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Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11

Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11

In a bit of Friday/Weekend fun, India now begin their warm ups for the New Zealand ODIs, with the first of three matches against Australia.

In all seriousness, both sides are a world apart now in ODI Cricket, and it will take something incredible to see India leave Australia without a series win in the ODIs, either.

Australia have rung in the changes, apart from their kit. Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins are still recovering from the sight of Cheteshwar Pujara, sending down a combined 436 overs in total in the Test Series. The selectors have made also clear that BBL form counts for little on the batting front, and with a World Cup fast approaching, this is a huge opportunity for those in the squad to book their seat to England. Can they give India a headache or two?

India now turn their focus to ODI Cricket after their first ever Test Series triumph down under. Backed by a world class top three and experienced attack, India have the ingredients to cause Australia further misery. The absence of Jasprit Bumrah is indeed respite for Australia, but this Indian side will be keen to reverse their 4-1 drubbing the last time they played ODIs in Australia. Will Virat Kohli’s men enjoy further success on this tour?

Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction: Can Australia fight back after a tough Test series?

Key to an Australia win

Can Australia’s top three compete at all with India’s? Aaron Finch, Alex Carey and Usman Khawaja have a big task in adjusting quickly, with Carey new as Australian opener and Khawaja just recalled. The loss of early wickets, like in their series against South Africa, spells trouble, given the likes of Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis must be given the freedom of a good platform to launch. With accumulators such as Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb finishing off the top five, Australia can ill-afford having Stoinis and Maxwell doing rebuilding work especially against India’s spinners who thrive on wickets in the middle overs.

And, can Australia’s new look attack get the better of India’s top order? One weakness of India’s in ODI Cricket over the past year or so has been the lack of fluency of their middle order, so Australia need to try have a shot at it as quickly as possible. That task is very much easier said than done, but Jason Behrendhorff is a player Australia can hope to get the better of Rohit Sharma, who can sometimes struggle against left-arm bowling. Can the likes of Jhye Richardson and Peter Siddle (recalled after eight years), put pressure on India’s lineup?

Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction: Australia will wear a retro kit. Will it be a retro performance? Image source: Cricket Australia

Key to an India win

India’s top three has the potential to knock Australia out of the contest, but it is not a given. Australia’s bowlers are all effort bowlers, and Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan will have to guard against any possible movement early. However, a fast start can have the doubts creep in for Australia, in a time where confidence is low. With the great Virat Kohli at three, India can hope for a big start, giving the middle order a chance to launch at the back end. Can the likes of Kedar Jadhav and MS Dhoni also deliver when needed?

Also, Hardik Pandya is likely to be suspended for two games after controversial comments on a TV show, which will mean Yuzvendra Chahal might miss out. However, with Kuldeep Yadav causing Australia problems in the Tests, the onus is on the seamers to keep the pressure on Australia’s top order so Kuldeep and Ravindra Jadeja, if picked, can continue putting the squeeze on Australia in those all important middle overs.

You feel if India’s top order fires, backed by outplaying Australia in the middle overs, they’ll win easily.

Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction: Virat Kohli will be key for India. Image credit: AP

Possible Playing 11

Changes galore for Australia. Alex Carey will open with Aaron Finch, with Usman Khawaja to bat three. Adam Zampa is likely to miss out, with Nathan Lyon to get a run. Mitchell Marsh is out with illness, and Peter Siddle is set to play his first ODI since 2010.

Australia Possible Playing 11: 1. Aaron Finch (c), 2. Alex Carey (wk), 3. Usman Khawaja, 4. Shaun Marsh, 5. Peter Handscomb, 6. Marcus Stoinis, 7. Glenn Maxwell, 8. Peter Siddle, 9. Jhye Richardson, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Jason Behrendhorff

India look more settled, but Hardik Pandya is set to miss out after controversy. This will likely mean Ravindra Jadeja plays to provide India with greater batting cover down the order, with Yuzvendra Chahal continuing to be the unlucky one to miss out.

India Possible Playing 11: 1. Shikhar Dhawan, 2. Rohit Sharma, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. Ambati Rayudu, 5. MS Dhoni (wk), 6. Kedar Jadhav, 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 9. Mohammed Shami, 10. Kuldeep Yadav, 11. Khaleel Ahmed

Dream11 Prediction

Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
  • Alex Carey is set to open for Australia, and MS Dhoni will bat behind a fine top order.
  • Virat Kohli has a substandard record at SCG in ODIs, scoring just 33 runs in four matches. However, he is the world’s best ODI batsman, and can be backed to do well anywhere.
  • The battle between Jason Behrendhorff and Rohit Sharma will be significant. Sharma averages 50 at the SCG in four matches.
  • Shaun Marsh, despite his Test struggles, had a superb 2018 in ODIs. He scored 416 runs at 59.42, with a strike rate of 101.96.
  • Bhuvneshwar Kumar misses out due to lack of cricket in recent times, plus average ODI record against Australia, with eight wickets in 12 ODIs at 64.37.
  • Kuldeep is one of the premier ODI bowlers, and will likely find some turn on the SCG surface.

Enjoy a laugh! Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings.

Pitch and conditions

There has been rain around in Sydney in the past week, but conditions will be great for cricket on Saturday. Low 30s with no chance of rain. The pitch is expected to be good for batting.

