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Ashes 3rd Test: Forget Joel Wilson, Australia had a horror hour

Charbel Coorey

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August 27, 2019 at 2:20 pm

Ashes 3rd Test: Forget Joel Wilson, Australia had a horror hour

Ashes 2019 3rd Test: Forget Joel Wilson. Australia had a horror last hour

James Pattinson pins Stuart Broad with a pinpoint yorker. Even better for Australia, Broad, as often the case, can’t help but waste a review. He’s plumb. Even better for Australia, it was just the second ball of the 116th over, meaning Pattinson had four balls to seal the win against number 11 Jack Leach. England were still 73 runs away. Six more than their whole first innings score of 67.

None of the four balls were great deliveries. Three were dug into the pitch, with the only full ball a legside delivery that Leach was able to prod away past short leg. This was the beginning of a wretched final hour for Australia, that makes you wonder how journalists, with supposed knowledge of the game, would produce such an article as the one below for what is supposed to be one of Australia’s trusted, credible media outlets.

I refuse to link to link to this article. It doesn’t deserve views from fans who can see things in the bigger picture. Did Wally Mason wake up, see one thing and then decide to write a full article?

As an Australian, it is clear Tim Paine and co have no one but themselves to blame for this defeat. It happens. Mistakes are made. But, to claim Stokes’ heroics shouldn’t count is gutter journalism and an embarrassment to those who put pride in their work.

Australia didn’t handle the pressure well and fans should not put the sole blame on a single umpiring decision. The final hour of mayhem tells the full story.

Lack of variation with the ball

Take nothing away from Ben Stokes. Australia’s woes were the result of the pressure he created – another chapter in the amazing ‘Summer of Stokes’. However, for a Test side to get it so wrong with the Ashes beckoning is a major blow.

76 runs were scored in the last 10 overs of the match. Ben Stokes was outstanding, but the lack of variety and thinking with the ball was a significant reason Australia lost the game. Setting deep fields for beast-mode Stokes is no problem, but the plethora of length and short balls to enable him to free his arms is cause for more frustration than Joel Wilson, who everyone knows is out of his depth. Remember, the man has made incorrect decisions both ways this series.

Then we go to Jack Leach. Across his 17 deliveries, you might count one or two from the seamers that pitched in line and were going to hit the stumps. Mitchell Starc was a name on the lips of many, but James Pattinson showed he can nail a yorker. Pat Cummins is the world’s number one Test bowler. Josh Hazlewood had nine wickets for the match. Surely Australia had enough quality to execute yorkers? It wasn’t to be.

Blame Joel Wilson solely? No.

Also read: Player Ratings from a classic Test – who was Australia’s best?

https://twitter.com/cric_blog/status/1165637022825865217?s=20

Ashes 3rd Test: Forget Joel Wilson, Australia had a horror hour: Try something!

Missed run out #1: Throw to the wrong end

When you think of a missed run out in this manic hour of play, Nathan Lyon springs to mind. However, there was another missed opportunity by the Australians.

With 40 still needed for victory, Ben Stokes knocked one into the legside, looking to come back for two. He slipped, so was always behind the eight-ball running to the danger end. Instead, the throw from Marcus Harris at square leg went to the bowler’s end with Jack Leach all-but-certain to make his ground, instead of the keeper’s end where Stokes was in trouble.

Blame Joel Wilson solely? No.

Also read: From the World Cup to now, this really is the “Summer of Stokes”

Marcus Harris’ dropped catch

It wasn’t the best day for Harris. With 17 runs to get, Stokes sliced a wide Pat Cummins delivery down to third man. In a moment that reminds us of Simon Jones in Edgbaston in 2005, Harris dived forward, got his hands under the ball but couldn’t cling on. It was not an easy catch, but these are the ones you work for as an international cricketer.

Blame Joel Wilson solely? No.

Australia’s horrible waste of their final review

Why blame an umpire for getting decisions wrong when Australia’s use of review has been nothing short of horrendous all series? Tim Paine’s poor use of DRS came back to haunt Australia badly, choosing to desperately review a decision that was nowhere near close to out. Eight runs were needed at this stage, and my cricket group chat was going off at this point, with the worry that Australia could live to regret such a lack of composure in pressure situations.

So, why are corners of the media putting Ben Stokes down, pinning their attention on one umpire call when Australia thought the above LBW shout could be out? Justin Langer rightly lamented Australia’s poor use of DRS. Paine also refused to blame the umpire for the defeat. So, can we instead focus on improving what’s in our control?

Australia have taken nine reviews in the field across the three Test matches to date. Eight have been struck down, with none upheld in their favour. This is coupled with reviews they didn’t take, such as Rory Burns’ LBW in the first innings at Edgbaston when he was on 21. He went on to make 133.

This is the time to back Australia to get it right in Old Trafford. But, to blame Joel Wilson solely? No.

Also read: Ben Stokes deserves more than a 10! 3rd Test Player Ratings

Nathan Lyon’s missed run out

For all of Ben Stokes’ heroics, he is prone to being involved in run outs: he has been involved in 17 in his Test career. Out of those 17, 14 have ended with his partner run out, including Jos Buttler on Sunday. It should have been 15, with England also showing signs of panic in the tightest of finishes.

With two runs left to win, Stokes reverse swept Lyon straight to short third man. Jack Leach took off, but Stokes was not interested. The throw was lobbed back to Lyon, only to fumble it and send everyone into a frenzy. Tim Paine and David Warner, both about to run to Lyon to celebrate a one-run win, quickly turned back and went back to their positions. How many more opportunities could they waste? What caused minds to be so muddled when precision and calm was the need of the hour?

Blame Joel Wilson solely? No.

As if matters couldn’t get worse, the next ball saw Lyon pin Stokes in front off an attempted sweep. Joel Wilson gave Stokes the benefit of the doubt, but the replays showed three reds.

