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CWC 2019 Match 41: England v New Zealand Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey

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July 3, 2019 at 8:48 am

CWC 2019 Match 41: England v New Zealand Preview Dream11. ENG vs NZ Preview Dream11 Prediction

New Zealand will have its largest support for a single game in recent history. While Pakistan can still qualify even if New Zealand lose, a Black Caps win here means Pakistan will qualify for the Semi Finals if they win by any margin vs Bangladesh on Friday.

Win and qualify is the scenario for England, who got their shaky campaign back on track with victory over India. Their batsmen came to the party in Edgbaston, taking apart proven ODI bowlers to reach a total that proved too much. They must repeat their efficient performance here, because if they don’t, they could be out of the tournament by the weekend.

New Zealand have lost some momentum. It was only last week that they were undefeated alongside India en route to another Semi Finals berth, focused on doing the little things right to pick up victories. However, they have lost two straight matches, including another disappointing batting performance against Australia that has put further question marks regarding whether they can go all the way. Here, they have a huge opportunity to get back in form, while potentially spelling the end for England in the group stage.

Key to an England win

It all comes down to this. Conditions in Durham are expected to be good batting, which will suit England’s hard-hitting approach. The return of Jason Roy against India drew an immediately positive result, enabling Jonny Bairstow to get set en route his most significant knock of the tournament. Another strong start here, against very capable New Zealand bowling up front, can reduce any nerves and enable the middle order – that includes in the in-form Ben Stokes – to play with freedom.

Also read: How good is Ben Stokes going?

Can England’s bowlers also come to the party? While India lacked intent at key stages last time out, England should be credited for their discipline and changes of pace that suited the conditions. Here, adjusting to the conditions will be vital once again, building dot-ball pressure through effective changes of length and pace. New Zealand is a side that can play lots of dots, so England need to leverage this with early scalps. Can they cause more opening hurt for the Black Caps? Will they get the better of Kane Williamson, placing significant pressure on the middle order?

Key to a New Zealand win

Apart from their first game against Sri Lanka, where they only needed 137 to win, New Zealand’s opening partnership has struggled. Even in that game, the question of whether Munro or Nicholls should open was a key one, and the Black Caps finally made the move last game against Australia. Nicholls will be key in enabling Martin Guptill find the form that has eluded he and New Zealand, which has often put the spotlight on the brilliant Kane Williamson very early. If New Zealand wish to build momentum, it must start from their top order that gives a platform for Ross Taylor and their all-rounders to play off.

Also read: New Zealand’s batting continues to worry

Also, can New Zealand find any swing and movement early? Is it time for Tim Southee to get a run? England’s batsmen have shown a propensity to struggle against the moving ball in CWC 2019, so all eyes will be on the impact Trent Boult can make in his battle with England’s dangerous opening pair. Pressure can do funny things, and it is key for New Zealand that they are targeting a middle order under the pump.

Also read: Did New Zealand miss a trick in the middle overs against Australia?

Pitch and conditions

The forecast is good at Chester-le-Street and the pitch reportedly looks a good one for batting. It was the case in the Sri Lanka-West Indies game, where 300+ played 300+.

Possible Playing 11

Also read: India bad or England good? Liam Plunkett deserves credit

Liam Plunkett bowled really well for England last time out. The good batting conditions expected might have him preferred over Moeen Ali again.

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

Tim Southee has been waiting a while for his opportunity. Today could be the day, especially considering Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out with hamstring tightness.

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

Dream11 Prediction

Also read: Trent Boult achieves history against Australia

Stats and Facts

Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 8, England 3, New Zealand 5.
England have not beaten New Zealand in a World Cup match since 1983. The last WC meeting was in 2015, where New Zealand thrashed England by eight wickets with 37.4 overs to spare.
Kane Williamson averages 74.64 in ODIs in England – his best in any country (min 5 innings).
If England lose, they will need Pakistan to lose to Bangladesh on Friday.
For New Zealand to miss out on the Semi Finals, they would have to lose this game heavily and Pakistan would have to thrash Bangladesh.

