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CWC 2019 Match 36: Afghanistan v Pakistan Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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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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0

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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0

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

CWC 2019 Match 33 – Pakistan v New Zealand Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

CWC 2019 Match 33 – Pakistan v New Zealand Preview Dream11. PAK vs NZ Preview Dream11 Prediction

England are facing deja vu. The dark clouds that is their history of falling short on the big stage (not just the weather in England) is following them again.

Can Pakistan take advantage and create their own sense of deja vu? Much has been made of the incredible similarities between this and their successful 1992 campaign, making a poor start before becoming unstoppable in knockout-like matches. Indeed, if one thing is certain in a Pakistan game, it is that billions of eyes will be glued to this crunch game. A win here puts them just one point behind fourth-placed England. Can they hold their nerve?

They will have to get past unbeaten New Zealand, though. The Black Caps, despite not being their best at times, have been able to win the close matches to sit comfortably towards the top of the CWC 2019 table. It was a matter of inches against West Indies that ended the World Cup hopes of Jason Holder’s men, so can New Zealand do the same and put a huge dagger through Pakistan’s qualification hopes? They have won 12 of their last 13 ODIs against Pakistan as well as 18 of their last 20 WC group games, so it promises to be a tough test for Pakistan.

Key to a Pakistan win

Pakistan fans live on the edge watching their team play. The top order batsmen need to avoid the edge against New Zealand’s swing bowling up front. The opening partnership of Imam-ul-Haq and Fakhar Zaman set the tone against South Africa, and will be key against a quality new ball attack. This is not a struggling South Africa side, but rather a side at the top of its game, which requires a lift in intensity to keep their tournament alive. Babar Azam played one of his more significant innings in this tournament last time out, and Haris Sohail was simply irresistible on his return to the side. Can Pakistan repeat their effort?

Also, Mohammad Amir once again led the way in a beautiful exhibition of seam bowling against South Africa. However, he finally had support, with Pakistan putting in their best performance as a bowling unit on Sunday. Here, an opportunity presents itself for Pakistan with New Zealand’s openers underwhelming. Assuming that Pakistan make a good start, can they get the better of the magnificent Kane Williamson? Can Pakistan target New Zealand’s middle order as early as possible consisting of the out-of-form Tom Latham and the all-rounders? Eyes will be laid upon the likes of Shadab Khan and Wahab Riaz as they look to build on their efforts vs South Africa.

Key to a New Zealand win

New Zealand are winning games but they aren’t without their issues. Martin Guptill and Colin Munro are not delivering the good starts New Zealand need under pressure, which amplifies further just how good Kane Williamson has been. Against a Pakistan attack that will be raring to go, New Zealand can’t afford another shaky start, which puts the onus on the openers to keep Pakistan’s at bay. With James Neesham and Colin de Grandhomme capable of hitting the long ball, New Zealand need to set a good platform against a side with plenty at stake.

Also, while Pakistan’s batting lineup can be dangerous, it is prone to a bad day. The first 15 overs of Pakistan’s innings could dictate the match, with Trent Boult bursting into form with a brilliant performance against West Indies. With Lockie Ferguson continuing his magnificent form, New Zealand’s pace trio can have the Pakistan middle order sprawling to achieve parity in a crucial game.

Pitch and conditions

Heavy rain was a feature in Birmingham in the lead up to this match. However, the forecast is for overcast conditions with little to no precipitation. The pitch remained under covers so there could be assistance for the bowlers first up. Expect the team who wins the toss to bowl first.

Possible Playing 11

Rant: Pakistan thrash woeful South Africa to end their campaign

Pakistan could stick with the same team that beat South Africa easily. However, Shaheen Shah Afridi is in need of a good performance after a lean spell. In his first 10 ODI innings, he took 19 wickets at an average of 19.40 and economy rate of 4.6. In his last five innings, the average balloons to 46.1 with an economy rate of 7.7.

