visee, 2. Max O’Dowd, 3. Ben Cooper, 4. Pieter Seelaar (c), 5. Scott Edwards (wk), 6. Bas de Leede, 7. Antonius Staal, 8. Shane Snater, 9. Philippe Boissevain, 10. Fred Klaasen, 11. Brandon Glover

Also read: Will Rohit Sharma succeed as a Test opener?

Pitch and Conditions

Anything under 200 has been chased down with ease in this Tri-Series to date. Conditions in Dublin will be fine once again.

Stats and Facts

  • Kyle Coetzer and George Munsey put on a 200-run stand for the opening wicket in their last meeting vs Netherlands.
  • Ben Cooper has scored just 132 runs in eight innings vs Scotland. He has an opportunity today to improve on this record. He needs just 19 runs to become the Netherlands’ all-time T20I run-scorer.
  • Richie Berrington, George Munsey and Kyle Coetzer are the top three run-scorers against Netherlands in all T20Is.
  • Scotland have won five of the past six T20Is against the Netherlands.

Dream11 and MyTeam11 Prediction

Other C Option: Kyle Coetzer/Max O’Dowd

Other VC Option: Ben Cooper/Calum MacLeod

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 5: SCO vs NED Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Scotland vs Netherlands Dream11 & MyTream11
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 5: SCO vs NED Preview Dream11

Match Prediction

No side has yet been able to win two straight games in this Tri-Series. This could continue, with Scotland to win today after Netherlands beat Ireland yesterday. After all, they have an excellent recent record vs the Dutch.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Will Rohit Sharma succeed as a Test opener?

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India v South Africa 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11

Charbel Coorey
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0
India v South Africa 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11

India v South Africa 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. IND vs SA 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction

South Africa’s tour of India began in damp fashion. It wasn’t cricket related as many are predicting, but rather, the weather played spoilsport in Dharmasala. Conditions in Mohali are expected to be warm, humid but fine, as both teams look to make a positive start to the series.

India have at least another 16 T20Is until the World T20 in just over a year’s time. Becoming confident with their combinations will be key, as opposed to the recent 50-over World Cup, where there was uncertainty regarding the number four position. The same applies to the opening position in the T20I format, where KL Rahul, unlikely to keep his Test place, competes with Shikhar Dhawan for a spot alongside Rohit Sharma.

However, when it comes to the 50-over World Cup, no team disappointed more than South Africa. They have to shake off the hangover quickly, with the next world tournament – the World T20 – one where the Proteas will want to hold a better account of themselves. Plenty of new faces will be on show in Mohali, led by Quinton de Kock. Can they put on a big show and make a mark?

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

Key to an India win

Adjusting their style is high on the agenda for India ahead of next year’s World T20. Powerplay scoring is a key area for improvement for India, placing onus on the top three – including the prolific Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli – to take less time to get settled. Then, Rishabh Pant, singled out by coach Ravi Shastri, has a key role in finishing well along with the returning Hardik Pandya. Indeed, the perfect T20 innings across all three stages will be what India are after.

Also, with regulars Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar all sitting out, the likes of Deepak Chahar and Navdeep Saini have the opportunity to impress against South Africa’s inexperienced lineup. Similar applies to the spinners with Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal out, with Washington Sundar one to keep an eye out for after an impressive showing in the Caribbean recently. Can India build pressure through regular wickets and then finish well at the death?

India v South Africa 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. IND vs SA 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction
Getty. India v South Africa 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma vs the seamers early will be a key battle.

Key to a South Africa win

South Africa’s entire T20I squad contains 210 matches of experience. In stark contrast, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli have 219 matches. So, plenty rests on skipper Quinton de Kock to bat a significant portion of the innings, with Rassie van der Dussen also a crucial player if the Proteas are to make a competitive score. However, can Reeza Hendricks build on his recent form for South Africa A? What about David Miller, who is also an experienced player?

Also, thanks to injuries and retirements, South Africa will field a relatively inexperienced bowling attack. Kagiso Rabada, in the current world of excellent fast bowlers, will be keen to make a mark against a strong lineup in their own den, along with the likes of Junior Dala and Anrich Nortje. However, can the all-rounders and Tabraiz Shamsi limit boundaries and contribute with wickets in the middle overs?

India v South Africa 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. IND vs SA 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction
Alex Davidson/Getty Images. India v South Africa 2nd T20I: Skipper de Kock will be key.

Possible Playing 11

Shikhar Dhawan is said to be the likely opening partner for Rohit Sharma.