Match Prediction

What a game this could be.

New Zealand have been well under par in recent matches, but if they bring their A game, they could cause nerves for an England side that has struggled under pressure at times in CWC 2019. However, with Lockie Ferguson out and conditions said to be good for batting, England have enough depth to get the win and qualify for the Semi Finals.

Thanks for reading!

Women’s Ashes: AusW v EngW 1st ODI Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey

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July 2, 2019 at 1:02 pm

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Women’s Ashes: AusW v EngW 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction. Australia Women vs England Women 1st ODI Preview Dream11

The Women’s Ashes – a source of fantastic cricket for years, kicks off with the first ODI in Leicester. The rivalry resumes between two sides who love to dislike each other, making this series one of the most anticipated in recent times.

England have revenge on their minds. They have not held the Ashes since 2015, where they lost both the ODI and T20I series’ as well as the lone Test at home. The England side possesses a good mix of youth and experience, and given that they are the reigning World Champions, they will most certainly be out to make a great start to the campaign. Every game counts for plenty, and the home side will be looking to make a great start.

They come up against a magnificent Australia team. Current holders of the Ashes and World T20 Title, the Australians under Meg Lanning continue to showcase their professionalism, hard work and talent whenever they step out onto the field. They retained the Ashes in 2017 off the back of a drawn result across the three formats, and will be out to make a mark early away from home.

Also read: The Australian men’s team continue to soar at CWC 2019

Key to an England win

England possess excellent top order experience and talent in Tammy Beaumont, Amy Jones (in terrific form), Sarah Jones and Heather Knight. In big games, a lot rests on the platform the top order sets for the team, especially against a well-rounded Australia attack. The likes of Megan Schutt and Ellyse Perry have been magnificent for Australia at the top, so how England overcome their threat will be key. With Natalie Sciver a key cog in the middle order, the platform she is given is vital, given Australia possess excellent change bowlers after Schutt and Perry.

Also, can England’s bowlers get the better of Australia’s batting? Anya Shrubsole – the hero of England’s World Cup Final win in 2017, will be key again, along with the experienced Katherine Brunt in leading an English attack that contains youth and a few all-rounders. Can England get the better of the dangerous Alyssa Healy? How much pressure can they put on Australia’s middle order?

Key to an Australia win

For England to win, they will have to outplay Australia’s proven top order. Alyssa Healy, Beth Mooney, Meg Lanning and Ashleigh Gardner is a batting cog that any team in the world would love to have. England’s experienced bowlers will be out for early wickets, so a solid start than enables Australia to put pressure onto England’s change bowlers. With the likes of Rachael Haynes, Ellyse Villani and Ellyse Perry in the middle order, you can count on a strong platform to be capitalised on.

Also, can Australia’s well-balanced attack tame England’s batting threat? Ellyse Perry and Megan Schutt have 209 ODI wickets between them, and whether they outplay England’s opening bowlers can have a say in the result. Their battle against England’s capable top order is one to watch out for, and with plenty of talent including Ashleigh Gardner and Georgia Wareham, Australia have the resources to pick up crucial wickets in the middle overs. Indeed, if Australia play Tayla Vlaeminck, who was bowling with good pace in the nets, it could add another dimension to their attack.

Pitch and conditions

The forecast is for a sunny day at Grace Road in Leicester. The pitch looked quite green a couple of days out before the match. I expect a lot of the grass will be shaven off before the match.

Possible Playing 11

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

Australia: 1. Alyssa Healy (wk), 2. Beth Mooney, 3. Meg Lanning (c), 4. Ashleigh Gardner, 5. Rachael Haynes, 6. Ellyse Villani, 7. Ellyse Perry, 8. Jess Jonassen, 9. Georgia Wareham, 10. Megan Schutt, 11. Tayla Vlaeminck

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Option 2:

Also read: The Australian men’s team continue to soar at CWC 2019

Stats and Facts

Australia have won three of the past five ODIs against England.
Australia are the current holders of the Ashes, after winning in 2015 and then retaining it in 2017/18.
England are the current World Champions in ODI Cricket.

