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New Zealand vs Bangladesh 1st ODI Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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New Zealand vs Bangladesh 1st ODI Preview Dream11

New Zealand vs Bangladesh 1st ODI Preview Dream11. NZ vs BAN 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction

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The question ahead of Black Caps’ tour of the UAE in October “where are New Zealand?”

New Zealand hadn’t played a single game of international cricket between the months of March and October. Since then, they played Pakistan in all three formats, shortly followed by Sri Lanka and then India in ODIs and T20Is, finishing as recently as Sunday. They now turn their attention to Bangladesh, a side whom the Black Caps will likely have less trouble against than they did against India. However, given the ability Bangladesh possess, New Zealand can’t afford to underestimate them. In a very quick turnaround between matches, New Zealand will have to be on their game very swiftly. Can they get back to winning ways in ODIs?

Bangladesh, ahead of a big tour, have been dealt a huge blow with Shakib Al Hasan ruled out of the ODIs with a fractured finger. It is not only New Zealand coming off a short turnaround, but Bangladesh too, with the Bangladesh Premier League concluding Friday. Tamim Iqbal was absolutely superb in the Final, and he will be a key man along with his most experienced teammates in helping Bangladesh put on a competitive showing. Will they win their first ever ODI in New Zealand?

Also read: Light-hearted New Zealand vs India T20I Series Player Ratings!

Key to a New Zealand win

New Zealand have made a key change to their opening combination (for at least the first two ODIs). Colin Munro has been dropped after another poor showing in the format, with Henry Nicholls set to continue to as opener after occupying that position in the final two ODIs against India. In that series, New Zealand really struggled at the top, which effectively saw Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor play as openers. With the likes of Mashrafe Mortaza and Mustafizur Rahman capable of moving the new ball, the Black Caps need a solid platform from Nicholls and the returning Martin Guptill to enable Williamson and Taylor to come in and play more freely. With big-hitting allrounders to follow, and Bangladesh’s history of poor death bowling, a strong platform is crucial.

Also, can Trent Boult continue on from his brilliant showing in the back-end of the India series? The Indians struggled to handle his swing, and if he gets the ball moving, the Bangladeshis could have their fate sealed too early for their liking. Also, with Matt Henry in excellent touch in his last ODI, the Black Caps need to be ruthless at the top, with Tamim Iqbal and Mushfiqur Rahim two key wickets early that can place immense pressure on Mahmudullah and other hot-and-cold members of the Bangladesh lineup with Shakib missing. Will New Zealand create the luxury of their change bowlers bowling to players trying to get set?

Key to a Bangladesh win

Bangladesh, in their last tour of New Zealand, often started their batting efforts well, only to crumble in a heap. In the second ODI of that tour, they were 105/1 chasing 252, only to be bowled out for 184. In the third ODI, they were 102/0, only to crawl to 236/9. This time around, they need to show they have improved by putting together a complete batting effort that enables them to be competitive. In the absence of Shakib, Tamim Iqbal will be crucial at the top, along with Liton Das, who has shown only glimpses of his brilliance in international cricket so far. With Imrul Kayes perhaps a surprise exclusion, Soumya Sarkar will likely get the nod at three, and has to deliver in setting a platform for the likes of Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmdullah to take advantage. Can Bangladesh handle New Zealand’s swing bowlers well early, and then push on?

Also, can the bowlers cause New Zealand further problems at the top? Mashrafe Mortaza, Bangladesh’s inspirational skipper, will be crucial at the top along with Mustafizur Rahman. To get a foothold in the series, the Tigers need early wickets to force New Zealand into the kind of rebuild efforts that were on display against India. However, the challenge will be to maintain the kind of discipline and consistency India did, especially with Shakib missing, so the onus is on the likes of Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Rubel Hossain (if picked) to maintain the pressure as long as possible. Of course, if Bangladesh choose to start with Mehidy, then getting tight on the singles and building dot-ball pressure early can be crucial to enabling a good start.

Possible Playing 11

Colin Munro is dropped from the squad for the first two games, due to return in the third ODI as Kane Williamson will be rested for that one. Martin Guptill returns, and will partner Henry Nicholls at the top of the order.

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/Todd Astle, 11. Trent Boult

Shakib out is a huge blow for Bangladesh. The ever-frustrating Sabbir Rahman, who had his ban reduced by a month, is back and could line up for the Tigers.

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

Dream11 Prediction

New Zealand vs Bangladesh 1st ODI Preview Dream11. NZ vs BAN 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
New Zealand vs Bangladesh 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
  • With New Zealand’s top order possessing good records against Bangladesh, Mushfiqur Rahim is likelier to get a shot at a longer innings.
  • The same can’t be said of Martin Guptill, who managed just 21 runs in three innings last time Bangladesh toured (including a retired hurt). He is coming off low scores vs India, too, but if you feel this is his time, you can pick him.
  • Tamim Iqbal is coming off an outstanding 141* in the BPL Final. Different conditions await, and will look to better his 113 runs in three innings in Bangladesh’s last tour of New Zealand. Also, he scored 684 runs at 85.50 in 2018.
  • Kane Williamson has a strong record at Napier, and so too Bangladesh, averaging 51 against them.
  • New Zealand is Mahmudullah’s second-most prolific opponent, scoring 501 runs against them at 35, including two centuries.
  • Trent Boult could be a handful with the form he’s in. He took 12 wickets in the recent series against India.
  • Mustafizur Rahman took four wickets in his two ODIs in his last tour to New Zealand.

Stats and Facts

  • New Zealand have never lost an ODI to Bangladesh at home.
  • Bangladesh have won the last two ODIs against New Zealand, with the last being an amazing win in the 2017 Champions Trophy.
  • Bangladesh have won their last three bilateral ODI series.

Match Prediction

Such a short turnaround without Shakib Al Hasan is a tough proposition for Bangladesh.

I expect them to have some good moments, but New Zealand should prove too good. New Zealand to take a 1-0 series lead.

Thanks for reading!

Also read: Light-hearted New Zealand vs India T20I Series Player Ratings!

New Zealand vs India T20I Series Player Ratings

Charbel Coorey
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0
New Zealand vs India T20I Series Player Ratings

New Zealand vs India T20I Series Player Ratings. NZ vs IND T20I Player Ratings

Some joy for New Zealand. A defeat for India after a golden summer. It just had to happen, didn’t it?

New Zealand, ‘4-1’, would have loved to forget the ODI series massacre that surprised many. A T20I series win is a nice way to end India’s visit, where Kane Williamson had his hands full a lot more often than the series against Sri Lanka. This T20I series began with a bang, but ended in nervy fashion, with some questionable death bowling threatening to hand India another series win. But, the Black Caps held on, to the relief of Williamson, who might have had a few grey hairs appear these last couple of weeks.

For India, if any fan rubbishes their team, they possibly need to be deposited into the stands as much as the ball was in the Hamilton T20I. This defeat takes no shine off what’s been an excellent summer, which started back in November in Brisbane. There are a few things to look at, such as their bowling, but they nearly pulled off series wins in both formats in what is a tough away tour to New Zealand.