But, looking at what occurred before Wilson’s decision suggests Tim Paine and his men have no one to blame but themselves for this defeat. After all, Joel Wilson has made mistakes for both sides this series (i.e. Joe Root had to keep reviewing against Wilson’s decisions when batting at Edgbaston), so it was very silly to burn a review just to see if you might get lucky.

Now, all Australia can do is focus on rebounding well ahead of the fourth Test next week in Old Trafford. After such a defeat, it will be interesting to see what mental state they will be in as the Ashes remain up for grabs.

Ashes 2019 3rd Test: The Summer of Stokes

Charbel Coorey

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August 26, 2019 at 8:25 pm

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Ashes 2019 3rd Test: The Summer of Stokes

It is the first match of England’s much-awaited World Cup campaign. This was the one they truly believed they would win. After all, they had been the best ODI side since their embarrassing exit at the 2015 Cricket World Cup. Jonny Bairstow is out on the first ball he faces, and while England recovered well, the slow nature of The Oval pitch meant hard work, rather than hard hitting, was the need of the day.

Ben Stokes delivered immediately. His 79-ball 89 propelled England to 311, which proved far too much for South Africa. But, that is not before one of the best catches of all time, along with two wickets, that made this Stokes’ day.

But, surely no one could have predicted what was to come next in England’s huge summer.

Standing tall during England’s World Cup worries

England’s World Cup campaign hit a roadblock halfway through; a surprise among British pundits and commentators who really rate their side. Their shock loss to Sri Lanka blew the group stage wide open, before a game against high-flying Australia at Lord’s which again ended in disappointment.

The one man to step up for England across those two games was Ben Stokes. He took them to within 20 runs of victory after a middle order collapse against Sri Lanka, only to be left stranded on 82*. Against Australia, he held things together after a top order collapse, outdone by a classic Mitchell Starc yorker for 89.

In both losses, we saw a man determined to fight right until the end.

Also read: A rating of 10 for Stokes is too low! 3rd Ashes Test Player Ratings

World Cup Final euphoria

England got their act together, winning their final two group games against India (where Stokes made a whirlwind 79) and New Zealand respectively to qualify for the Semi Finals. After brushing aside Australia in their Semi Final, it all came down to a Final against a New Zealand side that defended a modest total against more favoured India.

And that’s exactly what England faced in the Final. It was never going to be straightforward. The longing taste for success in ODI World Cups was never going to be spoon-fed. Certainly not against an excellent tactician in Kane Williamson and superb all-round bowling attack that New Zealand possess. Indeed, England’s top order found that out quickly.

But, given Stokes’ magnificent efforts throughout the World Cup, you always felt England were a chance as long as he was in. Nothing could faze him. He could bat through storms. However, a World Cup Final needed him to go up to another level, as England’s batting lineup was under attack from New Zealand’s armoury of talented bowlers in a pressure-cooker situation. The kind Australia crumbled in at Headingley. He gave himself a chance to get England home even when he could barely run anymore.

It was a performance for the ages, even with Trent Boult’s mighty ‘step-up’ on the boundary off Stokes in the penultimate over that meant a six instead England’s hopes dashed. There was luck involved, such as the six overthrows off his bat. But, none of that could have happened had he not fought through the tough periods. Sheer adrenaline and passion got him over the line. Every ounce of energy was spent in creating history. He achieved it, creating pandemonium in the stands and across the nation.

So, Stokes could then be mentioned in a list of players who produced gold in World Cup Finals – a list that includes Clive Lloyd, Wasim Akram, Aravinda de Silva, Ricky Ponting, Adam Gilchrist and MS Dhoni. For many players, such an achievement might mean a mental switch. Of course, it would be totally understandable if Stokes couldn’t quite deliver in a high-profile Ashes series so soon after an incredible effort in a showpiece event.

Ashes 2019 3rd Test: The Summer of Stokes. The summer of Ben Stokes — Ashes 2019 3rd Test: The Summer of Stokes: The man on everyone’s mind.

One of the great Test knocks

But don’t tell that to Ben Stokes. On the ground where England’s greatest all-rounder produced a performance for the ages nearly 40 years ago, Stokes wrote his own legacy with an effort that all at the ground and millions around the globe will never forget.

By the end of his 135*, even Tim Paine, not sure exactly what hit him, was in awe of Stokes. Kim Kardashian thought she could break the internet, but Test cricket like this has her covered any day.

So, what was the possibility of getting two freak matches, in cricket’s two most traditional formats, in the space of six weeks? That too after England’s horrendous first innings batting effort, of which Stokes’ dismissal typified England’s lackadaisical, muddled and complacent mindset after rolling Australia for 179? No one could have imagined the kind of drama days three and four could offer, after such dismal batting from both teams on the opening two days.

One man was at the centre England’s recovery. It began with his bowling on the second evening, which kept England in the fight. The two Joe’s – Root and Denly – then brought England back in contention after the openers – including the out of depth Jason Roy – were dismissed cheaply for the second time in the match. But, after Denly was dismissed for 50, Australia were back on top, and England could ill-afford to lose another one on the third evening. So, Ben Stokes played out 50 balls for two runs – a big “screw you” to anyone who dared complain about his scoring rate.

So, England went into a big day of an Ashes chase so similar to that of Adelaide in 2017/18. Then, England needed 178 with six wickets in hand, with Joe Root at the crease. Here, they needed 203 with seven wickets in hand, with Root again at the crease overnight. However, the big difference this time was the presence of Stokes, who, if Australia couldn’t dislodge early, could very well bring it home.

