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CWC 2019 Match 39: Sri Lanka v West Indies Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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CWC 2019 Match 39: Sri Lanka v West Indies Dream11. SL vs WI Preview Dream11 Prediction

The second half of the CWC 2019 group stage has had fans, sponsors, broadcasters and organisers on the edge of their seats. A number of crucial games that can shape the top four has kept everyone on their toes, with a number of scenarios still possible.

However, one scenario that is all-but-gone is Sri Lanka making the Semi Finals. Their win against England opened things up, but their performance against South Africa was hugely disappointing, displaying all the bad traits that have underlined their ODI fortunes in the past two-and-a-half years. They play a West Indies side who have been disappointing in CWC 2019, with the latest a thrashing at the hands of India. Who will be more motivated to take this one out?

Key to a Sri Lanka win

South Africa were out of the tournament. Their body language against Pakistan reflected a team that was keen on going home. It was a great chance for Sri Lanka to keep their hopes alive as they were the ones with something to play for. However, if you had no idea of what the table looked like, you would have thought Sri Lanka were the ones with nothing to play for.

Their batting was everything on display over the past few years. A promising start (despite the first-ball loss of Dimuth Karunaratne) is something they have been accustomed to; but so too has the loss of a quick, soft wickets. Here, their batsmen must put a higher price on their wickets, giving the lower order a platform to play off rather than having to fight to get the team to a half-decent score.

Also, can Sri Lanka tame a Windies side that will play with nothing to lose? Sri Lanka’s attack looked toothless against Faf du Plessis and Hashim Amla, which makes early wickets all the more important here. If the likes of Chris Gayle and Shimron Hetmyer get going, watch out. Can Lasith Malinga have a big game in what will almost certainly be his second-last World Cup match?

Key to a West Indies win

Like Sri Lanka, the Windies’ batting has underwhelmed. However, their performance is arguably more disappointing given they were backed by many to score huge totals in CWC 2019. What this tournament has shown is the need for glue that can hold the innings together as their hitters look to go big. So, can Shai Hope play a big knock after a few low scores in a row? Can Chris Gayle get the better of Lasith Malinga? With Shimron Hetmyer and Nicholas Pooran in good form at times in CWC 2019, the West Indies’ later order will be hoping they get the chance to play with freedom at the death.

Also, Sheldon Cottrell and Kemar Roach bowled beautifully against India. However, the lack of support is something the Windies need to address today, especially against a Sri Lankan side that has shown a propensity to collapse. Can the Windies make inroads in the first ten overs with good use of the short ball? How well will they then follow up in the middle overs? The template for victory was used last game by South Africa, and the Windies need to use it.

Also read: Kemar Roach got a slap in the face. He responded in great fashion.

Pitch and conditions

The pitch was said to have a dry/beige look on match eve. Also, the windy conditions forecast might dry out the track further.

Possible Playing 11

Sri Lanka: 1. Dimuth Karunaratne (c), 2. Kusal Perera (wk), 3. Avishka Fernando, 4. Kusal Mendis, 5. Angelo Mathews, 6. Jeevan Mendis/Milinda Siriwardana, 7. Dhananjaya de Silva, 8. Thisara Perera, 9. Isuru Udana, 10. Lasith Malinga, 11. Kasun Rajitha/Suranga Lakmal

West Indies: 1. Chris Gayle, 2. Evin Lewis/Sunil Ambris, 3. Shai Hope (wk), 4. Nicholas Pooran, 5. Shimron Hetmyer, 6. Carlos Brathwaite, 7. Jason Holder (c), 8. Ashley Nurse, 9. Kemar Roach, 10. Sheldon Cottrell, 11. Oshane Thomas

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 39: Sri Lanka v West Indies Dream11. SL vs WI Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream 11 for WI vs SL Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket World Cup. Cricket Blog CricBlog
CWC 2019 Match 39: Sri Lanka v West Indies Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 39: Sri Lanka v West Indies Dream11. SL vs WI Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream 11 for WI vs SL Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket World Cup. Cricket Blog CricBlog
CWC 2019 Match 39: Sri Lanka v West Indies Dream11 Prediction

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 7, West Indies 4, Sri Lanka 3.
  • Sri Lanka have won just 14 of their past 58 completed ODIs.
  • West Indies have lost five matches in a row in CWC 2019. Both their batting and bowling has been too one-dimensional.
  • Sri Lanka have won four of their past five ODIs vs West Indies.

Match Prediction

The unpredictability of this match is the element to look forward to, rather than the possibility of Semi Finals for both these teams.

It will come down to who shows greater pride. With the talent in the West Indies team, I will back them to get a win off the back of an exciting batting display.

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – Afghanistan v Pakistan: 5 key talking points

Charbel Coorey
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0
CWC 2019 – Afghanistan v Pakistan: 5 key talking points

CWC 2019 – Afghanistan v Pakistan: 5 key talking points. AFG vs PAK: 5 key talking points from their 2019 World Cup match.

Afghanistan vs Pakistan was never going to be dull. Who said need to have 300 v 300 for an exciting game of ODI Cricket?!

Pakistan prevailed in a memorable low-scoring thriller that many of us thought this World Cup would be bereft of. It made for magnificent viewing. Indeed, Afghanistan’s decision making hurt them yet again, but Pakistan won’t care. They moved into the top four at the expense of England ahead of their huge game against India.

Here are five key talking points from Pakistan’s thrilling three-wicket win.

1. What on earth was Gulbadin Naib thinking?

Also read: Rant – Afghanistan team management has stuffed their chances of success.

This is an opportunity to provide a friendly reminder that the wonderful Afghanistan team management sacked Asghar Afghan – who was widely respected in the playing group, and replaced him with Gulbadin Naib on the eve of a World Cup campaign. It was a decision that screamed team politics.

The proof? Asghar Afghan was left out of Afghanistan’s side for their first few matches.

Fast forward to the back-end of the tournament. Gulbadin Naib has looked out of his depth as captain, regularly employing tactics and decisions that has hurt his team’s chances. When you add the team management’s incompetency, it makes it very hard for Afghanistan to win games, of which they should have two or three by now.

Pakistan were struggling against spin. The asking rate continued to jump as wickets fell. They were choking in a crucial chase and needed help from somewhere. Gulbadin obliged. 46 off 30 balls with four wickets in hand is mighty tough against spin, but Gulbadin decided to bring himself on, which was a show of either selfishness or complete lack of understanding of the match situation. The crucial 46th over went for 18, turning the game in Pakistan’s favour, before Gulbadin brought himself on again for the final over that lasted just three balls as Imad thumped a friendly full toss away through the covers.