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

New Zealand could look at a change or two. Colin Munro continues to struggle in ODIs, so Henry Nicholls could come in to open. Also, Tim Southee is available if the Black Caps feel he would be a good option ahead of Matt Henry.

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. Matt Henry/Tim Southee, 10. Lockie Ferguson, 11. Trent Boult

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 33 - Pakistan v New Zealand Preview Dream11. PAK vs NZ Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream 11 for NZ vs PAK today Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket World Cup 2019 Cricket Blog CricBlog
CWC 2019 Match 33 – Pakistan v New Zealand Preview Dream11

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 33 - Pakistan v New Zealand Preview Dream11. PAK vs NZ Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream 11 for NZ vs PAK today Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction Cricket World Cup 2019 Cricket Blog CricBlog
CWC 2019 Match 33 – Pakistan v New Zealand Preview Dream11

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 8, Pakistan 6, New Zealand 2.
  • New Zealand have won 12 of the past 13 ODIs against Pakistan.
  • Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor have scored 573 runs between them. New Zealand’s openers? Just 246.
  • Mohammad Amir has taken two or more wickets in every game so far.
  • Pakistan can move to just one point behind fourth-placed England with a win here.

Match Prediction

Unpredictable Pakistan have a huge opportunity. New Zealand have been excellent, but have pushed their luck close in a few matches.

I feel New Zealand are due a loss, and this could be it. So much is at stake for Pakistan, and they might just come out on top. Pakistan to win.

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – Afghanistan v Bangladesh: 5 key talking points

Charbel Coorey
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0

Afghanistan v Bangladesh: 5 key talking points. AFG vs BAN: 5 key talking points from their 2019 Cricket World Cup match.

A week ago, the neutral fan may have not believed the Afghanistan vs Bangladesh clash would have been significant enough to pay a lot of attention to.

However, it was mighty crucial. Bangladesh had to win. Sri Lanka’s incredible win over England gave them a chance to get closer to the top four. They took it. Also, Bangladesh vs Afghanistan is one of world cricket’s fledgling rivalries, with eight ODIs now split 5-3 Bangladesh’s way.

Here are five key talking points from the result that put England under additional pressure for their game against Australia.

1. Super Shakib continues to amaze

The question of who Bangladesh’s best ever cricketer is was settled over a decade ago. Shakib Al Hasan took off in 2008, producing a number of incredible all-round performances. A future star had well and truly arrived.

11 years later, even with all the great achievements in between, Shakib finds himself in career-best form. He became the first cricketer in history to achieve 400+ runs and 10 wickets in a single World Cup edition, as well as the second after Yuvraj Singh to take a five wicket haul and score a half-century in the same World Cup match. His remarkable performances in this tournament so far has everyone taking notice around the world, but those following him closely over the years know just how good he is. However, could we ever think he would be THIS good?

In this game, he batted patiently on a difficult surface. He then knew how to bowl on it, ending up on top in the battle of the spinners. At the end of it all, he walked off the field having achieved some incredible feats that you can check out here. An incredible performance from an incredible player.

Also read: Twitterati hails Shakib Al Hasan after yet another magnificent performance

2. Bangladesh showed maturity that has eluded them over the years

Bangladesh’s batting performance, wrongly criticised by media correspondent Mohammad Isam, set the game up beautifully.

Faced with a slow, turning track, Bangladesh knew early that this was not a 300 pitch. India found that out two days earlier. However, where Bangladesh upstaged India was in the middle overs, rotating the strike beautifully and not getting bored of sticking to the plan.

Mushfiqur Rahim deserves significant praise. As do Shakib, Mahmudullah and Mossadek for their efforts with the bat. However, Mushfiqur Rahim, if not for the freakish feats of Shakib, would have won man of the match. Bangladesh were tottering at the fall of Soumya Sarkar’s wicket. The next partnership could decide Bangladesh’s fate in CWC 2019. Mushfiqur’s approach reflected a mature Bangladesh side, eliminating the recklessness on display by Bangladesh in the past en route to 83 at nearly a run-a-ball against an excellent spin attack on a slow pitch. It proved to be a match winning knock.