That he did. The introduction of Jack Leach after wickets tumbled post-lunch on the fourth day sent Stokes into beast mode, displaying an unbelievable shift in gears, after which his first 82 balls yielded nine runs. One highlight in particular was his reverse sweep for six off Nathan Lyon, that had the vocal Headingley crowd truly believing. Towards the end, he could barely watch from the non-strikers’ end, but Jack Leach held his nerve better than Australia did.

“I didn’t really care”, said Stokes about reaching his century. “Personal milestones, especially in that sort of situation, mean absolutely nothing. There were still a lot more runs to get; I wasn’t bothered about how many I had.”

This gives quite the insight into what drives Stokes. The team. He treated his century as if it was just another delivery. After all, a record England run-chase was at stake. More importantly, they had to keep the Ashes alive. It was a display of self-belief, class and incredible concentration that no one who witnessed it would forget in a hurry. Indeed, it was so incredible that Australia crumbled, missing opportunity after opportunity that saw the urn dropped… for now.

Overall, though, this was a day for Test cricket. Ben Stokes gave it a massive shot in the arm in an innings that all Australians – even some of the rubbish media, should simply appreciate. I certainly do, as Stokes is one hell of a cricketer.

Thanks for reading!

West Indies v India 1st Test Player Ratings

Charbel Coorey

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August 26, 2019 at 5:22 pm

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West Indies v India 1st Test Player Ratings. WI vs IND 2nd Test Player Ratings

What was that? West Indies had improved since India’s last visit, making this Test a potentially exciting one? Not quite.

Hidden somewhat behind the extraordinary third Ashes Test, a tight, tense tussle was the need of the hour for Antigua to get the attention Headingley received.

It wasn’t the case, but that is not to say that there was no good cricket on show. Ajinkya Rahane’s rescue act and first century in 30 innings, Hanuma Vihari’s exploits and India’s significantly improved pace stocks have underlined why they are a side to watch out for in the World Test Championship.

In this article, I will rate each player out of 10 from India’s huge 318-run win, sealed on the fourth day.

West Indies

Kraigg Brathwaite: Brathwaite makes up one of the most contrasting opening pairs in world cricket. A patient player, Kraigg is capable of holding teams at bay. However, with India’s attack in this kind of form, it is a tough ask, but playing late and close to the body is well-advised. 3

John Campbell: Is John Campbell West Indies’ Jason Roy in Test Cricket? Campbell will need plenty of skill (and some luck) to overcome the likes of Ishant and Bumrah in this form with his style. 3

Shamarh Brooks: A baptism of fire for West Indies’ newest number three. Started promisingly in the first innings, before trying to cut Ravindra Jadeja off the stumps. Lesson learnt, right away. 3

Darren Bravo: After bursting onto the scene a decade ago, Bravo’s similarities to cousin Brian Lara were there for everyone to see. His career hasn’t gone down the same path as Lara, but even the great man might have had a hard time dealing with a fast, full, inswinger from Jasprit Bumrah. 3

That photo tells it all! ? #WIvIND pic.twitter.com/02Qr2nhv5P
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 26, 2019

West Indies v India 1st Test Player Ratings: What a sight!

Roston Chase: All effort. Everything Chase does is with 100% commitment. He carried the load as the sole spinner after Windies thought Miguel Cummins was the answer as the third seamer, along with a fighting 48 in the first innings. Can he go to the next level in the next Test? 7

Shimron Hetmyer: Has Shimron Hetmyer had the 2019 expected of him? You be the judge. 4

Shai Hope: Some of Hope’s cover drives are the best you’ll see. Sir Vivian Richards was in awe. However, when you are victim of a Jasprit Bumrah outswinger, you just have to accept it and move onto the next innings. 4

Jason Holder: The skipper joined the top seven in reaching double figures in the first innings. However, no one went on to even make 50. His control with the ball makes an attacking spinner a very viable option in the Windies’ side. 6

Kemar Roach: Super impressive with the ball. Indeed, Roach has been a joy to watch in Test cricket over the past few years, and this was no exception. Also, his hard-hitting with the bat on the fourth day ensured West Indies didn’t suffer a sub-100 humiliation. 8.5

Miguel Cummins: His two innings with the bat were as consistent as his bowling. His 45-ball duck was followed by a 22-ball 19, reflective of his mix of half vollies and trackers that the Indian batsmen feasted on. 2

Shannon Gabriel: Not sure if anyone will pay to watch Shannon Gabriel run around in the field, but he sure can send the ball down at good pace. Contributed to an excellent start to the match for West Indies. 6.5

India

KL Rahul: Name: KL Rahul. Job: Promising plenty, but not quite delivering his potential. 7

Mayank Agarwal: After an excellent start to his Test career in Australia, Mayank had his first failure. He has to learn from this experience – particularly his second innings shot. 3

Cheteshwar Pujara: India’s hero in Australia was quiet in this Test. His 29 runs in Antigua adds to his underwhelming record in West Indies, of which he will be looking to make right in the second Test. 4

Virat Kohli: West Indies have an avenue of opportunity against Kohli. Despite the Indian skipper’s improved second innings, his approach against the short ball on the first morning is something Jason Holder’s men can look to test in the next game. However, as always, Kohli will be up for the challenge. 6

Ajinkya Rahane: West Indies did so much right on the first morning. After all, they needed to target Rahane as early as possible, given his tough couple of years with the bat. However, Rahane showed his class, rescuing India out of trouble on the first day, and then driving him the advantage with a second innings hundred. Deserved man of the match. 10

For his two vital innings, Ajinkya Rahane was the Player of the Match in the Antigua Test ?https://t.co/NBJlUa9XVf | #WIvIND pic.twitter.com/N0xrmJjYtU
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 26, 2019

West Indies v India 1st Test Player Ratings: Rahane was excellent.