The fact that Samiullah Shenwari finished with two overs in the bank summarises just how Afghanistan’s thinking process has robbed them badly in this World Cup. This is another game that got away, after close matches against Sri Lanka and India.

2. Umpiring also hurts Afghanistan

The eventual match-winner Imad Wasim was plumb LBW in the 37th over off Rashid Khan. Afghanistan had no reviews left, and while you need to be careful of what to review, there is little doubt that these kinds of decisions (or non-decisions) make a huge difference.

The pressure of such a great finish to the World Cup group stages doesn’t only take a toll on the players. The umpires are under pressure, too, and have to be on top of their game in the big moments. In the end, though, Gulbadin only has himself to blame as Afghanistan were well in control with five overs to go.

3. Imad Wasim produces a great all-round performance

While he rode his luck with the bat, no one can discount the fantastic effort of Imad Wasim in such a tight game.

Imad was under some pressure to keep his spot after an underwhelming display against New Zealand. Here, though, he showed the value he can offer with bat and ball, taking two crucial wickets and play a gem of a knock (along with Wahab Riaz) that will be remembered widely across Pakistan, especially if they happen to reach the Semi Finals.

4. Shaheen Shah Afridi backs up one great effort with another

The talk ahead of Pakistan’s game against New Zealand was the form of Shaheen Shah Afridi. His form in his preceding five ODIs was a complete contrast to the first 10 of his career.

He has now taken seven wickets in his past two games. His four wickets here helped settle plenty of Pakistani nerves, both early and late in the innings. His slower ball was used to great effect, mixing his pace up well to keep the Afghans on their toes. With Shaheen in this form, Pakistan can hope for one big performance in the group stage that might have them sneak into the Semi Finals.

5. Pakistan still in with a shout

An England loss against India puts Pakistan’s fate in their own hands.

However, given the inconsistency Pakistan are renowned for, is fate really ever in their own hands? They play Bangladesh, also in with a Semi Final shout, after overcoming an excellent Afghanistan spin attack. Led by the brilliant Mujeeb ur Rahman, Afghanistan kept the pressure right on, which saw some suicidal strokeplay and running from Pakistan’s batsmen.

In the end though, a mixture of brilliance from Imad and incompetence from Gulbadin got Pakistan home.

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 38: England v India Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

CWC 2019 Match 38: England v India Preview Dream11 Prediction. ENG vs IND Preview Dream11 Prediction

June 30. One of the most anticipated matches of CWC 2019. England and India go head-to-head in a very high-stakes match, contrary to fears that the group stage would have a very tame end.

It was England’s shock loss to Sri Lanka that opened things right up. At time of writing, England’s place in the top four is under significant threat – an unthinkable thought given their form in ODIs over the past few years. However, comments in the media in the last couple of days – particularly those of Jonny Bairstow – shows England lack a Plan B, on show against Australia where they displayed a total lack of adaptability to the conditions. Now, they play the team who has just overtaken them as the world number one ODI side. Can England get their campaign back on track?

India have been rolling along quite smoothly, but the matches will now come thick and fast. This blockbuster will be followed by Bangladesh in just two days, which is sure to be a test of India’s fitness and resolve. However, focus will totally be on this huge match, after it was their bowlers who came to the fore in their last two matches against West Indies and Afghanistan, showcasing the depth they have. But, like England, India will want greater efficiency with the bat. There is no better time to do that than here.

Key to an England win

The Edgbaston pitch looks a dry one. So, how will England adjust after such a poor showing against Australia on a pitch that wasn’t flat? Only Ben Stokes was willing to adapt, underlining England’s all-guns-blazing approach no matter the conditions. Jonny Bairstow has promised that they will play the same way, so a good start is crucial to their chances. Indeed, Bairstow has been under par considering that various pre-tournament predictions (myself included) backed him to do well; but there is no better time than now for him to deliver. Also, crucially, Jason Roy could be fit to return, which gives England another dimension at the top. Can they start well and then get the better of India’s spinners in the middle overs? Joe Root is considered the glue to this side – he will be vital to their hopes.

Also read: How nervous is Kevin Pietersen getting?

Also, can England’s bowlers show greater adaptability to the conditions? They were much too short against Australia with assistance available early on, so adapting quickly against India will be key. The opportunity for England lies in the fact that India have found themselves under pressure in the middle overs in the last two games, so can Jofra Archer, Mark Wood and Chris Woakes have solid outings? Can England get the better of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, forcing India to rebuild in the middle overs?

Key to an India win

Mohammed Shami’s excellent start to his campaign is testament to India’s bowling depth. However, they will face an England side looking to go hard, which makes Eoin Morgan’s men a dangerous proposition. Can Jasprit Bumrah and Shami perform a role similar to Mitchell Starc and Jason Behrendhorff in the opening overs at Lord’s? A wicket-taking mindset; rather than a containing one, is crucial for India, and they can create further doubts for England with early breakthroughs. With two excellent wrist-spinners on hand to wheel away in the middle overs, India have the resources to contain England and build further pressure.

Also, India will want to get their batting right in this match. They have been below their best in the past two matches, with dot balls in the middle overs a result of early wickets at the top. In such a big game, India will be after momentum right the way through, with the top three setting a strong platform that the likes of MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya can build on.

Also read: Out with Vijay Shankar, in with Rishabh Pant?

Pitch and conditions

A pleasant day is forecast for Edgbaston on Sunday. The pitch looks quite dry on first glance, which makes batting first a must for the team who wins the toss.

Possible Playing 11

Jason Roy trained ahead of the match and looked comfortable when running. He is set to return.

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

India might look to bring in Rishabh Pant for the struggling Vijay Shankar. Also, Bhuvneshwar Kumar is ‘recovering fast’ according to Virat Kohli, but might not quite be ready for this match. Shami has been doing well, so India will be well served either way.

India: 1. Rohit Sharma, 2. KL Rahul, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. Vijay Shankar/Rishabh Pant, 5. MS Dhoni (wk), 6. Kedar Jadhav, 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Mohammed Shami, 9. Kuldeep Yadav, 10. Kuldeep Yadav, 11. Jasprit Bumrah

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 38: England v India Preview Dream11 Prediction. ENG vs IND Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for IND vs ENG. Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket World Cup 2019 CricBlog Cricket Blog
CWC 2019 Match 38: England v India Preview Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 38: England v India Preview Dream11 Prediction. ENG vs IND Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for IND vs ENG. Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket World Cup 2019 CricBlog Cricket Blog
CWC 2019 Match 38: England v India Preview Dream11 Prediction

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 7, England 3, India 3, 1 tie.
  • The last meeting between the two sides in World Cups was a thrilling tie in the 2011 edition.
  • England beat India 2-1 in a high-profile ODI series in 2018.
  • England have not beaten India in a World Cup match since 1992.