India: 1. Rohit Sharma, 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. Shreyas Iyer, 5. Rishabh Pant (wk), 6. Hardik Pandya, 7. Krunal Pandya, 8. Ravindra Jadeja, 9. Washington Sundar/Rahul Chahar, 10. Deepak Chahar, 11. Navdeep Saini

Hashim Amla, Imran Tahir and JP Duminy have all retired. Faf du Plessis is preparing for the upcoming Test series. So, there are plenty of opportunities available for up and coming players to make a mark. It remains to be seen if both seam-bowling all-rounders play or whether the Proteas go with both Anrich Nortje and Junior Dala on a Mohali pitch that can provide some bounce for seamers.

South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (c & wk), 2. Reeza Hendricks, 3. Rassie van der Dussen, 4. Temba Bavuma, 5. David Miller, 6. Andile Phehlukwayo, 7. Dwaine Pretorius/George Linde, 8. Kagiso Rabada, 9. Junior Dala, 10. Anrich Nortje, 11. Tabraiz Shamsi

Pitch and Conditions

Conditions are expected to be warm and humid in Mohali. In the 2019 IPL, the average first-innings total was 171, with the chasing team winning five times out of seven games.

Also read: Will Rohit Sharma succeed as a Test opener?

Stats and Facts

  • Junior Dala has dismissed Rohit Sharma three times in seven deliveries in T20s.
  • David Miller at Mohali: 29 T20s, 730 runs, average of 45.62 and a strike rate of 150.51.
  • Virat Kohli averages 28 vs South Africa in T20Is, and will be keen to improve on this.

Fantasy Cricket Prediction

MyTeam11 (regular) Prediction: Quinton de Kock (wk), Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer, Rassie van der Dussen, Andile Phehlukwayo, Krunal Pandya, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

India v South Africa 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. IND vs SA 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction
India v South Africa 2nd T20I Preview Dream11

Option 2:

India v South Africa 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. IND vs SA 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction
India v South Africa 2nd T20I Preview Dream11

Match Prediction

India’s experience and home ground advantage should prove vital. India to win and take a 1-0 series lead.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Will Rohit Sharma succeed as a Test opener?

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 4: IRE vs NED Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 4: IRE vs NED Preview Dream11

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 4: IRE vs NED Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Ireland vs Netherlands Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11

In another high scoring match at Dublin, Ireland, the lowest ranked side in this T20I Tri-Series, chased down 194 with such ease against an in-form Scotland side. That they did so without Paul Stirling, their top T20I batsman in 2019, is cause for encouragement a month out from the World T20 Qualifier. The likes of Boyd Rankin, Gareth Delany and Andy Balbirnie were superb, and they will be out to continue the momentum.

Can the Netherlands bounce back after their tough outing two days ago? On the end of the sixth highest T20I score of all time, the Dutch are in need of a confidence boost against the hosts. They have a strong record against Ireland in T20Is (five wins in eight completed matches), and this is a good time to build on it.

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

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Key to an Ireland win

Restricting Scotland to a sub-200 score gave the Irish a chance. In the absence of Paul Stirling, who could be out again today, the top three of Gareth Delaney, Kevin O’Brien and Andy Balbirnie got Ireland off to a rapid start. Given the Netherlands conceded such a big score vs Scotland two days ago, a fast start today by Ireland can push the Dutch right onto the back foot. Can Gareth Delaney have another strong outing? Will Andy Balbirnie continue his consistent run of form in 2019? With Kevin O’Brien also enjoying a strong 2019, the middle order can have a good platform to play off.

Also, Boyd Rankin’s experience came to the fore against Scotland. His wickets early and late on helped restrict the Scots, which included the dangerous Kyle Coetzer. With Gareth Delaney providing excellent support, Ireland realised the value of a key bowling partnership. However, others, such as Stuart Thompson and Mark Adair, will be asked to improve their economy rate to below 10 an over. Can the Irish make inroads into the Netherlands’ top order and then build on it?

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 4: IRE vs NED Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Ireland vs Netherlands Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
ICC Cricket. Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 4: Ireland’s top order was strong vs Scotland.

Key to a Netherlands win

The absence of Ryan ten Doeschate and Roelof van der Merwe leaves a hole in the Netherlands’ middle order. Skipper Pieter Seelaar was simply brilliant in filling that gap against Scotland. However, more is needed from the top order, after the top three contributed just 16 runs combined last game. Tobias Visee, Max O’Dowd and Ben Cooper, all whom have had a solid year in T20 Cricket, need some form under their belt in this series.

