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CWC 2019 Match 10: Australia v West Indies Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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CWC 2019 Match 10: Australia v West Indies Preview Dream11. AUS vs WI CWC19 Dream11 Prediction

Would you have been excited about this World Cup match up before 2019? If you ever wanted proof of how quickly things can change in international cricket, here it is.

Just months ago, Australia were holders of the worst ODI winning percentage of any team in the world. They won just two of 13 matches in 2018 – a year which nothing seemed to go right. Steve Smith and David Warner were rubbed out for a year, England thrashed Australia 4-1 and 5-0, and things didn’t get better against South Africa. Fast forward to June and things are looking rosier, with Australia a genuine shot at defending their World Cup crown after nine consecutive wins.

However, their credentials will be put to the test on Thursday. West Indies are another example of how quickly things can change. After all, they missed automatic qualification to the tournament, and just qualified by the skin of their teeth in Zimbabwe last year. Now, with big names back in their side, and off the back of a thumping win against Pakistan, teams better watch out for the Windies.

So, strap yourself in for this one. It’s going to be one crazy ride.

Key to an Australia win

Pakistan bounced back brilliantly vs England after they were awful against West Indies. The Windies employed a short ball tactic that Sarfaraz Ahmed’s men could not handle. Australia will have to guard against the Windies’ use of pace and changes in length, especially so as Trent Bridge is a typically high-scoring ground and you need to score well to compete. So, can David Warner and Aaron Finch, both in good touch, get Australia off to a fast start? The Windies attack used against Pakistan could lack resources against a batting lineup that holds its own. So, an in-form Finch means good news for Australia as this can enable the likes of Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith to further build the platform for Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis and Alex Carey to propel Australia to a strong total.

Also, can Australia get the better of West Indies’ hard-hitting batting lineup? Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins found success against Afghanistan, and plenty rests on these two to provide inroads to halt the Windies’ progress. While the ever-present Chris Gayle jumps out as the obvious key wicket, Australia need to execute their plans well against the likes of Evin Lewis (if picked), Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer as well, all of whom are capable of building a platform for Andre Russell to go ballistic. Might it be worth Australia playing Nathan Lyon to open the bowling against Chris Gayle? Can Australia build pressure on the likes of Shai Hope who rely on strike rotation, given that Gayle isn’t too interested in running? Interesting battles await.

Key to a West Indies win

Can the Windies bowlers inflict more damage? They were ruthless against Pakistan, never letting up even when the opposition was significantly struggling. Oshane Thomas, who has to cut out the no-balls, is a wicket-taking threat, along with Sheldon Cottrell who is having a good 2019 so far. With Andre Russell able to provide impact along with the accuracy of Jason Holder, West Indies need to gel as a unit against an Australian batting lineup that can fire big totals. Can they find early breakthroughs, particularly via the short ball, and then build on them?

Also, the world is waiting for West Indies to bat again. A target of 106 against Pakistan was never going to be a test, so the battle between the fearless Windies and Australia’s well-rounded attack will be a fascinating battle. Chris Gayle, despite back troubles against Pakistan, will sure to look to deal in boundaries, which can put Australia right onto the back foot. Pakistan’s strong start against England on this ground a few days ago is a template for West Indies to follow, with the likes of Evin Lewis, Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer and Nicholas Pooran all capable of setting a strong platform. Can the Windies ensure Andre Russell, Jason Holder and Carlos Brathwaite have the freedom to launch?

CWC 2019 Match 10: Australia v West Indies Preview Dream11. AUS vs WI Dream11 Prediction CWC19. Playing 11 Match Prediction. Cricket World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 10: Can the Windies quicks put on another big display?

Pitch and conditions

Some rain is forecast throughout the day in Nottingham. It could be a stop-start game until the afternoon where it will become partly cloudy. The pitch at Trent Bridge is arguably the flattest in England. Couple this with the short boundaries and you have a batting paradise… If the weather allows for it.

Possible Playing 11

Australia could look at bringing in Nathan Lyon to try keep Chris Gayle quiet. If so, this will likely be at the expense of Nathan Coulter-Nile, who was economical against Afghanistan.

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. Nathan Coulter-Nile/Nathan Lyon, 11. Adam Zampa

Darren Bravo’s form has continued to decline. If Evin Lewis is fit, expect Bravo to be dropped to keep Nicholas Pooran in the XI. Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel were left out against Pakistan – it remains to be seen if one gets a go here. Also, Andre Russell had some knee trouble against Pakistan, but he has stated he should play in this game.

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

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 10: Australia v West Indies Preview Dream11. AUS vs WI Dream11 Prediction CWC19. Playing 11 Match Prediction. Cricket World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 10: Australia v West Indies Preview Dream11

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 10: Australia v West Indies Preview Dream11. AUS vs WI Dream11 Prediction CWC19. Playing 11 Match Prediction. Cricket World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 10: Australia v West Indies Preview Dream11

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 8, Australia 3, West Indies 5.
  • Australia have won their last nine ODIs.
  • Shimron Hetmyer has scored four centuries and two fifties in just 25 ODIs.

Match Prediction

What a game this promises to be, provided the weather holds.

With plenty of runs potentially on offer, this will come down to which bowling attack handles the pressure better. Australia’s attack has it in them to put a big performance, and so too their batsmen, who will be tasked with playing the short ball well. Australia to win, but not by much.

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – Afghanistan v Sri Lanka: 5 key talking points

Charbel Coorey
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0

Afghanistan v Sri Lanka: 5 key talking points. AFG vs SL – 5 key talking points from their CWC 2019 match.

A battle between what’s likely to be the bottom two sides at this World Cup doesn’t mean it can’t be exciting. Unfortunately, it was a little underwhelming.

Sri Lanka, in the end, picked up what can be described as a scrappy win. A fast start, aided by Kusal Perera and total Afghan bowling ill-discipline, was halted by the kind of poor play that has hurt Sri Lanka over the last two-and-a-half years. Their bowlers then helped get them over the line, picking up the sort of win that can kick-start a campaign.

Here are five key talking points from a game full of mistakes.

Also read:

India v South Africa Preview

New Zealand v Bangladesh Preview

1. Afghanistan’s ill-discipline costs them big time

Afghanistan missed a huge opportunity to pick up their second ever win in World Cups. Much of that can be put down to complete ill-discipline with the ball, conceding a total of 35 extras. By the 18th over, they had already given away 24 extras, bringing fears that India might finally play at this World Cup before this game was over.

Afghanistan lost by 34 runs. They conceded 35 extras. This, coupled with poor fielding, gave away crucial extra runs. This was Afghanistan’s most winnable game given Sri Lanka’s form. Despite forcing a Sri Lankan collapse, they missed out on the opportunity to pounce, leaving them only to sit in the dressing room drawing very important lessons.