Match Prediction

What a game this promises to be. The June 30 showdown has a lot riding on it, which is perfect for all associated with this World Cup.

England are under pressure, and they have not played well in this tournament when faced with challenges. But, you can expect them to come out firing, throwing everything they have into this game.

This is what makes this game difficult to predict. On form, India can be backed, but England can’t be counted out. I believe India are looking confident at the moment, and will prey on England’s every move under Virat Kohli’s leadership. India to win in a tight match.

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 37: Australia v New Zealand Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

CWC 2019 Match 37: Australia v New Zealand Dream11. AUS vs NZ Preview Dream11 Prediction

The Home of Cricket welcomes Trans-Tasman rivals who have led the way for much of CWC 2019. In a rematch of the 2015 World Cup Final, both will be looking to get one over the other in what could very well be one for the ages. Lord’s is sure to be a terrific host as always, but will Australia and New Zealand be the great guests fans are hoping for?

Australia put in by far their best bowling performance of the tournament at this ground. They dismantled England, so much so that the pressure is well and truly starting to show going by Jonny Bairstow’s comments, as well as Kevin Pietersen’s change of tone on Twitter. The Aussies need to shift their focus, though, coming up against a side that lost its first game only very recently.

New Zealand have yet again been excellent in a World Cup tournament. Sri Lanka’s heavy defeat to South Africa has gone a long way to confirming the Black Caps’ passage into the Semi Finals. New Zealand, led by the brilliant Kane Williamson, have been consistent for the most part, with their top four spot a reward for their efforts. However, their batting order and personnel is cause for concern, so will this be the game some adjustments are made?

Key to a Australia win

Like New Zealand, Australia still have areas for improvement. Their batting at the death has left a little to be desired at times in CWC 2019, becoming an even bigger talking point after scoring 285 vs England when well over 300 was on the cards. However, the form of the top order is outstanding. Warner and Finch will be crucial in countering New Zealand’s swing threat to set Australia up nicely yet again. One thing is for certain, though – New Zealand won’t be bowling as short as England did a few days ago. So, is it time for Steve Smith to move back to three and help set that strong platform for Australia? Can Glenn Maxwell play the significant innings he and Australia need heading into the Semi Finals?

Also, Australia were irresistible with the ball against England. Swing and movement were on offer and Australia took full advantage, with Mitchell Starc and Jason Behrendhorff leading the way in an exhibition. New Zealand’s opening partnership has been a far contrast to Australia’s, with Martin Guptill and Colin Munro continuing to make it as if Kane Williamson has played this World Cup as an opener. An opportunity awaits Australia to repeat what they did against England (like Pakistan did against New Zealand) and open the game up nicely. Can this attack prove again that it’s their best-balanced one?

Key to a New Zealand win

Aaron Finch and David Warner average over 91 for the opening wicket at CWC 2019. New Zealand need to break the opening partnership as quickly as possible, putting onus on Trent Boult to have his best game of the tournament to date. His opening partner (either Matt Henry or Tim Southee) will also be key in maintaining the pressure, focusing on a fuller length that draws Australia forward to maximise movement. With Lockie Ferguson in terrific form, and the all-rounders steady, New Zealand will be looking to build pressure on an Australian middle order that doesn’t look the finished package just yet.

Also, can New Zealand reduce the pressure on Kane Williamson? The skipper has 414 runs in CWC 2019, and his battle with Mitchell Starc (19 wickets) promises to be a beauty. However, can New Zealand make it less about Williamson v Starc and give Aaron Finch more to think about? There is no better stage than for Martin Guptill to find form again after what has been a lean campaign. Is it time for Henry Nicholls to partner him? Or do New Zealand put the struggling Tom Latham back to opener with Munro in the middle? With the Semi Finals approaching, New Zealand need to ensure that Jimmy Neesham and Colin de Grandhomme – both brilliant last game – can finish off a strong platform rather than having to fight their way to get New Zealand to parity.

Pitch and conditions

A hot day is forecast for Lord’s – sunny with a top of 33. The same pitch for the England-Australia match will be used here, so there could be some assistance to both seam and spin bowlers.

Possible Playing 11

Australia will likely stick to the same team that beat England. However, a key question is where Usman Khawaja bats. Do Australia keep Smith down at four? Can Marcus Stoinis be more proactive early in his innings?

Australia: 1. David Warner, 2. Aaron Finch (c), 3. Usman Khawaja, 4. Steve Smith, 5. Glenn Maxwell, 6. Marcus Stoinis, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Pat Cummins, 9. Mitchell Starc, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Jason Behrendorff

New Zealand have gone in with the same team in each match they have played. However, Matt Henry has taken just one wicket in his last four matches, so is it time for Tim Southee or Ish Sodhi? Also, do they stick with their current opening partnership?

New Zealand: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Henry Nicholls/Colin Munro, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Tom Latham (wk), 6. Jimmy Neehsam, 7. Colin de Grandhomme, 8. Mitchell Santner, 9. Matt Henry/Tim Southee, 10. Lockie Ferguson, 11. Trent Boult

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 37: Australia v New Zealand Preview Dream11. AUS vs NZ Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for NZ vs AUS Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket World Cup 2019. Cricket Blog CricBlog
CWC 2019 Match 37: Australia v New Zealand Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 10, Australia 7, New Zealand 3.
  • Both these sides met in the 2015 World Cup Final, which was New Zealand’s first appearance in a WC Final. Australia won by seven wickets.
  • Australia have lost more wickets from overs 31-50 in CWC 2019 (37) than any other team. New Zealand and India have lost the fewest (15).
  • Kane Williamson needs 32 to reach 6,000 runs in ODIs.
  • Aaron Finch and David Warner lead the run-scorers chart in CWC 2019, with 996 runs between them.

Match Prediction

This promises to be a cracking game at the Home of Cricket.

Both sides have it in them to win a big game, but Australia possess slightly more in-form players. Australia to win in a tight game.