Also, can the Netherlands bowlers restrict Ireland’s top order, who were in blistering form yesterday? Seven bowlers were used by Netherlands against Scotland, of which only Fred Klaasen conceded less than 10 an over. The likes of Paul van Meekeren and Pieter Seelar need to build dot ball pressure, of which the Dutch can then turn into wickets. The key will be winning the powerplay period and then putting pressure on Ireland’s middle order, which contains quite a few accumulators.

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 4: IRE vs NED Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Ireland vs Netherlands Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 4: Max O’Dowd has had a good year.

Possible Playing 11

It remains to be seen if Paul Stirling has overcome his niggle to play in this match.

Ireland: 1. Gareth Delaney, 2. Kevin O’Brien, 3. Andy Balbirnie, 4. Harry Tector, 5. Gary Wilson (c & wk), 6. Lorcan Tucker, 7. Shane Getkate, 8. Mark Adair, 9. Stuart Thompson, 10. David Delaney/George Dockrell, 11. Boyd Rankin

Netherlands: 1. Tobias Visee, 2. Max O’Dowd, 3. Ben Cooper, 4. Pietar Seelaar (c), 5. Bas de Leede, 6. Scott Edwards (wk), 7. Antonius Staal, 8. Shane Snater, 9. Clayton Floyd, 10. Paul van Meekeren, 11. Fred Klaasen

Pitch and Conditions

Good batting conditions are expected again in Dublin, where big totals in the region of 200 have been common in T20s since 2018.

Also read: Will Rohit Sharma succeed as a Test opener?

Stats and Facts

  • Netherlands have won five of eight completed T20Is against Ireland.
  • Ireland’s top three (O’Brien, Delaney and Balbirnie) scored 133 runs off just 69 balls against Scotland.
  • Tobias Visee (118 runs in three T20Is) and Max O’Down (114 in four T20Is) are Netherlands’ all-time T20I run-scorers vs Ireland.

Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 4: IRE vs NED Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Ireland vs Netherlands Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 4: Dream11 Prediction

Match Prediction

Expect plenty of runs once again. Ireland, at home, might just have enough in them to pick up their second straight win in this series.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

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Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 4: BAN vs ZIM Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 4: BAN vs ZIM Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11

The Bangladesh T20I Tri-Series resumes, this time in Chattogram, with a crunch game between two rivals.

The way Afghanistan have convincingly beaten both Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, of whom have been in international cricket a lot longer than the Afghans, is of some concern. Bangladesh since the World Cup have been poor across all three formats, and the time is now for them to get things right to confirm their passage through to the Tri-Series Final. For Zimbabwe, they must win this game to keep their hopes of a finals appearance alive.

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

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Key to a Bangladesh win

It is incredible to think that had it not been for Afif Hossain in the tournament opener, Bangladesh would be entering this game in sudden-death mode. Their top-order batting has been a ship-wreck, losing four powerplay wickets in both their two games so far. The awful strokeplay by experienced players against Afghanistan is something Bangladesh must rectify against Zimbabwe, as they can’t rely on the youngsters in the middle order to bail them out of trouble again.

Also, after having Afghanistan in all sorts of trouble at 19/3, Bangladesh really failed to drive home the advantage. Bangladesh’s lack of consistency with the ball across all stages of an innings has let them down in T20Is. Mohammad Saifuddin was excellent in his first three overs against Afghanistan, but fell away at the death like his team did. Instances like Taijul Islam’s costly no-ball and Soumya Sarkar’s poor over at the death is something the Tigers must avoid to ensure Zimbabwe don’t get away. When the pressure is on, they need to hold their own better.

Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 4: BAN vs ZIM Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Getty Images. Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 4: Bangladesh’s shot selection has been awful.

Key to a Zimbabwe win

Zimbabwe have the opportunity to exert pressure on a struggling Bangladesh top order. Kyle Jarvis and Tendai Chatara weren’t quite able to reel Afghanistan in during the powerplay overs of their last game, which gave the Afghans a platform to play off. Can Zimbabwe continue Bangladesh’s powerplay woes, then driving home the advantage better than they did in their first two games? Their death bowling against Afghanistan was poor, bowling far too many full tosses which saw the game fall out of their reach.

Also, can Zimbabwe overcome Bangladesh’s spin options? Sides batting first in night games at Chattogram average just 138, which puts onus on the batsmen to rotate strike well. Shakib Al Hasan will be out for a better outing than his very expensive first game and Taijul Islam, if picked, can look to continue his fine record against Zimbabwe. Quick wickets – the kind Zimbabwe lost early against Afghanistan – is something they must avoid. With their middle order capable of sending the ball to the boundary, the top order needs to provide a platform. Can the likes of Sean Williams and Craig Ervine make the contributions expected of them?