In this article, I will rate each player in the series out of ten. If you laugh, do let me know about it. If you don’t, be kind.

New Zealand

Tim Seifert: Brilliant series. It is no coincidence that New Zealand won both games he fired in. The man of the series had Rohit Sharma shaking his head more than Rohit fans, who see India have lost a series under his leadership. 8.5

Colin Munro: Forget ‘The Notebook’, ‘Titanic’ or ‘A Walk to Remember’, Colin Munro and T20 cricket is the ultimate love story. Fired in the final T20I, picking up the man of the match award. Like Seifert, it was crucial to New Zealand that Munro fired. 8

New Zealand vs India T20I Series Player Ratings – If Colin Munro was in the ‘Titanic’ movie.

Kane Williamson: Threatened to do more in each T20I, but finished with scores of 34, 20 and 27. Not bad, but could have been more. It was like a kid walking into a huge candy store and only taking a little. 6.5

Daryl Mitchell: Victim of a DRS howler so bad in Auckland that the on-field umpires were wondering whether they could overturn the third umpire. Perhaps they could have showed Shaun Haig on-screen, tell him “you’re on-screen now, reverse your non-reversal”. Nonetheless, it was a promising series for Mitchell, finishing the innings well in the third T20I and picking up four wickets in the series. 5

New Zealand vs India T20I Series Player Ratings – How we all saw the third umpire in the second T20I.

Ross Taylor: Spent so much of the tour putting out fires, which was on show in the second T20I. Got New Zealand to some sort of respectability in Auckland, but it wasn’t to be enough. All in all, a steady series. 6.5

Colin de Grandhomme: This man can hit a cricket ball. Got New Zealand out of a huge hole in Auckland, and then struck the ball nicely again in the final T20I. As de Grandhomme has played for RCB, Kane Williamson was wary of using him with the ball. 7

Mitchell Santner: Really miserly with the ball, going for just eight an over in three matches. Series figures of 4/72 in nine overs, on grounds that a 10-year old could hit boundaries on, is a fine return. 7

Scott Kuggeleijn: Men, women, children in the crowd, get out of the road. New Zealand gave Kuggeleijn three games, and conceded 103 in 9.5 overs with a solitary wicket. His highlight was a fine cameo of 20* off seven balls to get New Zealand over the 200 mark in the first T20I. 2

Tim Southee: A tough end to what was a fine series, but held his nerve to see New Zealand home in the decider. 7

Blair Tickner: Solid in his debut game in a decider. Picked up the prize wicket of Rishabh Pant when he was firing. A rating of six for his only game. 6

Ish Sodhi: Loves a wicket with a half-tracker, does Ish. Picked up three wickets for the series, but there is no doubt that Sodhi has not developed into the level of cricketer we thought he could be. 5

Lockie Ferguson: Proper wheels. 3/53 in eight overs, before he was rested for the third game. His dismissal of Shikhar Dhawan in the second T20I was the stuff of dreams for fast bowlers. 7.5

India

Rohit Sharma: Rohit as captain over Kohli won’t automatically mean big success, as some corners of Twitter will make you believe. Sharma would have been frustrated to get out to two pull shots, and even more so as he got two starts he was threatening to go on with. He struggled in the final T20I. Just couldn’t get going. 6.5

Shikhar Dhawan: We all remember Rahul Dravid leaving a message on Ajinkya Rahane’s bat. He also left one for Shikhar Dhawan. 5

New Zealand vs India T20I Series Player Ratings – “Trent Boult wasn’t even playing mate. Was expecting more runs.”

Vijay Shankar: A promising series from Shankar. If someone told me that Shankar would bat at three and bat well, I might have asked if they were drinking heavily. A solid series. 7

Rishabh Pant: Strike rate huge, and threatened to go massive in the third T20I. Deflating feeling for all fans when Pant was out to a filthy full toss in the third T20I. 7

Hardik Pandya: Sydney property prices are expensive. However, if it gets as expensive as Hardik Pandya this series, we are in trouble. 12 overs for 119 runs, with 25 runs with the bat. Always promising, but still hasn’t cracked the T20I format. 4

MS Dhoni: Whatever Dhoni does, you know you’re in for some entertainment on Twitter. Some corners of Twitter were harsh on him in the third T20I, but his series overall was steady. Absolutely superb behind the stumps. 6

Dinesh Karthik: All optometrists, you may have a new client in waiting. Karthik had reportedly mistaken Krunal Pandya for Jasprit Bumrah, hence denying a single in the final over of India’s huge chase in the third T20I. Jokes aside, he threatened to finish brilliantly for India again, showing some excellent hitting towards the end. He will not let the selectors forget about him. 5

New Zealand vs India T20I Series Player Ratings – Go easy on DK, guys.

Krunal Pandya: All India fans can be impressed with Krunal, despite a couple of tough outings with the ball. As was the case in Australia recently, he started the series shakily, but then improved. He nearly helped India get home with the bat. 6

Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Uncharacteristically expensive. He should be careful, otherwise RCB will come calling for future IPL editions. Was excellent in the second T20I. 5

Khaleel Ahmed: RCB will certainly be coming for Khaleel for future IPL editions. Excellent in the second T20I, but mighty expensive in the first and third games. 5

Yuzvendra Chahal: Left out of the third T20I after being expensive in his two outings. Not easy with grounds so short, but he made his point clear in the ODIs. 3

Kuldeep Yadav: Came in for the last T20I, and was superb. 2/26 off his four in a game where 200+ was scored is like Eden Hazard shining in a struggling Chelsea side at the moment. He gets an eight for his third match performance. 8

So, despite a series loss, it has been an excellent few months for India. Australia is up next at home in a five match ODI series.

For New Zealand, they will look to bounce back in ODIs as they host Bangladesh on Wednesday (13th).

Thanks for reading!

New Zealand vs India T20I Series Player Ratings. NZ vs IND T20I Player Ratings

New Zealand vs India 3rd T20I Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
New Zealand vs India 3rd T20I Preview Dream11

New Zealand vs India 3rd T20I Preview Dream11. NZ vs IND 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction

Decider. Yes. Competitive, close match? Much needed.

New Zealand were unable to seal the series in the second T20I, instead losing their sixth match in their last seven T20Is at Eden Park. They return to Hamilton where they won their only ODI of the recent demolition, and need a repeat of their first T20I effort against a side that bounced back strongly. The Black Caps fell short with the bat in the last game, and need more from the top order if they are to take the series. Can they find some joy in what’s been a challenging series for them?

Also read: MRF? SG? DSC? Which takes out top cricket of 2019?

For India, it has been a brilliant tour down under. It began all the way back in November vs Australia at the Gabba, losing their opening T20I but bouncing back to win the Tests and ODIs. They bounced back well in this series too, picking up a comfortable seven-wicket win at Eden Park on the back of an excellent bowling display. Can they put on a repeat in Hamilton to leave New Zealand with both series trophies in the bag?