2. Mighty unconvincing from Sri Lanka

Dimuth Karunaratne’s team walked away with a win, but boy was in unconvincing. They made the right call sending the impressive Kusal Perera out to open. Sitting pretty at 144/1 with Afghanistan gifting them runs should have been enough for Sri Lanka to run away with it. However, it is not a Sri Lanka game if they don’t follow up good moments with absolutely awful ones.

Mathews, just before the 20th over, looked snug in his jacket and beanie watching Sri Lanka dominate. What followed, though, was complete chaos. Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis and Angelo Mathews all got out to straight balls from the accurate and wily Mohammad Nabi. You felt wickets were coming as Hamid Hassan and Mohammad Nabi started to tighten things up, and Sri Lanka obliged. The calamitous run-out of Thisara Perera and ugly swipe from Isuru Udana summed up an awful 9/57 collapse. In the end, they just had enough, but no other team in this World Cup would be worried about Sri Lanka on the form showed in this game.

3. Nuwan Pradeep means a lot to this Sri Lanka side

Lasith Malinga wound back the clock with his yorkers. However, it was Nuwan Pradeep’s day.

After Sri Lanka inexplicably left Pradeep out against New Zealand, he bowled superbly, getting Sri Lanka home just as he did in their recent ODI vs Scotland. The bounce and movement he can generate makes him a must-pick for Sri Lanka as he adds another dimension to their team.

4. What to do with Kusal Mendis and Angelo Mathews?

Sri Lanka need a complete rebuild after the World Cup. The kind where you knock everything down and start again.

Kusal Mendis and Angelo Mathews are at risk of being knocked down. Mendis, meant to be Sri Lanka’s next big thing, has edged all three balls he has faced in this tournament. Mathews has also nicked off twice, out for two ducks in as many innings.

Sri Lanka might stick with them for the meantime, but their inability at the moment to either stop a slide or build on top order momentum is very worrying.

Also read:

India v South Africa Preview

New Zealand v Bangladesh Preview

5. Should Najibullah Zadran bat up the order?

Najibullah Zadran has made an outstanding start to the 2019 World Cup. He followed up a fine 51 against Australia with an excellent 43 against Sri Lanka, before a run out that summed up the sloppiness Afghanistan displayed right through the game.

Indeed, there has to be a case for Najibullah to bat up the order. He came in at seven, below skipper Gulbadin Naib, and gave Afghanistan great hope of winning after falling to 57/5. With a potent New Zealand attack up next, Afghanistan might be well served moving Najibullah up to five or six.

A game that had talking points, but not because of its quality.

Sri Lanka scraped home in the end, but if they continue playing that sort of cricket, they will struggle to win another game in this World Cup. For Afghanistan, they began the day bowling in cold conditions, but they were frozen with nerves and ill-discipline. It was an opportunity missed for them, but lessons must be learnt and taken into their next game.

Thanks for reading!

Also, be sure check out my series of “five key talking points” from every CWC 2019 match! The latest:

England v Pakistan: From embarrassment to ecstasy for Pakistan!

South Africa v Bangladesh: #ProteaFire or #ProteaDire?

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 9: Bangladesh v New Zealand Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

CWC 2019 Match 9: Bangladesh v New Zealand Preview Dream11. BAN vs NZ Dream11 Prediction

Two games in a day, which arguably should occur more often in this tournament, takes place to make this Wednesday an exciting one for cricket fans around the globe.

The second game today promises to be a beauty. Bangladesh, buoyant Bangladesh, made a statement on Sunday against South Africa. The Tigers created an even bigger World Cup-sized headache for the Proteas, putting together a near perfect batting performance followed by an honest bowling display. This game today may have looked a one-sided one to some heading into the tournament, but as the last few days have shown, nothing is set in stone.

New Zealand looked lethal in dismantling Sri Lanka on Saturday. They also have an excellent recent record against Bangladesh, sweeping them 3-0 at home earlier this year. However, they have lost two games to Bangladesh in UK/Ireland in the past two years, including a crucial game in the 2017 Champions Trophy. With the top four race sure to heat up even further, can New Zealand become the first team to win two games at this World Cup?

Also read: India v South Africa Preview + Dream11

Key to a Bangladesh win

Bangladesh recorded their highest ever ODI score on Sunday, and what a time to do it. A big occasion – a World Cup opener – brought the best out of the Tigers, roaring loudly with the bat to tame the #UnderFire Proteas. However, the challenge for Bangladesh is game-to-game consistency, which puts onus on the batsmen to follow up their effort. Soumya Sarkar has been in outstanding form of late, but how he and Tamim Iqbal handle New Zealand’s seamers early will be key. The start against South Africa set the tone, which was then followed up by Bangladesh’s experienced trio – Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah. Mahmudullah in particular has an excellent record in World Cups, scoring 443 runs at 63.29, including 128* vs New Zealand in 2015. Can Bangladesh put on another good showing?

Also, can Bangladesh test New Zealand’s middle order? Kane Williamson was not even needed in New Zealand’s demolition job of Sri Lanka, which gives Bangladesh an opportunity to put the Black Caps to the test. Mustafizur Rahman, who is returning to the kind of form he burst onto the scene with, is crucial for the Tigers, leading the way with wicket-taking threat that Bangladesh’s mix of seam and spin can look to build on. Can Bangladesh get early wickets, particularly that of Martin Guptill?

Key to a New Zealand win

In their 3-0 win over Bangladesh earlier in 2019, New Zealand picked up powerplay wickets as if it were a mundane task. The Black Caps’ seamers took advantage of swing and seam to dismantle the Tigers in each match. Just how much swing and seam is available at The Oval remains to be seen, but the focus for New Zealand would be to bowl tight lines to Bangladesh early, encouraging the Tigers batsmen to take risks to release the pressure. Just as Bangladesh need to test New Zealand’s middle order as early possible, the Black Caps need to do the same. They have the resources to do so in Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry.

Also, can Martin Guptill continue his form? He scored two centuries against Bangladesh earlier this year, and his dominance over Sri Lanka is the kind of form Kane Williamson will be after in this tournament. New Zealand can put Bangladesh under plenty of pressure in the powerplay overs with Colin Munro set to open again. Indeed, the Black Caps have the resources in the middle order to capitalise, particularly against Bangladesh’s spinners.

Pitch and conditions

Some rain has been lurking in London in recent days. However, hopefully the rain stays away as mostly cloudy conditions is forecast for Wednesday. A new pitch at The Oval will be used, so it remains to be seen if a third 300+ score can be scored batting first.

Possible Playing 11

Bangladesh should stick with the same team that beat South Africa, despite Mashrafe Mortaza, Tamim Iqbal, Mohammad Saifuddin and Mustafizur Rahman all having little niggles.

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

Henry Nicholls and Tim Southee are reportedly not 100% yet, so New Zealand should stick with the same team that thumped Sri Lanka.