3. Afghanistan get it wrong at the toss

A key tip any cricketer is taught is to choose the option the opposition don’t want you to.

There is no doubt Bangladesh would have been happy to bat first. With both sides possessing key spin options, it made sense to get runs on the board and then look to squeeze the opposition with spin on a wearing track. So, it was a surprise to see Afghanistan choose to bowl after winning the toss, even with the possibility of a little rain during the day. They were perhaps also caught up in how things went against India, nearly chasing down 225 after a fine bowling effort. They looked to repeat it here, but conceded 30-40 more than they would have liked. Costly.

4. Afghanistan’s fielding a let down yet again

Dawlat Zadran’s embarrassing drop in the last over summed it up. Yet another fielding effort filled with misfields and mistakes cost Afgjanistan dearly. A big reason why they conceded 20-30 more than they would have liked was because of their sloppy fielding.

Skipper Gulbadin Naib expressed his frustration after the match. Afghanistan don’t possess the batting quality or consistency of other sides. But, one area you can compete in is fielding, which is an area Afghanistan must work on after CWC 2019 to be competitive against the higher-ranked teams.

5. Out with the Sabbir, in with the Mosaddek

Sabbir Rahman is technically gifted. Bangladesh had big aspirations for his future, keeping the faith in him as a potential finisher. However, as often the case with Bangladesh players, it didn’t materialise.

Mosaddek Hossain is also a player of immense promise. The key difference though is he is delivering, proving to be a fine finisher for Bangladesh at number seven. There is not much of him, but he can strike a cricket ball, as displayed in his incredible 27-ball 52 to seal the recent Ireland Tri-Series for Bangladesh. Here, he was excellent, playing a crucial cameo of 35 off 24 balls, filled with beautiful strokeplay to elevate Bangladesh over 250.

However, with the recent news that Mahmudullah sustained a calf tear, both may be needed.

Thanks for reading!

Netherlands vs Zimbabwe 2nd T20I Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

Netherlands vs Zimbabwe 2nd T20I Preview Dream11. NED vs ZIM 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction

Who knows what to expect when an Associate hosts a lower-ranked Test nation, especially considering both sides have been short of cricket in recent times.

However, The Netherlands should be mighty proud of what they have achieved. Three wins in three matches against Zimbabwe (two ODIs, one T20I) has sent a big statement that they are a side deserving of more opportunities. Indeed, the first T20I was something to behold, with Roelof van der Merwe channeling his inner Shakib Al Hasan to deliver an outstanding all-round performance that was too good for Zimbabwe. Can the Dutch make it a clean sweep across two formats?

Zimbabwe are struggling. Outplayed in all departments, the Zimbabweans have been playing catch up right throughout their tour to date. Their bowlers haven’t been in the wickets regularly, and their batsmen continue to underwhelm. A clean sweep across four matches against an Associate side will be a huge blow to Hamilton Masakadza’s side, who are working hard to prove that they are a team that can thrive with more opportunities. Can they get their first win of the tour?

Key to a Netherlands win

The Netherlands’ top order has been good form right throughout these matches. Max O’Dowd has taken his opportunities like a duck to water, scoring 175 runs across the two ODIs and lone T20I so far. With Ben Cooper also in fine touch, the Netherlands can hope for another good start given what Tobias Visee showed in the ODIs as well. With Roelof van der Merwe showcasing all his experience in the first T20I, it is crucial that the Dutch give their star all-rounder another good platform to play off.

Also, it is not only in the batting department that the Netherlands have excelled in. 22 year old Brandon Glover, on T20I debut, was outstanding in paralyzing the Zimbabwean run chase. Also, a key feature was how well the Dutch bowled as a unit in the first T20I, with the ten wickets shared among four bowlers – three of which took three wickets each. Can the Netherlands once again put the pressure on Zimbabwe and then pounce when the opportunity presents itself?