Key to a New Zealand win

New Zealand’s batting was found wanting in the second T20I. They were unable to get the fast start that underpinned their success in Wellington, only showing spurts of dominance in the form of Colin de Grandhomme and Ross Taylor in the effort of getting New Zealand to a winning score. Yes, there was a howler against Daryl Mitchell last match, but the Black Caps desperately need more from their top four in this clash to win the series. Can Tim Seifert prove his Wellington heroics weren’t a one-off in this series? Will Colin Munro remind everyone of his potential? Can Kane Williamson go big? To win, New Zealand positive answers to these questions to have a platform set for their middle order to launch.

Also, with Lockie Ferguson rested for this match, will the other New Zealand bowlers step up? Scott Kuggleign, if picked, has to deliver with the ball for New Zealand. If the Black Caps can get the better of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan early, it will enable them to get into the game quicker and put pressure on India’s middle order. Tim Southee and expected debutant Blair Tickner will be crucial at the top, with Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi expected to keep it tight and take wickets. Will it be a good night for the Black Caps’ bowlers?

New Zealand vs India 3rd T20I Preview Dream11. NZ vs IND 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image Credit: Getty Images. New Zealand vs India 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 – Will Colin Munro fire?

Key to an India win

India were much improved with the ball in Auckland, which formed the basis of their series-leveling victory. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Khaleel Ahmed didn’t allow Colin Munro and Tim Seifert to get going early, expertly changing their pace and lengths to put the Black Caps’ batsmen off. The same is required in Hamilton – a ground where Colin Munro smashed an 18-ball half-century last year – with the Pandyas and Yuzvendra Chahal capable of providing excellent back up. Can the Indians force another rebuild job from the New Zealand middle order?

Also, the return to form of Rohit Sharma would have pleased India fans. He became the all-time leading run scorer in T20Is, going past Shoaib Malik and Martin Guptill, which again makes him a key for India, as always. If he and Shikhar Dhawan can outscore Seifert and Munro, India could very well be on their way, with the likes of Rishabh Pant and MS Dhoni waiting patiently in the wings to take advantage.

New Zealand vs India 3rd T20I Preview Dream11. NZ vs IND 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: AFP. New Zealand vs India 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 – India benefited from a howler of a decision, by they were excellent throughout.

Possible Playing 11

New Zealand have surprisingly left out James Neesham for the first two T20Is. With Scott Kuggleign conceding 66 in his 5.5 overs this series, the door might be opened for Neesham to make a return to the side to bolster New Zealand’s batting stocks. Also, Blair Tickner is expected to make his debut with Lockie Ferguson rested.

New Zealand: 1. Colin Munro, 2. Tim Seifert (wk), 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Daryl Mitchell, 5. Ross Taylor, 6. Colin de Grandhomme, 7. James Neesham/Scott Kuggleign, 8. Mitchell Santner, 9. Tim Southee, 10. Ish Sodhi, 11. Blair Tickner

India’s team management have spoken of continuity, which likely means they will stick with the same XI that won the second T20I. Of course, they could bring in Kuldeep Yadav, possibly for Dinesh Karthik.

India: 1. Rohit Sharma (c), 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Rishabh Pant, 4. Vijay Shankar, 5. MS Dhoni (wk), 6. Dinesh Karthik, 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Krunal Pandya, 9. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 10. Khaleel Ahmed, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal

Dream11 Prediction

New Zealand vs India 3rd T20I Preview Dream11. NZ vs IND 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction
New Zealand vs India 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction
  • Kane Williamson has a good record at Seddon Park, scoring 128 runs in four innings, with three not-outs, including a 72*. He looked excellent at Eden Park before getting out.
  • Ross Taylor, on the other hand, struggles at this ground, scoring just 47 runs in six matches.
  • Colin Munro hit an 18-ball 50 on this ground last year.
  • Rohit Sharma is coming off a strong 50, and is looking good for more runs in this format.
  • Krunal Pandya is coming off three wickets (MOM performance), and will be key against New Zealand’s middle order.
  • Debutant Blair Tickner has been excellent in recent domestic T20 matches, taking 11 wickets in his past five games.

Stats and Facts

  • India’s win at Eden Park was their first T20I win in New Zealand.
  • Rohit Sharma has hit 102 sixes in T20Is. Only Chris Gayle and Martin Guptill (both 103) have more.
  • India have not lost any of their past 10 bilateral T20I series.
  • New Zealand have won six of eight T20Is at Seddon Park.

Match Prediction

It has been a long tour of Australia and New Zealand for India, but they seemed to be holding up very well in Auckland.

I will back them to continue on from their excellent showing in Auckland to pick up a series win in Hamilton, on the back of another solid bowling effort.

Thanks for reading!

New Zealand vs India 3rd T20I Preview Dream11. NZ vs IND 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction

West Indies vs England 3rd Test Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
West Indies vs England 3rd Test Preview Dream11

West Indies vs England 3rd Test Preview Dream11. WI vs ENG 3rd Test Preview Dream11 Prediction

Let’s hold a minute silence for the death of “Total Cricket”.

Gone too soon, Total Cricket had all associated with England Cricket excited about the big year ahead. They were widely expected to beat West Indies, en route to big World Cup and Ashes campaigns, but it has been an awful start to 2019. They have been outfought, outclassed and outplayed in the first two Tests.

However, no credit can be taken away from West Indies. They have played their cricket with belief, energy and enthusiasm, completely blowing their opponents away to keep their strong home record against England intact. Jason Holder, controversially, and perhaps stupidly, is suspended from this Test, but a whitewash opportunity awaits. Can the Windies do it?

Key to a West Indies win

The Windies fast bowlers will be licking their lips, with the St. Lucia pitch expected to be the quickest of the series. Shannon Gabriel took a 13-wicket haul against Sri Lanka at the Darren Sammy Stadium last year, and he will be a key figure in the absence of Jason Holder. Alongside the in-form Kemar Roach, the Windies will be looking for more inroads into an England side looking to hit their way out of trouble. Can the brave Alzarri Joseph play another starring role? What about the man brought in for Jason Holder – either Keemo Paul or Oshane Thomas?

Also, the Windies batsmen displayed much more fight than their opponents in the second Test, willing to bat patiently in difficult conditions. More of the same is required from the top five in what could be challenging conditions again, with stand-in skipper Kraigg Brathwaite and last-game centurion Darren Bravo two key players in holding the innings together. Can the Windies keep England working in the field again? What platform can they set for the likes of Shimron Hetmyer and Roston Chase?

Key to an England win

Conditions have been challenging, but England’s lack of technique and fight has been alarming. While the Windies fought their way out of trouble, England looked to hit out of theirs, so much so that Jonny Bairstow admitted it in the second Test. The onus is on the batsmen to show more fight, and with Ben Foakes left out and Ben Stokes under an injury cloud, a big top order effort is crucial. Can they put aside white-ball technique and show some temperament?

