Afghanistan vs Ireland 1st T20I Preview Dream11. AFG vs IRE 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction
One of international cricket’s fledgling rivalries kicks off again, with T20Is the start of a tour that also includes the opportunity for both these sides to pick up their first ever Test victory.
Afghanistan return to the scene of their magnificent 3-0 series win over Bangladesh last year. Since then, they have earned automatic qualification to next year’s World T20, and can now continue building on their excellent promise in this format. They have won seven T20Is in a row against Ireland, including a comfortable 2-0 win away from home last year, which makes them strong favourites in Dehradun. Will they prove to be too good?
Ireland just ended their own losing streak, beating the Netherlands last week in a thrilling T20I. Andy Balbirnie, who was man of the match, has challenged the men in green to transfer that effort to this series. However, a huge test awaits Ireland against an Afghanistan side growing more and more with many of their players involved in T20 leagues. Can they cause a first up upset?
Key to an Afghanistan win
Afghanistan’s spinners were magnificent in their victories over Bangladesh and Ireland last year. Their quick arm actions and variations is something they can look to take advantage in this one, with the Irish struggling badly against spin in recent times, including their home series against India. Rashid Khan and Mujeeb ur Rahman are now established T20 bowlers, and you know what you will get with the experienced and wily Mohammad Nabi. Will these three deliver 12 damaging overs that leave Ireland struggling for momentum? What impact will Afghanistan’s seamers have? A huge opportunity awaits for skipper Asghar Afghan to put the squeeze on Ireland.
Also, will it be a strong night for Afghanistan’s batsmen? Hazratullah Zazai was outstanding in the T20Is against Ireland last year, and will be key in delivering a strong start for his side with Mohammad Shahzad ruled out of the series. Usman Ghani is another player who has shown promise in the Afghanistan shirt, and if the top order can set up a platform for the likes of Shafiqullah, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan, Afghanistan have what it takes to bat Ireland out of the match.
Image credit: AFP. Afghanistan vs Ireland 1st T20I Preview Dream11 – Rashid Khan was superb against Bangladesh in Dehadrun last year.
Key to an Ireland win
It is easier said than done, but how Ireland adjust to the conditions will be crucial. Their battle against Afghanistan’s spinners will arguably decide which way the game goes, so a proactive, confident approach with good use of the feet is the order of the day. Andy Balbirnie, superb in Oman, will be key at the top, along with Paul Stirling and Kevin O’Brien in giving Ireland a foothold in the game. Can the likes of Simi Singh and Stuart Poynter help keep Ireland afloat in those all-important middle overs?
Also, can Ireland effectively target Afghanistan’s batting, which is their weaker suit? A big ask awaits Ireland’s spinners to compete with Afghanistan’s, which makes the powerplay overs crucial for Ireland to get into the game. The likes of Stuart Thompson and George Dockrell will be key against Afghanistan’s top order, and if Ireland can get powerplay wickets, they can look to build further pressure in the middle overs.
Image source: Twitter. Afghanistan vs Ireland 1st T20I Preview Dream11 – Stuart Poynter hit a six off the final ball to beat Netherlands last week.
Possible Playing 11
Mohammad Shahzad is out for Afghanistan, which will likely see Usman Ghani and Hazratullah Zazai open the batting.
For Ireland, Paul Stirling will continue to lead the side with Gary Wilson still looking to overcome a vision problem.
Ireland: 1. Paul Stirling (c), 2. James Shannon, 3. Andy Balbirnie, 4. Kevin O’Brien, 5. Simi Singh, 6. Stuart Thompson 7. Stuart Poynter (wk), 8. George Dockrell, 9. Harry Tector, 10. Andy McBrine, 11. Peter Chase/Boyd Rankin
Dream11 Prediction
With Dream11 now changing its deadline to official match time, the following team can be edited upon official team announcements.
Afghanistan vs Ireland 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction
Stats and Facts
Afghanistan have won their last seven T20Is against Ireland. The last time Ireland beat Afghanistan in a T20I was back in 2013.
Only three players remain from that XI for Ireland: Paul Stirling, Kevin O’Brien and George Dockrell.
Head-to-head: Played 12 Afghanistan 9 Ireland 3.
Match Prediction
It really is great to see both these sides in action.
However, in conditions which suit Afghanistan, I expect them to be too strong in the first T20I.
Afghanistan to take a 1-0 series lead.
Thanks for reading!
Afghanistan vs Ireland 1st T20I Preview Dream11. AFG vs IRE 1st T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction
A battle between two World Cup participants was supposed to be far more competitive than that. Sure, Bangladesh had never won an ODI in New Zealand before, and were missing star man Shakib Al Hasan, but that was not good enough for a side supposedly on the rise. With Mashrafe Mortaza now a Member of Bangladesh Parliament, the cricketers would be smart not to mess with him. However, Mashrafe was a frustrated man as a result of heavy defeat after heavy defeat, which will likely consign us to further interesting comments from some corners of the Bangladesh fan base.
Scrolling through Facebook and I am expecting to see something like this…
"India smashed New Zealand which fired New Zealand up for our series.
New Zealand vs Bangladesh ODI Series Player Ratings: The select few…
For New Zealand, it was like a lovely mid-February holiday. That this was their last ODI series before the World Cup is a slight concern, given they were disappointing against India and so dominant here, but they were ruthless as they had to be after a 4-1 defeat. They were rarely threatened, and showed they have the ingredients to make a strong push for a Semi Final place at this year’s World Cup.
In this piece, each player will be rated out of ten for the series. As always, it is a light hearted piece. Bangladesh, watch out.
New Zealand
Martin Guptill: 3 matches, 264 runs, average: 132.00
A welcome change from Lasith Malinga, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami. He took full advantage of Bangladesh’s inability to produce great deliveries, getting the crowd more involved than Bangladesh’s fielders, especially in Christchurch. Dominant. 10
New Zealand vs Bangladesh ODI Series Player Ratings: Martin Guptill eyeing out that WC game against Bangladesh…
Henry Nicholls: 3 matches, 131 runs, average: 43.66
Steady, without being spectacular. Will open for New Zealand in the World Cup thanks to Colin Munro’s inept performances in this format. Stronger teams will look to build plenty of pressure on him early, which makes good strike rotation crucial for New Zealand and Nicholls. 7
Colin Munro: 1 match, 8 runs, average: 8.00
A misfiring Bangladesh attack in a dead-rubber was not enough for Munro to fire. As the case against India, Munro and ODIs remains a tragic love story. 1
New Zealand vs Bangladesh ODI Series Player Ratings: The love story continues…
Kane Williamson: 2 matches, 76 runs, average: 76.00
Kane Williamson arguably began resting when this series did. His second ODI 65* was arguably the most cruisy of his career, having an on-field net session as New Zealand cantered to a series win. Stressed against India, chill against Bangladesh. Wasn’t missed in the third ODI as he took a rest. Could he have been doing more in his sleep than he had to do in this series? 7
New Zealand vs Bangladesh ODI Series Player Ratings: Applies best to Kane Williamson.