Hanuma Vihari: The talk leading into the Test was whether Vihari or Rohit Sharma would win the number six spot. After an array of beautiful straight driving and excellent strike rotation, Vihari justified India’s selection. The Rohit fans on Twitter will have to remain patient… 8

Rishabh Pant: The man who called struggling Australian captain Tim Paine a “Temporary Captain” watched his bowlers cause carnage as carnage took place in Headingley. Five dismissals, including low grabs, indicate some improvement. His start with the bat in the first innings is something he would like to build on. 6

Ravindra Jadeja: Like the number six slot, India had a decision to make regarding their spinner. Thanks to Sanjay Manjrekar, Jadeja continued his excellent form with a half century and two wickets that swung the game further India’s way. 8

Ishant Sharma: Two incredible caught-and-bowled efforts from the big man headlined his 5-wicket haul. This game was another episode in Ishant’s much improved performances overseas. 9

Mohammed Shami: Outshone by Ishant and Bumrah, but one should hold no shame when that is the case. Shami still bowled well for the most part, underlining his wicket taking ability. 7

Jasprit Bumrah: Amid the Ashes carnage, there was also carnage in Antigua. Jasprit Bumrah, on his way to becoming India’s best-ever seamer (if he’s not there yet), produced some of the best swing bowling you will ever see, making it somewhat surprising anytime the Windies’ batsmen laid bat on his deliveries. We are blessed with some fantastic fast bowlers in world cricket right now, and Jasprit Bumrah is most certainly one of them. 9

In Test cricket history only 11 bowlers have the distinction of claiming a five or more wicket haul in an innings, while conceding less than 10 runs – four are from Australia, two each from Eng/SAf/WI and now one from India (Jasprit Bumrah)#IndvWI #IndvsWI #WIvInd
— Mohandas Menon (@mohanstatsman) August 26, 2019

West Indies v India 1st Test Player Ratings: Bumrah is outstanding.

A very comfortable win for India in the end.

Can West Indies bounce back? The second Test begins in Kingston, Jamaica on Friday 30th August 2019.

Thanks for reading!

Ashes 2019: England v Australia 3rd Test Player Ratings

Charbel Coorey

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August 26, 2019 at 12:17 pm

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Ashes 2019: England v Australia 3rd Test Player Ratings. ENG vs AUS 3rd Test Player Ratings

2019 was supposed to be the year for white-ball cricket. Instead, we have witnessed two of the greatest Test knocks of all time within six months of each other, after Ben Stokes followed up Kusal Perera’s stunning effort in South Africa in February.

It was something we never thought we’d see again. But, don’t tell that to Stokes, who possibly topped Kusal’s effort, after the man played an incredible knock to help England lift the World Cup just six weeks ago. Indeed, a sign of a magnificent player is how well they shift through the gears, and Stokes displayed that to a tee, not caring how slowly he started, ensuring he kept England in the game until he went ballistic in a last wicket partnership where Jack Leach made the most important 1* in Ashes history.

In all honesty, how can any piece of writing from an ordinary fan be worthy in describing such a game? Test cricket was on display in all its glory and incredible unpredictability, after the first two days, marred by some awful batting, was followed up with two days of the most gripping action you never wanted to take your eyes off. After all, England won after scoring 67 and achieving their highest ever run chase in the same game. Couple that with Australia’s implosion in the final hour, including that review, which makes for talking points that will have you yapping until the next Test.

In this article, I will rate each player out of 10 in an incredible Test that kept the Ashes alive for England.

England

Rory Burns: England had to wear Australia down in the early stages of their big chase. Burns was a key player given he faced 500+ balls in the first two Tests alone. It wasn’t to be, though. 2

Jason Roy: Not sure if Jason Roy will wear anyone down in Test cricket. Both his technique and temperament failed him again, which gives England a decision to make as to whether he remains in the team. His second innings dismissal reflected a move on the dance floor rather than a defensive shot. 2

Ashes 2019: England v Australia 3rd Test Player Ratings. ENG vs AUS 3rd Test Player Ratings — England v Australia 3rd Test Player Ratings: Totally off balance.

Joe Root: Root’s biggest contribution in the series after his second straight duck was claiming a dodgy catch in the Lord’s Test. However, he then produced a fighting knock to give England a sniff. Even though he would have liked to go on longer, he played a key role. But, like Tim Paine, Root has some captaincy improvements in him, including making better use of all his bowlers in his attack. 7

Joe Denly: It must have been a very proud moment for Joe Denly, top scoring for England in a Test innings. The problem was that it was with a score of 12, which painted a picture of just how big England’s turnaround was in the space of 24-48 hours. His partnership with Joe Root in the run chase began to turn the tide. 7

Pic 1: When you top scored for England!

Pic 2: With a score of 12.#ENGvAUS #Ashes #JoeDenly pic.twitter.com/4SEkhXDTDG
— CricBlog (@cric_blog) August 24, 2019

England v Australia 3rd Test Player Ratings: The only player to reach double figures.

Ben Stokes: It can be easy to forget that Ben Stokes produced an incredible bowling spell to go along with his unbelievable batting effort. Jofra Archer went down with cramp on the second evening, before Stokes entered the fray and took the two big wickets of Head and Wade that kept England in with a shout. What followed was the innings of a lifetime, keeping focus after running Jos Buttler out, executing some of the best hitting you’ll see in a pressure situation. That focus was most exemplified by the fact he didn’t celebrate his century. Not even a tiny raise of the bat. Move over George Costanza, it’s not the ‘Summer of George’. It’s the Summer of Ben Stokes. 10

Also read: From the World Cup opener till an all-time Test classic. Ben Stokes’ amazing summer

Jonny Bairstow: Is Bairstow’s important stand with Stokes enough to keep him in the side? Missed chances behind the stumps plus a vulnerability on both inside and outside edge makes Ben Foakes a very tempting prospect for England, despite Foakes’ disappointing performances in the County Championship this season. 5

Jos Buttler: Buttler has not had a good 2019 when it comes to run outs. First, the Ashwin mankad in IPL 2019. Now, sold down the river by Stokes. Another quiet Test from England’s dynamic strokemaker. 2

Buttler has not had luck with run outs when batting in 2019.