Match Prediction

A mix of experience and youth is set to take the field in what promises to be an excellent match.

Both sides look very good on paper, but Australia’s extra depth gives them a crucial edge. Australia to win.

Also read: What on EARTH was Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib thinking?

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 40: India v Bangladesh Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey

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July 2, 2019 at 9:31 am

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CWC 2019 Match 40: India v Bangladesh Preview Dream11. IND vs BAN Preview Dream11 Prediction

12 years ago, Bangladesh’s shock win all but knocked India out of the World Cup. It was the day that truly ignited India-Bangladesh matches, with India bouncing back strongly in 2011 and then winning the 2015 Quarter Final.

That’s not where it ends. Bangladesh’s 2-1 series win in 2015 ignited things even further, especially with the Mustafizur “cutter” advertisement saga. However, this Bangladesh side look a more matured outfit, and proof is the way Bangladesh handled a pressure game against Afghanistan last time out. England’s win on Sunday has now made this a must-win match if the Tigers want to stay alive. Shakib Al Hasan, who is having the tournament of a lifetime, certainly deserves it. Can Bangladesh beat India?

Also read: Bangladesh correspondent Mohammad Isam was out of line in his analysis of Bangladesh’s win over Afghanistan

India lost their first game of CWC 2019. Their game against England was another tough outing for its middle order, struggling for fluency to the extent that Sourav Ganguly didn’t hold back in commentary. Today is another good test for India, as even though they are favourites, Bangladesh will be out to give it their all. Will India knock their neighbours out of CWC 2019?

Also read: India’s middle order underwhelms again

Key to a Bangladesh win

The big question for Bangladesh is whether their bowlers can step up to the plate. Indeed, bowling has been their Achilles heel in CWC 2019, often struggling for penetration en route to conceding some big totals. Can they get past Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli without too much damage and target India’s under-pressure middle order? With the track set to be the one used for the India-England game, Bangladesh’s spinners can benefit against the likes of MS Dhoni who has scored 41 off 87 balls vs spin in CWC 2019. However, they need a strong start, limiting the boundaries and building dot-ball pressure. Then, can they back it up at the death, where they have been one of the worst in the tournament?

And that’s before mentioning the task their batsmen face. Bangladesh’s batting has been their strong point in CWC 2019, with Shakib Al Hasan leading the way in a tournament for the ages. Today, they will come up against an India attack looking to make amends for an under-par outing vs England. However, one bowler who wasn’t under par was Jasprit Bumrah, so can Bangladesh play he and Mohammed Shami well, taking on other bowlers in India’s attack? What will Tamim, Shakib and Mushfiqur produce in a huge game?

Also read: Mohammed Shami took five, but Bumrah was the star

Key to an India win

The enigma that is KL Rahul puts even greater responsibility on the shoulders of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both have enjoyed success against Bangladesh in the past, and will need to do so given the rest of India’s lineup isn’t quite in the best form. Rohit has three centuries in CWC 2019 – can he dominate Bangladesh early to push the Tigers into their shell? With Virat Kohli in fine touch – despite incredibly being unable to convert five consecutive fifties, India can bank on a strong start that they can take advantage of against a Bangladesh side that has struggled in the death overs.

Also, what should the make up of India’s attack look like? Kuldeep Yadav’s form is a concern, and given the very small boundary dimensions on one side, India could look to play just the one wristspinner. Indeed, India’s seamers up front will be key in making inroads into Bangladesh’s top order – in particular Shakib Al Hasan, who has the chance to go back to top of the CWC 2019 run-scoring charts. Then, as Bangladesh will look to do, India need to build pressure on Bangladesh’s middle-later order.

Also read: India’s middle order needs to step up

Pitch and conditions

A sunny day is forecast for Edgbaston. The pitch will be the same one used in the England-India game, so the team who wins the toss will surely bat first as it can slow down further as the day goes on.

Possible Playing 11

Also read: Kuldeep Yadav’s form is a worry for India

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is fit for India and could come in for Kuldeep Yadav.