Ross Taylor: 3 matches, 135 runs, average: 135.00
Genuinely feared he wouldn’t bat in the first two ODIs, but ended up getting a run in all three matches. Went past Stephen Fleming to become New Zealand’s all-time leading run-scorer in ODIs. 7
A spectator in the first two ODIs. New Zealand didn’t even need to ‘rest’ a few players, simply because they were watching the action from the change rooms. Latham was one, not needed to bat until the third ODI. Some strong blows with the bat and picked up a win as captain. 6
Neesham is a star on Twitter, and Bangladesh did everything they could to give Neesham the chance to tweet during games. “Watching Bangladesh’s top order crumble” would have been a common tweet. His role was limited with both bat and ball, as he was more of a spectator. Threatened to go really big in the third ODI, and remains a key finisher for New Zealand. 5
Colin de Grandhomme: 3 matches, 37 runs, average: N/A. 2 wickets, average: 31.00, econ. 4.42
Will likely get into New Zealand’s first XI for the World Cup. Like Latham and Neesham, he wasn’t needed too much. 5
In a two-way fight with Todd Astle for the spinner role in the World Cup. Did Santner do enough to lock down his place? Perhaps not, especially considering he was unable to take a wicket with Bangladesh were there for the taking in the third ODI. However, he was steady, and is still easing back after a serious knee injury. 5
Matt Henry:2 matches, 3 wickets, average: 26.00, econ. 4.10
Very solid series, and perhaps unlucky to be the one chosen to sit out the third ODI for Tim Southee. Will be a key part of New Zealand’s World Cup squad. Too good for Bangladesh’s top order. 7
New Zealand’s go-to man in the death overs? Hustled Bangladesh with his pace, and was never really challenged by Bangladesh, despite their decent middle order efforts. 7
Shikhar Dhawan was very happy to see the back of Trent Boult after the India ODI series. So are Bangladesh. Boult is looking very good (and I’m not talking about his looks). Sending down “Thunder-Boults”, with swing. 8
Tim Southee: 1 match, 6 wickets, average: 10.83, econ. 6.96
Crashed the party big time. Caused mayhem. For a second, Oman’s 24 against Scotland on 19th February was under threat. Southee hit the 140 km/h mark and had the ball swinging. He is forcing selectors to keep him in the frame, even though his ODI form in recent times has resembled a bit of a dog’s breakfast. A nine for his third ODI effort. 9
February 20, 2015: Tim Southee takes 7 to destroy England. February 20, 2019: Tim Southee takes 6 to destroy Bangladesh.#NZvBAN#NZvsBAN#Cricket
In-and-out of the side more than Dinesh Karthik is for India. Probably has done enough to be in New Zealand’s World Cup squad. Steady. 6
Bangladesh
Tamim Iqbal: 3 matches, 10 runs, average: 3.33
Colin Munro nearly outscored Tamim’s entire series output in one innings. That says it all, really. An awful series from a key player who was coming off a magnificent 141* in the BPL Final. Unable to adjust to conditions, and the series was summed up with a shot in the third ODI that you’ll block your children’s eyes if they want to watch it. 1
Liton Das: 3 matches, 3 runs, average: 1.00
Credit to Liton Das. He was the most consistent player of the series. Really. Scores of 1, 1 and 1 is unbelievable consistency. In all seriousness, he is the new Mohammad Ashraful. Talent galore, quality strokeplay, very little output. 1
New Zealand vs Bangladesh ODI Series Player Ratings: Consistency is key.
Soumya Sarkar: 3 matches, 52 runs, average: 17.33
There is playing with fire. And then there is Bangladesh believing they can enter the World Cup confident with Soumya Sarkar at three. Two starts in the series, and looked OK, but he is always suspect to the moving ball. Where do Bangladesh fit him? 3
New Zealand vs Bangladesh ODI Series Player Ratings: Tough times for Soumya Sarkar.
Copped blows to the ribs and finger. Was reportedly keen to leave with Mashrafe Mortaza to the airport, but was reminded there is a Test series to come. Bangladesh needed more from Mushi, but wasn’t to be. Courageous decision to play the third ODI. 2
Mohammad Mithun: 2 matches, 119 runs, average: 59.50
Given how Mithun carried the Bangladesh batting, it was a surprise he didn’t injure his back. His hamstring injury was such a huge blow to he and Bangladesh, but his performance was mighty encouraging amid the carnage. With two fifties, he has surely sealed his ticket to England. 8
New Zealand vs Bangladesh ODI Series Player Ratings: Mithun – head and shoulders above his experienced teammates.
The third of Bangladesh’s key batting trio. The third flop. Highlight was the wicket of Kane Williamson in the first ODI with an ordinary short ball. 2
The coming of age for Sabbir? One of Bangladesh’s most frustrating prospects, both on and off the field, came good in this series. Finished with a superb century amid the darkness. Can he push on from this? He has the talent to do so, but then again, so do many Bangladesh players. 8
Bangladesh’s third highest run-scorer. Batted well, did Saifuddin, but is in the side mainly for his bowling. Generated some nice shape in the third ODI, but mostly lacked penetration in the series. Disappointing bowling numbers. 6
Decent fight with the bat, unlike, yes you guessed it, his top order teammates. However, Mehidy needs to develop ways to be more effective with the ball overseas. The difference between his home and away averages is quite scary. 4
Rejoiced Colin Munro was picked to open, and then took his wicket. All in all, a very frustrating series for the skipper, who tried to lift his ailing troops. Will the World Cup be his last hurrah? 3
More expensive than a gold digger in the final ODI, going for 93 in his 10! For a moment, you wondered if Bangladesh would outscore Mustafizur. Series marked by overuse of the slower ball and no swing due to poor release. However, he put in a fine second ODI effort. 5
West Indies vs England 1st ODI Preview Dream11. WI vs ENG 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
After a Test series that had many fans rejoicing at West Indies’ success, and mourning the death of young ‘Total Cricket’, attention turns to the first of five ODIs in a World Cup year.
West Indies have key personnel back in their quest to find form and confidence in the lead up to the big tournament. Jason Holder and Chris Gayle return to the Windies’ squad for their tough assignment against the world number one ODI side. Like the Tests, the Windies start as outsiders with the bookmakers, but that won’t mean anything to inspirational leader Jason Holder. Will West Indies cause England further stress on this tour?