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

Dream11 Prediction

  • Mahmudullah has a fine record in World Cups.
  • Martin Guptill has enjoyed playing Bangladesh so far this year.
  • Shakib Al Hasan offers great all-round value.
  • At least two of New Zealand’s three seamers should be picked.

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 9: Bangladesh v New Zealand Preview Dream11. BAN vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Playing 11 Match prediction. World Cup 2019. Dream11 Team for BAN vs NZ CWC19
CWC 2019 Match 9: Bangladesh v New Zealand Preview Dream11

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 9: Bangladesh v New Zealand Preview Dream11. BAN vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Playing 11 Match prediction. World Cup 2019. Dream11 Team for BAN vs NZ CWC19
CWC 2019 Match 9: Bangladesh v New Zealand Preview Dream11

Stats and Facts

  • Bangladesh have never beaten New Zealand in World Cups (four losses).
  • However, they knocked New Zealand out of the 2017 Champions Trophy, thanks to centuries from Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah.
  • The winner today will move to the top of the World Cup 2019 standings.
  • Shakib Al Hasan will play his 200th ODI.
  • Ross Taylor is set to play his 400th international match. Only Daniel Vettori and Brendon McCullum have reached that mark for New Zealand.
  • Trent Boult needs two wickets to reach 150 in ODIs.

Match Prediction

New Zealand are quite short favourites with the bookmakers. However, this is a difficult match to pick.

Bangladesh have shown that they aren’t here to make up the numbers. New Zealand also have the quality with bat and ball that can hold them in good stead. Bangladesh have a great chance of winning this, but I will pick New Zealand to take this out in a tight match as they can be counted on to deliver a clinical display.

Also, be sure check out my series of “five key talking points” from every CWC 2019 match! The latest:

Afghanistan v Sri Lanka: SL escape in missed opportunity for Afghanistan

England v Pakistan: From embarrassment to ecstasy for Pakistan!

South Africa v Bangladesh: #ProteaFire or #ProteaDire?

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 8: India v South Africa Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

CWC 2019 Match 8: India v South Africa Preview Dream11. IND vs SA Preview Dream11 Prediction

Look who’s arrived to the party!

India, like the common later-comer at social gatherings, have finally arrived and are looking to make the party their own. Unlike the usual late-comer, though, India have caught a glimpse of what has been going on so far in the 2019 World Cup. One little nugget of entertainment was Pakistan’s remarkable win over England on Monday, a stark reminder to all teams that no result is now set in stone in this tournament. Virat Kohli’s men will be out for a great start, but they will have to be aware of the wounded.

The wounded is South Africa. Even more so now that Dale Steyn has been ruled out of the tournament. Incredibly, they will now play their third game against a side playing its first, and they must get it right now. A flat, toothless performance against Bangladesh was one to forget, but the key question is whether the Proteas can discover the 40-50% of intensity they are missing, as described by skipper Faf du Plessis. The late-comer to the party usually looks to make a mark, but in this case, it has to be the previously quiet guest that steps up and takes the spotlight. Can the Proteas kick-start their tournament with a win over one of the tournament favourites?

Also read: #ProteaFire or #ProteaDire? 5 key talking points from South Africa’s loss to Bangladesh

Key to an India win

It seems like an age ago now, but India will want an improvement on what their top order delivered in the Warm-up games. There were a number of shaky moments against New Zealand and Bangladesh, which India will want to rectify right away. Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan, two terrific white-ball players, will be after some fluency and form, especially as South Africa are without Lungi Ngidi and Dale Steyn. With the great Virat Kohli and in-form KL Rahul and MS Dhoni to follow, a strong platform by the Indians can remind the South Africans of the punishment they took at the hands of Soumya Sarkar, Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim on Sunday.

WATCH: Talented Cricket with Sparsh previews India’s clash with South Africa!

Also, one of the best attacks of the tournament comes up against a batting lineup searching for form and identity. Quinton de Kock and Faf du Plessis remain critical to South Africa’s hopes of a score, which presents an amazing opportunity for India to pounce on. Jasprit Bumrah, the world’s best white-ball bowler, can inflict damage early on, along with either Mohammed Shami or Bhuvneshwar Kumar, both of whom have been impressive at times in the powerplay overs in 2019. With The Rose Bowl pitch aiding batting in the recent England vs Pakistan game, India might want to play their two-wristspinners, who blew South Africa away in 2018. Can India inflict more hurt on South Africa?

Key to a South Africa win

If Pakistan can do it, then South Africa can to.

That has to be the motivation for Faf du Plessis and his men, who were outplayed by a more committed and energetic side on Sunday. Their bowling, their stronger suit, was ordinary for the most part against Bangladesh. Put in a similar effort in the field here and India will punish them, which places onus on Kagiso Rabada to make inroads in the absence of Lungi Ngidi and Dale Steyn. Will Faf du Plessis ensure South Africa maintain a wicket-taking mindset throughout the Indian innings? Can Andile Phehlukwayo continue his impressive start to the tournament? If Chris Morris is persisted with, can he execute yorkers at the death to keep South Africa well in the contest?

Also, each of South Africa’s top six crossed 20 against Bangladesh. However, only Faf du Plessis managed to get past 50. The Proteas batsmen were able to get in, but in a near must-win game, they need significant scores. Indeed, the onus rests on Quinton de Kock (774 runs at 64.50 vs India) and skipper du Plessis, but who else will step up? If Hashim Amla isn’t deemed fit enough to return yet, can Aiden Markram convert beautiful back-foot drives into a substantial score? Can David Miller discover the powerful form fans know he can deliver? In a huge game, plenty rests on the South African batting against a capable Indian attack.

CWC 2019 Match 8: India v South Africa Preview Dream11. IND vs SA Preview Dream11 Prediction. Match Prediction. possible Playing 11. Dream11 for IND vs SA. Cricket World Cup 2019
Image: Getty Images. CWC 2019 Match 8: Faf du Plessis has to get South Africa firing.

Pitch and conditions

The forecast for Wednesday in Southampton is mostly cloudy. Hopefully the rain should stay away, making for an interesting contest. In relation to the pitch, England smashed 373 on this ground less than a month ago, with Pakistan coming mighty close with 361. The pitch at the Rose Bowl can assist spinners in the second innings.

Possible Playing 11

KL Rahul has surely made the number four spot his own after a century in the Warm-up match against Bangladesh. India have other questions to answer in relation to their XI: Does Vijay Shankar play? Do India play two wrist-spinners? Bhuvneshwar Kumar could be the one to miss out if that’s the case.

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

For South Africa, Dale Steyn is out of the tournament, in a huge blow. Beuran Hendricks has been called into the squad, but either Dwaine Pretorius or Tabraiz Shamsi will play. Also, Lungi Ngidi is expected to be out for a week to 10 days. But, in some good news, Hashim Amla is considered a good chance of playing.

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

Dream11 Prediction

WATCH: Talented Cricket with Sparsh previews India’s clash with South Africa!