Also read: England vs Australia World Cup Preview Dream11

Key to a Zimbabwe win

It has been tough going for Zimbabwe. Their bowlers have struggled, going the distance in the first T20I after failing to defend 290 in the second ODI. The onus is on the seamers to bounce back and lead the way after being significantly outplayed by their Dutch counterparts first up, going for a total of 111 runs in just nine overs. With the spinners bowling pretty well for Zimbabwe last time out, the seamers need to put in a better display.

Also, can Zimbabwe get some proper momentum into their batting innings? Skipper Hamilton Masakadza continues to underwhelm, which has put pressure on those following him to deliver. Solomon Mire is another, failing to discover the form he showed in the Tri-Series with Pakistan and Australia last year. Indeed, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe is a chance of getting a run as a result of poor scores. In a must-win game, the openers have to get Zimbabwe into the game, setting a platform for the likes of Brendan Taylor, Craig Ervine, Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza to play off.

Pitch and conditions

A high of 31 degrees with no rain is the forecast for Rotterdam. The Netherlands’ score of 199 in the first T20I is by far the highest first innings total in five T20Is played at this ground (next best is 158). The average score batting first is 157.8.

Possible Playing 11

Netherlands: 1. Tobias Visee, 2. Max O’Dowd, 3. Ben Cooper, 4. Bas de Leede, 5. Wesley Barresi, 6. Roelof van der Merwe, 7. Scott Edwards (wk), 8. Pietar Seelaar (c), 9. Brandon Glover, 10. Paul van Meekeren, 11. Fred Klaassen

Zimbabwe: 1. Hamilton Masakadza (c), 2. Solomon Mire/Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, 3. Craig Ervine, 4. Brendan Taylor (wk), 5. Sean Williams, 6. Sikandar Raza, 7. PJ Moor, 8. Ryan Burl, 9. Donald Tiripano/Tendai Chatara, 10. Kyle Jarvis, 11. Chris Mpofu

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

Netherlands vs Zimbabwe 2nd T20I Preview Dream11. NED vs ZIM 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for NED vs ZIM today's match Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction. Cricket Blog. CricBlog
Netherlands vs Zimbabwe 2nd T20I Preview Dream11

Option 2:

Netherlands vs Zimbabwe 2nd T20I Preview Dream11. NED vs ZIM 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for NED vs ZIM today's match Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction. Cricket Blog. CricBlog
Netherlands vs Zimbabwe 2nd T20I Preview Dream11

Also read: England vs Australia World Cup Preview Dream11

Stats and Facts

  • Netherlands and Zimbabwe have one win each in two T20I meetings.
  • Netherlands have won each of three matches on Zimbabwe’s tour so far.
  • Bangladesh toured the Netherlands in 2012 for a T20I series. This is the only other T20I series the Dutch have played against a Test nation. That series finished 1-1.

Match Prediction

Zimbabwe have no answers to the Netherlands at the moment. With the Dutch playing well under the guidance of Ryan Campbell, I predict they will win yet again and take the series 2-0.

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 32 – England v Australia Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

CWC 2019 Match 32 – England v Australia Preview Dream11. ENG vs AUS Preview Dream11 Prediction

A huge rivalry with World Cup ramifications alongside it. This is huge.

As the CWC 2019 group stage, which only last week looked like it will end with barely a whimper, reaches its last 20 days, the pressure is now well and truly on ahead of a potential classic.

It was not supposed to be like this for England. World Cup favourites on the back of an excellent four years, England are under significant pressure with Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan right behind them. Their recent record against Australia (9-1 in the last 10 ODIs) is very good, but as this tournament has shown, the pressure of a World Cup is a different beast. Will it be a happy homecoming to the Home of Cricket for England?

What a situation Australia find themselves in. They have the opportunity to push their arch-rivals right on the edge with matches against India and New Zealand still to come. Add David Warner and Steve Smith, copping their fair share of feedback from the English crowd, who will be raring to go against an English side that has to prove itself in high-pressure situations. Australia haven’t lost a WC game to England since 1992 – can they keep it going?