Stats and Facts

  • Australia have won just three of their past 24 ODIs.
  • Head to head at SCG: Australia 13 India 2.
  • Shikhar Dhawan needs 65 runs for 5,000 in ODIs.
  • India have won nine of their last 10 ODI assignments (including Asia Cup 2018).

Match Prediction

Australia have players on paper who can deliver moments of excellence, but India have more sustained excellence about them.

India to win and take a 1-0 series lead.

Thanks for reading!

Australia vs India 1st ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction

Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11

Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11

Two top four contenders. Two sides that can light up the BBL on their day. But, both sides are impacted by Australian ODI duty. Who will deliver in an important game?

Adelaide Strikers won’t have Alex Carey, Peter Siddle or Billy Stanlake available for this clash. However, they welcome back skipper Travis Head. Head’s ommission from the Australian ODI squad is to the Strikers’ benefit, with the Test batsman crucial to Adelaide’s successful BBL07 campaign. Can he help deliver an important win for a Strikers side that still possesses quality?

Melbourne Stars struggled in their last outing against Perth Scorchers, clearly missing Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell and Adam Zampa. These three will be missing for at least the game against Hobart Hurricanes mid next week, which makes this clash a crucial one as the Stars sit on the edge of the top four. Ben Dunk’s half century against the Scorchers would have been a welcome relief to he and his team, but there was not much else to write home about for the Stars. Can they deliver today?

Key to an Adelaide Strikers win

Jake Weatherald has burst into form in the last two games, setting a strong platform for the Strikers. In the absence of Alex Carey, Weatherald will be an important cog in the Strikers’ lineup, along with the experienced Colin Ingram and Travis Head. Ingram needs to deliver more consistently, and here is a good chance against a Stars side missing their key bowling weapons. Head showed decent form in the Tests, and has a fine BBL record. A strong platform from the top order might make it a long night for the Stars.

Also, such is the strong depth in Adelaide Strikers’ squad that they will field a relatively strong attack even with Billy Stanlake and Peter Siddle on Australian duty. Rashid Khan continues to show amazing character, and will be a key weapon against a Stars’ lineup that struggled against Perth Scorchers. With the likes of Michael Neser, Ben Laughlin and Liam O’Connor, the Strikers have wicket taking potential, even though Ben Laughlin has struggled for wickets. Can he fire like AJ Tye did for Perth Scorchers two nights ago?

Image credit: Getty Images. Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11: Travis Head returns for the Strikers.

Key to a Melbourne Stars win

Evan Gulbis and Ben Dunk got the Stars off to a strong start against Perth Scorchers, but there was precious little from the middle order. Seb Gotch was the only other player to reach double figures, and that too at a strike rate of just 81.81, which made the decision to bat Nick Larkin so low down the wrong one. The Stars need another strong start in Adelaide, this time backed by big performances from the likes of Nic Maddinson and Dwayne Bravo, with the latter in particular needing to deliver with the bat. Will the Stars get their batting order right this time?

Also, Dwayne Bravo needs to deliver with the ball. He was left too late to try change the game against the Scorchers, but his two wickets in two balls is the kind of return the Stars’ need to put the pressure on the Strikers’ lineup. However, who else will deliver? Liam Bowe bowled well against the Scorchers, and will be key again, but the likes of Scott Boland and Liam Plunkett must have good outings with three key bowling options missing for the Stars.

ALSO READ: South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd Test Preview & Dream11 Prediction.

Image credit: Getty Images. Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11: Can Dwayne Bravo fire?

Possible Playing 11

As mentioned, Travis Head returns for Adelaide Strikers as they lose three players to ODI duty. Harry Nielsen comes into the squad as wicketkeeper, and Ben Laughlin returns also after hamstring soreness. One of Jono Wells or Matt Short could potentially miss out for team balance purposes.

Adelaide Strikers possible Playing 11: 1. Jake Weatherald, 2. Colin Ingram, 3. Travis Head (c), 4. Matthew Short/Jono Wells, 5. Jake Lehmann, 6. Harry Nielsen (wk), 7. Rashid Khan, 8. Michael Neser, 9. Cameron Valente, 10. Liam O’Connor, 11. Ben Laughlin

Melbourne Stars have made one change to the 13-man squad they picked for their last game against Perth Scorchers. Lance Morris comes in for Tom O’Connell. The Stars could stick with the same XI as two nights ago.

Melbourne Stars possible Playing 11: 1. Evan Gulbis, 2. Ben Dunk, 3. Nic Maddinson (c), 4. Nick Larkin, 5. Seb Gotch (wk), 6. Dwayne Bravo, 7. Jonathan Merlo, 8. Liam Plunkett, 9. Scott Boland, 10. Liam Bowe, 11. Michael Beer

Dream11 Prediction

Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 Prediction
Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11
  • Seb Gotch gets the nod over Adelaide’s Harry Nielsen as he is likely to bat higher.
  • Travis Head is one of the BBL’s finest performers. He is two away from 1,000 BBL runs, and scored 374 runs at 53 last season. Also, he demolished Melbourne Stars in BBL07 with 53* off 32 balls. He is also capable of taking wickets.
  • Jake Weatherald has two fifties in a row, and is fifth highest run scorer in BBL08 with 203.
  • Ben Dunk has 107 runs in his last three innings, including 62 vs Perth Scorchers last match.
  • Ben Laughlin has just two wickets in BBL08 so far, but remains a threat in the death overs, especially given the Stars are missing their best players.
  • Rashid Khan has 18 wickets in his last 10 T20s, and has made 20+ scores in each of his last two knocks.