Ashwin mankad & now sold down the river by Stokes.#ENGvAUS #Ashes #Ashes2019
— CricBlog (@cric_blog) August 25, 2019

England v Australia 3rd Test Player Ratings: Tough times for Buttler…

Chris Woakes: Woakes has not had quite the impact expected of him in this series. With James Anderson a live chance of returning in the fourth Test, is it Woakes who makes way? 4

Jofra Archer: It almost has to be Woakes who makes way. Because, how could you leave this guy out? Along with his tweets that predict the future, Archer has the ability to produce great spells. The man is right in with a chance of series top wicket taker, even having played one less Test. 9

Also read: My Ashes 2019 Predictions – Will Archer come out on top?

Played stokes
— Jofra Archer (@JofraArcher) December 17, 2013

Jofra Archer and his time machine version 4754…#ENGvAUS #Ashes #Ashes2019 pic.twitter.com/nYsDbSu03r
— CricBlog (@cric_blog) August 24, 2019

England v Australia 3rd Test Player Ratings: Jofra has a tweet for everything.

Stuart Broad: No one can blame Broad if he goes to bed dreaming of David Warner. Headingley was another solid outing from Broad, who will be keen to have his partner in crime – James Anderson – back for the next Test. 7

Jack Leach: The most important 1* in Ashes history. Once again, Leach showed he’s too good to be at number 11, given he also scored 92 as night watchman in England’s win over Ireland last month. Credit goes to Leach, who always gets in behind the line of the ball. 7

Australia:

David Warner: Went past double figures for the first time in this series after the ball went past his bat numerous times. In tough conditions, Warner scored vital runs first up, but couldn’t follow it up in the second. Unlike his record vs Broad, his slip catching was superb. 7

Marcus Harris: Left-handed Cameron Bancroft? Harris got himself out after doing some hard grafting in the second innings. This was before a crucial (tough) dropped catch late on that would have meant the urn was retained for Australia. 3

Usman Khawaja: Continues to underwhelm. Since his incredible innings against Pakistan in the UAE last year, Khawaja has not done enough as Australia’s Test number three. 4

Marnus Labuschagne: He had some luck in the second innings, but no one can deny the man has character. After copping more blows on the helmet, he just kept going on about his work, surely winning a place in the XI when Steve Smith returns. Three innings, three fifties. That too in a low-scoring series. 9

Travis Head: Victim of two fine deliveries in this Test. The big question regarding Head is whether he can convert his starts to improve Australia’s dire record outside of the number four position in this series. 4

Matthew Wade: Tough luck in the first innings, but like Head, questions remain about Wade’s consistent ability to produce crucial middle order runs for Australia. His sheer weight of runs over the past 12-18 months made him a must-pick in the team. Now, he needs to show it again, provided Australia stick with him. 4

Tim Paine: Where do we start? After Paine got things wrong in the Lord’s Test, one wonders how he will get any sleep in the aftermath of this one. His use of review continues to reflect a horror story, coupled with his lack of runs. In a pressure-cooker situation, the captain needs to elicit calm. Paine didn’t, instead taking centre stage in Australia’s panic show in the final hour, where the lack of deliveries on the stumps – especially to Jack Leach – was a major blunder among others that included Nathan Lyon’s botched run out, a dropped catch and throwing the ball to the wrong end in another run out opportunity. 2

Also read: Forget Joel Wilson. Australia have no one but themselves to blame

Pat Cummins: The series’ leading wicket taker and world number one bowler couldn’t quite get things right on the final day. 7

James Pattinson: 3/56 in 30 overs across two innings in a Test are superb figures. However, with Australia missing Mitchell Starc in the final stages, will it be James Pattinson who misses out in the next Test? 7

Nathan Lyon: The missed run out with two runs needed is a moment Lyon will never forget. A tough final day for Lyon, who always looked likely to get Australia home. 4

Josh Hazelwood: Before getting taken for 18 off a single, game-turning Ben Stokes over, Hazlewood was having a Test to remember. His nine wickets put Australia on the brink of victory. 9

… and breathe. One of the most incredible games in Test history – just six weeks after the best ODI in history, confirmed just why cricket is so amazing. It is not often any sport can create such a rollercoaster of emotions in a single game, but here we all are recovering after one hell of a match.

Now, there is the very real possibility of both Steve Smith and James Anderson returning for the next test. As if it couldn’t get better. Bring on Old Trafford.

Thanks for reading!

WI vs IND 1st Test Preview Dream11 and MyTeam11

Charbel Coorey

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August 22, 2019 at 12:04 pm

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WI vs IND 1st Test Preview Dream11 and MyTeam11 August 22 2019. West Indies vs India 1st Test Preview Dream11 Prediction and Regular MyTeam11 team

The third Test of a blockbuster Thursday – also including Sri Lanka v New Zealand and England v Australia – kicks off in Antigua. Both West Indies and India will kick off their World Test Championship campaigns, keen to continue the positive steps they have made in Test Cricket in the last 12-18 months.

West Indies have been mighty impressive in home conditions over the past year. A great series win over England in January followed a thumping win over Bangladesh in July 2018 after coming close to taking their series against Sri Lanka. Pace has underlined Windies’ efforts in the Caribbean, and this will be key again against a side looking to get back in the Test groove.