Also, can England get an early shot and effectively target a Jason Holder-less West Indies middle order?  James Anderson and Stuart Broad posed honest questions throughout their long spells in Antigua, and will be key in making inroads at the top. However, what support can the change bowlers provide? Ben Stokes is under an injury cloud, which could mean Sam Curran gets another go, despite his underwhelming bowling this series. Can he deliver this time, along with the likes of Moeen Ali to keep the pressure on the Windies?

Possible Playing 11

Jason Holder is out for West Indies, with either Keemo Paul or Oshane Thomas said to be a chance to play. Kraigg Brathwaite will lead the side.

West Indies: 1. Kraigg Brathwaite (c), 2. John Campbell, 3. Darren Bravo, 4. Shai Hope, 5. Shimron Hetmyer, 6. Roston Chase, 7. Shane Dowrich (wk), 8. Keemo Paul/Oshane Thomas, 9. Alzarri Joseph, 10. Kemar Roach, 11. Shannon Gabriel

Ben Foakes has been dropped for England, and unbelievably, Keaton Jennings is set for a recall. He could bat at three, with Jonny Bairstow to move to five. Also, Ben Stokes is in doubt with a heel injury, in which Sam Curran could be picked. Mark Wood is also said to be in-line for a recall.

England: 1. Rory Burns, 2. Joe Denly, 3. Keaton Jennings, 4. Joe Root (c), 5. Jonny Bairstow (wk), 6. Ben Stokes/Sam Curran, 7. Jos Buttler, 8. Moeen Ali, 9. Stuart Broad, 10. Mark Wood, 11. James Anderson

Dream11 Prediction

West Indies vs England 3rd Test Preview Dream11 Prediction




Stats and Facts

  • This will be England’s first Test match at Darren Sammy Stadium in St. Lucia.
  • West Indies have kept alive their record of no series losses to England at home since 2004.
  • West Indies’ last whitewash of three matches or more came against England in 1985-86.

Match Prediction

No Jason Holder for the Windies, and England look a mess. However, I am umming and ahhing over this one, as it can go either way.

With Jason Holder missing, England have an opening, and I will pick them to finish the series off with a win. England to salvage pride and win.

Thanks for reading!

West Indies vs England 3rd Test Preview Dream11. WI vs ENG 3rd Test Preview Dream11 Prediction

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11. BRH vs MLS Preview Dream11 Prediction

It has taken a while, but the semi finals are nearly here. In fact, the Bangladesh Premier League, which began well after BBL08, hosts its final today between Dhaka Dynamites and Comilla Victorians. The BBL is still in its group stage, but we could be in for an exciting night.

Brisbane Heat, with two straight wins, still have the chance to qualify for the semi finals. Tonight is their final group game, and they have the opportunity to leapfrog into fourth position on the table, and put all the pressure on Sydney Thunder and Melbourne Stars in their final group games on Sunday. Can they back up their strong effort against Adelaide Strikers last Sunday?

Melbourne Stars remain the only side with two games left to play, and a win tonight confirms their passage into the finals. They were disappointing in their defeat to last placed Perth Scorchers last Sunday, which has left the door slightly open for the Heat to make an unexpected appearance in the top four right at the end of the group stage. Can the Stars hold their nerve against a side they have typically struggled against?

Key to a Brisbane Heat win

The Heat have been crying out for their middle order to step up in BBL08, and Matt Renshaw did just that in the last match against the Strikers. A criticism of the Brisbane side over the years has been their reliance on their top three to deliver, and not many could have predicted the Heat chasing 177 with Chris Lynn getting out for a duck. In another do-or-die clash, the Heat need contributions all the way down the order, with a strong start provided by the top order, especially Chris Lynn, who has been underwhelming of late. If a platform is set, the likes of Matt Renshaw, Alex Ross and Ben Cutting have it in them to pounce.

Also, can Josh Lalor continue his incredible form with the ball? He has 12 wickets in his last five games, including six in his last two, providing the Heat with crucial impetus in the powerplay, middle and death overs. He will be a key figure in trying to dismiss the in-form Marcus Stoinis at the top, which can get the Heat right into the contest, targeting a Stars’ middle order that has been a little up-and-down of late. Can the likes of Ben Cutting, Mitchell Swepson and Jack Prestwidge (if picked) deliver a fine bowling effort in a must-win game?

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11. BRH vs MLS Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image Credit: Getty Images. Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 – Can Matt Renshaw build on his huge game vs Adelaide Strikers?




Key to a Melbourne Stars win

The big threat for the Melbourne Stars heading into their game against the Scorchers on Sunday was beating themselves. Indeed, it proved to be the case, executing poorly in the death overs with the ball, then in the powerplay overs with the bat. Marcus Stoinis will be a huge key at the top, and has to deliver, but what support will he get? Can Ben Dunk deliver with greater consistency in this crucial part of the season? Will Peter Handscomb return to form in white-ball cricket after three low scores in his past four games? And, perhaps crucially, can Glenn Maxwell dominate as he showed in stages of his fine knock in Perth? The Heat’s best chance is to put the pressure on the Stars through wickets in the powerplay. So, a strong start from the top four might make it too difficult for the Heat attack to bounce back.

Also read: MRF, SG or DSC? Which cricket bat reigns supreme in 2019?

Also, can the Stars’ bowlers get the better of the Heat top order? They are boosted by the return of Sandeep Lamichhane from BPL duties, and he will be a crucial figure. Jackson Bird was good with the ball in Perth, but all-rounders Stoinis and Dwayne Bravo weren’t, which is something they must rectify for tonight’s clash. Bravo in particular has underwhelmed a little, and now is the time for him to deliver as the Stars know he can, alongside the likes of Stoinis and Adam Zampa to deliver regular wickets. With Matt Renshaw and Alex Ross in good form for the Heat, only focusing on the top three is dangerous from the Stars. Can they deliver a consistent bowling effort right throughout the innings?

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11. BRH vs MLS Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image Credit: Getty Images. Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 – Can Marcus Stoinis deliver?

Possible Playing 11

Brendon McCullum will play his last regular-season game for Brisbane Heat, after announcing his retirement. Brendan Doggett returns to the squad in place of Sam Heazlett, and it remains to be seen whether the Heat persist with Ben Cutting at the top of the order after two low scores.

Brisbane Heat Possible Playing 11: 1. Max Bryant, 2. Brendon McCullum, 3. Chris Lynn (c), 4. Matt Renshaw, 5. Alex Ross, 6. Ben Cutting, 7. Jimmy Peirson (wk), 8. Jack Prestwidge, 9. Josh Lalor, 10. Mitchell Swepson, 11 Matthew Kuhnemann/Brendan Doggett

As mentioned, Sandeep Lamichhane returns for the Stars. He comes into the squad for Liam Plunkett, who will soon join the England squad for the ODI series in West Indies.