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 8: India v South Africa Preview Dream11. IND vs SA Preview Dream11 Prediction. Match Prediction. possible Playing 11. Dream11 for IND vs SA. Cricket World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 8: India v South Africa Preview Dream11

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 8: India v South Africa Preview Dream11. IND vs SA Preview Dream11 Prediction. Match Prediction. possible Playing 11. Dream11 for IND vs SA. Cricket World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 8: India v South Africa Preview Dream11

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 4, India 1, South Africa 3.
  • India won the previous World Cup meeting vs South Africa, with Shikhar Dhawan’s century leading them to a big 130-run win in Melbourne.
  • India beat South Africa 5-1 in their last ODI meeting back in 2018.
  • Quinton de Kock vs India: 12 matches, 774 runs, average: 64.50, SR: 92.14.
  • Virat Kohli scored 558 runs in six innings in their 5-1 win over South Africa last year.

Match Prediction

As Pakistan showed, anything can happen.

South Africa need a lift, and there is no better time to deliver than against one of the World Cup favourites. While I expect South Africa to put on a better showing, the loss of Dale Steyn and Lungi Ngidi looks to be too much. India have the experience and talent to start off their campaign with a win.

Thanks for reading!

Also, be sure check out my series of “five key talking points” from every CWC 2019 match! The latest:

Afghanistan v Sri Lanka: SL escape in missed opportunity for Afghanistan

England v Pakistan: From embarrassment to ecstasy for Pakistan!

South Africa v Bangladesh: #ProteaFire or #ProteaDire?

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – England v Pakistan: 5 key talking points

Charbel Coorey
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0

England v Pakistan: 5 key talking points. ENG vs PAK 5 key talking points from their CWC 2019 match.

Is this an upset? Yes. Are you shocked? You shouldn’t be.

People, the 2019 Cricket World Cup has just got interesting. A beautiful 24 hours, where two outsiders won in cracking matches, has thrown things open. Just that little bit.

Pakistan have done a Pakistan. Friday’s abomination against West Indies was one of their greatest World Cup embarrassments. A game just a few days later against World Cup favourites England, whom they lost 4-0 to just two weeks ago, was meant to mean defeat.

Michael Vaughan certainly thought so.

But, nothing is set in stone with Pakistan. You just strap yourself in and enjoy the ride. And what a ride it was. They have mirrored their start in the 2017 Champions Trophy (which they won, remember), bouncing back after an embarrassing start. Indeed, Sarfaraz Ahmed can turn around the world economy.

A cracking game had its talking points. Here are five.

Also read: Afghanistan v Sri Lanka Preview + Dream11 Prediction

1. From embarrassment to ecstasy for Pakistan

Caught with their pants down against West Indies, Pakistan pulled them up and caught England out. England skipper Eoin Morgan warned his team to expect Pakistan at their best in this game, and that is what they got. Morgan is a genius – he was able to predict a Pakistan performance. Not quite so genius was his team’s performance, though.

In all seriousness, this is a magnificent fightback by Pakistan. They sent the challenge to England to successfully chase down the highest score in World Cups thanks to a total batting effort, with contributions right the way down. Then, they held their nerve, despite an onslaught from Joe Root and Jos Buttler. What a day for Pakistan.

2. Chasing high scores is a different ask in World Cups

England chased down 359 at Bristol and 341 at Trent Bridge in their very recent bilateral ODI series against Pakistan. The chase in Bristol was particularly remarkable, achieving it with more than five overs to spare in what was considered a warning shot to the world.

But, the pressure of World Cup matches is different. England have been engaged in many high-scoring ODIs in 2019, but to aim win a World Cup like that is a risk. The equivalent in football is “score as many goals as you want and we’ll score one more than you.” It’s happy days until you come up against sides that can defend in pressure situations. This was the despite the superb efforts of Joe Root and Jos Buttler, the first two centurions at CWC 2019. Buttler’s ramp shot in the 26th over off Wahab Riaz in particular was something to behold.

England v Pakistan: 5 key talking points. ENG vs PAK 5 key talking points from their CWC 2019 match. Cricket World Cup 2019. ENG vs PAK review
Image credit: Getty Images. England v Pakistan: 5 key talking points – Eoin Morgan’s men chased anything against Pakistan in the recent ODI series, but not now.

3. Chalk and cheese: wake up call for England

England’s bowling performance was excellent against South Africa. Jofra Archer was sharp, clinical and determined, and despite England’s fielding not quite perfect, no one could even care after Ben Stokes’ catch from another planet.

However, the old concerns regarding the bowling attack have come to the fore. Jofra Archer has tumbled back to earth. Jason Roy’s dropped catch with Mohammad Hafeez on 14 in the 25th over was reflective of England’s day. Looking up at the sun as if to blame it, with your shades on your head, is not wise, Jason.

Also read: Afghanistan v Sri Lanka Preview + Dream11 Prediction

England v Pakistan: 5 key talking points. ENG vs PAK 5 key talking points from their CWC 2019 match. Cricket World Cup 2019. ENG vs PAK review
England v Pakistan: 5 key talking points – Arguably the most crucial moment of the game.

Chris Woakes was outstanding in the field, just as Root and Buttler were with the bat – but the remaining contributions weren’t enough. Also, their inability to properly test Pakistan against the short ball was disappointing, dishing up a number of waist and chest-high freebies. Prepare a highway and you’re bound to have a car fly past you. Especially if yours isn’t quite perfect.

While this is a big wake up call for England, there is a silver lining. It’s just the second match, and there is time to bounce back.

4. Wahab Riaz repays the faith

The selection of Wahab Raiz in Pakistan’s squad was an eyebrow-raiser. After all, he has been out of the team, with Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Amir and Usman Khan Shinwari all ahead of him in the left-arm pace pecking order.

However, things happen when Riaz comes on to bowl. Drop the phone. Drop the conversation. Glue your eyes to the action, and strap yourself in for the ride. A 3/82 ride. In this crucial game for Pakistan, he was absolutely outstanding in the death overs, which included crucial wickets and a wonderful catch at third man. “You can’t keep Wahab Riaz out of the game”, said a concerned but excited Nasser Hussain. Right he is.

5. Mohammad Hafeez shows the high value of all-rounders at this World Cup

Mohammad Hafeez became the second all-rounder to win man of the match after Shakib Al Hasan did so for Bangladesh against South Africa.

Hafeez, known as “The Professor”, delivered a class worthy of any top University. His strike rate of 135.48 was as powerful as it was aesthetic to watch, with Hafeez employing a range of beautiful touch shots to throw more spanners in England’s works. Then, he followed it up with the crucial wicket of Eoin Morgan which had Pakistan well on top. A quality performance.

After four one-sided games to kick off the 2019 World Cup, it is clear now that no result is set in stone. This was a beauty, and we can all look forward to the next games. England have a buoyant Bangladesh. Pakistan have struggling Sri Lanka.