Also read: Ashes 2019 5th Test Player Ratings: Who was best?

Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 4: BAN vs ZIM Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 4: This could be Hamilton Masakadza’s second last international.

Possible Playing 11

Bangladesh have brought in Rubel Hossain, Shafiul Islam, Aminul Islam and young opening batsman Mohammad Naim to their squad. Soumya Sarkar has been dropped.

Bangladesh: 1. Liton Das, 2. Mohammad Naim, 3. Shakib Al Hasan, 4. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5. Mahmudullah, 6. Sabbir Rahman, 7. Mosaddek Hossain, 8. Afif Hossain, 9. Mohammad Saifuddin, 10. Taijul Islam, 11. Mustafizur Rahman

Zimbabwe could play Chris Mpofu in this game.

Zimbabwe: 1. Brendan Taylor (wk), 2. Hamilton Masakadza (c), 3. Craig Ervine, 4. Sean Williams, 5. Tinotenda Mutombodzi, 6. Ryan Burl, 7. Regis Chakabva, 8. Neville Madziva, 9. Kyle Jarvis, 10. Ainsley Ndlovu, 11. Tendai Chatara

Stats and Facts

  • Mustafizur Rahman needs one wicket to reach 50 in T20Is.
  • Ryan Burl and Afif Hossain were brilliant in the earlier meeting between the sides. Burl hit 57* off 32 balls, including 30 off one Shakib over. Afif hit 52 off 26 balls to win the game for Bangladesh.
  • Bangladesh have won seven of 24 T20Is since the start of 2017. Zimbabwe have won just two of 13 in the same period.
  • Bangladesh have lost a total of eight powerplay wickets in two games in this Tri-Series.
  • Zimbabwe conceded seven sixes in a row at one point at the death against Afghanistan.

Also read: Will Rohit Sharma succeed as a Test opener?

Fantasy Cricket Prediction

MyTeam11 (regular) Prediction: Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Hamilton Masakadza, Mahmudullah, Afif Hossain, Sean Williams, Ryan Burl (vc), Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mosaddek Hossain, Kyle Jarvis, Tendai Chatara, Mohammad Saifuddin

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 4: BAN vs ZIM Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 4: BAN vs ZIM Preview Dream11

Option 2:

Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 4: BAN vs ZIM Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Ban T20 Tri-Series Match 4: BAN vs ZIM Preview Dream11

Match Prediction

Expect another close game between two sides not at the top of their game. Bangladesh, at home, might just have enough in them to get the win that confirms their passage to the Tri-Series Final. Indeed, this is a game where Shakib Al Hasan has to deliver more for his team.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

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Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 3: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 3: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 3: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Ireland vs Scotland T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11

The Ireland T20I Tri-Series, pencilled in the cricketing calendar as a result of the cancellation of the Euro T20 Slam, got off to some start on Monday.

Scotland, the highest ranked side in the series ahead of The Netherlands and Ireland, flexed their muscle to achieve the sixth highest team score in T20I history. The Netherlands bowlers had little answer to George Munsey and Kyle Coetzer, who will be out to inflict more carnage, this time on the hosts.

Indeed, if Ireland wish to get the best preparation possible for the World T20 Qualifier next month, they have in-form opposition to test themselves against. With just three wins in their last 16 T20Is, the Irish need to find form and confidence now, which places onus on the experienced players to step up.

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

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Key to an Ireland win

Scotland smashed 72 off the powerplay overs against the Netherlands. If Ireland are on the end of such a start, it could very well be curtains, given that the flow of runs can be very hard to stop on the excellent batting pitch in Dublin. Ireland’s seamers – namely Boyd Rankin, Mark Adair and Shane Getkate have a key role in putting a lid on Scotland’s scoring in the powerplay, enabling the spinning options to build pressure. Can Ireland break the Munsey-Coetzer partnership early?

Also, who will produce the big runs for Ireland with the bat? Paul Stirling and Kevin O’Brien have had their strong moments in T20Is in 2019, and will both be key in delivering a fast start in the powerplay. This fast start is all the more important given the Irish possess quite a few accumulators in their middle order, making Mark Adair’s hitting ability late on potentially very important as well. However, he and Ireland need a platform to play off.

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 3: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Ireland vs Scotland T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 3: Paul Stirling has had a good 2019.

Key to a Scotland win

Can the Scots build on the incredible momentum they picked up on Monday? Kyle Coetzer and George Munsey were superb as a partnership against the Netherlands, with Coetzer allowing Munsey to get settled early on. Then, when Munsey took off, there was no stopping him, achieving the third-fastest T20I century ever in the third-highest opening stand in all T20Is. Asking for the same is certainly far-fetched, but another fast start puts Ireland on the back foot, paving the way for the middle order to play with total freedom.