Melbourne Stars Possible Playing 11: 1. Ben Dunk, 2. Marcus Stoinis, 3. Peter Handscomb (wk), 4. Glenn Maxwell (c), 5. Nic Maddinson, 6. Dwayne Bravo, 7. Evan Gulbis/Seb Gotch, 8. Adam Zampa, 9. Sandeep Lamichhane, 10. Jackson Bird, 11. Dan Worrall

Dream11 Prediction

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11. BRH vs MLS Preview Dream11 Prediction
Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11

Also read: MRF, SG or DSC? Which cricket bat reigns supreme in 2019?

Stats and Facts

  • Melbourne Stars successfully defended 134 against Brisbane Heat earlier this season.
  • This will be Brendon McCullum’s final game for the Heat at the Gabba.
  • Brisbane Heat have won six of nine matches against Melbourne Stars.

Match Prediction

Tough one to pick with the Heat possessing a strong record against Stars.

However, the Stars just have that extra bit of class that can get them over the line. Stars to win.

Thanks for reading!

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11. BRH vs MLS Preview Dream11 Prediction

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11. BRH vs MLS Preview Dream11 Prediction

New Zealand vs India 2nd T20I Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
New Zealand vs India 2nd T20I Preview Dream11

New Zealand vs India 2nd T20I Preview Dream11. NZ vs IND Dream11 Prediction

India’s tour of New Zealand continues to deliver surprises. Not many could have predicted a 4-1 ODI series result, and similarly, not many could have expected such a one-sided drubbing in the opening T20I. However, what this tour hasn’t delivered is close contests, and with India a side that can bounce back, the full house at Auckland could be treated to a night out on what is a typically very high scoring ground due to its small dimensions.

New Zealand, before this series, had been average in T20Is in recent times. That went out the window in Wellington, completely dominating the second ranked side from start to finish, putting on a complete display according to skipper Kane Williamson. Tim Seifert put on his best display in a New Zealand shirt, and the Black Caps never looked back from that point, not allowing India to get a sniff.

India indeed had a night to forget, and have the chance to bounce back less than 48 hours later. While everything went right for New Zealand, nothing did for Rohit Sharma, watching the ball fly over the place in the field and then getting dismissed early himself. They have had an excellent time in Australia and New Zealand to date, and will want to keep the winning feeling going to finish on a high. Can they bounce back?

Key to a New Zealand win

Can we just say “repeat of the first T20I”?

However, it is easier said than done to repeat such a performance. But, the template for victory has been set, putting the pressure right on India in the powerplay, and then building from it. The challenge for Tim Seifert will be to back up his amazing effort with another, along with Colin Munro who is in love with this format. If those two can deliver again, the likes of Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, Colin de Grandhomme and Scott Kuggelejin (if picked) can launch against an Indian attack that has to bounce back quickly.

Also, can the Black Caps dominate with the ball in the powerplay too? Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan were both dismissed within the first six overs in Wellington, placing pressure on those coming in with a huge total to chase. The key for New Zealand in Auckland would be to limit boundaries down the ground early, and get at least one of the big two early to build pressure on a middle order that struggled for some fluency. Can the likes of Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson and Mitchell Santner back up their brilliant displays from Wednesday?

New Zealand vs India 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 NZ vs IND Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: ICC. New Zealand vs India 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 – Will Tim Seifert deliver again?

Key to an India win

India’s bowling attack in Wellington didn’t deliver, and one key to victory is making the appropriate changes to the bowling attack to enable greater control. However, more is required from the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Hardik Pandya, who were both taken to the cleaners in the opening T20I. With Khaleel Ahmed struggling in recent times, India need to find a formula to pick up wickets in the powerplay, and that could be introducing spin early to make Tim Seifert and Colin Munro force the pace. Can the Indians pick up early wickets and force New Zealand to rebuild, just as Sri Lanka did at Eden Park a few weeks back?

Also, India haven’t had a strong partnership from Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma since the second ODI, and now will be a good time given the series is on the line. Sharma in particular would have been disappointed to get out to his favourite pull shot in Wellington, so significant onus is on the Indian skipper to deliver. Eden Park in Auckland can see runs flow uncontrollably, and if these two can fire at the top, the likes of Rishabh Pant, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya can cause further damage. Can the Indians return the favour and level the series?

New Zealand vs India 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 NZ vs IND Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: AP. New Zealand vs India 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 – Can Rohit Sharma deliver for India?

Possible Playing 11

New Zealand could look to bring in Jimmy Neesham. Colin de Grandhomme could possibly be the one to miss out, with Scott Kuggeleijn’s power hitting at the end something New Zealand might opt for again.

New Zealand Possible Playing 11: 1. Colin Munro, 2. Tim Seifert (wk), 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Darryl Mitchell, 6. Colin de Grandhomme/Jimmy Neesham, 7. Mitchell Santner, 8. Scott Kuggeleijn, 9. Tim Southee, 10. Ish Sodhi, 11. Lockie Ferguson

It’s anyone’s guess as to the lineup India will go for. They should look to go in with both their wristspinners in this one, with Khaleel Ahmed, Siddarth Kaul and Mohammad Siraj potentially very expensive options on the small Eden Park ground.

India Possible Playing 11: 1. Rohit Sharma (c), 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Vijay Shankar, 4. Rishabh Pant, 5. Dinesh Karthik, 6. MS Dhoni (wk), 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Krunal Pandya/Siddarth Kaul, 9. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 10. Kuldeep Yadav, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal

Dream11 Prediction

New Zealand vs India 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 NZ vs IND Dream11 Prediction
New Zealand vs India 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction




Stats and Facts

  • India have suffered two huge defeats in the last three games on this tour.
  • New Zealand have a 7-2 record vs India in T20Is.
  • Yuzvendra Chahal needs three wickets to equal Jasprit Bumrah’s 48 in T20Is. Bumrah is only behind R Ashwin (52).
  • New Zealand have lost five of their last six T20Is at Eden Park, beating Sri Lanka recently after being 55/5 after 10 overs.
https://cricblog.net/promote-your-work-with-cricblog/

Match Prediction

New Zealand love playing against India in T20Is, and it showed in Wellington.

This one can come down to who wins the powerplay period. Can India bounce back? It will be a hard ask with New Zealand putting on a show in Wellington, but I back India to bounce back well given New Zealand have struggled a little at Eden Park in recent times in T20Is.

India to level the series.

Thanks for reading!

New Zealand vs India 2nd T20I Preview Dream11 NZ vs IND Dream11 Prediction




New Zealand vs India 2nd T20I Preview Dream11. NZ vs IND Dream11 Prediction

Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11

Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11

Remember BBL08?

You may have forgotten, but the tournament is still in progress after a few days off. A potentially excellent game is in-store with two of the top three sides going head-to-head, and in a tournament that needs a strong finish, this game can set the tone.

Hobart Hurricanes have hit a bit of a lean patch, losing two of their past three matches. The two defeats have come from an inability to defend totals in the region of 170, worryingly thrashed against Sydney Sixers and Adelaide Strikers respectively. With the tournament now in its business end, the Hurricanes can ill-afford another disappointing performance with momentum key at this stage of the season.