Bring it on.

Also, be sure check out my series of “five key talking points” from every CWC 2019 match! The latest:

South Africa v Bangladesh: #ProteaFire or #ProteaDire?

New Zealand v Sri Lanka: Goes from bad to worse for SL

Australia v Afghanistan: Plenty to like about Afghanistan + keep booing Smith and Warner!

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 7: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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CWC 2019 Match 7: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka Preview Dream11

CWC 2019 Match 7: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka Preview Dream11. AFG vs SL Preview Dream11 Prediction

Think this isn’t an important game in CWC 2019? Think again.

We could be turning the page on another great chapter in a great story. Afghanistan, playing in their second World Cup, have the chance to pick up their second victory after defeating Scotland in 2015. Their effort against Australia was as encouraging as it was exciting, taking the game to the Aussies for a good period of time. In an unpredictable game on Wednesday, one thing is for certain – Afghanistan will give it their all.

Sri Lanka are in turmoil. Their first up loss against New Zealand, in just a total of 45.3 overs, is an accurate representation of their fortunes in the last two-and-a-half years. 12 wins in 54 completed matches, coupled with a captain, in just his second ODI since the 2015 World Cup, carrying his bat through what can only be termed as batting carnage, is temptation for packing the bags and heading home for a rebuild. The batsmen, who fell like nine-pins, have to pick themselves up and move onto the next challenge. An exciting Afghanistan side awaits.

Also read – South Africa v Bangladesh: #ProteaFire or #ProteaDire?

Key to an Afghanistan win

Afghanistan were in early trouble vs Australia. After Pakistan and Sri Lanka were bundled out for 105 and 136 respectively in the previous two games, you may have been forgiven for thinking another blowout was coming. However, Afghanistan’s effort was superb, led by Rahmat Shah, Gulbadin Naib and half-centurion Najibullah Zadran. Rahmat, a superb player, will be the glue that holds the Afghan batting effort here. Will we see fireworks from the likes of Mohammad Shahzad, who missed out last game? Can Gulbadin Naib’s team get the better of a Sri Lankan attack looking really low on confidence? Their batting will play a key role as to whether they can win this.

But that’s not to say their bowling is not important. Australia took the attack to their spinners last time out, but Afghanistan are up against a Sri Lankan lineup that is unsure of its identity, searching desperately for that bit of confidence as they are for runs. Hamid Hassan became the first bowler to bowl two maidens to David Warner in an ODI. Rashid Khan and Mujeeb ur Rahman, while expensive, had their moments. The talent is there for Afghanistan, and if they can take early wickets, they can prey on a Sri Lankan middle order that inspires as much confidence as the average teenager in a social situation without a smartphone.

CWC 2019 Match 7: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka Preview Dream11. AFG vs SL Preview Dream11 Prediction. Match prediction. Dream11 for AFG vs SL. World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 7: The classy Rahmat Shah is a player to watch.

Key to a Sri Lanka win

A steady start in the powerplay is not enough for most sides in this World Cup. However, that is what Sri Lanka need from Dimuth Karunaratne and Lahiru Thirimanne. They can’t afford to be three down within 10 overs, which exposes a middle order that has shown to bleed wickets. Like Afghanistan, it is about batting well in stages for Sri Lanka, so the onus is also on Kusal Perera, Angelo Mathews and Kusal Mendis to set a platform for Thisara Perera to cause damage.

Also, Sri Lanka had only 136 to defend against New Zealand, but the bowling was all over the place. Mohammad Shahzad and Hazratullah Zazai can find the boundary at will, so the key for Sri Lanka will be to build early pressure and early wickets from the likes of Lasith Malinga and Suranga Lakmal. Then, it’s about chipping away at the Afghanistan middle order, which includes quality in the form of Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Najibullah Zadran and Mohammad Nabi.

Pitch and conditions

There is a chance of some showers in Cardiff on what is expected to be a cloudy, cool Tuesday. Whoever wins the toss might look to bowl, with the Cardiff pitch displaying quite a bit of greenness in recent games.

Possible Playing 11

Afghanistan had an impressive outing at times vs Australia. Stick with the same team?

Afghanistan: 1. Mohammad Shahzad (wk), 2. Hazratullah Zazai, 3. Rahmat Shah, 4. Hashmatullah Shahidi, 5. Najibullah Zadran, 6. Mohammad Nabi, 7. Gulbadin Naib (c), 8. Rashid Khan, 9. Hamid Hassan, 10. Dawlat Zadran, 11. Mujeeb ur Rahman

For Sri Lanka, do they make changes after a first-up shocker?

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

Dream11 Prediction

Also read: India vs South Africa Preview + Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 7: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka Preview Dream11. AFG vs SL Preview Dream11 Prediction. Match prediction. Dream11 for AFG vs SL. World Cup 2019

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 7: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka Preview Dream11. AFG vs SL Preview Dream11 Prediction. Match prediction. Dream11 for AFG vs SL. World Cup 2019

Also read: India vs South Africa Preview + Dream11 Prediction

Stats and Facts

  • Sri Lanka and Afghanistan met in the 2015 World Cup, with Sri Lanka chasing 233 with four wickets to spare.
  • Afghanistan thrashed Sri Lanka by 91 runs in their last meeting – in the 2018 Asia Cup in the UAE.
  • Sri Lanka have won just 12 of their past 54 completed ODIs.

Match Prediction

This has the makings for a tight game.

Sri Lanka are in desperate need of a lift in what is looking a dire situation for them. Afghanistan, though, have showed the quality to suggest they can compete in a number of matches this tournament. One of them is this match, which I think they will win to pick up their second-ever success in World Cups.

Also, be sure check out my series of “five key talking points” from every CWC 2019 match! The latest:

England v Pakistan: From embarrassment to ecstasy for Pakistan!

South Africa v Bangladesh: #ProteaFire or #ProteaDire?

New Zealand v Sri Lanka: Goes from bad to worse for SL

Australia v Afghanistan: Plenty to like about Afghanistan + keep booing Smith and Warner!

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – Bangladesh v South Africa: 5 key talking points

Charbel Coorey
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CWC 2019 – Bangladesh v South Africa: 5 key talking points

Bangladesh v South Africa: 5 key talking points. BAN vs SA 5 key talking points from their CWC 2019 match.

Bangladesh have kicked off their World Cup 2019 campaign in style, beating South Africa by 21 runs. This win has certainly been a statement from the Tigers, setting things up beautifully with the bat before an honest effort with the ball meant they had South Africa’s measure for most of the match.

While Bangladesh were good, South Africa were poor. There was reason to be optimistic after their first up effort against England, but their performance yesterday was insipid. They looked rattled against the Bangladesh batting onslaught. Faf du Plessis, usually calm and measured, looked flustered. Catches were dropped and misfields leaked runs. This performance is cause for disappointment for Proteas fans, with PoppingCreaseSA, who was at the match, delivering a passionate message after the game.