ALSO READ: South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd Test Preview & Dream11 Prediction.

Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: Getty Images. Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Stars Preview Dream11: Rashid Khan has continued his brilliance.

Stats and Facts

  • Adelaide Strikers have won their last three meetings against Melbourne Stars in Adelaide.
  • Rashid Khan is conceding just 4.91 an over in BBL08.
  • A win for the Strikers (5th) will see them leapfrog the Stars (4th). The Strikers will move into second.

Match Prediction

Melbourne Stars look a good side with Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell and Adam Zampa in it.

However, it promises to be a challenging night without them. Adelaide Strikers, despite missing players of their own, look the more polished outfit. Strikers to win.

Thanks for reading!

South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd Test Preview Dream11

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

South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd Test Preview Dream11

Preview co-written by Abdul Shakoor. Follow him at @AbduShakoor_

Series decided. With barely a whimper. After two thumpings, a dead-rubber is here and something has to give.

South Africa deservedly sit 2-0 up, as they have been fabulous in all departments. Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur expressed his disappointment at the South African pitches, and the Proteas knocked off 431 in their first innings at Cape Town. Faf du Plessis, who will miss this Test due to suspension, was excellent after bagging a pair, scoring a century on his favourite ground. It was his partnership with Bavuma that took the match away from Pakistan in the second Test, and the Proteas will be looking for more of the same from those selected.

Pakistan, on the other hand, are going through a difficult period. They haven’t recovered from their disappointing 2-1 series defeat to New Zealand at the UAE recently, as batsmen aren’t performing up to the mark. There is great – if it hasn’t been the case with Pakistan in the past – lack of partnerships from the Pakistan team. Some batsmen, namely Shan Masood, have showed stomach for the fight, but it’s been an exception rather than the norm. Can they cause an upset in the final Test?




Key to a South Africa win

South Africa’s top order will face at least one change. As mentioned, Faf du Plessis has been suspended for this Test, with Dean Elgar taking the helm
and Zubayr Hamza will make his debut in the middle order. Also, Aiden Markram is under an injury cloud, with Pieter Malan on standby. The personnel is different, but the template remains the same – Dean Elgar and Hashim Amla will be key at the top of the innings for Proteas, with the middle order of good strength due to Theunis de Bryun and Temba Bavuma. Can the Proteas cause further pain to Pakistan?

Also, South African pacers are really doing a great job (except for the ban of their captain). Duanne Olivier has been superb this series, and could even sit out such is the strength of South Africa’s attack. The key for South Africa will be to keep the intensity high and not letting up due to this being a dead-rubber. Faf du Plessis has spoken of the team’s desire to chase the number one ranking, and Dale Steyn, Vernon Philander and Kagiso Rabada need to be on song against a Pakistan side looking for a confidence boost.

South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd Test Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: Reuters. South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd Test Preview Dream11 – Dean Elgar will lead South Africa in Faf du Plessis’ absence.

ALSO READ: New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Only T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction

Key to a Pakistan win

“We lost the series but we need to make a statement here,” said Imam ul Haq earlier in a press conference. Pakistan have to register a win to boost their morale for the upcoming ODIs, but that is easier said than done given their struggles. For this to be possible, Pakistan’s top order needs to deliver, with Imam ul Haq, Shan Masood and the so-far disappointing Azhar Ali key to blunting the South African attack early, and making life a little easier for the middle order that includes the in-form Babar Azam.

Shan Masood is in very good touch and seems in control over how he plays the short ball in this series. He will be key to helping Pakistan get a competitive total, but will need big help from the two seniors, Asad and Azhar, as well as from his opening partner, Imam. Babar Azam has showed the glimpses of his talent on many occasions in this series and will be very good for Pakistan if he gets a hundred here.

Also, Shaheen Afridi is carrying a niggle and could be replaced by Hasan Ali. Mohammad Abbas didn’t have his best outing in Cape Town, but his class can’t be doubted, and Pakistan will benefit greatly if he gets going like his 2018 season. Can the seamers display greater penetration than in Cape Town? Will Yasir Shah play, and if he does, can he deliver greater control?

South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd Test Preview Dream11 Prediction
South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd Test Preview Dream11: Shan Masood has been a shining light for Pakistan.

Possible Playing 11:

Pieter Malan is on standby for Aiden Markram. Malan, if picked, will make his debut after 137 First Class matches, where he has 9,621 runs at 45.81. Zubayr Hamza will replace the suspended Faf du Plessis. Also, it remains to be seen if Keshav Maharaj gets a game in Johannesburg, and who he will replace.