Also, can Scotland repeat the excellent start they made with the ball vs Netherlands? Alasdair Evans and Adrian Neill, in a high scoring game, provided key control that put the Dutch well behind the eight-ball early. However, when under pressure, can Scotland recapture the momentum? More will be expected of the likes of Safyaan Sharif and Michael Leask against an Irish side that will look to go hard; much like Netherlands captain Pieter Seelar did on Monday.

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 3: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Ireland vs Scotland T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Getty Images/Sportsfile. Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 3: George Munsey was incredible.

Possible Playing 11

Ireland: 1. Paul Stirling, 2. Kevin O’Brien, 3. Andy Balbirnie, 4. Gary Wilson (c & wk), 5. Lorcan Tucker, 6. Mark Adair, 7. Shane Getkate, 8. George Dockrell, 9. Stuart Thompson, 10. Craig Young, 11. Boyd Rankin

Scotland: 1. Kyle Coetzer (c), 2. George Munsey, 3. Ollie Hairs, 4. Calum MacLeod, 5. Richie Berrington, 6. Craig Wallace (wk), 7. Michael Leask, 8. Alasdair Evans, 9. Adrian Neill, 10. Safyaan Sharif, 11. Mark Watt

Pitch and Conditions

The weather is expected to be rain-free in the next few days in Dublin. In regards to the pitch, the high-scoring nature of the match yesterday was in-line with the T20 average at Dublin since 2018: first innings average score of 200+.

Stats and Facts

  • Paul Stirling has had a superb 2019 in T20Is. In eight innings, he has scored 335 runs at 47.85, at a strike rate of 153.66.
  • His opening partner Kevin O’Brien has also had a good year with 287 runs at 35.87, at a strike rate above 150.
  • George Munsey and Kyle Coetzer became just the third pair to put on a 200-run partnership in T20Is.
  • Mark Adair has 156 runs and 19 wickets across 11 limited-overs matches for Ireland.
  • Head-to-head in T20Is: Matches 9, Ireland 5, Scotland 3, Tie 1.

Fantasy Cricket Prediction

MyTeam11 (regular) Prediction: Gary Wilson (wk), Kevin O’Brien, Paul Stirling (vc), Kyle Coetzer, Calum MacLeod, George Munsey (c), Mark Adair, RIchie Berrington, Shane Getkate, Alasdair Evans, Adrian Neill

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 3: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Ireland vs Scotland T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 3: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11

Option 2:

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 3: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction. Ireland vs Scotland T20I Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 3: IRE vs SCO Preview Dream11

Match Prediction

Two sides who know each other well go head-to-head a month out from the World T20 Qualifier. Scotland look a confident side right now and look good for another win.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

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Rohit Sharma: The Prodigal Son Returns

CricBlog News Desk
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Rohit Sharma: The Prodigal Son Returns

Rohit Sharma: The Prodigal Son Returns. Will Rohit Sharma be successful as India’s Test Opener?

Written by Dhaval Sethi – The India Fan, https://bleedblue.sport.blog

If Rohit Sharma’s Test career could be compared to a movie series, it would definitely be the Fast and Furious series. Every time you think he’s finished, the selectors find another way to bring him into the 11. Ahead of South Africa’s Test assignment in India, he’s been all but confirmed as India’s new opening batsman. A position where he has never previously batted in Tests.

My heart tells me Rohit won’t be another Suresh Raina, who was given too many chances in a format that he just didn’t have the game for. My mind tells me otherwise.

One thing which cannot be doubted is the quality of Rohit Sharma’s batting. Since he was made an opening batsmen in the 50-over side, his record has been phenomenal. You could argue that recently Rohit has been as good as – if not better – than Kohli and that really is saying something. Not to mention his unbelievable World Cup where he became the first batsmen to hit five centuries in a single edition.

Also read: Rohit headlines 2019 World Cup Team of the Tournament

Top 10 ODI Run scorers since Rohit Sharma was promoted to opener in July 2013:

Rohit Sharma: The Prodigal Son Returns. Will Rohit Sharma be successful as India's Test Opener? Rohit Sharma named as India's Test Opener
Rohit Sharma has been superb in ODIs since 2013.

The formula through which Rohit has scored these runs is well known to all. The first 20-odd balls are a struggle and the best opportunity to dismiss him. This is typified by his slow strike rate at the beginning of his innings. However, if he survives this phase, he grows in confidence and it is usually just a matter of time before the runs start flowing. And once he’s reached his century, just ask the Sri Lankans how things tend to go.