Bangladesh’s fine win has delivered some key talking points as the World Cup starts to heat up just that little bit.

Also read: A look into Pakistan’s embarrassing performance first up

1. Shock? What shock?

Fox Sports Australia’s social media coverage of late has been quite poor. Just about anything they post is met with comments of rebuttal and the request to review what the ‘work experience kid’ is posting.

The latest was their ‘report’ of Bangladesh’s win, labeling it as a ‘shock’. Sure, South Africa were favourites in this game, but writers PAID to report on the game should know a little better. Bangladesh are a good side, led by a fantastic captain in Mashrafe Mortaza, with five players boasting over 175 games of ODI experience.

Bangladesh are no longer minnows. No Bangladesh win is ever a ‘shock’ anymore. Come on guys, you can do better than this.

Bangladesh v South Africa: 5 key talking points. BAN vs SA 5 key talking points from their CWC 2019 match. Cricket World Cup 2019
Bangladesh v South Africa: 5 key talking points – Shock? What shock?

2. Shakib and Mushfiqur – two gems

Bangladesh have improved significantly as a team in the last decade. However, there have been plenty of times where they have looked good, only to throw it away. Yesterday’s batting performance was the near perfect one, with Soumya Sarkar delivering a rapid start which was built on beautifully by Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim, who put on a Bangladesh World Cup record 142-run stand. With Mahmudullah and Mossadek Hossain finishing things off nicely, teams better beware of Bangladesh.

Special mentions go to Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. These two, along with Tamim Iqbal, are lessons for a team like Sri Lanka to look at. Bangladesh introduced these players as teenagers back in 2005-2007, looking to build the team around these talents. Over a decade later, Shakib Al Hasan has become the quickest to achieve the 5,000 runs/250 wickets double in ODIs, whilst remaining a regular member in the top three all-rounders rankings since 2009. Mushfiqur Rahim, since the 2015 World Cup, has averaged 46 as a keeper-batsman, behind only Kumar Sangakkara and Shai Hope (min. 2,000 runs).

Shakib and Mushfiqur’s outstanding partnership yesterday was another chapter in a terrific little story they have written for the people of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh v South Africa: 5 key talking points: Another leaf in Shakib’s book.

3. Jonty Rhodes is right… it’s time to panic!

One of South Africa’s best ever fielders Jonty Rhodes sensed the worst as Shakib and Mushfiqur were scoring runs at will.

In a World Cup where knockout places are a premium, South Africa’s performance yesterday was nothing short of an abomination. Rhodes saw the body language of the South Africans, including Faf du Plessis, and saw a side getting picked apart. South Africa’s bowling was meant to be their strength, but their lack of calmness and tactical nous in this game was mighty costly. In the end, he nailed it with a direct hit.

After saying South Africa shouldn’t panic after the first game, they are in real trouble now with India on the horizon on Wednesday. Their batsmen need to take responsibility too, projecting some of the meekness on display in the field. Each of the top six crossed 20, only for Faf du Plessis to reach a score of 50+.

It shows their minds are not quite right when Faf du Plessis says “even Bangladesh” can beat what they’re producing.

Bangladesh v South Africa: 5 key talking points – Jonty with a direct hit!

4. Is Mustafizur Rahman discovering his form of old?

When Mustafizur Rahman burst onto the scene after the 2015 World Cup, Bangladesh believed they had unearthed what was surely to be their best ever seamer. He took five wickets in each of his first two ODIs and took South Africa apart on Test debut. The ‘Fizz’ then went onto the IPL, and produced memorable moments such as this yorker to Andre Russell. While his cutter was a key feature, it was his pace, hovering around 140km/h, that made him very difficult to handle.

However, shoulder surgery in 2016 threw a spanner in the works. He wasn’t the same on his return, instead hovering around 125km/h and undercutting the ball on release with his shoulder in mind. This meant he couldn’t swing the ball, and his slower ball was not as effective as the change in pace wasn’t as profound.

On the eve of the World Cup, though, Mashrafe Mortaza was pleased to see Mustafizur Rahman get his pace back up. Yesterday, he was consistently bowling around the 140km/h mark, and consistently threatened a lot more than the Proteas’ bowlers did. His seam position out of the hand looked a lot better, too. While he was a little expensive, his three wickets certainly helped. There is no doubt that a fit ‘Fizz’ gives Bangladesh another dimension.

5. Where the hell are the yorkers?

Team management, captains and death bowlers complicate things a little too much these days. ‘Phenomenons’ such as knuckle balls, slower ball bouncers, cutters and hard lengths have replaced the yorkers. Teams are too obsessed with too much variety in the death overs, where full, straight yorkers are the way to go. After all, they are very difficult to hit for boundaries.

Yesterday, Bangladesh struck 54 off their final four overs, which proved a key period in the game. South Africa’s bowling in this period was putrid, offering fruit with cream on top to the Bangladeshi batsmen, who gleefully accepted. If teams are to cope in the death overs at this World Cup, then ensuring batsmen can’t get under the ball helps. If bowlers can’t execute, then clear their minds and have them work on executing yorkers in training.

With seemingly an endless array of options, bowlers are confused. It’s time to strip it back and keep it simple.

So, a magnificent win for Bangladesh, who have now won three of their past four ICC World Cup openers. South Africa are now 0-2, and face one of the tournament favourites India, who are itching to get their tournament underway.

Will the return of Dale Steyn be enough to turn South Africa’s fortunes around? We shall see.

Enjoyed this article? View more of the recent “key talking points” articles from this World Cup!

Pakistan vs West Indies: Embarrassing Pakistan performance

New Zealand v Sri Lanka: Goes from bad to worse for SL

Australia v Afghanistan: Plenty to like about Afghanistan + keep booing Smith and Warner!

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 Match 6: England v Pakistan Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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CWC 2019 Match 6: England v Pakistan Preview Dream11

CWC 2019 Match 6: England v Pakistan Preview Dream11. ENG vs PAK Preview Dream11 Prediction

Bangladesh’s 21-run win over South Africa is comfortably the closest match of the 2019 World Cup so far. We can all hold hope that even closer matches can follow. However, looking at the Tuesday fixture – England and Pakistan – we face, on paper and form, one of the big mismatches.

This is not to disrespect Pakistan. Everyone knows that on their day, they can beat anyone. After all, they are the current holders of the Champions Trophy. However, they have now lost 11 straight completed ODIs, their worst run ever, and are coming off one of the most pathetic, disgraceful batting displays you’ll see. The way they played the short ball against West Indies was amateurish, and must put on an improved showing to avoid falling too far behind the pack.

However, they are coming up against World Cup favourites England. Not a big deal, right? Eoin Morgan’s men will play their fifth match against Pakistan in less than a month, winning the previous four. They conceded big totals in the recent series, but the way Pakistan played the short ball last Friday surely has the likes of Jofra Archer on notice. It was a polished performance by England first up against South Africa, and they will be out to be the first team to win two games at the tournament.