During the Tests, you couldn’t help but think England’s main focus is white-ball cricket. Their batting, especially in the first two Tests, highlighted a side built on a very big diet of limited overs cricket, playing a number of loose shots to deliveries that deserved respect. Preparation for the World Cup, now just 100 days away, ramps up, with England to focus exclusively on honing their ODI skills even further. Will they prove too good in the first ODI?
Key to a West Indies win
Success for the Windies in ODI Cricket has been rare in recent years. They have struggled with key players missing for various reasons, but now will be buoyed by the return of Gayle at the top order. Even at 39, he can be very damaging, and will be key in pushing England on the back foot and enabling the Windies to get a foothold in the game. In the talented Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer, who had superb moments in the recent series in India (with Shai Hope absolutely outstanding in Bangladesh), the Windies have batsmen that can further build the pressure on England, setting a platform for the likes of Jason Holder and Carlos Brathwaite, in the absence of Rovman Powell, to launch at the death.
Also, can the Windies bowlers restrict a dangerous England lineup? England are indeed capable of scoring huge totals, but they are also capable of losing quick wickets at the top. The pace of Oshane Thomas at the top is something the Windies will be banking on, with Jason Holder and the spinners to follow. Early wickets forces an England rebuild which gives the Windies a chance in the game. As required with the bat, can the Windies start well with the ball and maintain their nerve at all stages of the innings?
Image credit: Getty Images. West Indies vs England 1st ODI Preview Dream11 – Can Jason Holder deliver in the ODIs, too?
Key to an England win
England’s batting lineup has been central to their rise in ODI Cricket. On the back of 371/7 in their List A game against University of West Indies’ Vice-Chancellor’s XI, they have reminded us of their capability of scoring massive totals. Of course, the Windies will provide a greater a challenge, as the Tests showed, so how England deal with the mix of pace and spin will be key. Jason Roy and Joe Root scored centuries, and will be key again, with Roy capable of providing England with a rapid start and Root keeping the scoreboard ticking. Can England’s strong top six fire to make life difficult for the Windies’ bowlers? Indeed, it is a thrilling top six, with Jonny Bairstow, Eoin Morgan, Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler all raring to go in a big year.
Also, the strong return of Chris Woakes, in conjunction with Mark Wood’s pace can have England believing they have key X-Factors with the ball. The Windies’ openers will be keen for a fast start, and England will need to halt their progress early to put the pressure on Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer, in particular. With England possessing two capable spinners in Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid for the middle overs, they can put the squeeze on a middle order trying to do repair work, limiting what the Windies can do in the death overs.
Image credit: Getty Images. West Indies vs England 1st ODI Preview Dream11 – Joe Root has been superb in ODIs over the last few years.
Possible Playing 11
West Indies will have a few changes from their last ODI assignment, which was a 2-1 defeat in Bangladesh. There, they relied plenty on Shai Hope, who could open again here, or bat three. The Windies will need a strong performance from others around him to challenge England. Keemo Paul, Evin Lewis and Rovman Powell are out with injury. John Campbell, Carlos Brathwaite and Sheldon Cottrell have come into the squad.
West Indies: 1. Chris Gayle, 2. John Campbell, 3. Shai Hope (wk), 4. Darren Bravo, 5. Shimron Hetmyer, 6. Carlos Brathwaite, 7. Jason Holder (c), 8. Ashley Nurse, 9. Kemar Roach, 10. Fabian Allen, 11. Oshane Thomas
England will likely leave out Alex Hales as Jos Buttler, arguably the best white-ball keeper batsman in the world, comes in after missing the warm up match. This is despite Hales picking up the man of the match award in England’s last ODI at Bridgetown.
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. Liam Plunkett, 10. Adil Rashid, 11. Mark Wood
Pitch and Conditions
The team batting first has won the last three ODIs at Kensington Oval. The same trend could continue with the pitch possibly to wear out a little as the game goes on. Conditions are expected to be overcast.
Dream11 Prediction
Option 1:
West Indies vs England 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
West Indies vs England 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
Stats and Facts
England have won their last nine completed ODIs vs West Indies.
West Indies have not won a single ODI series since beating Bangladesh 3-0 in August 2014. England have won their last nine bilateral ODI series (two matches or more).
England won their last ODI at Bridgetown vs West Indies by 186 runs.
Match Prediction
It is incredible to think that four years ago, Test Cricket was by far England’s favourite format.
Whether we can say preference of ODI Cricket is now the case is debatable, but there is little doubt they will feel at home. They are looking a strong ODI unit, and will take a 1-0 lead in the series.
Thanks for reading!
West Indies vs England 1st ODI Preview Dream11. WI vs ENG 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
New Zealand vs Bangladesh 3rd ODI Preview Dream11. NZ vs BAN 3rd ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
First ODI. Predictable. Second ODI. Predictable. In a series where competitive action is needed to capture attention, it has sadly not delivered. Two such easy routine victories highlights the gulf in class between the sides in these conditions.
So, what do we make of New Zealand? They have barely raised a sweat in sealing a series win, but can we say they are better than what they were against India? They are still uncertain of their best opening combination, as a result of both Bangladesh’s lack of penetration and Henry Nicholls’ low score in Christchurch, as well as who the main spinner will be. Colin Munro returns to the squad with Kane Williamson rested, and has a serious opportunity to tell the selectors to not forget about him. Will New Zealand cruise to another victory to whitewash the series?
Bangladesh have been poor. In almost a carbon copy of the first ODI, the Tigers struggled for breath let alone make a loud roar, crawling their way to 226 in Christchurch after making 232 in Napier. Top order wickets has put them on the back foot right away, leaving the middle and late order with too much to do in terms of both preserving wickets and increasing the scoring rate. With the bowlers also struggling, taking a total of four wickets in two games, all signs are pointing to a 3-0 series defeat. However, Bangladesh are capable of causing a surprise, as they have shown in the past. Can they salvage some pride in Dunedin?
Key to a New Zealand win
The template for victory has been set in the opening two games. Even if they bat first in the third ODI, New Zealand will believe they can still thrive thanks to their total dominance over Bangladesh in all facets of the game. Trent Boult and Matt Henry have been excellent at the top, leaving with Bangladesh with too much to do, setting a strong platform for the likes of Lockie Ferguson to come in and continue applying the pressure. Personnel might change for New Zealand given this is a dead rubber, but the requirement remains the same – three or four wickets in the first 15, including Tamim Iqbal and Mahmudullah.