Rohit Sharma: The Prodigal Son Returns. Will Rohit Sharma be successful as India's Test Opener? Rohit Sharma named as India's Test Opener
Rohit Sharma is one of the finest limited overs batsmen in history.

Can Rohit Sharma adjust well enough to the Test format?

This formula unfortunately raises a fundamental issue. Test matches will not allow Rohit the same luxuries as one-day cricket. Bowlers can keep bowling at that 4th/5th stump line and the slips will stay in place all day. This is something Rohit has struggled with even when the ball is old, let alone a brand-new ball. Does Rohit really have the temperament and technique to leave the ball outside off stump religiously? Add to this the need to remain patient even if he gets through the initial period. History, such as his poor stroke in the first innings against Australia in Adelaide in 2018, suggests not.

Also read: Should India stick with KL Rahul at the top of the order?

Now, Rohit has to repay the faith. The likes of Priyank Panchal (898 runs in Ranji Trophy 2018/19 at 59.86) and Abhiman Easwaran (861 runs at 95.66) are knocking on the door for an opportunity. It perhaps should have come now, given Rohit is now 32, rendering his call up to the Test opening position as one that is unlikely to be a long-term option.

However, does all this mean Rohit the Test Opener is destined for failure? Not necessarily. I see two potential scenarios where this move could be successful. One option is to mimic Kohli’s approach in the 2018 Test series against England. Kohli showed incredible discipline to leave virtually everything outside off stump, hence silencing his doubters and scoring a brilliant 593 runs in the series. Can Rohit find this same resilience? Alternatively, given his ball-striking ability, Rohit could take the Sehwag approach. Whichever way Rohit goes, let’s hope this is finally the time a batsmen who has promised so much delivers in Test cricket. The Indian team needs it, and frankly it’s do or die for Rohit’s Test career.

Written by Dhaval Sethi – The India Fan, https://bleedblue.sport.blog

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 2: NED vs SCO Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 2: NED vs SCO Preview Dream11

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 2: NED vs SCO Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11. Netherlands vs Scotland Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction

Just as the case in Dharmasala, rain played spoilsport in Dublin as the Ireland T20I Tri-Series kicks off a day later than planned after cancellation of the Euro T20 Slam.

Netherlands will be out for some redemption after a 4-0 series defeat to UAE last month. Such a result was a let down after a successful series against Zimbabwe just weeks earlier, where the Dutch won the ODI series 2-0 and drew the T20I series only because of a lost Super Over.

They take on Scotland, rivals of nine T20Is, for the chance to take an early lead in Ireland T20I series. Scotland, the highest ranked team in this Tri-Series, are playing their first T20I since February, and will be out to make a mark in conditions similar to home. With the T20 Qualifier a month away, both sides will be out to find form – will it be Scotland?

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

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Key to a Netherlands win

The absence of Ryan ten Doeschate and Roelof van der Merwe leaves a big hole in the Netherlands middle order. So, plenty rests on the top order to deliver. The likes of Tobias Visee, Max O’Dowd and Ben Cooper have had good moments throughout 2019, and will be key in ensuring a good start in the powerplay, and then building on it in the middle overs. Keep an eye out for Bas de Leede, Scott Edwards, Pieter Seelaar and Antonius Staal in providing important steel in the Dutch middle order with the absence of experienced players.

However, Netherlands welcome back some bowling experience that was missing during the recent UAE series. Fred Klaassen, Paul van Meekeren and skipper Pieter Seelaar will be expected to carry much of the load, with Scotland boasting players capable of clearing the boundary including Calum McLeod, Kyle Coetzer, Matthew Cross and George Munsey. Early wickets will be key for Netherlands, of which they can look to build on.

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 2: NED vs SCO Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11. Netherlands vs Scotland Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 2: Max O’Dowd will be key for The Netherlands.

Key to a Scotland win

Richie Berrington, along with his top order teammates, present a threat to the Netherlands bowling attack. Berrington hit 68 and 81 in ODIs against Oman and PNG respectively in ODIs last month, and is a player that can push the Netherlands onto the back foot. With skipper Kyle Coetzer boasting nearly 50 matches of T20I experience, no one will know more than him that if Scotland enjoy a good powerplay, they can look to exploit Netherlands’ lack of experience throughout their team.

However, can the Scots overcome the Netherlands top order that holds an important key to their fortunes? The likes of Mark Watt and Alasdair Evans need to provide control that the battery of medium pacers and spinner Michael Leask can build on in the middle overs. Can the Scots also get things right at the death?