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 36: Afghanistan v Pakistan Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

CWC 2019 Match 36: Afghanistan v Pakistan Preview Dream11. AFG vs PAK Preview Dream11 Prediction

The 1992 comparisons are gaining even further momentum. If you’re an avid cricket fan and haven’t heard about it, where have you been hiding?

Pakistan’s next stop is Leeds, as they look towards an incredible Semi Final appearance given how bad they were against India. Sarfaraz Ahmed’s men have played beautifully (fielding aside) in their past two matches, defending a total and then nailing a chase against New Zealand. They are coming hard after England who have India and New Zealand to play, and while Pakistan look to have the easier games on paper, nothing can be taken for granted.

One thing that can’t be compared to 1992 is the presence of Afghanistan Cricket. The Afghanistan Cricket Board was founded in 1995 – a reminder of the incredible journey Afghanistan have taken to get here. Indeed, self-inflicted pain has hurt them in this tournament, losing all seven of their matches to date with an element of distraction and unrest within the squad. However, they have shown positives in their past two games, so can they translate that into a landmark win and ruin Pakistan’s qualification hopes?

Key to a Pakistan win

It might have been easy to assume that Pakistan would be in trouble if Mohammad Amir had a bad day. However, despite his below-par performance against New Zealand, it was Shaheen Shah Afridi who stepped up to deliver the kind of display that underpinned the start to his ODI career. Pakistan’s first 30 overs against the Black Caps was so good that a repeat would be too much for Afghanistan, but their final 20 overs is a reminder of their inconsistencies. Can they get it right from start to finish, putting on a much improved fielding display?

Also, how good was Babar Azam against New Zealand? His idol is Virat Kohli, and he did what Kohli does best, steering Pakistan to a successful run chase whilst remaining unbeaten. He and Haris Sohail are in magnificent form, but what will Pakistan get out of their openers and Mohammad Hafeez – the man who keeps getting dismissed to part-timers? Fakhar Zaman also continues to underwhelm – his team needs him to find form with the race to the Semi Finals well and truly on. Can he and Imam get Pakistan off to a strong start with a solid stand?

Key to an Afghanistan win

Afghanistan gave it their all against India and Bangladesh. However, skipper Gulbadin Naib was again left to rue their poor fielding, which was the catalyst to conceding 20-30 runs too many against Bangladesh. Here, they have an opportunity to be of significant nuisance value to Pakistan, with their spinners key in producing another good performance with the ball. The pitch at Headingley had some assistance for the bowlers when Sri Lanka achieved a shock win over England, so Afghanistan will be out to make inroads early and then build on them. Can Mujeeb ur Rahman continue his excellent form? Rashid Khan has bounced back pretty well since his nightmare England game, but can he really own an innings?

However, the worry is Afghanistan’s batting. While they worked hard against India and Bangladesh, you felt wickets were around the corner due to a lack of strike rotation. Openers Rahmat Shah and Gulbadin Naib have a big ask in overcoming two of Pakistan’s confident left-arm seamers. If they can, it could make Afghanistan extra confident and Pakistan that little bit more nervous. However, as games against New Zealand and South Africa showed, a good powerplay isn’t enough. The middle order needs to back it up.

Pitch and conditions

232 played 212 last week when Sri Lanka beat England. There could be some assistance for the spinners throughout the day with a warm day forecast.

Possible Playing 11

Aftab Alam has been sent home for disciplinary reasons – the latest news in what has been a pretty turbulent campaign for Afghanistan. In terms of the XI, they could stick with the same one that lost to Bangladesh, even though Dawlat Zadran continues to disappoint with the ball and in the field.

Afghanistan: 1. Rahmat Shah, 2. Gulbadin Naib (c), 3. Hashmatullah Shahidi, 4. Asghar Afghan, 5. Mohammad Nabi, 6. Samiullah Shenwari, 7. Najibullah Zadran, 8. Ikram Ali Khil (wk), 9. Rashid Khan, 10. Dawlat Zadran/Hamid Hassan, 11. Mujeeb ur Rahman

Pakistan should stick with the same team that beat New Zealand.

Pakistan: 1. Imam-ul-Haq, 2. Fakhar Zaman, 3. Babar Azam, 4. Mohammad Hafeez, 5. Haris Sohail, 6. Sarfaraz Ahmed (c & wk), 7. Imad Wasim, 8. Shadab Khan, 9. Wahab Riaz, 10. Mohammad Amir, 11. Shaheen Shah Afridi

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 36: Afghanistan v Pakistan Preview Dream11. AFG vs PAK Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream 11 for PAK vs AFG Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction. Cricket World Cup 2019 CricBlog Cricket Blog
CWC 2019 Match 36: Afghanistan v Pakistan Preview Dream11

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 36: Afghanistan v Pakistan Preview Dream11. AFG vs PAK Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream 11 for PAK vs AFG Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction. Cricket World Cup 2019 CricBlog Cricket Blog
CWC 2019 Match 36: Afghanistan v Pakistan Preview Dream11

Stats and Facts

  • This will be the first meeting in World Cups between the sides.
  • Pakistan have won all three ODIs against Afghanistan. However, the latest was a very tight three wicket win in last year’s Asia Cup.
  • Mohammad Hafeez has been dismissed by Aaron Finch, Aiden Markram and Kane Williamson in CWC 2019.
  • Pakistan will move ahead of England in the CWC 2019 standings if they win this match.

Match Prediction

It is sure to be an amazing atmosphere at Headingley.

There is so much for Pakistan to play for, and while Afghanistan are capable of having good moments, Sarfaraz Ahmed’s team should get the job done with the stakes so high. Pakistan to win.

Also read: Check out my five talking points from every CWC 2019 game! The latest:

India v West Indies: Should Shami have got man of the match?

Pakistan v New Zealand: Brilliant Babar emulates his idol Virat Kohli

England v Australia: Kevin Pietersen is mighty nervous now

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – India v West Indies: 5 key talking points

Charbel Coorey
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0

CWC 2019 – India v West Indies: 5 key talking points. IND vs WI: 5 key talking points from their 2019 World Cup match

It was a sunny, bright and cloudless day in Manchester. The kind we haven’t seen very often – if at all – in CWC 2019. However, that is where the good news ended for West Indies, with their World Cup campaign coming to a very tame end after such a promising beginning.

India, despite a few bumps along the way in their batting innings, won with ease. They took in the Manchester sunshine, with West Indies’ batting effort resembling a training session at times rather than a World Cup match.

Below are five talking points from India’s very easy 125-run win.