Also, will it be another day where New Zealand’s middle order doesn’t get a look in? Colin Munro will get another chance after an underwhelming series vs India, and there is no opportunity better than a misfiring Bangladesh attack in a dead rubber. New Zealand’s opening combination is up for question in this one, but if the top four, especially Munro and Martin Guptill, fire at the top, it could be a long old day for Bangladesh. If Guptill is as devastating as he was in Christchurch, its lights out.
Image Credit: Getty Images. New Zealand vs Bangladesh 3rd ODI Preview Dream11 – Guptill has a shot at three straight hundreds.
Key to a Bangladesh win
The series is gone, but belief needs to reappear for Bangladesh. They need to somehow build confidence in conditions that has its similarities to England if they are to challenge sides at the World Cup. Rubel Hossain for Mohammad Saifuddin (or possibly Mehidy), despite their batting capabilities, could add another dimension to a Bangladesh attack that is really struggling for penetration. Of their four wickets this series, the last three have fallen as New Zealand attempted pull shots. Will Mustafizur Rahman continue his promising showings? What support will he get from the likes of Mashrafe Mortaza? Can they get a shot at the Black Caps’ middle order?
However, the bowling is only a small part of the big issue for Bangladesh. Their top order has crumbled in both games this series, producing batting performances that were almost a carbon copy of each other. In worse news, Mohammad Mithun is reportedly ruled out and Mushfiqur Rahim is in doubt, leaving Tamim Iqbal, Liton Das and Soumya Sarkar to do much better than they have so far. With Mahmudullah capable of runs, and Sabbir Rahman coming off runs, Bangladesh can hope for a good score if they can get through the first ten overs without too much damage.
New Zealand vs Bangladesh 3rd ODI Preview Dream11 – Mushfiqur Rahim was excellent in Dunedin in 2010 but is in doubt for this match.
Possible Playing 11
There are a number of possibilities for New Zealand. Who will open? Will Henry Nicholls drop to three? On the bowling front, Tim Southee could get a run over Trent Boult if New Zealand decide to give him a rest.
New Zealand: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Colin Munro, 3. Henry Nicholls, 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Tom Latham (wk), 6. James Neesham, 7. Colin de Grandhomme, 8. Todd Astle, 9. Matt Henry, 10. Trent Boult/Tim Southee, 11. Lockie Ferguson
Mohammad Mithun is reportedly out and Mushfiqur Rahim is in doubt. Mominul Haque has been included in the squad and will likely slot in. Also, one of Mohammad Saifuddin or Mehidy Hasan Miraz could be left out for Rubel Hossain. With rain expected in the lead up to the match, Bangladesh might stick more to pace.
New Zealand beat Bangladesh by five wickets in Dunedin in 2010. Mushfiqur Rahim’s 86 helped Bangladesh to reach 183/8 after being 46/6. Ross Taylor hit 78.
Match Prediction
Conditions in the lead up to the game look grim, but looks fine for the day.
Anything other than a comfortable New Zealand win will be a surprise.
New Zealand to take out the series 3-0.
Thanks for reading!
New Zealand vs Bangladesh 3rd ODI Preview Dream11. NZ vs BAN 3rd ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
BBL08 Final: Melbourne Renegades vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11. MLR vs MLS Preview Dream11 Prediction
A long, sometimes lacking BBL08 tournament has a fine ending. Melbourne Derby bragging rights is always at stake, but this time, it means so much more, with a very first BBL Title awaiting both sides.
Melbourne Renegades are coming off an incredible Semi Final win over Sydney Sixers, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat. Dan Christian was absolutely outstanding in the crunchiest of crunch moments, leading the Renegades to their first ever BBL Final. However, their bowling, which is their strength, was off colour, and they have lost both matches to the Stars in BBL08. Can they reverse the trend and win the game that counts the most?
The Renegades did pretty well to restrict Sydney Sixers to 180 after 200+ looked likely, but they will need a more well-rounded bowling display against the Stars. The Renegades struggled to arrest a quick Sixers’ start on Friday night, and if they are unable to do so in the Final, the Stars have the resources in the middle order to hurt them. Can Kane Richardson, the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, have a better night than the Semi Final? Will Chris Tremain display the form he showed in his first couple of games in his BBL08 campaign? If these two can fire in the powerplay overs, including capturing the big wicket of Marcus Stoinis, it sets things up beautifully for the likes of Cameron Boyce, Daniel Christian and Harry Gurney to target Glenn Maxwell and the Stars middle order.
Also, it would have been really encouraging for the Renegades that they delivered with the bat in a pressure game. Their batting has been their weaker point in BBL08, and if the top order can fire against a good Stars attack, a first BBL Title could very well await. Marcus Harris hasn’t delivered in this tournament so far, but his teammates have given him the chance to deliver in the Final. Can he do it? Will Aaron Finch find more fluency, and can Sam Harper produce the kind of whirlwind knock seen in the Semi Final to put the pressure on the Stars bowlers? With a middle order including the experienced Cameron White and Dan Christian, a strong platform at the top, unlike what the Hurricanes showed against the Stars, is crucial.
Photo by George Salpigtidis/Getty Images. Melbourne Renegades vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 – What impact will Dan Christian have?
Key to a Melbourne Stars win
Daniel Worrall’s ability to get the ball moving in the early overs was a key talking point ahead of the Hurricanes’ game. He was superb, and will be key again against a Renegades side that has struggled with the bat at times in BBL08. Worrall, along with Jackson Bird (if picked) have a huge opportunity to set the match up, as they did against the Sixers, with the wristspinners, Marcus Stoinis and Dwayne Bravo excellent change bowlers. Can the Stars restrict the Renegades from the outset and stifle them further with regular wickets?
Also, Glenn Maxwell has come up with the goods as the Stars needed it. He was man of the match in a brilliant performance against the Sixers, and then got his side home in a measured effort in the run chase against the Hurricanes. He and Marcus Stoinis can cause significant damage at the top of the order, but who else will deliver? Can the out-of-form Ben Dunk also help provide a strong start? Will Nic Maddinson build on his little cameo from the last match and turn it into something more substantial here? With Peter Handscomb and Seb Gotch showing good form in the chase vs Hurricanes, the Stars have a top six that challenge the Renegades. If they can outplay the Renegades top six, it will go a long way to victory.
Photo by Mike Owen/Getty Images. Melbourne Renegades vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 – Will Glenn Maxwell fire again?
Possible Playing 11
Melbourne Renegades will go in with the same squad as their Semi Final match. They should stick with the same XI, too.