South Africa possible playing 11: 1. Dean Elgar (c), 2. Aiden Markram/Pieter Malan, 3. Hashim Amla, 4. Theunis de Bruyn, 5. Temba Bavuma, 6. Zubayr Hamza, 7. Quinton de Kock (wk), 8. Vernon Philander, 9. Kagiso Rabada, 10. Dale Steyn, 11. Duanne Olivier/Keshav Maharaj

For Pakistan, Fakhar Zaman was pushed down to number six in the second innings at Cape Town. He has not enjoyed his time in South Africa so far. He is expected to be dropped, with Mohammad Rizwan to possibly play, given Faheem Ashraf is not ready to bat seven, according to Mickey Arthur. Also, Pakistan could choose between Shadab Khan and Yasir Shah, with Shaheen Shah Afridi likely to be rested.

Pakistan possible playing 11: 1. Imam ul Haq, 2. Shan Masood, 3. Azhar Ali, 4. Asad Shafiq, 5. Babar Azam, 6. Sarfraz Ahmed (c & wk), 7. Mohammad Rizwan, 8. Faheem Ashraf/Yasir Shah/Shadab Khan, 9. Hasan Ali, 10. Mohammad Amir, 11. Mohammad Abbas

Dream11 Prediction

Pitch is expected to be a lot less brutal than the pitch vs India last year.

South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd Test Preview Dream11 Prediction
South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd Test Preview Dream11
  • Quinton de Kock has hit 104 runs in two innings this series. He looks in good touch.
  • Incredibly, given Pakistan are 2-0 down, Babar Azam and Shan Masood top the run scoring charts for the series.
  • Hashim Amla has played 12 Tests at the Wanderers Stadium, hitting 1,032 runs at 51.60.
  • Vernon Philander loves Johannesburg. He has 35 wickets at this ground at 15.09, including a career-best 6/21 vs Australia last year.
  • Duanne Olivier has been an automatic selection in the last two Tests, but he could sit out for Keshav Maharaj. Keep an eye out for this news.
  • Mohammad Abbas still has the class to do well in these conditions.

Stats and Facts

  • Apart from being on losing side, Shan Masood (189) is the top scorer in this series so far.
  • Duanne Olivier is the leading wicket taker this series with 16.
  • Pakistan were bowled out for 49 in their last Test at Johannesburg.
  • South Africa have won seven Test series in a row at home.

Match Prediction

Afternoon thunderstorms throughout the Test might be the only way Pakistan can escape this match without defeat.

South Africa look way too strong in these conditions. They will win and sweep the series 3-0.

Thanks for reading!

ALSO READ: New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Only T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction




South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd Test Preview Dream11

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Only T20I Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Only T20I Preview Dream11

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Only T20I Preview Dream11

A sense of relief in the Sri Lanka camp that the ODI series is over. The ODI series, unsurprisingly, finished 3-0 in New Zealand’s favour, opening further the wounds of Sri Lanka in the coloured clothing. The shortest format on the small Eden Park ground should bring the two sides closer together, but is it a given?

New Zealand flexed their muscle in the ODIs ahead of India’s visit and the World Cup. Now, attention turns to a T20I match that doesn’t quite have as much context, but an opportunity to improve their poor T20I form ahead of the World T20 in 2020. New Zealand are still undefeated in this tour, and will be keen to send Sri Lanka to Australia winless.

It has indeed been a tough tour for Sri Lanka. They gave New Zealand challenging moments in both the Tests and ODIs, but those moments were unfortunately too short lived. With short moments capable of swinging T20 matches, Sri Lanka’s reliance on individual brilliance could work out for them. Can they end their tour of New Zealand on a high?

Key to a New Zealand win

Kane Williamson and Trent Boult have been rested, and Jimmy Neesham injured, but New Zealand still possess quality that should not equate to nine losses in their last 10 T20Is. Colin Munro returns to his most favoured format, on a ground where he smashed a 14-ball fifty against the same opponent in 2016. He will be key as he can take the game away from Sri Lanka in the blink of an eye, along with Martin Guptill, Ross Taylor and Henry Nicholls, who all scored centuries in the ODI series. Will New Zealand’s top five make life too difficult for Sri Lanka to handle?

Also, Mitchell Santner returns after a long injury layoff, and will be key in restricting the scoring rate for the Sri Lankans. Significant onus is on the seamers, of which a few are vying for spots, to make an impact on a ground with very small boundaries. Sri Lanka haven’t been that flash in T20Is either in recent times, and an opportunity awaits New Zealand to target a batting lineup that has shown to lose quick wickets.

Image credit: Getty. New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Only T20I Preview Dream11 – Colin Munro has three T20I centuries.

ALSO READ: Congratulations India! Light hearted Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings.

Key to a Sri Lanka win

Thisara Perera is a massive factor in Sri Lanka’s quest to leave New Zealand with a win. He is averaging over 40 with a SR of 178 in T20s over the last year, and took the Black Caps apart in the ODIs. However, he can’t do it all on his own, with a great opportunity for the top order to set a platform in what will be fine batting conditions. Against a New Zealand pace attack that can go for runs, Sri Lanka have the chance to return the favour after what New Zealand’s batsmen did to them in the ODIs.

Also, a huge challenge awaits Sri Lanka at Eden Park. The ground dimensions is not a pretty sight for bowlers, and given Sri Lanka conceded 300+ in all three ODIs, a tough test certainly awaits. However, the early wicket of Colin Munro could prove crucial, and can give Sri Lanka confidence to take a few more and force New Zealand to rebuild, much like Australia did at this ground last year. Can Lasith Malinga weave his magic to give other bowlers an opportunity to pounce?