Also read: A look into Pakistan’s embarrassing performance first up

Key to an England win

If the Pakistani batsmen’s back feet aren’t bruised due to pressure, then England haven’t done their job. There is always the temptation to start the first few overs on the full side to search for swing, but England might want to test the centre of the pitch nice and early. There was something distinctly different about Jofra Archer in the World Cup opener last Thursday, and surely he and England smell blood in the water after an insipid Pakistan batting performance on this very ground just 72 hours previous. As Michael Holding said on commentary, even the spinners might look to bowl short.

Also, what a shock it was to see Jonny Bairstow fall for a golden duck in the opening game. Indeed, England’s recovery – where four batsmen scored half centuries – is testament to their batting depth. Here, on a ground where England have scores of 444 and 481 in ODIs, a fast start might just be too much for Pakistan to handle. Sarfaraz Ahmed’s men struggled to keep the Windies’ top order quiet, so a huge opportunity awaits for a fast powerplay that has Pakistan gasping for air.

CWC 2019 Match 6: England v Pakistan Preview Dream11. ENG vs PAK Preview Dream11 Prediction. Match Prediction. Dream11 for ENG vs PAK. World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 6: England were dominant against South Africa.

Key to a Pakistan win

What amazing scenes this would be. It is such a Pakistan thing to see an abject performance followed by an amazing one, but holding hope of it is far from enough. They need to stand up (even literally against the short ball) and be counted. The batsmen, led by their top order, need to display sharp footwork and skills to overcome England’s pace and set a platform. The middle overs can see them look to play England’s spinners with freedom.

Indeed, the first ten overs with bat or ball can dictate the match for Pakistan. Can their bowlers, often struggling for penetration, find the movement and bounce they crave to get early wickets? Mohammad Amir looked in good touch against West Indies, but no one else did. If that’s the case against England, then Pakistan will be conceding a big score (unless they bat first and score 100, of course). There is no room for passengers and no doubt coach Mickey Arthur will be reminding his team of that.

CWC 2019 Match 6: England v Pakistan Preview Dream11. ENG vs PAK Preview Dream11 Prediction. Match Prediction. Dream11 for ENG vs PAK. World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 6: These two need to deliver for Pakistan.

Pitch and conditions

Luckily, this game will be played on Monday, not Sunday. There was plenty of rain on Sunday, which will clear for the game. This is a ground where England have twice broken the world record for highest ODI score. On May 17, Pakistan scored 340, with England chasing it down with three wickets and balls to spare. It promises to be good for batting.

Possible Playing 11

For England, why change from the game against South Africa?

England: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Jonny Bairstow, 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. Liam Plunkett

For Pakistan, it is not as simple. Asif Ali’s exclusion certainly wasn’t the reason for Pakistan’s abject batting effort in their first game, but one gets the feeling he should play to give Pakistan power in the middle order. Then, it could be a shootout between Shoaib Malik and Imad Wasim for the final spot.

Pakistan: 1. Imam-ul-Haq, 2. Fakhar Zaman, 3. Babar Azam, 4. Mohammad Hafeez, 5. Shoaib Malik, 6. Sarfaraz Ahmed (c & wk), 7. Asif Ali, 8. Shadab Khan, 9. Hasan Ali, 10. Mohammad Amir, 11. Wahab Riaz

Dream11 Prediction

Option 1:

CWC 2019 Match 6: England v Pakistan Preview Dream11. ENG vs PAK Preview Dream11 Prediction. Match Prediction. Dream11 for ENG vs PAK. World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 6: England v Pakistan Preview Dream11

Option 2:

CWC 2019 Match 6: England v Pakistan Preview Dream11. ENG vs PAK Preview Dream11 Prediction. Match Prediction. Dream11 for ENG vs PAK. World Cup 2019
CWC 2019 Match 6: England v Pakistan Preview Dream11

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 7, England 3, Pakistan 3, NR 1.
  • This is the first World Cup meeting between England and Pakistan since 2003.
  • Jason Roy needs eight runs to reach 3,000 in ODIs.
  • Pakistan have lost 11 ODIs in a row, their worst run ever.
  • England recently beat Pakistan 4-0 in an ODI series.

Match Prediction

The key for Pakistan would be to put an improved showing.

However, England should win. Form and confidence is far and away ahead of Pakistan’s right now.

Enjoyed this article? View more of the recent “key talking points” articles from this World Cup!

Pakistan vs West Indies: Embarrassing Pakistan performance

New Zealand v Sri Lanka: Goes from bad to worse for SL

Australia v Afghanistan: Plenty to like about Afghanistan + keep booing Smith and Warner!

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – Australia v Afghanistan: 5 key talking points

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

Australia v Afghanistan: 5 key talking points. AUS vs AFG CWC 2019 5 key talking points

Ahead of Bangladesh’s game against South Africa, Afghanistan became the first Asian team to cross 200 at this World Cup. This was at the third attempt, after more experienced Pakistan and Sri Lanka crumbled in what were nothing short of horrific batting displays.

Australia won comfortably in the end, but Afghanistan had plenty to be positive about. Below are five key talking points from the match, also looking forward to these two teams’ next matches.

1. Afghanistan will soon win their second World Cup match

Afghanistan participated in their first World Cup in 2015, another chapter in what is an incredible story. Just over a decade ago, they beat Jersey in the Final of the World Cricket League Division Five tournament. Since then, they have gone from strength-to-strength, and yesterday’s batting effort against a good attack was another fine little episode in a show better than anything on Netflix (for the cricket fans, at least).

They won their first ever World Cup match in 2015, sparking joyous scenes. After yesterday’s performance, you can count on Afghanistan winning again. Soon. After losing two very early wickets, Afghanistan could have feared the worst. However, the efforts of Rahmat Shah, Gulbadin Naib and Najibullah Zadran were outstanding, and should give the team and their fans plenty of hope that they can compete throughout the campaign.

Australia v Afghanistan: 5 key talking points. AUS vs AFG CWC 2019 5 key talking points. Cricket World Cup 2019
Image: Yahoo Cricket. Australia v Afghanistan: 5 key talking points – Afghanistan fought well

2. Rahmat Shah is a fine player

Before we talk more about Australia, Rahmat Shah is a player that deserves some focus. He didn’t top score for Afghanistan yesterday, and also fell at a crucial time, but how he weathered the early storm and got Afghanistan into the game was terrific.

Technically, he is superb. His strokeplay off his pads is a sight to behold, so too his offside play, waiting for the ball to get to him. The big hitting of Najibullah Zadran, Gulbadin Naib and Rashid Khan was outstanding, but Rahmat is truly Afghanistan’s best batsman. He averages 36.50 in 62 ODIs, and you get the feeling that will continue to rise. If he is in the runs this tournament, teams better watch out for Afghanistan.