Melbourne Renegades: 1. Marcus Harris, 2. Aaron Finch (c), 3. Sam Harper (wk), 4. Cameron White, 5. Tom Cooper, 6. Dan Christian, 7. Mackenzie Harvey, 8. Cameron Boyce, 9. Kane Richardson, 10. Chris Tremain, 11. Harry Gurney
For Melbourne Stars, Jackson Coleman comes into the squad for Nick Larkin. However, they will also likely stick with the same XI as their Semi Final, or possibly bring back Jackson Bird.
Melbourne Stars: 1. Ben Dunk, 2. Marcus Stoinis, 3. Peter Handscomb (wk), 4. Glenn Maxwell (c), 5. Nic Maddinson, 6. Seb Gotch, 7. Evan Gulbis 8. Dwayne Bravo, 9. Adam Zampa, 10. Sandeep Lamichhane, 11. Daniel Worrall.
Melbourne Renegades vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
Melbourne Renegades vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 Prediction
Stats and Facts
Melbourne Stars have won nine of the last 11 matches against Melbourne Renegades.
Neither side has won a BBL Title.
This is Melbourne Stars’ second BBL Final. For the Renegades, this is their first.
Match Prediction
This promises to be a good final.
Both sides have key players that can turn the game in their favour. However, the Stars have looked brilliant in two high-pressure games, and I will pick them to take out the title.
Thanks for reading!
BBL08 Final: Melbourne Renegades vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11. MLR vs MLS Preview Dream11 Prediction
New Zealand vs Bangladesh 2nd ODI Preview Dream11. NZ vs BAN 2nd ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
Quite predictable, wasn’t it?
Old problems resurfaced for Bangladesh away from home, suffering a top order collapse then struggling for penetration with the ball. Shakib Al Hasan is indeed a big loss, but he on his own cannot solve all the problems Bangladesh have in conditions different to theirs. The series moves to Christchurch, and Bangladesh now have no choice but to bounce back to stay alive in this series. However, in a World Cup year, should it be considered OK for Bangladesh to put in a much improved performance, which includes taking more wickets, even if they lose?
Wednesday’s first ODI was a welcome change for New Zealand after their difficult series against India. Trent Boult and Matt Henry continued on their good form from that series, putting Bangladesh under huge pressure right away, allowing the Black Caps to play from in front the entire match. That they let Bangladesh reach 232 after being 94/6 is perhaps a talking point after they let India escape in their previous ODI, but if they are ripping through top orders, they will win a lot more than they lose. Here, they have the chance to seal the series and let Kane Williamson have a happy rest. Will it be another predictable result in what is becoming a battle where the home team rules?
Key to a New Zealand win
A cool day is expected in Christchurch, which is something the Black Caps can take advantage of with the ball. Conditions may not aid swing as much as humid conditions might, but the Christchurch pitch might have a little in it to enable movement. Can Trent Boult and Matt Henry rip through the Bangladesh top order once again? If so, it is just about lights out for a Bangladesh side that needs runs on the board with their bowlers struggling for wickets in ODIs outside Asia. That is, of course, if the change bowlers can follow up effectively enough if required to keep the pressure on Bangladesh.
Also, will New Zealand’s top order be at ease again? Martin Guptill and Henry Nicholls, while starting steadily in Napier against some accurate Bangladesh bowling, were never really threatened. The key for New Zealand is for their top order to be ruthless and hungry, especially if Bangladesh struggle for movement. Can the top four set up a platform for the hard-hitting allrounders to go at it? Specifically, can Martin Guptill follow on from his hundred better than he did in the series against Sri Lanka where he made 13 and 2 in the final two ODIs? Will Henry Nicholls further lock down his spot as ODI opener for the World Cup? With a strong lineup to follow, New Zealand have the resources to cause Bangladesh further problems.
Image Credit: Getty Images. New Zealand vs Bangladesh 2nd ODI Preview Dream11 – Will Guptill fire again?
Key to a Bangladesh win
Bangladesh have to do a lot of things differently if they are to cause an upset. For starters, losing four wickets inside nine overs doesn’t help, courtesy of rash, inconsistent strokeplay that is perhaps a product of the Bangladesh Premier League finishing less than a week ago. However, this has been a problem for Bangladesh for a while now away from home, and desperately need partnerships at the top to have hope of a competitive outing. Tamim Iqbal will need to be the backbone, and Liton Das needs to play the moving ball later to give himself a chance. With Soumya Sarkar showing promising form on Wednesday, a good start from the Tigers can enable the likes of Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah and Mohammad Mithun to build. Can they put a strong score on the board?
Also, what can we say about the bowling? The same issues that we saw in the 2017 Champions Trophy resurfaced for Bangladesh, struggling for any sort of penetration. Their two wickets on Wednesday came out of the blue somewhat, as a result of batsmen making mistakes rather than anything special from them. Mustafizur Rahman, who encouragingly had his pace up around 140km/h in Napier will be key, but the overuse of his slower ball is room for improvement. With his pace up, Bangladesh need the Fizz to challenge the New Zealand batsmen (who are expecting the slower ball) with his pace, with the slower ball introduced as a surprise ball. Can Mashrafe Mortaza find movement early? What magic can he pull out of a hat in the field? Could it be a short leg for Mustafizur for batsmen possibly playing late as they wait for that slower ball? Whatever it is, Bangladesh need to show a more proactive approach in the field, including when the spinners are on, instead of waiting for mistakes from the Black Caps’ batsmen.
New Zealand vs Bangladesh 2nd ODI Preview Dream11 – Can Mushfiqur Rahim fire in his 200th ODI?
Possible Playing 11
New Zealand can possibly look to experiment in the third ODI if the series is won. With this side likely to be their World Cup XI, it makes sense to stick with it.
New Zealand: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Henry Nicholls, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Tom Latham (wk), 6. Colin de Grandhomme, 7. James Neesham, 8. Mitchell Santner, 9. Matt Henry, 10. Lockie Ferguson, 11. Trent Boult
Bangladesh may want to bring Rubel Hossain in, but there is no way they can afford to weaken their batting even further to accommodate that. They should also stick with the same XI.
Bangladesh: 1. Tamim Iqbal, 2. Liton Das, 3. Soumya Sarkar, 4. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5. Mahmudullah, 6. Sabbir Rahman, 7. Mohammad Mithun, 8. Mohammad Saifuddin, 9. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 10. Mashrafe Mortaza (c), 11. Mustafizur Rahman
Dream11 Prediction
Option 1:
New Zealand vs Bangladesh 2nd ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
New Zealand vs Bangladesh 2nd ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
Stats and Facts
Neither of these sides have beaten the other in a bilateral away ODI since October 14, 2008.