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Only T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: AFP. New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Only T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction – Thisara Perera will be key again after two incredible knocks in the ODIs.

Predicted Playing 11

As mentioned, Kane Williamson, Trent Boult and Jimmy Neesham are all out of this game. Mitchell Santner returns, and Tim Southee captains the side.

New Zealand Possible Playing 11: 1. Colin Munro, 2. Martin Guptill, 3. Glenn Phillips, 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Henry Nicholls, 6. Tim Seifert (wk), 7. Mitchell Santner, 8. Tim Southee (c), 9. Doug Bracewell, 10. Ish Sodhi, 11. Lockie Ferguson

Kusal Perera will likely open, with Danushka Gunathilaka out with a back injury.

Sri Lanka Possible Playing 11: 1. Niroshan Dickwella (wk), 2. Kusal Perera, 3. Kusal Mendis, 4. Dhananjaya de Silva, 5. Dasun Shanaka, 6. Thisara Perera, 7. Asela Gunaratne, 8. Seekkuge Prasanna, 9. Lasith Malinga (c), 10. Lakshan Sandakan, 11. Kasun Rajitha

Dream11 Prediction

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Only T20I Preview Dream11 Prediction
New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Only T20I Preview Dream11
  • Niroshan Dickwella showed promising form in the ODIs, hitting 131 runs in three matches.
  • Colin Munro returns to his favourite format, where he has three centuries.
  • Martin Guptill has 457 runs in 10 T20Is at Eden Park, striking at 166.79, which includes a century.
  • Thisara Perera smashed 220 runs in the last two ODIs. He has hit three fifties in his last four T20 innings.
  • Tim Southee has taken just one wicket in his last three T20I outings at Eden Park, going for 10.5, 12 and 11.75 an over in those matches.
  • Ish Sodhi is coming off a fine ODI series, taking eight wickets.

ALSO READ: Congratulations India! Light hearted Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings.

Stats and Facts

  • New Zealand have lost nine of their last 10 T20Is.
  • Australia chased down 244 to win a T20I at Eden Park last year.
  • Sri Lanka have lost both their T20Is at Eden Park (2006 and 2016).

Match Prediction

Last chance for Sri Lanka to salvage something on this tour. However, once again, New Zealand look the more polished outfit. Expect them to get a win and leave Sri Lanka winless for the tour.

Thanks for reading!

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11

Two sides whose BBL08 campaigns threatened to unravel.

Brisbane Heat lost their first three matches, before bouncing back with two straight wins against Perth Scorchers and Sydney Thunder respectively. However, fears about their top heavy batting lineup still materialised two nights ago, losing 6/11 when a total of at least 210 was on the cards. A good start with bat and ball, coupled with rain, got them home against the Thunder, but coach Daniel Vettori and captain Chris Lynn will know there is still room for improvement.

Melbourne Renegades too suffered three straight defeats, before becoming the first team to knock off Hobart Hurricanes in BBL08. It was a reminder of how this Renegades team can turn it on, especially with the ball, but the difference between their best and worst cricket is still quite large. A trip to the ‘Gabba promises to be a challening task for a team that has largely struggled away from Docklands Stadium this season.

Key to a Brisbane Heat win

As mentioned, Brisbane Heat’s top order is crucial to their success. Max Bryant, Brendon McCullum and Chris Lynn blew Sydney Thunder away, so much so that a collapse of 6/11 did not stop the Heat from posting 180+. The Heat will be grateful Chris Lynn was left out of Australia’s ODI squad, as these three players will be key again at the top against a Renegades’ attack that was in the wickets early against Hobart Hurricanes.

Also, in an encouraging change, Brisbane Heat’s bowling has been a positive aspect of their two victories. They choked the Scorchers, and the Thunder weren’t able to get a strong start, which has helped them build momentum in BBL08. Mujeeb ur Rahman will be key again, along with James Pattinson whose confidence will be boosted by the big wicket of Jos Buttler last game. Can the likes of Ben Cutting and the support bowlers maintain the pressure on a Renegades’ batting lineup that can be up and down?

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: Getty Images. Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11 – The “Bash Brothers” were superb against Sydney Thunder

ALSO READ: Congratulations India! Light hearted Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings.

Key to a Melbourne Renegades win

Kane Richardson and Usman Khan Shinwari scythed through the dangerous Hobart Hurricanes top order on Monday. A similar effort against the Brisbane Heat, given they rely significantly on top order runs, could very much lead the Renegades to a good win away from home. However, with the Heat still possessing dangerous players such as Ben Cutting in the middle order, full focus for the full 20 overs is crucial for the Renegades.

Also, how well can the batting perform? Aaron Finch goes back to the Australian camp after just the one match with the Renegades, but Marcus Harris is back, so the onus is on the Renegades top order to deliver. The out of form Cameron White might return, and if he does, he must deliver along with Sam Harper, who is in good touch, and Tom Cooper, who also needs runs. With Mohammad Nabi and Dan Christian capable of strong middle order partnerships, a strong top order that betters the Heat’s could decide the result.