3. Rival fans, please continue booing David Warner and Steve Smith

There is no doubt that what Steve Smith and David Warner coordinated in Cape Town last year was a disgrace. They let the team and fans down, taking for granted what it means to play for Australia. I was seething.

However, they have served their punishments. They are back, and they look very hungry. The boos from fans, predominantly England’s, will only serve to spur Smith and Warner on further. Warner’s 89* is priceless time at the crease. Smith scored 89*, 91*, 76 and 116 in his four lead-up games to the World Cup. There is no doubt Australia will be looking to continue their form, having now won nine straight ODIs. These two will be key to that, and will be keen to spoil the mood of rival fans.

Australia v Afghanistan: 5 key talking points. AUS vs AFG CWC 2019 5 key talking points. Cricket World Cup 2019
Australia v Afghanistan: 5 key talking points – Keep booing Warner and Smith!

4. In-form Aaron Finch, happy Australia

One of the biggest concerns in the first few months of 2019 was the form of Aaron Finch. Would he be the one to miss out when Smith and Warner come back? Is it right changing a captain just before a World Cup? If yes, who would captain the side?

Since his duck against India in Hyderabad, Finch has scored 674 runs in 10 innings at an average of 74.89 and strike rate of 87.41. His form has created a headache as to who partners him at the top, but there is no doubt that a firing Finch adds another dimension to Australia’s quest for a sixth World Cup crown. He enabled Warner to get settled in this game against Afghanistan, which helped set a fine platform. If Australia set a strong platform in more games than not, they will be mighty tough to beat.

5. Australia have good bowling depth

When wickets were the need of the hour as Afghanistan were 160/5, Marcus Stoinis delivered. His two wickets just steadied Australia as Afghanistan were taking the attack. After Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, two bowlers who can still go another level, started well, Australia continued to pick up wickets at regular intervals.

No disrespect to Afghanistan, but this was expected. The test for the likes of Adam Zampa will be to bowl economically and take wickets against the more experienced teams. He bowled a few too many loose balls. Aaron Finch has bench strength to turn to (i.e. Lyon, Behrendhorff), as well as the two all-rounders (Maxwell, Stoinis) who can chip in with vital overs.

So, a win for Australia, as expected. For Afghanistan, there was plenty to be encouraged about. They play struggling Sri Lanka on Tuesday, whereas Australia play a potential blockbuster against West Indies on Thursday.

Thanks for reading!

CWC 2019 – New Zealand v Sri Lanka: 5 key talking points

Charbel Coorey
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0
CWC 2019 – New Zealand v Sri Lanka: 5 key talking points

New Zealand v Sri Lanka: 5 key talking points. NZ vs SL CWC 2019 Match 4: 5 key talking points

Shifting to a 10-team World Cup was supposed to eliminate the one-sided matches. It was supposed to be a platform for more competitive matches to be played. The first game on Saturday was like men vs boys, where the men simply weren’t letting up.

This was the third one-sided match in a row. The worst of the lot, perhaps. Players from the Associate nations have been quick to point out the lack of competitiveness; much quicker than Sri Lanka have done anything of note to solve their almost irreparable ODI woes.

New Zealand v Sri Lanka: 5 key talking points – Time for Sri Lanka to reassess.

New Zealand, a team to watch out for in the 2019 World Cup, had a breeze. It was a lovely day out; the kind you’d have with your family on a nice lunch at a park or something. Unloading the car boot probably took more effort than this game, with New Zealand’s net run rate of 5.724 incredibly second behind West Indies. But, a statement has been made.

Like the Pakistan v West Indies game, one-sided matches still provide talking points. Here are five.

1. Can Sri Lanka avoid finishing last?

As you may have noticed, each team has a little feature video before the tournament. Sri Lanka’s theme was that no one was expecting them to win the tournament and that they could play with no pressure.

Unfortunately, expectations are arguably at an all-time low regarding World Cups. Finalists in 2007 and 2011, Sri Lanka have experienced a downturn of epic proportions since the retirement of legends such as Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara. Their next game, against Afghanistan, is a big one for Sri Lanka. This is not only to give us more of an idea of who can avoid bottom place, but another loss will drive morale even lower. Given Afghanistan’s effort against Australia, coupled with Sri Lanka’s awful form since 2017 in particular, it is a real possibility that Sri Lanka will finish bottom.

2. Sri Lankan batting embarrassment

Sri Lanka’s captain, Dimuth Karunaratne, might have stayed up last night wondering why he agreed to the captaincy role. In just his second ODI since the 2015 World Cup, the opener became the second batsman in World Cup history to carry his bat right through an innings. A scratchy, fighting 52 is what it took to etch his name in the record books. This is a good record to have for any player, but even so, there was surely to be a sour taste in the mouth as the remaining Sri Lankan batsmen fell like nine-pins.

New Zealand v Sri Lanka: 5 key talking points – Happy days? Not quite.

3. What on earth is with these stumps?

The bowlers are having a good time so far in this tournament. However, that doesn’t mean they will like the batsmen to have any favours.

2019 has seen some incredible moments where the ball has hit the stumps solidly, only for the bails to not fall off. It happened on a few occasions in IPL 2019, and has happened a few times already at the World Cup. The latest was in the sixth over of Sri Lanka’s innings, where Dimuth Karunaratne chopped a Trent Boult delivery onto the stumps, only for the bails to remain intact. A review should be made as to whether the groove is too deep. This isn’t right.

4. Tim Southee or Matt Henry?

Had Tim Southee been fit, Matt Henry might have very well made away after going for 107 in nine overs in the Warm-up against West Indies. However, he was the chief destroyer against Sri Lanka, taking advantage of the bowling-friendly conditions as well as some abject batting.

Tougher opposition await, but should New Zealand persist with Henry or bring Southee back when fit? A man of the match performance means Henry probably retains his spot even with Southee is fit, but he’ll have to hold onto it tightly as a bad performance or two could mean he makes way.

5. Colin Munro or Henry Nicholls?

As you can tell, New Zealand’s biggest worry is whether they should continue with two of their good performers yesterday.

The question arises as Colin Munro has largely underwhelmed in ODIs so far. An average of 26 in 52 matches is no record for an ODI opener, but his quickfire 58* might have just done his confidence the world of good. Of course, the target was just 137, the pitch had got better for batting and Sri Lanka looked soulless. Tougher tests await, which may mean the reintroduction of Henry Nicholls when fit to provide reliability and stability. With Martin Guptill looking in fine form, Nicholls might just be the foil New Zealand need at the top.

This article took longer to piece together than the action at Cardiff yesterday. Sri Lanka play their next game against Afghanistan – a game in which the Afghans can surely fancy themselves in. For New Zealand, they play Bangladesh, whom they beat well at home, but have lost twice to in the UK in the past three years.

Here’s hoping to more competitive matches.

Thanks for reading!

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