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

Mahmudullah picked up a grade one calf tear in Bangladesh’s win over Afghanistan last week. However, he is considered a good chance of playing after an eight-day layoff.

Bangladesh: 1. Tamim Iqbal, 2. Soumya Sarkar, 3. Shakib Al Hasan, 4. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5. Liton Das, 6. Mahmudullah, 7. Mossadek Hossain, 8. Mohammad Shaifuddin, 9. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 10. Mashrafe Mortaza (c), 11. Mustafizur Rahman

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Option 2:

Also read: Bangladesh correspondent Mohammad Isam was out of line in his analysis of Bangladesh’s win over Afghanistan

Stats and Facts

Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 3, India 2, Bangladesh 1.
The last meeting between the sides in World Cups was the 2015 Quarter Final, where India won by 109 runs.
Mahmdullah needs 53 to reach 4,000 ODI runs.
Jasprit Bumrah needs five to reach 100 ODI wickets.
If Bangladesh lose this game, they are officially out of contention for the Semi Finals. If they win both their remaining games and England lose to New Zealand, Bangladesh will progress.

Match Prediction

India start as favourites. Rightly so, even with their very quick turnaround.

However, I have the feeling this might be a tight match. The kind we saw in the incredible match at the 2016 World T20. But, Bangladesh’s bowling is the worry, which is why I think India’s key batsmen might just be too strong. India to win, but this should be a good game of cricket.

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – England v India: 5 key talking points

Charbel Coorey

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July 2, 2019 at 12:04 am

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

The blockbuster June 30 match had plenty at stake.

England, pre-tournament favourites, found themselves outside the top four heading into their second-last game. Things were getting a little desperate among former players, pundits and fans as the unthinkable possibility of missing out on the semi finals was a realistic proposition after defeats to Sri Lanka and Australia.

However, India weren’t up to the mark for much of the day, with England outplaying the new world number one side to take a significant step towards the Semi Finals.

Below are five key talking points from England’s 31-run win.

Also read: Will India end Bangladesh’s hopes of a Semi Finals appearance?

1. Jonny Bairstow reflective of England’s mood

England were greeted to a good batting wicket. The kind Jonny Bairstow mentioned ahead of the game. His partner in crime, Jason Roy, was back barely two weeks after tearing his hamstring. The scene was set for England after winning the toss, and it was time to execute under pressure.

Jason Roy helped Bairstow early, after the latter had a nervous start. Edges were theme of Bairstow’s batting, which required intent from the other end to give England the start they needed. Roy helped pushed India right onto the back-foot, leaving Virat Kohli needing to bank on his spinners to make inroads. Once Bairstow was settled, he was in no mood to let up, smashing six sixes – all off India’s spinners, targeting the short boundary.

By halfway, Bairstow had his century off just 90 balls in his most significant innings of CWC 2019. He would be first to admit that his tournament before this game was a little underwhelming compared to expectations, but he stepped up when his side really needed it. For a while, 400 looked on the cards, but even once Bairstow was dismissed, England were always playing from in front.

Also read: Is Mitchell Starc one of the all-time great ODI bowlers?

2. How good is Ben Stokes going?

England’s batting lineup was topic of conversation ahead of the World Cup. Jonny Bairstow, Jason Roy, Joe Root and Eoin Morgan as the top four, and who could not mention the dynamic Jos Buttler?

However, it has been Ben Stokes who has really stood out for England in CWC 2019. While the rest crumbled against Sri Lanka and Australia, Ben Stokes held firm, nearly taking England home against Sri Lanka and then victim of an amazing Mitchell Starc yorker.

In this game, he had his reward. He had the platform to play off, striking the ball beautifully to all parts en route to 79 off 54 balls. His batting stats now in CWC 2019 read: 370 runs at 61.66 with a strike rate of 98.93. Brilliant.

Also read: What on EARTH was Gulbadin Naib thinking?

3. India’s lack of intent

It can be easy for rival fans to accuse India of not showing sportsmanship. Waqar Younis’ comments is a major talking point right now. However, apart from Australia and Pakistan, can we say India have batted without total fluency for much of the tournament to date?