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 2: NED vs SCO Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11. Netherlands vs Scotland Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 2: George Munsey can find the boundary.

Possible Playing 11

Scotland: 1. George Munsey, 2. Kyle Coetzer (c), 3. Matthew Cross, 4. Calum MacLeod, 5. Richie Berrington, 6. Craig Wallace, 7. Michael Leask, 8. Alasdair Evans, 9. Safyaan Sharif, 10. Hamza Tahir, 11. Mark Watt

Netherlands: 1. Max O’Dowd, 2. Tobias Visée, 3. Ben Cooper, 4. Bas de Leede, 5. Scott Edwards (wk), 6. Antonius Staal, 7. Pieter Seelaar (c), 8. Philippe Boissevain, 9. Paul van Meekeren, 10. Fred Klaassen, 11. Brandon Glover

Pitch and Conditions

The weather played spoilsport on Sunday. However, the forecast looks a little more promising for Monday. The average first innings score in T20s at Dublin since 2018 is 206.

Stats and Facts

  • Max O’Dowd has scored 284 runs in eight T20Is this year (average 35.50).
  • Mark Watt has taken seven wickets in three T20Is in 2019.
  • Fred Klaasen is a key bowler for the Netherlands: he has taken nine wickets in five T20Is in 2019.
  • Tobias Visee and George Munsey both scored over 150 runs in the recent Global T20 Canada 2019 tournament.
  • Head-to-Head in T20Is: Matches: 9, Netherlands: 4, Scotland: 5.

Fantasy Cricket Prediction

MyTeam11 (regular) Prediction: Tobias Visee (wk and vc), Kyle Coetzer, Calum McLeod (c), Craig Wallace, Max O’Dowd, Ben Cooper, Richie Berrington, Pietar Seelaar, Mark Watt, Fred Klaasen, Ben Glover

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 2: NED vs SCO Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11. Netherlands vs Scotland Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 2: NED vs SCO Preview Dream11

Option 2:

Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 2: NED vs SCO Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11. Netherlands vs Scotland Preview Dream11 & MyTeam11 Prediction
Ireland T20 Tri-Series Match 2: NED vs SCO Preview Dream11

Match Prediction

Both sides will want good performances with the World T20 Qualifier beginning next month. However, Scotland’s experience in this match could give them a slight edge.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Stuart Broad just loves David Warner. 5th Ashes Test Player Ratings

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Ashes 2019: England v Australia 5th Test Player Ratings

Charbel Coorey
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0
Ashes 2019: England v Australia 5th Test Player Ratings

Ashes 2019: England v Australia 5th Test Player Ratings. ENG vs AUS 5th Test Player Ratings

This Ashes series, before underway, was billed as the battle of the flawed. Fast forward six weeks, and you could see why. 2-2 could have been 3-2 to England. 2-2 could have even been 4-0 to Australia.

But, from an Australian perspective, 2-2 should have been 3-1 to Australia. In the end, Tim Paine’s side achieved what they came to achieve: retain the Ashes. However, the series leaves a bit of an empty feeling among Australia fans, given that the best Test batsman and bowler are within their ranks. Worse, they both produced superhuman efforts (774 runs and 29 wickets respectively), only to walk away with a drawn series.

For England, the win at The Oval was a fitting end to one hell of a summer. Their World Cup win will be etched in the memory of all associated with it. However, like Australia, England have plenty of adjustments to make, with the number one priority being transferring seamlessly from the white-ball to Test format. Their dominant win at The Oval in the final Ashes Test needs to be a springboard for better things in the coming months.

In this article, let’s take a look at each player in the final Ashes Test and rate them out of 10.

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

England

Rory Burns: Burns is a player that has enhanced his reputation in this series. The survivor of an opening pair that looked very shaky before the series, Burns’ 390 runs at 39.00 is by far and away the best by any opener this series. Two unconverted starts in this Test with Australia for the taking would have been frustrating, though. However, his fielding in the cordon is something special. 6.5

England v Australia 5th Test Player Ratings: Burns dug in and did very well.