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11
Image credit: AAP. Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11: Tom Cooper will lead the side, and has a good record against Brisbane Heat.

Predicted Playing 11

Alex Ross comes back into the Brisbane Heat squad, replacing Marnus Labuschagne. A couple of questions for the Heat:

  • One of Josh Lalor or Mitch Swepson likely to get the nod.
  • One of Alex Ross or Joe Burns to come into the Playing 11

Brisbane Heat possible Playing 11: 1. Max Bryant, 2. Brendon McCullum, 3. Chris Lynn (c), 4. Matt Renshaw, 5. Joe Burns, 6. Jimmy Peirson (wk), 7. Ben Cutting, 8. James Pattinson, 9. Josh Lalor/Mitch Swepson, 10. Mujeeb ur Rahman, 11. Brendan Doggett

Marcus Harris is back for the Melbourne Renegades. One question for the Renegades is whether Cameron White or Mackenzie Harvey gets a run.

Melbourne Renegades possible Playing 11: 1. Marcus Harris, 2. Cameron White/Mackenzie Harvey, 3. Sam Harper (wk), 4. Tom Cooper (c), 5. Mohammad Nabi, 6. Dan Christian, 7. Beau Webster, 8. Jack Wildermuth, 9. Cameron Boyce, 10. Kane Richardson, 11. Usman Khan Shinwari

Dream11 Prediction

A game for the batsmen? Below is my Dream11 Team with a few pointers.

Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11 Prediction
  • Sam Harper has been good for Melbourne Renegades this season. He has made four scores above 25, and is threatening to score big.
  • Brendon McCullum hit some form with 56 against Sydney Thunder two nights ago. Chris Lynn is fourth highest run scorer in BBL08, with 233 in five matches (two fifties).
  • Tom Cooper hasn’t had a great BBL08 so far, but four double figure scores in a row suggests he is due to get past his starts. Also, he made scores of 52* and 65* against Brisbane Heat last season.
  • Marcus Harris was in decent form for Australia, scoring freely in the fourth Test.
  • Mohammad Nabi has not taken a wicket in his last three matches, and misses out behind Ben Cutting and Dan Christian.
  • Usman Khan Shinwari and Kane Richardson have taken just three wickets between them away from Marvel Stadium in BBL08.
  • Cameron Boyce has taken all of his five wickets away from Marvel Stadium in BBL08.
Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: Getty Images. Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades Preview Dream11 Prediction – Chris Lynn is in fine touch.

Stats and Facts

  • Melbourne Renegades have won all three games against the Brisbane Heat at the Gabba, as well as the past six meetings in total.
  • Chris Lynn has hit the most sixes in BBL08 (11).
  • Brisbane Heat have won two matches in a row, after losing their first three.

Match Prediction

History is with the Melbourne Renegades in this battle.

Both sides have their flaws, but it promises to be a high scoring match at the Gabba. The Heat just seem to have a bit of good form behind them, and could win this one. With James Pattinson and Mujeeb ur Rahman bowling well for the Heat, in conjunction with a dangerous top order, I will predict the Brisbane Heat to break their losing run against the Renegades.

Thanks for reading!

Melbourne Stars vs Perth Scorchers Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Melbourne Stars vs Perth Scorchers Preview Dream11

Melbourne Stars vs Perth Scorchers Preview Dream11 Prediction

Last season’s last placed team vs. This season’s last placed team?

Both sides are missing key players to Australian ODI duty, which perhaps evens out the playing field given the huge contrast in the performances of these two teams in recent matches.

It is incredible to think that tournament favourites Perth Scorchers are bottom of the table with just one win. Melbourne Stars have found their their feet after a poor start to the season, and now have the chance to pick up four straight wins and sit just behind Hobart Hurricanes on the table.

Marcus Stoinis has been superb, but is now on Australian duty. The Stars’ bowling attack has got the better of its opponents in the last three matches, and come up against a side struggling with the bat. For the Scorchers, their batting indeed remains a mess, and must overcome the Stars’ challenge with time soon to run out for them if they don’t improve in BBL08.

Key to a Melbourne Stars win

As mentioned, Marcus Stoinis’ all-round performances have taken the Stars to another level. He has seemingly lifted the intensity of those around him, but how the Stars go without him will be crucial. The Stars get a big boost with Nic Maddinson back from injury, and with Nick Larkin also in good touch, can Ben Dunk show the form he’s capable of to help set an excellent platform for the Stars?

Also, the Stars’ bowling attack did perhaps look a little thin at the start of the season, but they are bowling well as a unit, which will be crucial in this clash with the departure of Sandeep Lamichhane, as well as Stoinis and Maxwell on ODI duties. Scott Boland has another opportunity for wickets, this time against a struggling batting lineup, and so too Dwayne Bravo, who has been in the wickets in recent matches.

Melbourne Stars vs Perth Scorchers Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: Getty Images. Melbourne Stars vs Perth Scorchers Preview Dream11 Prediction: Nic Maddinson returns after a nasty injury in Shield Cricket last month.