Melbourne Renegades, on the other hand, are on a good run of wins. Their batting still remains a concern, but their bowlers have been excellent in delivering victory to have them sitting in third position. Against a side that prides itself on its batting, an interesting battle awaits between the Renegades’ bowlers and Hurricanes’ batsmen. Will the Renegades beat the Hurricanes for the second time this season?

Key to a Hobart Hurricanes win

Significant onus is on the Hurricanes bowlers after a couple of underwhelming outings in recent times. James Faulkner, their leading wicket taker, will be missing from this one for injury precaution reasons, putting more of the spotlight on Jofra Archer who has only threatened to hit his best form in BBL08. The return of Riley Meredith, though, is a boost for the Hurricanes, who needs to partner well with Archer to make inroads into a Renegades top order that has shown tendencies to lose quick wickets in BBL08. Can the seamers set things up nicely for the spinners to come in and build pressure on the Renegades?

Also, can the top order deliver against a bogey side? The Hurricanes’ top three were out in quick time in their previous match against the Renegades, and with the top order still in excellent form, a strong powerplay is crucial. Of course, D’Arcy Short and Matthew Wade will be vital up top, but also the likes of Ben McDermott and George Bailey, with one of them needing to be at the crease in the final overs to enable a much stronger finish than in the Hurricanes’ last match against the Strikers.

Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11
Image credit: Getty Images. Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11 – Will Wade and Short get the better of the Renegades’ attack?

Key to a Melbourne Renegades win

Can the Renegades’ batting deliver? Marcus Harris returns after a poor second Test against Sri Lanka, and he and Aaron Finch will be key in turning up the heat on a Hurricanes attack that has been under-par in recent matches. The absence of James Faulkner is something the Renegades can take advantage of, and with Finch in particular threatening to find top gear, tonight is a good night to deliver with a top two spot in reach. Despite it being a difficult pitch against the Thunder last game, the Renegades’ batting was off-colour. Can they set a strong platform for the likes of Daniel Christian, Mohammad Nabi and last-game hero Cameron Boyce to launch?

Also, there is plenty of excitement regarding the Renegades’ attack, and rightly so. After dismantling Perth Scorchers for 79, they swept aside Sydney Thunder in a crunch game, with anyone who steps up to the bowling crease capable of taking wickets. The likes of Kane Richardson, Chris Tremain and Mohammad Nabi will be crucial in the powerplay overs against the Hurricanes’ strong opening pair, and coming out on top in this period can go a long way to victory. With the likes of Daniel Christian, Harry Gurney and Cameron Boyce to follow, the Renegades will believe they have the resources to pick up regular wickets. Will it be their night?

Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11
Image Credit: Getty Images. Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11 – Will Aaron Finch deliver?

Possible Playing 11

As mentioned, James Faulkner is out as a precaution to get his knee right for the finals. Afghanistan teenager Qais Ahmad is in the squad, and could play. Also, Alex Doolan could be included if the Hurricanes feel they need more batting cover.

Hobart Hurricanes Possible Playing 11: 1. Matthew Wade (c & wk), 2. D’Arcy Short, 3. Caleb Jewell, 4. Ben McDermott, 5. George Bailey, 6. Simon Milenko, 7. Jofra Archer, 8. David Moody, 9. Clive Rose, 10. Qais Ahmad/Tom Rogers, 11. Riley Meredith

Marcus Harris returns and should slot in as opener alongside Aaron Finch. Also, Jack Wildermuth could come in for Beau Webster, who has been left out of the squad.

Melbourne Renegades Possible Playing 11: 1. Aaron Finch (c), 2. Marcus Harris, 3. Sam Harper (wk), 4. Tom Cooper, 5. Mohammad Nabi, 6. Daniel Christian, 7. Jack Wildermuth, 8. Cameron Boyce, 9. Kane Richardson, 10. Chris Tremain, 11. Harry Gurney

Dream11 Prediction

Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11 Prediction
  • Key exclusion: D’Arcy Short. He has scored of 18, 34 and 2 vs Melbourne Renegades. It is a side he has struggled against.




Stats and Facts

  • Hobart Hurricanes sponsor Tassal has pledged a $1,000 contribution for every six hit throughout the match. This is to raise money for the Tasmanian Bush Fire Appeal as the state has been affected in recent times.
  • Melbourne Renegades have won six of the last seven matches against Hobart Hurricanes.
  • Ben McDermott has a century and fifty vs Renegades.
  • Kane Richardson has the most wickets in BBL08 with 22.

Match Prediction

Melbourne Renegades have the wood over Hobart Hurricanes, as their previous meeting showed.

I predict the Renegades will win on the back of a solid bowling effort, and continue their fine record against the Hurricanes.

Thanks for reading!




Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11

South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd T20I Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd T20I Preview Dream11

South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd T20I Preview Dream11

By Abdul Shakoor: @AbduShakoor_

Surprise! Surprise!

A dead rubber… in T20Is… with Pakistan on the other side of the table. They certainly had become a fine T20 side, without scoring too much runs, but rather relying on their bowling. The fall of Pakistan in this series has been poor finishing but on top of that poor bowling, usually their strong zone. In first T20I, they conceded too many runs in the first part of the innings and the opposite occurred in the second T20I. Usman Shinwari broke a record for the wrong reason, giving away 29 in the last match, conceding the most runs in a T20I by a Pakistani bowler.

For South Africa, this has been a fine series win. They have built confidence by holding their nerve against the number one ranked side, in the process sweeping all three formats. Their death bowling with Chris Morris and Andile Phehlukwayo has been strong to restrict Pakistan from finishing off well, along with the powerful return to form of David Miller. Will they sweep the series 3-0?

Key to a Pakistan win

Babar Azam has been the backbone of Pakistan’s batting this series, and will be key again. In the last match, he started his innings with three consecutive fours and did that three more times. Some of his shots were the real definition of class, which were so good to watch. However, it makes you wonder how Pakistan lost that after such a good start by him, which puts onus on the others to contribute more in the final game of the series. Can the likes of Fakhar Zaman, Hussain Talat and Shoaib Malik deliver?

Also, Imad Wasim has been economical and has applied pressure to the Proteas’ batsmen with his tight lines. Like Babar with the bat, Imad will be key to give Pakistan a good powerplay. Apart from him, Shaheen really bowled well in the Powerplay too, and will be key as part of a cohesive bowling effort Pakistan must display. It’s the middle and death overs bowling that has to improve, with Shadab Khan a player who should step up in addition to his fielding heroics in the match.

South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd T20I Preview Dream11: Can Babar Azam fire again?

Key to a South Africa win

South Africa’s batting fired beautifully in Johannesburg, smashing Pakistan’s bowlers to all parts. Changes can be expected as part of experimentation, but whoever occupies the top positions need to ensure a platform is set for the dangerous David Miller. Reeza Hendricks has been in fine touch, and so too Rassie van der Dussen, which South Africa will be hoping for more of the same.