India, the world’s number one Test side, have made progress in matches away from Asia. The series scorelines could have been very different in South Africa and England last year, before they won impressively in Australia at the turn of the year. While Virat Kohli’s side starts this series as favourites, they will have to beware of the challenges the West Indies provide, which could make this match an interesting one.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Download-CricBlog-E-Book-1-1024x473.jpg

Key to a West Indies win

West Indies have improved as a Test side since India’s last visit to the Caribbean in 2016. The likes of Shannon Gabriel and Jason Holder have come leaps and bounds since then, and when you couple this with the pace of Kemar Roach, who tormented Bangladesh and England at Antigua in his last two Tests, West Indies have a pace attack that can challenge India’s batting. With question marks over Ajinkya Rahane’s form over the last two years, as well as who will be India’s number six, inroads into India’s top four via sheer pace can hold the Windies in great stead.

However, West Indies will have to cope with India’s own pace threat. India’s pace stocks have contributed significantly to their better performances outside Asia in the last 18 months, with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma a threatening trio. So, who will stand up and be counted for West Indies? Kraigg Brathwaite can blunt the new ball, allowing the likes of Shai Hope, Darren Bravo and Shimron Hetmyer to get into their innings, with a very capable middle-lower order, including Roston Chase, Shane Dowrich and Jason Holder, able to contribute vital runs.

WI vs IND 1st Test Preview Dream11 and MyTeam11. West Indies vs India 1st Test Preview Dream11 Prediction and Regular MyTeam11 team — WI vs IND 1st Test: Can Kemar Roach cause problems?

Key to an India win

India’s relentless accuracy was a key feature in their maiden Test series win in Australia. Jasprit Bumrah barely let the Aussie batsmen breathe, supported well by the much-improved Ishant Sharma, whose fuller length can reap rewards in these conditions, too. With Mohammed Shami a genuine wicket-taker (only behind Bumrah and Lyon in Australia), India have a trio that can look to maintain pressure on the Windies’ lineup.

Also, Cheteshwar Pujara finally cracked the code of batting outside Asia. His record outside Asia previously raised eyebrows, given his patience and commitment to batting, which he then used to great effect to win man of the series in Australia. With Mayank Agarwal also impressing in that series, he will be tasked with overcoming Windies’ pace threat, along with KL Rahul, of whom the jury is still out on in terms of his prowess as a Test opener. With Virat Kohli a wonderful player to build on any platform, a strong performance from the top three allows the skipper to flourish, and so too the likes of Ajinkya Rahane and lower order.

Pitch and conditions

The weather forecast in Antigua looks mostly cloudy, with showers forecast for day three. Fast bowlers have enjoyed themselves at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua in recent years. Expect this track to have good pace and bounce, but perhaps to a lesser extent than was the case vs England, where the pitch was rated below average. According to ESPNCricinfo, there is said to be some scattering of grass, as well as a few damp spots which might make this a bowl-first track.

Possible Playing 11

Keemo Paul has been ruled out of the first Test, which means off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall will almost certainly make his debut.

West Indies: 1. Kraigg Brathwaite, 2. John Campbell, 3. Shai Hope, 4. Darren Bravo, 5. Shimron Hetmyer, 6. Roston Chase, 7. Shane Dowrich (wk), 8. Jason Holder (c), 9. Rahkeem Cornwall, 10. Kemar Roach, 11. Shannon Gabriel

India have a decision to make over who bats at six, as well as who plays the role of spinner. Ravi Ashwin had an amazing series in West Indies in 2016, which could play in his favour.

India: 1. KL Rahul, 2. Mayank Agarwal, 3. Cheteshwar Pujara, 4. Virat Kohli, 5. Ajinkya Rahane, 6. Rohit Sharma/Hanuma Vihari, 7. Rishabh Pant (wk), 8. R Ashwin, 9. Ishant Sharma, 10. Mohammed Shami, 11. Jasprit Bumrah

MyTeam11 Prediction (Regular – deadline 1 hour before match begins)

Option 1:

Option 2:

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Option 2:

Stats and Facts

Kemar Roach (42.8) and Shannon Gabriel (46.8) are in the top six in terms of strike rates for bowlers with a minimum of 50 wickets since India’s last tour of West Indies.
India have good memories of Antigua, winning by an innings and 92 runs in 2016. R Ashwin scored a century and took seven wickets, while Kohli scored a double ton.
Jasprit Bumrah is one away from 50 wickets in Tests.

Match Prediction

This promises to be an interesting Test, with both sides possessing capable pace bowlers. However, India look a better balanced side, which is why I think they will take out this Test.

Thanks for reading!

Ashes 2019: England v Australia 3rd Test Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey

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August 21, 2019 at 8:17 pm

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Ashes 2019: England v Australia 3rd Test Preview Dream11. ENG vs AUS 3rd Test Preview Dream11 Prediction 22 August 2019

Ashes 2019, like the great series in 2005, has thrown up a major curve ball. On that dreaded morning for Australia in Edgbaston, where Glenn McGrath rolled his ankle in the warmup, England had an opening. Like 2005, Australia’s key weapon has been ruled out of a crucial Test, but this time it is with significant relief that it is concussion and nothing worse after Steve Smith was hit on the neck by a brutal Jofra Archer bouncer.

So, the stage has been set for a potentially cracking Headingley Test. England, despite not winning at Lord’s, won a number of mental battles against an Australian lineup that has relied on Smith in this series to date. The introduction of Jofra Archer has added another dimension, and he is on the lips and minds of all associated with Australian cricket. Will England ramp up the pressure on Australia’s batting and level the series 1-1?

Australia’s batting without Steve Smith has painted a sorry picture in this series to date. Smith has scored an incredible 378 runs in three innings, 243 more than Australia’s next best, Travis Head. In Smith’s three innings, he has scored nearly 40% of Australia’s runs, often combining with the middle-lower order to rescue the side out of trouble. With Smith out, Australia’s fragile batting needs to stand up against an England attack waiting to pounce, which could make for a great battle – the kind we saw at Lord’s.

Also read: The Lord’s boo-crew deserves a special mention. 2nd Test Player Ratings!