Joe Denly: Dropped by Marcus Harris (who will likely face the same fate from Australian selectors), Denly made Australia pay for that costly miss. Just missed out on his first Test ton, but you’d think he has done enough for England to persist with him. 8

Joe Root: Root must have thought Christmas had come early. Sent in on arguably the best batting pitch England, Root was dropped three times before reaching 35. That’s where he should really punish Australia. He didn’t. Starts yet again. 6.5

Ben Stokes: Joe Root’s right-hand man in the slip cordon. His second innings stand of 127 with Joe Denly took the game away from Australia. Another second innings century was beckoning before getting castled by a dream Nathan Lyon delivery. 7

Jonny Bairstow: Spot hanging by a thread? One of England’s most solid Test bats four years ago, Bairstow’s Test game has fallen victim to his rise in the ODI format. He is a sitting duck against the moving ball, even though he was done in by a superb piece of bowling by Marsh in the first innings. 4

Jos Buttler: A very solid finish to the series: 192 runs in his final four innings, with 117 in this Test. The runs he scored on the first evening were crucial. He ended with 70, and England then took a lead of 69. 8

Sam Curran: You have to scratch your head and wonder why Curran only played one Test in this series. India fans know full well of Curran’s ability with bat and ball in home conditions. Indeed, his swing bowling in the first innings was something to behold. 7

Chris Woakes: More was expected of Chris Woakes right throughout the series. However, he can proudly gloat about getting Steve Smith to miss one on his pads. 4

Jofra Archer: A superb end to a superb debut Test series. Tore Australia apart with six wickets, before bowling a great spell to Matt Wade in the second dig. Finished third in the wickets column behind Pat Cummins and Stuart Broad, who were both brilliant across all five Tests. 8.5

Jack Leach: Frustrated Australia with late-order resistance again, to go with wickets with the ball. His wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Tim Paine would have been especially pleasing. 7.5

Stuart Broad: It would be a shock if Broad doesn’t have a picture of David Warner on his bedside table yet. Strong end to a strong series, finishing with 23 wickets. Seven of them were Warner. 8

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

Ashes 2019: England v Australia 5th Test Player Ratings. ENG vs AUS 5th Test Player Ratings
England v Australia 5th Test Player Ratings: Precious times, indeed.

Australia

David Warner: Warner can tell his grandkids he broke world records in England in 2019. He doesn’t have to tell them it’s the most single digit scores by any player in a single Test series in history (eight). 1

England v Australia 5th Test Player Ratings: Sorry reading.

Marcus Harris: Joe Burns must still be wondering how he missed out on selection. Usman Khawaja will be wondering why it was he who was dropped. 1

Marnus Labuschagne: No fifty this time but a significant positive for Australia in this series. His spot is locked in for the start of the Australian summer. 6

Steve Smith: Walked off to a standing ovation after finally getting dismissed for a sub-50 score this series. Australia’s insatiable run-scoring machine was again left to keep Australia in the contest. If you have a single player score 774 runs and the team still doesn’t win the series, other batsmen in the side need to have a long look at themselves. Also, we have to mention that incredible catch. 7.5

Matthew Wade: A really brilliant second innings century. Wade’s spot was in question after a lack of runs since the first Test, but the way he played Jack Leach and withstood Jofra Archer was a significant positive for Australia in this match. Unfortunately, the lack of runs elsewhere was costly. That’s what Steve Smith goes through. 8.5

Mitchell Marsh: “Most of Australia hate me”, said Marsh after day one. Hate is too strong of a word. He needs to take his opportunities better, particularly with the bat. He is fine fifth bowling option, as his great five-for showed. But, he needs runs. 7.5

Tim Paine: It is only fitting that Tim Paine’s series ended with an unsuccessful review. Indeed, he might like to review his decisions in this Test. He won the toss and sent England in on one of the best batting tracks in the country. This is after a very short turnaround after the fourth Test. And with Peter Siddle in the side over Mitchell Starc. Paine deserved praise at Old Trafford, but like Headingley, mistakes were made. A series win down the drain. 3

Ashes 2019: England v Australia 5th Test Player Ratings. ENG vs AUS 5th Test Player Ratings
England v Australia 5th Test Player Ratings: 3-1 down the drain.

Pat Cummins: Ran in and bowled his heart out with little support from his fielders. To finish with 29 wickets without a five-wicket haul is both cruel and amazing at the same time. 7

Josh Hazlewood: Threatened on occasions but didn’t have the impact he did in previous Tests. 5

Peter Siddle: Siddle will run and try his best all day. However, to pick him over Mitchell Starc with Mitch Marsh in the team was not the right call. Worse, with his job to stop the scoring, Siddle went for nearly four an over across the two innings. Add a dropped catch on the first day. 3

Nathan Lyon: Some absolutely superb bowling in the second dig. It really was an exhibition at times from Lyon, who finished the series as he started – in the wickets. 7

So, Australia retain the Ashes, but it was a disappointing end to the series against an England side that, to their credit, remained in the fight.

Australia’s next Test assignment is Pakistan in November. England have a tough test in New Zealand in the same month. Will there be changes for both teams? We’ll see.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Check out how my 5 Ashes Predictions turned out

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