The loss of Shikhar Dhawan has proven to be a big blow. However, the start by Rohit Sharma in particular lacked intent, with a total of 43 dots in the opening 10 overs seeing India sit on 28/1. Chris Woakes, who conceded 58, bowled three consecutive maidens to start. Rohit, after the game, said India had to be cautious after an early wicket. But, there is cautious and then there is putting your side under further pressure.

Then, as India accelerated in the middle overs, powered by Rohit’s century and Kohli’s brilliance, they gave themselves a sniff. However, the middle order yet again struggled for fluency, with MS Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav hitting just 18 runs in boundaries in the final five overs along with 20 singles.

A lot of credit should go to England. They bowled with discipline, mixing their pace up beautifully to keep India on high alert. Liam Plunkett’s inclusion was a fine selection decision. Indeed, opposition teams can catch up significantly against India’s middle order that is not quite firing. Sure, the asking rate was very high heading into the final 10 overs, but the fluency in India’s middle order hasn’t been on display too often in CWC 2019. In the end, they finished 31 short with five wickets in hand.

Also read: Will India end Bangladesh’s hopes of a Semi Finals appearance?

4. The enigma that is KL Rahul

KL Rahul forced his way into the number four spot on the back of runs in the warm-up match against Bangladesh. The injury to Shikhar Dhawan then gave him the opportunity to bat in his preferred position as opener. Could he make it his own?

He has tried to. But, he is trying too hard. Too conservative. Too concerned about not taking his opportunity. His innings yesterday, where even short, wide deliveries from Chris Woakes were barely going off the square, showed a player struggling for form. @mainlycricket, in his article, wrote about the need for KL Rahul to rotate the strike better against pace bowling. The stats are telling.

Now, India have brought in Mayank Agarwal to replace the injured Vijay Shankar. Agarwal could slot in to open by the time the final group stage game comes around, pushing Rahul to four. However, wherever KL bats, India need his best, and he has an opportunity to find form against Bangladesh on Tuesday.

Also read: What on EARTH was Gulbadin Naib thinking?

5. Jasprit Bumrah magnificent. The wristspinners not so much

How good is Jasprit Bumrah?

Mohammed Shami finished with five wickets, but it was Bumrah who stole the show with some outstanding death bowling. With Jos Buttler and Ben Stokes looking to go huge in the death overs, Bumrah kept India in the game, conceding just 26 in his final five overs to further enhance his status as the best all-format bowler on the planet.

However, India’s spinners had a tough day. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are considered a dangerous combination. After what they have showed in recent years, there is certainly testament to that statement.

Kuldeep Yadav’s form, though, has been a worry. He did not have a good IPL 2019 campaign, and his lack of wickets in CWC 2019 has put more pressure on the others to pick up the scalps. Chahal, who has been quite good in recent times, went for 88. India needed Kuldeep to deliver his best, but the short boundaries and flat track were too much to handle.

So, where do India go from here? When Bhuvneshwar Kumar is fit, do India consider going in with three frontline seamers and just the one wristspinner? Sure, conditions might dictate which direction they go in, but it is certainly food for thought.

Thanks for reading!

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

Charbel Coorey

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July 1, 2019 at 4:50 pm

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CWC 2019 – Australia v New Zealand: 5 key talking points. AUS vs NZ: 5 key talking points from their 2019 World Cup match.

The much-hyped Trans-Tasman battle, predicted to leave us on the edge of our seats, turned out to be quite one-sided.

When either team was on top, they were so dominant that there was never really an amazing battle brewing. It began with New Zealand tormenting the Australian top order before the CWC 2019 leaders flexed their muscle and dominated the rest of the match.

This game had its similarities to the 2003 World Cup match in Port Elizabeth. Australia found themselves in significant trouble as a result of Shane Bond’s brilliance, before Michael Bevan and Andy Bichel executed a rescue mission similar to that against England nine days earlier. Then, Brett Lee took five wickets in his later spell to dismantle New Zealand. Here, New Zealand had Australia in all sorts of trouble, before Alex Carey and Usman Khawaja rescued the cause before Mitchell Starc took five of his own to seal the win.