Mushfiqur Rahim is set to play his 200th ODI. He will become the second Bangladesh player to the mark after Mashrafe Mortaza.
Henry Nicholls and Martin Guptill scored New Zealand’s first century stand for the first wicket in over a year.
Match Prediction
Bangladesh will try hard, but will ultimately lack what it takes to go on and win the game.
New Zealand to win and take the series.
Thanks for reading!
New Zealand vs Bangladesh 2nd ODI Preview Dream11. NZ vs BAN 2nd ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
Melbourne Renegades vs Sydney Sixers Preview Dream11. MLR vs SDS Preview Dream11 Prediction
Favours have already been handed over ahead of the second Semi Final. The Sixers had second place just about sewn up, before an awful performance against Melbourne Stars handed it to the Renegades.
Instead of the game being in Sydney, it is in Melbourne.
Melbourne Renegades would have loved what they saw on Sunday, seeing the Sixers crumble to pace and spin to hand them a home Semi Final. They too are coming off a loss, to now-eliminated Hobart Hurricanes, and need to get their batting in order with all to play. The Renegades are one of three BBL08 Finals teams to have never won the BBL Title before, and if they beat the Sixers (the only team out of the four who has won a Title), a brand new champion will be crowned in the Final on Sunday.
Sydney Sixers have already done the Renegades a huge favour, handing over a home Semi Final on the most silver of silver platters. They looked distracted against the Stars, perhaps focused on the Semi Finals, and must bounce back quickly. Also, they were thrashed by the Renegades in Sydney in the previous match between the sides, but won the match at Marvel Stadium earlier in the season. They rolled the Renegades over 99 that night, but can their top order step up to reach the Final? A big test awaits in the absence of Tom Curran, who has now joined England’s squad for the ODI series in the Caribbean.
Key to a Melbourne Renegades win
The Renegades have an opportunity. Sydney Sixers have shown a tendency to lose powerplay wickets right throughout BBL08. This was on show in their most recent game against the Stars, and also in the Renegades’ last meeting with the Sixers where they picked up a thumping win. Kane Richardson and Chris Tremain will be key at the top, and with Mohammad Nabi on national duty vs Ireland, the support these two get will be crucial. Can Daniel Christian deliver middle over wickets? Will Cameron Boyce and Harry Gurney continue the pressure built by the frontline bowlers? If the Renegades can have Jordan Silk walking out just after the powerplay at the latest, they could very well be on their way to victory.
However, like the Sixers, the Renegades’ batting isn’t without its issues. Marcus Harris is struggling for runs in recent times, and will be a key player at the top along with Aaron Finch in overcoming the likes of Steve O’Keefe, Ben Dwarshuis and Sean Abbott. These two opening batsmen have not fired the way they can, and there is no better time than now to lay a great platform for the likes of Cameron White, Sam Harper, Tom Cooper and Daniel Christian to play off the back of. In a crucial game, a strong powerplay is key.
Image Credit: Getty Images. Melbourne Renegades vs Sydney Sixers Preview Dream11: Will Aaron Finch deliver?
Key to a Sydney Sixers win
You guessed it… the Sixers’ powerplay batting. After four straight convincing wins, old wounds reopened for the Sixers in what was an awful batting display against the Stars. Powerplay wickets have been an issue throughout the tournament, and in a do-or-die game, a strong start is crucial. James Vince has shown fine form in BBL08, and will be a key figure along with the experienced Daniel Hughes and Moises Henriques. Also, can Josh Philippe bat long enough to make an impact? There is no doubt the Sixers’ top four is crucial to their success.
Also, how well will the Sixers fare without Tom Curran? The absence of their star all-rounder leaves a big gap to fill, but the Sixers have shown good form with the ball throughout the tournament. Steve O’Keefe and Sean Abbott are high up on the BBL08 wicket taking charts, and will be key in leading an attack that also includes the capable Ben Dwarshuis and Nathan Lyon. If picked, can Ben Manenti find his length early on what is expected to be a slowish pitch, on a ground where he had success earlier this year? Can the Sixers win the powerplay battle against a side looking to get the better of them in the same period?
Image Credit: Getty Images. Melbourne Renegades vs Sydney Sixers Preview Dream11: Josh Philippe has had a run of three low scores. Can he step up today?
Possible Playing 11
Cameron White returns to the Renegades squad after recovering from a hamstring injury. White for Nabi could be the only change to the XI from the last game.
Melbourne Renegades: 1. Aaron Finch (c), 2. Marcus Harris, 3. Cameron White, 4. Sam Webster (wk), 5. Tom Cooper, 6. Daniel Christian, 7. Mackenzie Harvey/Jack Wildermuth, 8. Cameron Boyce, 9. Kane Richardson, 10. Chris Tremain, 11. Harry Gurney
Tom Curran has departed the Sixers for national duty. Lloyd Pope has been replaced by Ben Manenti. Justin Avendano is also in the squad.
Sydney Sixers: 1. Daniel Hughes, 2. Josh Philippe (wk), 3. James Vince, 4. Moises Henriques, 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Jack Edwards, 7. Sean Abbott, 8. Steve O’Keefe, 9. Ben Dwarshuis, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Ben Manenti
Dream11 Prediction
Option 1:
Melbourne Renegades vs Sydney Sixers Preview Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
Melbourne Renegades vs Sydney Sixers Preview Dream11 Prediction
Stats and Facts
Sydney Sixers have won five of their past seven games against Melbourne Renegades.
Seven different Sydney Sixers batsmen have scored half centuries this season. Melbourne Renegades have three.
BBL08 Head-to-Head: Melbourne Renegades 1 Sydney Sixers 1
If Melbourne Renegades win this, then it is certain there will be a brand new BBL champion. Neither of the Melbourne sides have won a Title.
Match Prediction
It is incredible to see both these sides making the finals comfortably, given how inconsistent they have been in BBL08. This is what makes this match difficult to predict.
However, despite giving up second place and no Tom Curran, I believe the Sixers have strong Finals experience. Also, with a good record vs the Renegades, I think the Sixers will win and play the Stars in the Final.
Thanks for reading!
Melbourne Renegades vs Sydney Sixers Preview Dream11. MLR vs SDS Preview Dream11 Prediction
Five Ways to Improve as a Cricket Player –How to become a better Cricket Player
Cricket is a game that captures us. It glues us to the television screen (or smartphone more so these days). After watching our favourite players go at it, we give it a go and play ourselves. But, how can we constantly improve as cricket players and be the best we can be?
It is very easy to say ‘practice’, but it goes deeper than that. There are key things I believe can help any aspiring batsman or bowler improve as a cricket player.