Key to an England win

While England start this Test as favourites, it is not to say they aren’t without their own concerns. Jason Roy’s initiation to Test Cricket has not been a kind one. Skipper Joe Root has not yet had the impact expected of him, and Joe Denly is yet to make the number four spot his own. All this is credit to Rory Burns, who, despite a number of chances spurned by Australia, has batted for a total of 524 balls in this series to date. If England’s top four can deliver a strong platform, England will be held in good stead, given the form of Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow at Lord’s.

This then leads to England’s strength – their bowling attack. Led by the threat of Jofra Archer and experience of Stuart Broad, England threatened right throughout the Lord’s Test, left to rue the rain that washed out a significant portion of it. With Australia’s best batsman out, it is vital England don’t relax, remaining relentless against a lineup that was shown up by concussion substitute Marnus Labuschagne. Will England continue to keep David Warner quiet? Will the short ball threat be too much for Usman Khawaja? If the answer is yes to both these questions, Australia’s middle order may have a task too big to handle.

Ashes 2019: England v Australia 3rd Test Preview Dream11. ENG vs AUS 3rd Test Preview Dream11 Prediction 22 August 2019 — Ashes 2019: England v Australia 3rd Test: Root must deliver.

Key to an Australia win

David Warner is yet to hit double figures in any of his four innings so far. It is sorry reading for an experienced player, who will likely get another chance to step up in the absence of Smith. Marcus Harris could partner him this time, and after Harris faced a baptism of fire against the likes of Jasprit Bumrah in the Australian summer, he will have to overcome another here with Jofra Archer, Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes all in good touch. So much rests on the openers, of whom Australia have received such little output from this series, which can make life easier for Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head to build a good score.

However, even with their best batsman out, not all is lost for Australia. Their bowlers have made inroads into England’s top order in the two Tests to date, with poor decision making and execution letting them down at times at Lord’s. It was a bouncer barrage in the nets in the lead up to this Test, with Mitchell Starc particularly fired up, which can make him a good option as England look to intimidate with the ball themselves. The makeup of Australia’s pace attack remains to be seen, but relentless accuracy, coupled with taking chances in the field can keep Australia in with a shout as they need to put England’s middle order under pressure.

Pitch and conditions

Headingley, unlike Lord’s, has a positive-looking forecast for most of the Test. The only threat of rain is on the first day, with a chance of scattered showers. A look at the pitch from a distance suggests it is a bat-first track, with the possibility of drying up further throughout the Test.

Possible Playing 11

There are rumours Sam Curran could come in for Chris Woakes, who is due a rest. Provided Woakes is picked, England should stick with the same XI that played at Lord’s, after James Anderson was ruled out of this Test. Jason Roy has been cleared after getting struck on the neck in the nets.

England: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Rory Burns, 3. Joe Root (c), 4. Joe Denly, 5. Jos Buttler, 6. Ben Stokes, 7. Jonny Bairstow (wk), 8. Chris Woakes, 9. Jofra Archer, 10. Stuart Broad, 11. Jack Leach

Also read:The Lord’s boo-crew deserves a special mention. 2nd Test Player Ratings!

Tim Paine hinted at changes in the batting after the top order continued to struggle. Cameron Bancroft is a chance of missing out for Marcus Harris. Also, Marnus Labuschagne, despite getting hit on the helmet in the nets, is set to replace Smith at four. In terms of the bowling, Australia are likely to rotate again, with at least one of James Pattinson or Mitchell Starc to play.

Australia: 1. David Warner, 2. Marcus Harris, 3. Usman Khawaja, 4. Marnus Labuschagne, 5. Travis Head, 6. Matthew Wade, 7. Tim Paine (wk), 8. Pat Cummins, 9. James Pattinson/Mitchell Starc, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Josh Hazlewood

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Option 2:

Stats and Facts

The last Ashes Test at Headingley was in 2009. Australia won by an innings and 80 runs.
Steve Smith has scored nearly 40% of Australia’s runs in the three innings he has batted in Ashes 2019.
England haven’t won an Ashes Test since August 8, 2015 (eight Tests).

Match Prediction

Steve Smith has carried Australia’s batting so far in Ashes 2019. His absence leaves such a huge hole that Australia might struggle to fill. Heart says Australia will fight hard, but England will win.

Thanks for reading!

Also read:The Lord’s boo-crew deserves a special mention. 2nd Test Player Ratings!

Sri Lanka v New Zealand 2nd Test Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey

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August 21, 2019 at 1:15 pm

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Sri Lanka v New Zealand 2nd Test Preview Dream11. SL vs NZ 2nd Test Preview Dream11 Prediction August 22 2019

Test Cricket is well and truly back.

With the Ashes third Test and first West Indies v India Test also gracing us on an action-packed Thursday, Sri Lanka will be out to make it four straight Test wins in a row. After a Test of ebbs-and-flows in Galle, it was Dimith Karunaratne who stood tallest, continuing his excellent run of form at home dating back to the South Africa series last year. However, they will need Akila Dananjaya, one of Sri Lanka’s best in Galle, to put distractions aside as much as possible, after being reported again for a suspect action.

It was a missed opportunity for New Zealand. Kane Williamson, after winning the toss, had hoped the pitch would wear out more than it did. However, his poor Test, along with some questionable strokeplay from New Zealand’s top order in the second innings ultimately had the middle and lower order sweating away for parity. But, 267 looked a magnificent lead, until the spinners couldn’t have the impact expected of them, which might prompt New Zealand to make a change or two for Colombo. Kane Williamson also being reported for a suspect action will have less of an impact as it is his batting that will be most important.