1. Mohammed Shami highlights India’s bowling depth

“What a bowler this Mohammed Shami is”, exclaimed an excited Harsha Bhogle in commentary as Shami knocked over the crucial Shai Hope. And right he is.

It is worth noting that Mohammed Shami finds it challenging to make India’s first XI. His stats in 2019 have been superb, taking 27 wickets in 13 ODIs at an average of just 20.66. But, he sat behind the quality Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah in the pecking order. It is a big strength of India’s that they can turn to Shami in a time of need, and then have him deliver two four-wicket hauls in a row.

However, Shami should have been man of the match this time after rightly missing out to Jasprit Bumrah against Afghanistan. Sure, Virat Kohli played a vital knock, but a score of 268, even on a slower pitch, is a total the Windies are capable of chasing. Shami didn’t allow for it, removing three of the Windies’ best players to give them no chance of victory.

Teams playing India will have to take guard against his skiddy bowling, whilst trying to get the better of Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal. This is testament to India’s bowling depth – a change from years gone by where their batting was far superior.

Also read: Is Jasprit Bumrah the world’s best all-format bowler?

2. Out with Vijay Shankar, in with Rishabh Pant?

Vijay Shankar showed some promising signs in the home series against Australia earlier this year. His batting was irresistible at times, and when you can also get an over or two out of him, he suddenly looks a very good option for India.

However, things haven’t gone as planned for Vijay Shankar. An underwhelming IPL 2019 campaign has preceded what is an underwhelming World Cup to date, unable to take advantage of his opportunity at number four. So, is it time for Rishabh Pant to get his chance? Even though Pant hasn’t quite fired yet in ODIs, an attacking left-hander is something India could benefit from in their order filled with right-handed batsmen.

3. Does India’s middle order inspire enough confidence?

It was scratchy against Afghanistan and things were on the same path against West Indies.

KL Rahul’s caution leaves India needing plenty of impetus in the middle overs. Plenty of dots was the theme throughout, with MS Dhoni having to finish off well after making his own slow start. There is no cricketer on the planet who could have his name chanted while batting on 34 off 49 balls with a few overs to go. It goes to show how much Dhoni is loved, with a widely-shared belief that he can deliver glory for India.

However, what this also shows is how crucial Hardik Pandya is to India’s cause. Like Glenn Maxwell for Australia, Hardik is required to lift the momentum for India in the final 20 overs. He was able to in this game, but like Australia, India can lose momentum if their middle order is required to do significant work. Following on from the previous point, it could very well be time for Rishabh Pant to come in and give India another dimension.

4. A very disappointing campaign for West Indies

West Indies were looked at as a very dangerous team heading into CWC 2019. Their complete demolition of Pakistan had their fans excited and rivals on alert.

However, they haven’t won a game since. They had two great opportunities to – against Australia and New Zealand – but let themselves down in key stages. If 500 was to be scored at this tournament, many believed it could have been the Windies to achieve this, but they have been so under par that even their highest score of 321 was chased with ridiculous ease by Bangladesh.

So, where to now for the Windies? Jason Holder, who has helped put smiles back on faces in a tough few years, certainly should remain captain. What the Windies lack is the discipline to maintain periods of dominance; instead relying on pieces of individual brilliance to keep them in matches. If Shai Hope is dismissed early, who else can anchor the innings? At the moment, a ‘boom or bust’ approach – the kind nervous England have – is not sustainable in big games.

5. Kemar Roach proves a point

West Indies’ team balance came under fire earlier in the tournament. They preferred to play a busted Andre Russell as their fifth bowler against Bangladesh, after Carlos Brathwaite was also preferred to another specialist seamer earlier in the tournament.

Kemar Roach might have seen this as a bit of a slap in the face. Here, he gave a glimpse into the value he could have provided for West Indies earlier in the tournament, producing a gem of a display that pushed India onto the back foot. Unfortunately for he and the Windies, Oshane Thomas and Carlos Brathwaite were unable to follow on his great work, with only Sheldon Cottrell holding his own.

All-in-all, it was another tough day for West Indies.

Also read: Check out my five talking points from every CWC 2019 game! The latest:

Pakistan v New Zealand: Brilliant Babar emulates his idol Virat Kohli

England v Australia: Kevin Pietersen is mighty nervous now

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 35 – South Africa v Sri Lanka Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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CWC 2019 Match 35 – South Africa v Sri Lanka Preview Dream11. SA vs SL Preview Dream11 Prediction

As we now head close towards the final 10 games of the CWC 2019 group stage, one of these two sides is in Semi Final contention.

However, could anyone have expected it to be Sri Lanka? We have reason to thank them, for it is they who breathed life into the top four race with a win for the ages against England. The fact they haven’t played for a week is cause for some frustration, but if they bowl like they did against England, they will be a challenge for any team. Indeed, they can make Kevin Pietersen and Michael Vaughan even more nervous.

It will be a surprise if they don’t challenge South Africa. Now that the Proteas are out of CWC 2019, one wonders how much they actually want to be there, with their poor body language exposed against Pakistan and throughout the tournament. It is incredible to think South Africa swept Sri Lanka 5-0 just a few months ago. Now, it is Sri Lanka vying for a Semi Finals spot. Can they spoil their day?

Key to a Sri Lanka win

It is a huge day for Sri Lanka. Much depends on whether they can hold their nerve in pressure situations, as well as how well they bat. A good batting display can put them level with England on eight points, but given Sri Lanka’s batting so far in CWC 2019, they need a significant improvement. Angelo Mathews had to fight to give Sri Lanka something to bowl at against England, so they need to convert starts at the top and win each stage of the innings – something that has been very rare over the past few years.

Also, can Sri Lanka put together another big bowling effort? They are up against a struggling batting lineup, and can create further pain for the Proteas with early wickets. Lasith Malinga led the way last week, rolling back the clock to deliver a performance for the ages – along with his teammates – that dismantled England right throughout the innings. Can Sri Lanka do it again today? Will they take all the chances that come their way, or will the pressure of the occasion get the better of them?

Key to a South Africa win

A nightmare campaign for the Proteas is underpinned by the lack of impact from their batsmen. In addition to the problem of converting – 22 top seven batsmen have been dismissed for 30+ scores in CWC 2019 without converting to a century – none of their specialist batsmen are striking at at least 90. It remains to be seen if South Africa play with freedom today, and their batting will go a long way to determining that. Will we see a century today?