Key to an England win

“We’ve shown throughout the World Cup that we can perform under pressure”, said skipper Eoin Morgan who believes his side is not hampered by nerves. However, this is sure to be a huge test of their resolve. So much rests on their top order to overcome Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. Also, Jason Behrendhorff and Nathan Lyon, who were both excellent in the Warm-up win vs England, are a chance to play. So, can England execute their plans whilst playing with the freedom that has underlined their ODI rise in the past four years? Can Jos Buttler, who has been a little quiet so far apart from one innings, rise to the occasion off the back of a strong top order platform?

Also, England’s bowlers have performed well in recent matches. They set the game up against Sri Lanka and blew the Windies away. Mark Wood and Jofra Archer both have more than 10 wickets for the tournament. A good mix of pace and spin holds them in good stead, doesn’t it?

They come up against one of the in-form top orders of the World Cup – Aaron Finch and David Warner average 86.5 for the opening wicket in CWC 2019. England need to break this stand early and give the heat – that is on them right now – back to Australia’s middle order. Can they ensure Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis come in with plenty left to do? Can they finish really well with bat and ball? With plenty at stake, they’ll have to.

Key to an Australia win

Australia have five wins in six games in CWC 2019, but they will be the first to say they haven’t been at their best so far. Whether this proves to be ominous or an opportunity for England depends on how well Australia’s desire to do well in this game translates to on-field dominance. Can Australia’s attack, under par at times in CWC 2019, get the better of England’s dangerous lineup? Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins will be key as always, but who will help maintain the pressure so England have to expand their plans beyond simply targeting Starc and Cummins?

Also, the battle between Australia’s batsmen and England’s bowlers is worthy of dropping everything and gluing your eyes to. David Warner has received a welcome from the England public that has seemed to spur him on. Same with Steve Smith. Aaron Finch, like Warner, is in outstanding form, so can Australia provide another strong platform that sets them up for a big launch? Their finishing has been in question throughout the tournament, but their effort against Bangladesh can hold them in good stead. Will it be the day of Glenn Maxwell?

Pitch and conditions

The Pakistan-South Africa game at Lord’s showed that the pitch has something in it for everyone. Expect similar today, with overcast conditions throughout the day.

Also read: Rant – South Africa need a clear-out after their awful CWC19 campaign.

Possible Playing 11

VOTE: Were England right to exclude Alex Hales from their World Cup squad?

England suffered a shock loss to Sri Lanka (KP and Michael Vaughan might be a little nervous!), but they have enough quality and experience to back the same team as Jason Roy is not expected to be fully fit for this match.

England: 1. Jonny Bairstow, 2. James Vince, 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

Nathan Coulter-Nile and Adam Zampa have been under-par for Australia in this World Cup. So, Jason Behrendhorff and Nathan Lyon, who were good in Australia’s Warm-up win over England, could come in.

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

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 32 - England v Australia Preview Dream11. ENG vs AUS Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for ENG vs AUS Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction. Cricket World Cup 2019. Cricket Blog CricBlog
CWC 2019 Match 32 – England v Australia Preview Dream11

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 32 - England v Australia Preview Dream11. ENG vs AUS Preview Dream11 Prediction. Dream11 for ENG vs AUS Possible Playing 11 Match Prediction. Cricket World Cup 2019. Cricket Blog CricBlog
CWC 2019 Match 32 – England v Australia Preview Dream11

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 7, England 2, Australia 5.
  • England have not beaten Australia in a World Cup match since 1992.
  • England have won nine of the past 10 ODIs against Australia, including a 5-0 whitewash a year ago.

Match Prediction

This could very well come down to which team bats first. The pressure of World Cup matches has made chasing more difficult than usual. As this is a high-stakes game, runs on the board are golden.

Head says England. Heart says Australia. I believe whoever bats first will win this game. Should be a beauty!

VOTE: Were England right to exclude Alex Hales from their World Cup squad?

Thanks for reading!

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