Also read: Sri Lanka v New Zealand 1st Test Player Ratings: Dimuth Karunaratne outplays his counterpart Kane Williamson

Key to a Sri Lanka win

After a tough first day in Galle, Suranga Lakmal and Lasith Embuldeniya came to the party. This will be of even greater necessity in Colombo, given the news regarding Akila Dananjaya. Akila may very well play this Test as testing has to occur within 14 days of the initial report, but one wonders what state of mind he will be in given he only recently returned to international cricket after remodelling his action. Also, with the P Sara Oval pitch known for offering some assistance for seamers, Lahiru Kamara will be key in using his pace to good effect. Indeed, the challenge for Sri Lanka will be to again find joy against New Zealand’s top order, placing pressure on the middle to get the Black Caps back in the game.

Also, possibly on his last legs in Test Cricket, Lahiru Thirimanne played an excellent knock to support skipper Dimuth Karunaratne in Sri Lanka’s record chase. Blunting New Zealand’s new ball efforts will be key, paving the way for the likes of Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Kusal Perera and Niroshan Dickwella to build on a platform. With New Zealand likely to go in with Ajaz Patel and Will Somerville as their two spinners, Sri Lanka have an opportunity to keep them at bay, placing pressure on the seamers to deliver in what will be hot, humid conditions.

Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne joined a select list with his hundred in Galle ? https://t.co/AfsrnxkJC2 #SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/BEk2YexvGl
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 19, 2019

Sri Lanka v New Zealand 2nd Test: Skipper Karunaratne was excellent.

Key to a New Zealand win

Jeet Raval, Tom Latham and Ross Taylor all showed glimpses of their ability to perform in Asian conditions. However, they couldn’t quite go on with the job as Dimuth Karunaratne was able to, placing significant onus on these three – as well as star batsman Kane Williamson – to ensure New Zealand have a platform to play off. With New Zealand’s middle and lower order very capable of occupying the crease, the Black Caps can break Sri Lanka’s spirits with a long innings, set up by the top order. Indeed, the pressure they place on the spinners – particularly Akila Dananjaya (if picked), could prove crucial to the result.

Also, Trent Boult and Tim Southee spent a lot of time in the field waiting for an opportunity to bowl in the second innings at Galle. At the P Sara Oval – where the ball often bounces a little more than other Sri Lankan grounds – these two will be key with both new and old ball. However, a decision New Zealand have to make is whether they stick with Mitchell Santner (who disappointed last time out) or bring in Neil Wagner to try and ruffle up the Sri Lankan batsmen. This could be an opportunity for New Zealand to play three specialist seamers, with the accurate spin of Patel and Somerville wheeling away throughout the day.

Kane Williamson! #SLvNZ #Cricket pic.twitter.com/Vw5Uijd8fs
— CricFit (@CricFit) August 16, 2019

Sri Lanka v New Zealand 2nd Test: KW needs to bounce back.

Pitch and conditions

P Sara Oval in Colombo is not too kind to Sri Lanka – they have won just two of seven at the ground since 2010. The track often offers a little more bounce than other grounds in Sri Lanka, which could suit New Zealand for this one. The weather isn’t too promising, with thunderstorms predicted throughout the Test.

Also read: Sri Lanka v New Zealand 1st Test Player Ratings: Trent Boult scored four times more runs than Kane Williamson

Possible Playing 11

It remains to be seen if Sri Lanka pick Akila Dananjaya for this Test. Otherwise, they should stick with the same team that won the first Test.

Sri Lanka: 1. Dimith Karunaratne (c), 2. Lahiru Thirimanne, 3. Kusal Mendis, 4. Angelo Mathews, 5. Kusal Perera, 6. Dhananjaya de Silva, 7. Niroshan Dickwella (wk), 8. Suranga Lakmal, 9. Akila Dananjaya, 10. Lasith Embuldeniya, 11. Lahiru Kamara

Neil Wagner could come in for Mitchell Santner, who was largely ineffective in Galle.

New Zealand: 1. Jeet Raval, 2. Tom Latham, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Henry Nicholls, 6. BJ Watling (wk), 7. Will Somerville, 8. Tim Southee, 9. Neil Wagner, 10. Trent Boult, 11. Ajaz Patel

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Option 2:

Stats and Facts

Sri Lanka have won just two of their past seven Tests at P Sara Oval in Colombo.
New Zealand lost the first Test of their 2012 tour of Sri Lanka (also in Galle), before winning the second Test at P Sara Oval, where this Test will be played.
Both Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor scored centuries in their last visit to this ground.
Sri Lanka have won their past three Tests – all while chasing. Dimuth Karunaratne has also broken into the top 10 for Test batsmen rankings.
Sri Lanka lead the World Test Championship Table with 60 points.

Match Prediction

The weather could have a say in this Test. This makes a draw the likely result. However, if there is to be a result, I pick New Zealand to bounce back at a ground they have enjoyed success at in the past.

Thanks for reading!

Ashes 2019: England v Australia 2nd Test Player Ratings

Charbel Coorey

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August 19, 2019 at 11:19 am

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Ashes 2019: England v Australia 2nd Test Player Ratings. ENG vs AUS 2nd Test Player Ratings

If there was ever any doubt as to what the ultimate cricket format is, the Lord’s Ashes Test confirmed it.

It is all well and good slogging white balls into the stands on flat tracks with little care of whether you lose your wicket in T20, but this Test was the ultimate examination of mental strength, skill and heart. Despite the disappointment of two days washed out to rain – which was the ONLY way any game in this series would end in a draw – millions were on the edge of their seat thanks to riveting Test Cricket.

Australia hung on for a draw, but England stormed back into the series, winning a number of mental battles. In this article, I will rate each player, from the Lord’s Test out of 10.

But, before then…

The Lord’s boo-crew: Before I go into each player, the Lord’s boo-crew deserve a special mention. How do we be cool like them? 0

Also read: Sri Lanka v New Zealand 1st Test Player Ratings: SL continue to fly in Test chases