Here are five talking points from Australia’s fifth straight win in CWC 2019.

1. Alex Carey should bat ahead of Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell

I will hold up my hand up and say I doubted the impact Alex Carey would have at number seven. He is typically a top order player, focused on playing with style that could have hampered Australia’s finishing in CWC 2019.

However, he has been one of Australia’s best players in this tournament. His batting has elevated Australia on numerous occasions, with the latest a run-a-ball 71 on a pitch where everyone else struggled to get going. Indeed, man of the match Alex Carey has made a significant case to move up the order.

This is especially as Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis are out of form. Stoinis had a great opportunity to bat long and find form. It didn’t work. Glenn Maxwell, worryingly, came in with 30 overs to go to help set the innings up. It didn’t work. What this game showed us is that:

Usman Khawaja, despite the luck he had, is important for when early wickets fall.
Alex Carey must bat ahead of Maxwell and Stoinis, especially before the 35-over mark.

Carey has been in outstanding touch, striking the ball beautifully on both sides of the wicket. He has 244 runs in seven innings at 61.00, with a strike rate of 110.60 in CWC 2019. Australia need to take full advantage of this as the business end of the tournament arrives.

Also read: What on EARTH was Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib thinking?

2. New Zealand’s batting continues to worry

Colin Munro, with an average of 25 in 57 ODIs, showed very little signs of improving that in CWC 2019. So, Henry Nicholls came in for him.

It would have been a bit unfair to ask Nicholls to fire right away against an in-form attack, but unfortunately for New Zealand, his leg-side strangle was the only ‘unlucky’ dismissal of their day. Their batting effort was filled with loose strokeplay, with their panic with just over 20 overs remaining a sign that they weren’t quite in the right head-space.

Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor tried to get going. They couldn’t. The pressure was building and New Zealand were struggling to rotate. Much like their 4-1 defeat to India earlier in the year. And, what did I literally say about Colin de Grandhomme after the Pakistan game? A ‘thinking cricketer’ hit a friendly Steve Smith delivery straight down long off’s throat in his first ball.

New Zealand can’t bat the way they are now if they are to win this World Cup. More is needed from Guptill, and with Nicholls a potentially good foil, a strong platform is what they badly need.

3. Mitchell Starc is one of the all-time great ODI bowlers

83 matches. 169 wickets. An average of just 20.

Sometimes, stats don’t always tell the story. It is actually often the case with Mitchell Starc in Test Cricket, where tailend wickets often pad his numbers to look better than his performance actually was.

However, his ODI numbers are indicative of just how good he is in this format. After leading Australia to World Cup success in 2015, Starc is on a mission to do again, going past the 20-wicket mark in just eight matches in CWC 2019. He has won games for Australia by dismissing quality batsmen along the way – Chris Gayle, Kusal Perera, Tamim Iqbal, Joe Root, Ben Stokes and Kane Williamson are some of the top players he has got the better of, in addition to that crucial wicket of Wahab Riaz against Pakistan.

Starc is now just two wickets behind Glenn McGrath’s record World Cup tally of 26 back in 2007. Given the way he is going, he is well on track to beat it. A magnificent white-ball bowler.

CWC 2019 - Australia v New Zealand: 5 key talking points. AUS vs NZ: 5 key talking points from their 2019 World Cup match. — Image: Getty Images. Australia v New Zealand: 5 key talking points – Mitchell Starc is aiming to lead Australia to another World Cup triumph.

4. Mixed day for New Zealand in the field

Martin Guptill dropped two catches (one difficult and one less so) as New Zealand began magnificently. Unlike England against Australia, New Zealand pitched the ball up early, allowing the ball to swing. Then, with Lockie Ferguson, New Zealand employed a mixture of shorter and fuller balls, with out-of-the-box field placements that saw one of the catches of the tournament from Martin Guptill.