Also, South Africa’s bowling – meant to be their strength, hasn’t been too flash. Their performance against Pakistan was reflective of a side willing to get on the plane back home, failing to withstand any pressure Pakistan put back on them. Kagiso Rabada needs to find the will to go again after a big workload and encounter with Quinton de Kock and Faf du Plessis, leading the way to help South Africa get to the death overs with Sri Lanka under huge pressure.

Also read – Rant: Pathetic body language from the Proteas exposed

Pitch and conditions

This is the first game at Chester-le-Street in Durham in CWC 2019. A fresh pitch is expected with some possible assistance for the bowlers early on.

Possible Playing 11

Nuwan Pradeep is in doubt with a fever. Suranga Lakmal could come in.

Sri Lanka: 1. Dimuth Karunaratne (c), 2. Kusal Perera (wk), 3. Avishka Fernando, 4. Kusal Mendis, 5. Angelo Mathews, 6. Jeevan Mendis, 7. Dhananjaya de Silva, 8. Thisara Perera, 9. Isuru Udana, 10. Nuwan Pradeep/Suranga Lakmal, 11. Lasith Malinga

JP Duminy could get a run for South Africa as his ODI career comes to an end.

South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Hashim Amla, 3. Faf du Plessis (c), 4. Aiden Markram/JP Duminy, 5. Rassie van der Dussen, 6. David Miller, 7. Andile Phehlukwayo, 8. Chris Morris, 9. Kagiso Rabada, 10. Lungi Ngidi, 11. Imran Tahir

Dream11 Prediction

Also read: Pros and cons of Dream11’s deadline decision

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 35 - South Africa v Sri Lanka Preview Dream11. SA vs SL Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for SL vs SA Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket World Cup 2019. Cricket Blog CricBlog
CWC 2019 Match 35 – South Africa v Sri Lanka Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 35 - South Africa v Sri Lanka Preview Dream11. SA vs SL Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for SL vs SA Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket World Cup 2019. Cricket Blog CricBlog
CWC 2019 Match 35 – South Africa v Sri Lanka Dream11 Prediction

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 5, South Africa 3, Sri Lanka 1, Tie 1.
  • South Africa thrashed Sri Lanka 5-0 just three months ago.
  • South Africa and Sri Lanka have played some memorable matches in World Cups. In 2003, the Proteas miscalculated the D/L par score, finishing level with Sri Lanka which wasn’t enough to qualify out of the group stage at home. In 2007, Lasith Malinga took four in four balls to get Sri Lanka so close to an unbelievable win.
  • Sri Lanka will be level with England if they win today.
  • Lungi Ngidi has taken 18 wickets in nine innings against Sri Lanka at an average of 18.8.

Match Prediction

South Africa have been nothing but a let down in CWC 2019. They look a team that is keen to get on the plane back home, which makes it very hard to back them today.

Sri Lanka have so much to play for, and there is every chance they will be a lot more up for this game compared to South Africa. Sri Lanka to win.

Also read: Check out my five talking points from every CWC 2019 game! The latest:

Pakistan v New Zealand: Brilliant Babar emulates his idol Virat Kohli

England v Australia: Kevin Pietersen is mighty nervous now

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – Pakistan v New Zealand: 5 key talking points

Charbel Coorey
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CWC 2019 – Pakistan v New Zealand: 5 key talking points. PAK vs NZ: 5 key talking points from their 2019 World Cup match

The atmosphere was raucous. Lahore-like. The sea of green held a collective belief that Pakistan can match the incredible feats of 1992. Their incredible support on a crucial day held Pakistan in great stead.

The bowlers’ brilliant start was then finished off in classy fashion by the talented Babar Azam. New Zealand were due a loss, and this was it, going down to a Pakistan side that is starting to pick up confidence and form ahead of the Semi Finals. Watch out, England.

Here are five talking points from Pakistan’s strong six wicket win to keep their CWC 2019 hopes well and truly alive.

1. Babar Azam dictates the game

I wrote that Babar Azam played one of his more significant innings against South Africa at Lord’s. He followed it up with an innings of even greater significance in Birmingham, translating gorgeous strokeplay into truly meaningful runs that adds another dimension to this Pakistan side.

Haris Sohail played the lead role against South Africa, with Babar taking a back seat. Here, it was Babar leading the way, emulating his idol Virat Kohli by scoring an unbeaten century in a successful chase. He picked and choosed when to attack, reaching a century amid huge roars that is sure to create goosebumps for all Pakistan fans.

With Babar and Haris in this kind of form, who knows just what Pakistan could achieve.

Also read: India v West Indies World Cup Preview Dream11

2. Shaheen Shah Afridi has his best day

In his first 10 ODIs, Shaheen Shah Afridi took 19 wickets at 19.4 with an economy rate of 4.6. In his five ODIs before this game against New Zealand, the average and economy rate read 41.7 and 7.7 respectively. So, Shaheen was under pressure to justify his place in the side, which can be disconcerting for a young player.

However, he responded brilliantly. Babar Azam’s brilliance rendered Shaheen unlucky not to win man of the match, after delivering a spell to remember by ripping through New Zealand’s top and middle order. His length was a thing of beauty, often catching New Zealand’s batsmen on the crease, finding the edge for all three of his wickets. As a result, New Zealand were always playing catch up, and it was courtesy of Shaheen who crucially delivered on a day where Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz did not have their best outings.

3. New Zealand’s all-rounders play brilliantly and out of character

Jimmy Neesham is not just the king of social media. He is an attacking middle order batsman. Colin de Grandhomme the same.

However, their partnership highlighted their capabilities in adjusting to the situation. Something England just can’t seem to do. Neesham and de Grandhomme both had to curb their natural instincts with New Zealand 84/5 and down in the dumps with Kane Williamson dismissed. Perhaps surprisingly to many, they were able to do that, rotating the strike in the early parts of their partnership before giving themselves a chance to launch in the final overs.

237 looked way off with 20 overs to go. New Zealand were not even at 100. But, both Neesham and de Grandhomme played innings that adds value to their cricketing abilities. They aren’t just bigger hitters. They are thinking cricketers.

Also read: India v West Indies World Cup Preview Dream11

4. The Martin Guptill, Colin Munro and Tom Latham problem

New Zealand have an issue. Their over-reliance on Kane Williamson looked to cost them dearly before Jimmy Neesham and Colin de Grandhomme gave them something to bowl at.