Key to a Perth Scorchers win

Perth Scorchers on paper looked a strong squad, but their batting has been anything but, and they will be without their Australian ODI players. Their batting effort against the Brisbane Heat summarised their struggles in BBL08, unable to put together a complete batting display. It seems when they start well, they can’t finish well, and when they start poorly, they can finish well. Can Michael Klinger and Cameron Bancroft make today their day? Can Ashton Turner keep his good form going? What about the Scorchers’ middle order against an in-form attack?

Also, the Scorchers need to win the powerplay period, with both bat and ball. Jason Behrendhorff is off with Australia, so Nathan Coulter-Nile will be tasked with breaking through the dangerous Stars top order, with Ashton Agar and Andrew Tye to keep the pressure on. In a must win game, the bowlers have to deliver to give them a chance.

Melbourne Stars vs Perth Scorchers Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: Getty Images. Melbourne Stars vs Perth Scorchers Preview Dream11 Prediction: Ashton Turner has led by example in BBL08

ALSO READ: Congratulations India! Light hearted Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings.

Predicted Playing XIs

Three changes in the Melbourne Stars squad. Nic Maddison returns from his broken arm, which he suffered in Sheffield Shield Cricket last month. Tom O’Connell and Jonathan Merlo are in the squad, with Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis and Adam Zampa preparing to face India in the first ODI on Saturday.

Melbourne Stars possible XI: 1. Ben Dunk, 2. Nick Larkin, 3. Nic Maddinson (c), 4. Seb Gotch (wk), 5. Dwayne Bravo, 6. Jonathan Merlo, 7. Evan Gulbis, 8. Liam Plunkett, 9. Scott Boland, 10. Liam Bowe, 11. Michael Beer

Perth Scorchers have also made three changes to their 13-man squad. Jason Behrendhorff, Mitchell Marsh and Jhye Richardson are now on Australian ODI duty, with Usman Qadir, Sam Whiteman and rookie Aaron Hardie in the squad.

Perth Scorchers possible XI: 1. Michael Klinger, 2. Cameron Bancroft (wk), 3. Ashton Turner (c), 4. Hilton Cartwright, 5. Will Bosisto/Sam Whiteman, 6. Ashton Agar, 7. David Willey, 8. Nathan Coulter-Nile, 9. Andrew Tye, 10. Usman Qadir, 11. Aaron Hardie

Dream11 Prediction

A number of players on Australian ODI duty. Below is my Dream11 Team with a few pointers.

Melbourne Stars vs Perth Scorchers Preview Dream11 Prediction
Melbourne Stars vs Perth Scorchers Preview Dream11 Prediction
  • Cameron Bancroft will get a greater batting opportunity than Seb Gotch. He has made two starts in his last two innings, and is not far off a good score.
  • Same applies to Michael Klinger. He is slowly coming back into some form after two starts in a row.
  • Ashton Turner has hit 107 runs in his last two innings, including 60* vs Sydney Thunder.
  • Nic Maddinson has an excellent BBL record, and Nick Larkin is in good touch.
  • Liam Plunkett made a good start to BBL08 with a solid bowling effort vs Sydney Thunder. Scott Boland has four wickets in his last two matches.
  • Andrew Tye has taken six wickets in his last two matches vs Melbourne Stars.

ALSO READ: Congratulations India! Light hearted Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings.

Stats and Facts

  • Melbourne Stars have won the last three meetings with Perth Scorchers in Melbourne.
  • Ashton Turner is the only Perth Scorchers batsman to average over 30 in BBL08.
  • Number of sixes in BBL08: Melbourne Stars 21, Perth Scorchers 9.

Prediction

Nick Larkin is the only player in the Melbourne Stars lineup with 61 or more runs in BBL08.

Even though the Perth Scorchers have not inspired any confidence with their batting, I predict they will win as the absence of Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell might be too much for the Stars to deal with.

Thanks for reading!

Sydney Thunder vs Brisbane Heat Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Sydney Thunder vs Brisbane Heat Preview Dream11

Sydney Thunder vs Brisbane Heat Preview Dream11 Prediction

A massive game for two sides currently sitting outside the top four.

BBL08 is beginning to take shape, and the time is now for the Thunder and Heat to show greater consistency in the push for a top four finish.

This game is also crucial for Sydney Thunder as they will lose Jos Buttler and Joe Root (despite a disappointing tournament) to England duty after this game. A win is important to avoid really high pressure games as much as possible, especially when the pressure moments have got the better of the Thunder at times in BBL08. They have had some heartbreaking moments against Brisbane Heat in Sydney, and will be hoping tonight isn’t one of them.

A win in Perth is always special, no matter how poorly Perth Scorchers are playing. Brisbane Heat are coming off a really polished display at Optus Stadium, picking up their first win of the season in the process. The Heat now have a number of fixtures in a small space of time, which provides an opportunity to gain the momentum they couldn’t early on in the season. A big game awaits.

Key to a Sydney Thunder win

Jos Buttler missed out against Melbourne Stars, and the Thunder could never recover. It was a harsh reminder of the Thunder’s reliance on one or two key players right throughout their BBL history, but with good players right throughout their lineup, the batting has been a little underwhelming at times in BBL08. Shane Watson and Joe Root again have only threatened to go big, and Jason Sangha needs runs to either rebuild the innings or take advantage of any good work from the top four. With Daniel Sams batting at six, the onus is on the Thunder batting lineup in an important match. Can Joe Root fire in his last match before England duty?