Below are five!
1. Practice how you will play
Merely saying “practice” is too broad. Your practice should be with the right mindset, looking to get in your zone ahead of matches. For example, one common thing I heard was “why would you leave the ball in the nets?” Well, if you won’t bat in the nets the way you will bat in the match, then what’s the point? If you don’t try to focus on consistent line and length with the ball in practice, then it becomes more difficult to execute in the match.
Merely batting or bowling without the right mindset or end goal in practice can create bad habits. Specifically, a great way to improve is to set goals for yourself in practice. For example, “I am aiming for three wickets this sesssion” or “I will protect my wicket well.”
It’s crucial to have the right mindset when you train to help improve your game!
Five Ways to Improve as a Cricket Player: Nothing beats playing out in the middle, but net sessions are still crucial to hone skills.
2. Acknowledge your weaknesses and work on them
Admitting we have a weakness is never fun, but it’s a very important aspect of improving as a cricket player.
It could be that your front pad goes too far to the off-side too early. Or you don’t play the short ball well. Or the swinging ball.
Whatever it may be, there is nothing wrong with acknowledging you have something you should improve on. In fact, it’s a great step forward! It is why the likes of Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson are very good at what they do. They are not too proud to acknowledge their faults, and always look to improve. A fine example is Kohli working meticulously on his game after his poor tour of England in 2014, which was the catalyst of a stellar 2018 tour.
3. Understand your strengths and build on them
While it’s important to acknowledge weaknesses, it’s also important to know your strengths!
But what does building on them mean?
It is important to not get complacent and disregard your strengths. You should continue to hone your skills in practice, such as continuously bowling your mean outswinger at a good line and length, extracting bounce from your height or playing that cover drive. Perfecting something means when you don’t get it wrong, rather than just getting it right a couple of times. Build confidence from your strengths and let them shape the cricket player you want to be.
4. Constantly look to evolve your game
Similar to point three, but taking it to the next level.
The best players in the world constantly look to evolve, looking for ways they can improve their game. For example, Jasprit Bumrah burst onto the scene as an excellent white ball bowler, but then has adapted beautifully to the Test game. Bowlers like the great Dale Steyn focused on outswing very early in his career, but then developed the deadly inswinger. For you, it could be developing an inswinger as a seamer for variety, or an arm-ball for a spinner. For batsmen, you could be an excellent boundary hitter, but would like to find ways to rotate strike better.
Constantly looking for ways to improve, whilst understanding your strengths, is a great way to improve as a cricket player.
5. Believe in yourself
It is natural to have doubts and nerves when playing. We are hard wired to go on the defensive sometimes, which makes it all the more important to believe in yourself.
Because, if you don’t believe you’re good enough, you never will be.
The best players we looked up to (i.e. Ricky Ponting, Brian Lara, Shane Warne, Sachin Tendulkar) all had magnificent self belief. Listening to Shane Warne speak about his career, his self belief shone through. As a cricket player, it is crucial to believe you can go out there and do well. It is important to believe you can sort out any weaknesses and become the best you can be!
So, there are my five ways to improve as a cricket player.
Have any yourself? Leave a comment!
Thanks for reading!
Five Ways to Improve as a Cricket Player – How to become a better Cricket Player
South Africa vs Sri Lanka 1st Test Preview Dream11. SA vs SL 1st Test Preview Dream11 Prediction
When looking at the 2019 cricketing calendar, not many would mark this in a big red circle and claim it would be most competitive. Both sides had contrasting fortunes in their most recent Test assignments, with heavy whitewashes the feature.
Indeed, South Africa swept Pakistan aside with ease, and ominously have revenge in their sights. They lost badly in Sri Lanka last year, and will be looking to avenge that defeat against a side that is at well and truly struggling right now. Will the Proteas continue their domination on home soil?
Sri Lanka return to the venue of their only ever Test triumph in South Africa. They have happy memories of Durban, but awful memories of Australia, where they were recently hammered with ease by an Australian side with its own issues. With new skipper Dimuth Karunaratne at the helm, can Sri Lanka put on a fight in conditions that might help their cause?
Key to a South Africa win
South Africa’s bowlers were magnificent in the recent series against Pakistan, targeting them with unrelenting pace and consistency. Durban may warrant a specialist spinner, but the template for success remains the same for the Proteas. Can they rip through Sri Lanka’s fragile top order to set the game up? What movement will they find with the new and old ball? Can the likes of Dale Steyn and Kagiso Rabada deny Dimuth Karunaratne and Kusal Mendis, Sri Lanka’s two best in 2018?
Also, while the Proteas beat Pakistan easily recently, there were a few question marks over their top order. Batting conditions have certainly been challenging in recent times in South Africa, but this is an opportunity for the top four to lay down a marker and make life even more difficult for Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankans have a knack of starting well and bowling beautifully for a short period of time, but are often unable to maintain the pressure. For South Africa, the key will be to get through the initial stages and then grind Sri Lanka down as the threat wears away. If they can manage that, a huge total awaits.
South Africa vs Sri Lanka 1st Test Preview Dream11 – Aiden Markram scored a brilliant 143 in his only Test in Durban to date.
Key to a Sri Lanka win
Well, wouldn’t this be something?
Sri Lanka’s lack of competitiveness in recent Tests is mainly down to their batting. Without Angelo Mathews, they have struggled badly, unable to handle the skill of New Zealand’s and Australia’s bowlers down under. South Africa possess even greater skill – arguably the best in the world – so significant onus is on the likes of Dimuth Karunaratne, Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis and Kusal Perera to get the Sri Lankans in the game. With Dinesh Chandimal dropped, can they set a platform to ensure Niroshan Dickwella can walk out to bat without too much pressure on him?
Also, while Sri Lanka’s batting has been poor, similar can be said of their bowling. They seem incapable of maintaining pressure for long periods, falling away after a spurt of good bowling. They started well in each innings in Australia, and will be hoping they can do the same in South Africa but this time build on the good work. Suranga Lakmal will be of huge importance against South Africa’s top order, but the support he gets will be of equal significance. Can the Sri Lankans force the opportunity to target the Proteas’ middle order as early as possible?
South Africa vs Sri Lanka 1st Test Preview Dream11 – Will Dimuth Karunaratne lead from the front?
Possible Playing 11
Does Duanne Olivier, man of the series against Pakistan, miss out to cater for Keshav Maharaj? Or will it be Vernon Philander given the conditions aren’t as quick in Durban?