The form of New Zealand’s openers, as well as Tom Latham, is a big concern. The Black Caps’ persistence with Colin Munro is particularly surprising, with Henry Nicholls watching on from the sidelines as Munro shows why averages just 25 in 57 ODIs. Guptill is looking a player that might benefit from an accumulator at the other end, which is a case for Nicholls to come back into the side. Also, Latham’s poor form was a key talking point in New Zealand’s tight win over Bangladesh. Things haven’t improved, scoring 13*, 1, 12 and 1 since his ordinary dismissal that day.

So, what do New Zealand do with two games left in the group stage? Sticking with something that clearly isn’t working is just as much a risk (if not more) than making adjustments, and here are some of their options:

  • Swap Tom Latham and Colin Munro in the batting order, moving Munro to the middle where he has enjoyed some success in List A cricket. Also, this might work out for Latham, coming out to bat right away instead of thinking about things in the dressing room.
  • Replace Colin Munro with Henry Nicholls, leaving the wicketkeeping option in the middle order.
  • Test Tom Blundell out ahead of Tom Latham.

5. Pakistan’s room for improvement

It was a fantastic win for Pakistan. However, it was not a game without its faults.

New Zealand were struggling badly at 84/5. Pakistan had the Black Caps on the ropes, but took the foot off the accelerator pedal a little to allow New Zealand back into the game. It started with bringing Imad Wasim on in the 32nd over instead of one of the leading strike bowlers, which allowed Neesham and de Grandhomme to get into their innings.

But, the biggest issue for Pakistan is their fielding. They are the worst side in the tournament when it comes to fielding, and it takes some effort to be ahead of Afghanistan, who have also been incredibly poor in this area. Sloppy fielding and lack of concentration gifted New Zealand at least 10-15 extra runs. They won this match well in the end, but more of the same in future matches can prove mighty costly for Pakistan.

However, Pakistan can dream of a repeat of 1992. Sure, it might still seem a distant possibility, but such an eerie similarity to that campaign just can’t be ignored. With matches against Afghanistan and Bangladesh to come, Pakistan can really believe they can sneak into the Semi Finals ahead of hosts England, who still have India and New Zealand to play.

Also read: India v West Indies World Cup Preview Dream11

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 34: India v West Indies Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

CWC 2019 Match 34: India v West Indies Preview Dream11 Prediction. IND vs WI Preview Dream11 Prediction

India’s “cheat meal” according to ESPNCricinfo didn’t quite materialise. West Indies’ aspirations for a big campaign hasn’t materialised either, making this a battle between two sides looking to prove a point.

India less so, given their strong start to the tournament. However, they would be first to admit they were well under par against Afghanistan, putting in a performance that confirmed the need for greater output from their middle order. Even though the Windies remain a very slight chance of making the Semi Finals, it can be safe to assume that they will play with nothing to lose. India, as Sri Lanka showed England last week, can’t afford to take this one lightly.

It has been a disappointing campaign for West Indies. Despite their low ODI ranking – which required them to qualify in Zimbabwe last year, the Windies were expected to give things a shake with some big names back in the side. One of the big names – Andre Russell – has now been put out of his misery and is out of the tournament, putting an end to what was an underwhelming campaign with the bat. After close losses against Australia and New Zealand, can the Windies pick up a big scalp here?

Key to an India win

India’s batting against South Africa, Australia and Pakistan were all underpinned by one key factor – big runs from their top order. Against Afghanistan, though, it was a different story, with top scorer Virat Kohli out in the middle overs leaving the middle order with work to do. The lack of strike rotation that followed is an area India will look to address, especially if they are needed to put on a good score. Indeed, India’s top three remain crucial to their chances, and how they handle any swing from Sheldon Cottrell early can help set the tone.

Also read: Did Bangladesh’s middle order upstage India’s in their game against Afghanistan?

Also, India’s bowling depth came to the fore against Afghanistan. It takes a special display to have Mohammed Shami’s hat-trick as the second best performance, behind the excellent Jasprit Bumrah who again confirmed why he is the world’s best bowler across formats. How they overcome the Windies’ power game will be key, as well as Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer, who were mighty impressive in India last year. Can the seamers set up the platform for the spinners to build more pressure?

Key to a West Indies win

The Windies have to ramp up the pressure on India’s bowlers. Their power players know no other way, which makes Shai Hope crucial in holding the innings together. Chris Gayle and Shimron Hetmyer were in irresistible touch against New Zealand, but the middle order collapse created the need for a miracle if they were to win. Carlos Brathwaite nearly delivered in an incredible innings, but the Windies now need a good batting performance across the 50 overs.

Also, can Sheldon Cottrell lead the way as the Windies look to inflict damage on India’s top order? His ability to swing the ball prodigiously against New Zealand is something to be encouraged by, as it is an avenue to test India’s top three. However, who will provide the support? Jason Holder is more of an economical option, so can Oshane Thomas rediscover some of the form from earlier in the tournament? Can the Windies get a good shot at India’s middle order, off the back of executing well against Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in particular?

Pitch and conditions

“Weather in Manchester” almost broke Google back on June 16. However, there is no need for concerns now, with conditions expected to be nice and sunny. The pitch has been pretty good for batting in Manchester so far in CWC 2019, with the latest match an absolute thriller between Windies and New Zealand.

Possible Playing 11

India could look to stick with the same team, even though they might be tempted to bring in Rishabh Pant, possibly for Vijay Shankar.

India: 1. Rohit Sharma, 2. KL Rahul, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. Vijay Shankar, 5. MS Dhoni (wk), 6. Kedar Jadhav, 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Mohammed Shami, 9. Kuldeep Yadav, 10. Yuzvendra Chahal, 11. Jasprit Bumrah

Andre Russell is out of the tournament for West Indies and Evin Lewis is in doubt with a hamstring niggle, which might mean Sunil Ambris gets a run.

West Indies: 1. Chris Gayle, 2. Sunil Ambris/Evin Lewis, 3. Shai Hope (wk), 4. Nicholas Pooran, 5. Shimron Hetmyer, 6. Jason Holder, 7. Carlos Brathwaite, 8. Ashley Nurse, 9. Kemar Roach, 10. Oshane Thomas, 11. Sheldon Cottrell

Dream11 Prediction

Also read: Pros and cons of Dream11’s deadline decision

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 34: India v West Indies Preview Dream11 Prediction. IND vs WI Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for IND vs WI Match today. Possibl e Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket Blog CricBlog Cricket World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 34: India v West Indies Preview Dream11

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 34: India v West Indies Preview Dream11 Prediction. IND vs WI Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for IND vs WI Match today. Possibl e Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket Blog CricBlog Cricket World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 34: India v West Indies Preview Dream11

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 8, India 5, West Indies 3.
  • India are still unbeaten in CWC 2019.
  • The last time these two sides met in ODIs was in 2018, where India won the series 3-1 at home.