Also, although their opening bowlers are struggling a bit and Shamsi struggled too in the second T20I, Andile Phehlukwayo and Chris Morris have been superb at the death. What South Africa will want is to win the powerplay and middle over periods to stifle Pakistan through spin. Right arm quick Lutho Simpala encouraged plenty in his debut T20I, and will be key again. Indeed, a massive key to this will be the prized wicket of Babar Azam. Will the Proteas hold their nerve again?

South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd T20I Preview Dream11
South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd T20I Preview Dream11 – David Miller bounced back brilliant in the 2nd T20I.

Possible Playing 11

Expect Wiaan Mulder to debut, as all players from the South Africa squad were promised a game. It remains to be seen whether the Proteas choose to go with all their all-rounders.

South Africa Possible Playing 11: 1. Reeza Hendricks, 2.
Jaaneman Malan, 3. Rassie van der Dussen, 4. David Miller (c), 5. Heinrich Klaasen (wk), 6. Gihahn Cloete/Andile Phuhlekwayo, 7. Wiaan Mulder, 8. Chris Morris, 9. Lutho Sipamla, 10. Beuran Hendricks, 11. Tabraiz Shamsi

Pakistan probably have most of their focus on the upcoming PSL. For this game, they might make changes to their stuttering bowling attack.

Pakistan Possible Playing 11: 1. Babar Azam, 2. Fakhar Zaman 3. Hussain Talat 4. Shoaib Malik (c) 5. Asif Ali 6. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 7. Imad Wasim, 8. Shadab Khan, 9. Mohammad Amir, 10. Hasan Ali, 11. Shaheen Shah Afridi

Charbel Coorey’s Dream11 Prediction

South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd T20I Preview Dream11

Stats and Facts

  • Shoaib Malik needs 28 runs to surpass Martin Guptill to become all-time leading run scorer in T20Is.
  • Babar Azam has a whooping average of 55.19 in T20Is. That is the best average for any player with at least 20 innings in the format.
  • This is Pakistan’s first series loss in T20Is in their last 12 attempts.

Match Prediction

Pakistan rightly entered this series confident of victory.

However, they have lost the key moments, and with little to play for, they could lose again. South Africa to win and take the series 3-0.

Thanks for reading!

New Zealand vs India 1st T20I Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
New Zealand vs India 1st T20I Preview Dream11

New Zealand vs India 1st T20I Preview Dream11

New Zealand have won just two of their past seven bilateral T20I series. India have not lost any of their last 10. That might be enough to suggest which way this series will go, but as the ODI series showed, anything is possible.

New Zealand will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing ODI series. Not many could have expected a 4-1 loss, but pushing India all the way should be expected of a New Zealand side still possessing plenty of talent. The Black Caps are ranked 6th in T20I cricket – their lowest ranking of any of the three formats – and now is an opportunity against good opposition to begin preparing well for World T20 2020.

India have had an excellent few months. Back-to-back tours of Australia and New Zealand can take a lot out of you, but India have won a Test and two ODI series in a row to have confidence sky high. The core of their ODI side remains for the T20Is, but have to be aware of the danger New Zealand possess in this format. Will India continue their winning ways?

Key to a New Zealand win

Colin Munro returns to his favourite format after another underwhelming ODI series. With Martin Guptill out injured, Munro has a crucial role to play at the top for New Zealand, as he possesses the ability to take the game away from the opposition in this format. Him firing will reduce the pressure on the likes of Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor, who were effectively openers in the ODI series, and then allows the likes of Jimmy Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme and Doug Bracewell to launch with wickets in hand.

Also, can the seamers extract the kind of movement Trent Boult was able to in the ODIs? Tim Southee, whilst under-par in white-ball cricket in recent times, could be a key selection for New Zealand in getting the ball to swing early. The Indians struggled with the moving ball in the last two ODIs, and this is something the Black Caps need to try exploit in the powerplay overs. Can they get the better of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan? What pressure can the spinners build? Will New Zealand improve their death bowling? To win, New Zealand have to be efficient with the ball at all stages of the innings.

Also read: Light-hearted New Zealand vs India ODI Series Player Ratings!

New Zealand vs India 1st T20I Preview Dream11
Image Credit: Getty Images. New Zealand vs India 1st T20I Preview Dream11 – Will Colin Munro fire in his favourite format?

Key to an India win

Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan finished the ODI series in underwhelming fashion, but both will be pleased to see the back of Trent Boult. The absence of KL Rahul and Virat Kohli in particular places onus on the openers to deliver a strong start, with India possessing an exciting middle order that can cause damage. With Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya dangerous players, along with Dinesh Karthik and MS Dhoni who have showed good form in recent times, a strong platform will set India up perfectly.

Also, can India overcome New Zealand in the powerplay? Colin Munro is a key wicket at this stage, which can stunt New Zealand’s early progress, putting extra pressure on the likes of Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor as the Indians did in the ODIs. With New Zealand possessing a dangerous middle order, the best recipe for success for India is to force them to rebuild a little. Can Bhuvneshwar Kumar deliver at the top? Will Khaleel Ahmed back him up? What can the spinners deliver?

New Zealand vs India 1st T20I Preview Dream11
New Zealand vs India 1st T20I Preview Dream11 – How will India go without Virat Kohli?

Possible Playing 11

Kane Williamson will likely open for New Zealand. Also, the Black Caps have some choices to make in the bowling department. Tim Southee, who has eight wickets in four matches at Westpac Stadium, is a good chance of playing, especially after skipper Williamson backed him in white-ball cricket.

New Zealand Possible Playing 11: 1. Kane Williamson (c), 2. Colin Munro, 3. Tim Seifert (wk), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. James Neesham, 6. Colin de Grandhomme, 7. Mitchell Santner, 8. Scott Kuggeleijn, 9. Doug Bracewell, 10. Tim Southee, 11. Lockie Ferguson

India also have some choices to make. Does Krunal Pandya make the side? If so, over who? Will Shubman Gill get a chance to express himself after a tough time in the ODIs? Also, will India play both wristspinners?

India Possible Playing 11: 1. Rohit Sharma (c), 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Shubman Gill, 4. Rishabh Pant, 5. Dinesh Karthik, 6. MS Dhoni (wk), 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Krunal Pandya/Kedar Jadhav, 9. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 10. Khaleel Ahmed, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal/Kuldeep Yadav

Dream11 Prediction

New Zealand vs India 1st T20I Preview Dream11

Stats and Facts

  • India have never won a T20I in New Zealand (two losses in three matches).
  • Kane Williamson has opened in 27 of his 54 T20Is, averaging 38.52. He has an overall average of 31.64.
  • India have only lost one of 12 T20Is under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy.
  • Colin Munro has the second most T20I centuries (three), one behind Rohit Sharma.

Match Prediction

Should be an exciting clash to kick off a series that should be full of fireworks.

I give New Zealand a big chance in this one, but with Trent Boult and Matt Henry missing, India’s batsmen might have a fine night out. India to win and take a 1-0 lead.