South Africa: 1. Dean Elgar, 2. Aiden Markram, 3. Hashim Amla, 4. Faf du Plessis (c), 5. Theunis de Bruyn, 6. Temba Bavuma, 7. Quinton de Kock (wk), 8. Vernon Philander/Keshav Maharaj, 9. Kagiso Rabada, 10. Dale Steyn, 11. Duanne Olivier
For Sri Lanka, Dinesh Chandimal and Roshen Silva and have been dropped. Kausal Silva has been recalled, and could open. Also, all-rounder Angelo Perera is in the squad and could debut with Dilruwan Perera left out.
South Africa vs Sri Lanka 1st Test Preview Dream11 Prediction
Quinton de Kock recently finished top run scorer in the series against Pakistan.
Faf du Plessis has a poor record at Durban (96 runs at 16), but is coming off a century in his last Test. Hashim Amla also has a very ordinary record at Durban (359 runs at 18.89).
Aiden Markram scored a magnificent century on this ground vs Australia last year.
Dimuth Karunaratne averages 21 in three Tests in South Africa, which makes him a risky pick. However, he is now their best batsman, with plenty of onus on him. He is in decent touch, coming off a half century vs Australia recently.
Dale Steyn has an excellent record in Durban, taking 44 wickets at 21.95.
Suranga Lakmal is the heart-and-soul of Sri Lanka’s bowling lineup. He has a five wicket haul in each of his last two Tests.
South Africa vs Sri Lanka 1st Test Preview Dream11 – Will it be a big game for Kagiso Rabada?
Stats and Facts
Sri Lanka have lost their last three Tests. South Africa have won their last three.
Sri Lanka’s only win in South Africa came in Durban in 2011. Rangana Herath was man of the match.
BBL Semi Final #1: Thursday 14th February, 7:30pm AEST.
53 days. 56 games. The BBL08 Finals are finally here.
Hobart Hurricanes finished the group stage in top position, deservedly so as the most consistent side by a country mile. When you consider the inconsistent Sydney Sixers threw away second place, and inconsistent Melbourne Renegades took their place, it is easy to note who has been the best side. However, the nature of finals cricket means that all it takes is one bad day to finish the season empty-handed, so now is where it all counts for the Hurricanes. Will they make their second straight Final?
Melbourne Stars stepped up under pressure in their final game, thrashing Sydney Sixers to qualify for the semi finals. That they were so close to missing out altogether was cause for huge nerves, possessing a squad that is capable of going all the way. Their end-of-season form, with a full squad on deck, was patchy, but they have a huge win behind them. Can the star-studded lineup cause heartbreak for Hobart Hurricanes?
Key to a Hobart Hurricanes win
D’Arcy Short (602) and Matthew Wade (590) finished the regular season as leading run scorers. There is no doubt these two will be key at the top in overcoming Jackson Bird and Daniel Worrall, both capable of moving the ball. Also, a platform is crucial given the Stars’ impressive spin attack, with Adam Zampa and Sandeep Lamichhane coming off confidence-boosting efforts after an awful night in Brisbane. The last thing the Hurricanes will want is two new batsmen facing the spinners, Marcus Stoinis and Dwayne Bravo right away, so will Ben McDermott and George Bailey walk into a game situation where a platform has been set? Will James Faulkner be needed with the bat? If so, can he deliver?
He may not be needed to bat, but Faulkner is certainly needed with the ball. Riley Meredith has fallen away badly, and Jofra Archer is capable of reaching greater heights, which highlights the Hurricanes’ need for greater bowling prowess in the big games. Can they overcome the likes of Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell, raising the pressure on out-of-form Ben Dunk and Nic Maddinson? Will James Faulkner deliver early wickets in which the likes of Archer and Qais Ahmad can follow up on? In a big game, regular wickets are crucial.
Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 – Can Glenn Maxwell deliver in a huge game?
Key to a Melbourne Stars win
It was a nervy batting performance in the final game against Sydney Sixers until Glenn Maxwell went berzerk. He was brilliant, and will be key again, along with Marcus Stoinis at the top. However, can Ben Dunk deliver this time at a ground he has good memories at when he played for Hobart Hurricanes? Will Peter Handscomb use his time in the middle on Sunday for a more free-flowing innings? Do the Stars take a chance on Nic Maddinson, who can’t buy a run at the moment? Against the best side, the Stars need not only Stoinis and Maxwell to contribute, but a big effort from their top six to maximise runs on the board.
Also, what kind of day will it be for the Stars bowlers? After conceding 158 in ten overs against the Heat, they blew the Sixers away for 74. Jackson Bird and Daniel Worrall will be crucial in the early overs, along with Marcus Stoinis in attempting to dislodge the strong Hurricanes’ opening pair early. With the Stars possessing a plethora of quality bowling options, including Adam Zampa and Sandeep Lamichhane, regular wickets might be too difficult for the Hurricanes to recover effectively from. Can the Stars put pressure on the Hurricanes’ middle order in a pressure game?
Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 – Can Australian domestic player of the year Matt Wade get the Hurricanes to the final?
Possible Playing 11
James Faulkner is back in the squad, and could replace the out-of-form Riley Meredith.
Hobart Hurricanes: 1. Matthew Wade (c & wk), 2. D’Arcy Short, 3. Caleb Jewell, 4. Ben McDermott, 5. George Bailey, 6. Simon Milenko, 7. James Faulkner, 8. Jofra Archer, 9. David Moody/Riley Meredith, 10. Clive Rose, 11. Qais Ahmad
With a good mix of pace and spin, the Stars could stick with the same XI that demolished Sydney Sixers. However, will Nick Maddinson be persisted with? Nick Larkin has come into the squad.
Melbourne Stars: 1. Ben Dunk, 2. Marcus Stoinis, 3. Peter Handscomb (wk), 4. Glenn Maxwell (c), 5. Nic Maddinson, 6. Seb Gotch, 7. Dwayne Bravo, 8. Adam Zampa, 9. Daniel Worrall, 10. Sandeep Lamichhane, 11. Jackson Bird
Dream11 Prediction
Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 Prediction 1
Option 2:
Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 Prediction 2
Stats and Facts
Hobart Hurricanes beat Melbourne Stars twice in the BBL08 Group Stage.
D’Arcy Short and Matthew Wade are the top two leading run scorers in BBL08.
Melbourne Stars have reached just one BBL Final. They were knocked out in the semi-finals BBL03 by Hobart Hurricanes after winning all eight games in the regular season.
Match Prediction
What a terrific game this promises to be.
A lot depends on the final squads in making a decision, but I have a sneaky feeling about this one. The Stars have what it takes to target the Hurricanes’ bowling attack, and could be successful.
Stars to win in a mighty upset!
Thanks for reading!
Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11. HBH vs MLS Preview Dream11 Prediction