Match Prediction

West Indies will go hard in this game, but India should have too much quality in this one. India to win.

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – England v Australia: 5 key talking points

Charbel Coorey
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0
CWC 2019 – England v Australia: 5 key talking points

CWC 2019 – England v Australia: 5 key talking points. ENG vs AUS: 5 key talking points from their 2019 World Cup match

England skipper Eoin Morgan, confidently and stoutly, said he wouldn’t stop fans from booing Steve Smith and David Warner. However, by the time he top edged a hook shot straight down fine leg’s throat, he may have been inclined to make sure no one was booing his own team.

An important day for England ended in more disappointment. The pre-tournament favourites now find themselves in a scrap for fourth place. Yet again, their chasing in pressure situations was a far cry to what they have been achieving in bilateral assignments. Worse, they’ve fallen to the arch-enemy again, with their winless streak against Australia in World Cups still stretched right back to 1992.

Australia were outstanding with the ball. They saw a weakness and exploited it. Indeed, the way England are going, and looking at their fixtures remaining, they could very well not have the chance to rectify their poor record against Australia in World Cups in this tournament. As a result, even Kevin Pietersen and Michael Vaughan are now very nervous.

Below are five key talking points from Australia’s comprehensive 64-run win.

1. England’s fatal lack of adaptability to the conditions

In a game of this magnitude, you almost always back the team batting first. I did before the game. However, looking at the assistance on offer for bowlers right throughout the day, you couldn’t begrudge England for choosing to bowl first.

However, what you could begrudge them for was the lengths they bowled. They were too short in the early overs, bowling a length for a flat pitch, highlighting their lack of adaptability to the conditions. According to CricViz, 46% of Australia’s balls in the opening five overs were pitched full, where two brought about wickets. Compare that to England who bowled just 27% at the same stage. Indeed, you can talk about false shots from the Australians, but when you are bowling too short, it is common knowledge that the ball will often miss the edge. Despite the fightback in the final overs, the damage was done with Australia’s huge opening stand.

Also, England’s lack of adaptability is very closely associated with their batting. Hell-bent on an all-guns-blazing strategy for four years, England look lost for answers on pitches with assistance for the bowlers, stuck between playing their natural game or focusing on accumulation. Eoin Morgan’s innings highlighted England’s muddled mindset. So too Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root. Their batting has been so under par that it even has Kevin Pietersen, who last week said to hand over the World Cup to England, very worried.

2. Australia’s bowling attack strikes (green and) gold

The make up of Australia’s attack in CWC 2019 has made for plenty of discussion. That they found themselves top of the standings with five wins and a single loss is testament to Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. However, if they are to generate proper momentum in this tournament, they couldn’t just rely on these two.

Jason Behrendhorff’s inclusion was an excellent call. The decision to open with him was even better. Not only because of his ability to swing and seam the ball early, but also because in the back of England’s minds, Pat Cummins is still to come. Behrendhorff was outstanding, focusing on bringing the England batsmen forward, accounting for James Vince with a magnificent inswinger and then Jonny Bairstow as the pressure grew en route to a brilliant five-wicket haul.

The make up of this Australian attack, which included the miserly Nathan Lyon, had a much better feel to it. Of course, when you have Mitchell Starc in the kind of form he is, any decent support is good enough to take Australia to the next level. The yorker to Ben Stokes will surely have us in awe for a long while to come, finishing with four of his own to combine for nine wickets with Behrendhorff in left-arm mayhem for England.

3. Australia’s batting conundrum

For all their victories in CWC 2019, the question of Australia’s batting line up remains. Steve Smith looked in terrific touch. However, he was wasted at four, dismissed in the 46th over after facing just 34 balls. He cut a frustrated figure walking off the field.

Smith should now bat at three. He is Australia’s best batsman. However, does Usman Khawaja have it in him to bat at four and keep the momentum going? His strike rate for the tournament is close to 100, but this was skewed by his 89 off 72 against a Bangladesh side that had a bad day with the ball at Trent Bridge. Also, 94 of his 210 runs have come in boundaries, showing that there a few too many dot balls for Australia’s liking when starting out. So, if Khawaja does get tasked with batting at four, he needs to be proactive from the word go.

Also, Alex Carey looks in fine touch, and could very well be primed for a move up the order. However, there is the problem of Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell. Stoinis’ rotation of strike early in his innings is non-existent, appearing to audition for an Ashes spot rather than catapult Australia over 300. Maxwell has more in him, but yet another early dismissal against pace creates doubt about his reliability to bat cause damage for extended periods. Despite Australia’s fantastic record in CWC 2019 to date, their middle order is something to sort out ahead of the Semi Finals.

4. Aaron Finch’s mindset shows where Australia are at

Aaron Finch enjoys playing England. His 100 in this crucial match was his fifth against them in ODIs, central to a fine record that reads 1,253 runs in 26 ODIs at an average of 52.20. Better, he and David Warner are now the top two run-scorers at CWC 2019.

However, it is 100 and out for Finch against England. His five hundreds have yielded a highest score of 108. Of course, while any century is a fine achievement, Finch almost inconsolable in the dressing room showed that ‘good enough’ is not enough for Australia at this World Cup. When the captain has that attitude, others will follow, and that can hold Australia in fine stead.

5. Will England MISS the Semi Finals?

England’s record over the past four years and home advantage means they should still believe they can reach the Semi Finals. However, that brings with it significant pressure that Eoin Morgan’s side has not seemed to deal well with in CWC 2019. It was not supposed to be like this, with Morgan accepting the favouritism tag before the tournament by confidently stating he’d “rather be favourites than no chance.”

Now, England have India and New Zealand in their final two games, and need to aim to win both to boost their chances of qualifying. They have not beaten India in a World Cup game since 1992. The drought extends to 1983 against New Zealand. Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are all breathing down their neck, and one win for England might yet not be enough to progress.

Remaining fixtures:

  • England: India, New Zealand.
  • Pakistan: New Zealand, Afghanistan, Bangladesh.
  • Bangladesh: India, Pakistan.
  • Sri Lanka: South Africa, West Indies, India.

The pressure is now well and truly on. Whether England can handle it remains to be seen.

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – England v Australia: 5 key talking points. ENG vs AUS: 5 key talking points from their 2019 World Cup match

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