Thanks for reading!

New Zealand vs India 1st T20I Preview Dream11

Australia vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test Player Ratings

Charbel Coorey
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0
Australia vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test Player Ratings

Australia vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test Player Ratings

Cricket is a game of the unexpected. It is what helps make it so exciting, keeping us on the edge of the our seat as to what can happen next.

However, the Canberra Test between Australia and Sri Lanka was predictable that any fan who didn’t catch any of the game could have explained it with ease (well, maybe not Mitchell Starc taking top order wickets again). Australia, who didn’t win a single series in any format for nearly a year, swept Sri Lanka aside with such ease that the Aussie media believes they are Ashes contenders simply because of this win.

No.

Australia are contenders because England are not without their own issues. Of course, England, while awful in West Indies, will be a big test for Australia, who need to guard against losing early wickets as was on display all summer.

Australia vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test Player Ratings: “All of a sudden”… Thanks Sydney Daily Telegraph.

For Sri Lanka, where do we start? They came into this series dreaming they could knock over Australia down under. After two very one-sided Tests, that is likely to remain a dream for many years to come. Sri Lanka instiled more confidence into Australian players than Australian coaches could have in the last 11 months. That they lost all three of their first Test seamers didn’t help, but when you realise they lost that Test by an innings, Sri Lankan fans will be right to wonder where on earth their next victory outside Asia will come from. To all the Twitter users, go easy on the Sri Lanka fans. It is a difficult time.

Australia vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test Player Ratings: Joe Burns’ hairstyle still compares well to Sri Lanka’s batting.

In this article, I will rate each player in the second Test out of ten. As always, it is a light hearted review of the action gone by!

Also read: Light-hearted New Zealand vs India ODI Series Player Ratings!

Australia

Marcus Harris: England are reportedly keen on trying to bring another foreigner into their team. This time it’s Marcus Harris, who caught the eyes England selectors with his tendency to play ODI shots early in a Test innings. Harris seems to have a complete inability to leave the ball. For me, he doesn’t make the first Ashes XI. 2

Joe Burns: Got through Australia’s awful start on the first morning, and then filled his boots. England could pick a few weaknesses such as Burns’ tendency to bring his back leg around and square up. Nonetheless, this was a strong return to the Test side. 8.5

Usman Khawaja: No Test century is an easy one, but let’s be honest, it was very close to “easy” for Khawaja in the second dig. He sure needed it after a first innings shot so bad I’d rather watch ‘Married at First Sight’ than look at that shot again. Khawaja probably makes the XI for the first Ashes Test, and Australia will need him at his best after a difficult summer. 7

Marnus Labuschagne: It takes more of an effort to fail against such an inexperienced attack than to score. Got a decent ball in the first innings, but regarding Marnus’ second innings shot, you’d see less flirting in a bar. Bowled pretty well when called on, picking two wickets for the game. 3.5

Travis Head: Dominant. Promised in his last series against India, and filled his boots against Sri Lanka. 10

Kurtis Patterson: “Lahiru Thirimanne is my new favourite cricketer”, said a very excited Kurtis Patterson after the match. Thirimanne dropped a sitter at short leg off Patterson’s first ball. He then made the Sri Lankans pay with a blistering century, filled with incredible timing. 9

Tim Paine: If picking the fielder was an Olympic Sport, Tim Paine’s room would be full of Gold Medals. He did play well to grind Sri Lanka down further, even declaring before reaching his own half century. Given how Sri Lanka batted, he is now even more gratfeul that Cheteshwar Pujara is long gone. 7.5

West Indies vs England 1st Test Player Ratings
Image credit: Getty Images. Australia vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test Player Ratings – It was a chill series for Tim Paine.

Pat Cummins: Deserved man of the series. Pat Cummins threatened the Sri Lankans constantly with the ball, bowling an excellent mix of short and fuller lengths. 8

Mitchell Starc: Tougher opposition awaits, but it was great to see Mitchell Starc bowling with good pace. Touched 150km/h on numerous occasions. Finished a difficult summer with a ten-for. 10

Jhye Richardson: Dhananjaya de Silva’s “softer than soft serve ice cream” second innings dismissal saved Jhye Richardson from going wicketless in a game where Marnus Labuschagne took two wickets in five overs. Richardson wasn’t as good as he was on debut, but has the ability to constantly ask questions. 4

Nathan Lyon: Little expensive in the second innings, but he was never really needed to make a big impact. Bowled the house down against India, and then added two Tests that lasted six days to his career appearances. 6

Sri Lanka

Dimuth Karunaratne: Huge concern after getting hit by a Pat Cummins delivery. Thankfully, he was OK. His first innings half century was an excellent knock that Sri Lanka and Karunaratne would have been disappointed by how it ended. Sick of the sight of Mitch Starc, is Dimuth. 6

Lahiru Thirimanne: Unconverted start. Unconverted start. Wouldn’t have been out of place in the Australian side in the recent series against India. In fact, he would have fitted in really well. Dropped a sitter against Patterson. 6

Dinesh Chandimal: Squared Up, the company who decided to sponsor Chandimal in the first Test, had no regrets about their decision. Mitchell Starc outscored Dinesh Chandimal in this series. And Starc only batted once. It’s the stuff of horror stories. Says Sri Lanka will bounce back in South Africa. I say good luck. 1

Australia vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test Player Ratings: Tough going for Chandimal…

Kusal Mendis: Another disappointment from Sri Lanka’s nightmare series. Played well in the second innings, but the game was all but gone. His shot to get out suggested the same. Awful stuff. 4

Niroshan Dickwella: An absolute 10 for his sledging. I laughed. So did Usman Khawaja. The Marsh boys, not quite. For his two 20s, and standing behind the stumps as Sri Lanka bowled fruit and dropped catches, he gets an average rating. 5

Dhananjaya de Silva: Previously mentioned that de Silva’s second innings dismissal is softer than soft serve ice cream. However, that is unfair…

… on the ice cream. Also hit wicket in the first innings. One to forget. 4

Kusal Perera: Like Karunaratne, all are pleased to see Perera OK after getting hit by a bouncer. Australia had two men out in the deep in the second innings, and Perera hung back, edging a half volley through to the keeper. A tough lesson about the challenges of Test cricket. 4

Chamika Karunaratne: Started beautifully on debut, but that is where the joy ended. 3

Dilruwan Perera: It’s not quite the game to have pictured and framed on your bedroom wall when Dhananjaya de Silva found more turn than you. Not a single wicket in 47 overs. 2

Kasun Rajitha: Good in patches, very expensive on most occasions. 3

Vishwa Fernando: Again, good in patches, expensive mostly. Started brilliantly, swinging the ball nicely, but faded away. Sydney property prices are expensive, but if they reach Sri Lankan bowling level expensive, then we are officially screwed. 3

So, a second very easy win for Australia to end a tough season on a high.

For Sri Lanka, it doesn’t get easier as they go to South Africa for two Tests.

Thanks for reading!

Australia vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test Player Ratings

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