However, after such a great start tactically, New Zealand fell away. The question has to be asked – would it have been worth bringing Trent Boult back for a two-over burst with Australia at 92/5? Did the Black Caps relax just that little bit? Is it time to bring Tim Southee in after not using Ish Sodhi much throughout the innings?

With a mix of spectacular catches (Guptill, Neesham) and drops (Latham, Guptill), New Zealand produced a fielding and tactical effort that needs some polishing.

5. Trent Boult creates history

Trent Boult hasn’t quite picked up the bagful of wickets expected of him in CWC 2019. However, he has his name in the history books, becoming the first ever New Zealand bowler to take a World Cup hat-trick. It was just reward for Boult after a testing opening spell, ensuring Australia couldn’t get any further potentially crucial runs in the final over.

In the end, it didn’t affect the result. However, it was a nice achievement from a fine bowler.

Also read: What on EARTH was Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib thinking?

Thanks for reading!

Ireland v Zimbabwe 1st ODI Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey

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July 1, 2019 at 1:03 pm

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Ireland v Zimbabwe 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction. IRE vs ZIM Preview Dream11 Prediction

Two sides who played one of the games of the tournament in the 2015 World Cup have spent most of the 2019 edition watching on.

Now, they go head-to-head as they strive for attention as the race for the CWC 2019 top four continues to heat up. Ireland, who have had a number of memorable moments in World Cups – including the highest successful run chase to date, will be out to prove again that they belong among cricket’s elite. Zimbabwe, who struggled badly vs Netherlands, will be out to show that their 2-0 series defeat was a blip in their own journey to be part of cricket’s elite. Who will make the better start in this three-match series?

Key to an Ireland win

Ireland had a great opportunity to impress in a recent Tri-Series involving Bangladesh and West Indies. However, it ended in disappointment, losing all three of their games. Their struggle with the ball was a common theme right the way through, conceding 381 and 331/5 (47.5) vs West Indies and 294/4 (43) vs Bangladesh. A decent effort against Afghanistan followed, so the onus is on the Irish bowlers to get the better of a Zimbabwe lineup that struggled to make the most of their starts against Netherlands. Can the likes of Tim Murtagh and Boyd Rankin lead the way as two of Ireland’s most experienced players? Will Ireland get the better of Zimbabwe’s experienced players – most notably Craig Ervine, Brendan Taylor and Sean Williams?

However, while Ireland haven’t had it easy with the ball, they have fared pretty well with the bat. Paul Stirling and Andy Balbirnie were two of the top five run-scorers in the recent Tri-Nations series, with two centuries between them. They will be key in getting Ireland on the front foot against a Zimbabwe side that lacked penetration against Netherlands, giving their side a strong platform for the middle overs. The likes of Kevin O’Brien and Mark Adair need to be tasked with finishing well, rather than rebuilding the innings after early wickets.

Ireland v Zimbabwe 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction. IRE vs ZIM Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for IRE vs ZIM Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket Blog CricBlog — Image: Getty Images. Ireland v Zimbabwe 1st ODI Preview Dream11 – Can William Porterfield have a big outing?

Key to a Zimbabwe win

Zimbabwe were beaten 2-0 quite easily by the Netherlands, which was a blow for them. In the first match, only Brendan Taylor made a contribution of any significance. In the second, Zimbabwe fared better with three half centuries in their score of 290. This time, can a top order player convert a start into a century? Can struggling skipper Hamilton Masakadza find the form his team needs him to? With a capable and experienced middle order, Zimbabwe need to overcome any possible movement up top to set a platform.

In addition to Zimbabwe’s batting problems, their bowlers struggled too. Zimbabwe took 10 wickets for 499 runs across two matches in the Netherlands, struggling for penetration throughout the innings. Kyle Jarvis, who took a combined 0/99 off 14.4 overs in the series, needs to deliver more for his side up top to get them in the game. His partnership with Tendai Chatara against UAE earlier in the year is something Zimbabwe need repeated, getting the better of Ireland’s top order so the likes of Ainsley Ndlovu, Donald Tiripano and the spinners can target their middle order under pressure.

Pitch and conditions

This will be the first ever ODI hosted at Bready Cricket Club. In five completed T20Is, the average score batting first is 160.2. Conditions for the day are expected to be chilly and cloudy. There has been some rain in recent days, so the pitch might offer assistance to the bowlers early on.

Possible Playing 11

George Dockrell was left out of Ireland’s squad for this ODI series. Ireland could possible play both Simi Singh and Andy McBrine, with William Porterfield to open.

Ireland: 1. Paul Stirling, 2. James McCollum, 3. Andy Balbirnie, 4. William Porterfield (c), 5. Kevin O’Brien, 6. Gary Wilson (wk), 7. Andy McBrine/Simi Singh, 8. Mark Adair, 9. Shane Getkate/Tyrone Kane, 10. Boyd Rankin, 11. Tim Murtagh

Zimbabwe: 1. Hamilton Masakadza (c), 2. Solomon Mire, 3. Craig Ervine, 4. Brendan Taylor (wk), 5. Sean Williams, 6. Sikanda Raza, 7. PJ Moor, 8. Donald Tiripano, 9. Kyle Jarvis, 10. Ainsley Ndlovu, 11. Tendai Chatara

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Option 2:

Also read: Who will step up in West Indies vs Sri Lanka for Dream11?

Stats and Facts

Zimbabwe have won three of their last five ODIs against Ireland.
The last meeting between the sides was in the World Cup Qualifiers last year, where Zimbabwe won by 107 runs.
Two Ireland batsmen can reach 4,000 ODI runs today. Paul Stirling needs 103 and William Porterfield just 38.

Match Prediction

Tough match to predict as both sides are capable of winning in a game that looks close on paper.

However, Ireland at home are always a challenging proposition, especially against an out-of-sorts Zimbabwe. Ireland to win in a tight match.

Note: All of Zimbabwe’s matches in Ireland will be live streamed.

Also read: Who will step up in West Indies vs Sri Lanka for Dream11?

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 39: Sri Lanka v West Indies Dream11

Charbel Coorey

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July 1, 2019 at 8:41 am

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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:

Option 2:

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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July 1, 2019 at 12:40 am

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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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June 29, 2019 at 11:51 pm

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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:

Option 2:

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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June 29, 2019 at 10:12 am

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:

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!

CRICKET BLOG FOR THE FANS, BY THE FANS

Key to an England win

Key to a New Zealand win

Pitch and conditions

Possible Playing 11

Dream11 Prediction

Stats and Facts

Match Prediction

Key to an England win

Key to an Australia win

Pitch and conditions

Possible Playing 11

Dream11 Prediction

Stats and Facts

Match Prediction

Key to a Bangladesh win

Key to an India win

Pitch and conditions

Possible Playing 11

Dream11 Prediction

Stats and Facts

Match Prediction

1. Jonny Bairstow reflective of England’s mood

2. How good is Ben Stokes going?

3. India’s lack of intent

4. The enigma that is KL Rahul

5. Jasprit Bumrah magnificent. The wristspinners not so much

1. Alex Carey should bat ahead of Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell

2. New Zealand’s batting continues to worry

3. Mitchell Starc is one of the all-time great ODI bowlers

4. Mixed day for New Zealand in the field

5. Trent Boult creates history

Key to an Ireland win

Key to a Zimbabwe win

Pitch and conditions

Possible Playing 11

Dream11 Prediction

Stats and Facts

Match Prediction

Key to a Sri Lanka win

Key to a West Indies win

Pitch and conditions

Possible Playing 11

Dream11 Prediction

Stats and Facts

Match Prediction

1. What on earth was Gulbadin Naib thinking?

2. Umpiring also hurts Afghanistan

3. Imad Wasim produces a great all-round performance

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

5. Pakistan still in with a shout

Key to an England win

Key to an India win

Pitch and conditions

Possible Playing 11

Dream11 Prediction

Stats and Facts

Match Prediction

Key to a Australia win

Key to a New Zealand win

Pitch and conditions

Possible Playing 11

Dream11 Prediction

Stats and Facts

Match Prediction

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