Also, can the bowlers deliver on what could be another slow pitch at Spotless Stadium? Chris Green, Fawad Ahmed and Jono Cook will be crucial in nullifying the Chris Lynn threat, as well as hurting the Heat’s momentum through dot balls. However, can the likes of Daniel Sams, Gurinder Sandhu and Sam Rainbird support their spinners effectively with early wickets? Also, how well can the Thunder hold their nerve if the game gets close?

Sydney Thunder vs Brisbane Heat Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: Getty Images. Sydney Thunder vs Brisbane Heat Preview Dream11 Prediction – Jos Buttler and Daniel Sams will be key for the Thunder

ALSO READ: Congratulations India! Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings.

Key to a Brisbane Heat win

Much depends on how well the Heat batsmen deal with the conditions. Spotless Stadium is very different to Optus Stadium, with the Heat expected to face slower conditions against a battery of spinners. The likes of Max Bryant and Joe Burns will be crucial in holding things together, but what impact will the ‘Bash Brothers’ have? Expect pace to be taken off the ball, so how well Chris Lynn negotiates this threat could be crucial to the result.

Also, can Mujeeb ur Rahman cause the Thunder all sorts of problems? He was superb in Perth, and can be damaging on a pitch that can be a little up and down. He will have to lead the attack, backed by the likes of James Pattinson, Ben Cutting and possibly Mitch Swepson who all have the skills to do well in the conditions.

Image credit: AAP. Sydney Thunder vs Brisbane Heat Preview Dream11 Prediction – Mujeeb ur Rahman was brilliant in Perth.

Predicted Playing XIs

As mentioned, this will be the last game for Jos Buttler and Joe Root before they depart for England duty.

Sydney Thunder XI: 1. Jos Buttler (wk), 2. Shane Watson, 3. Joe Root, 4. Callum Ferguson, 5. Jason Sangha, 6. Daniel Sams, 7. Chris Green, 8. Gurinder Sandhu, 9. Sam Rainbird, 10. Jono Cook, 11. Fawad Ahmed

Marnus Labuschagne comes into the Brisbane Heat squad, replacing Alex Ross. It is possible that Labuschagne could play ahead of Matt Renshaw to give the Heat an all-rounder option. Joe Burns is cleared to play after being struck on the helmet in the last game.

Brisbane Heat XI: 1. Max Bryant, 2. Brendon McCullum, 3. Chris Lynn (c), 4. Marnus Labuschagne/Matt Renshaw, 5. Joe Burns, 6. Jimmy Peirson (wk), 7. Ben Cutting, 8. James Pattinson, 9. Josh Lalor/Mitch Swepson, 10. Mujeeb ur Rahman, 11. Brendan Doggett

Dream11 Prediction

A big game for both teams. Below is my Dream11 Team with a few pointers.

Sydney Thunder vs Brisbane Heat Preview Dream11 Prediction
Sydney Thunder vs Brisbane Heat Preview Dream11 Prediction
  • Jos Buttler is top run scorer in BBL08 with 268.
  • Chris Lynn, even with slower conditions expected at Spotless Stadium, is a good pick. He scored a match-winning 85* off 48 balls at this ground two seasons ago.
  • Fawad Ahmed has taken nine wickets in BBL08. Five have come at Spotless Stadium in two matches. Mujeeb ur Rahman will be a challenge for the Thunder batsmen.
  • Chris Green has taken wickets in his matches at Spotless Stadium in BBL08. Also a good lower order option.
  • Joe Root’s last chance to impress in BBL08.
  • Callum Ferguson has played well as Spotless Stadium so far in BBL08.

ALSO READ: Congratulations India! Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings.

Stats and Facts

  • Brisbane Heat have won seven of their past eight matches against Sydney Thunder.
  • Sydney Thunder have won both their matches at Spotless Stadium this season.
  • Chris Lynn has top scored for the Heat in three of their four matches.
  • Mujeeb Ur Rahman has conceded just 5.56 an over in BBL08.
  • Daniel Sams has nine wickets in six matches this season.

Prediction

Tough one to predict with both sides capable of performing both well and poorly.

I will back Sydney Thunder to get an important win, and make it three from three at Spotless Stadium this season, and overcome a poor record against Brisbane Heat.

Thanks for reading!

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI Preview Dream11

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI Preview Dream11

What on earth was that second ODI?

New Zealand dropped six catches and bowled poorly at the death. Two recipes for disaster in white-ball cricket. Sri Lanka had Thisara Perera play the innings of his life. But, after all, a Sri Lanka win would have been one of the biggest heists in ODI history. In the end, despite a very scratchy display, New Zealand won by 21 runs, highlighting Sri Lanka’s problems.

The tourists face another dead rubber. They have won their last three such clashes, with their last win in a live ODI coming nearly a year ago. Can they get their first win of the tour?

Key to a New Zealand win

With an eye to the World Cup, it will be a gamble for New Zealand to play Tim Southee, given his lack of form in white ball cricket. Matt Henry was promising, and so too Ish Sodhi, where middle over wickets ultimately proved the difference. Frankly, New Zealand were poor on Saturday, nearly losing the unloseable, and with a World Cup just a few months away, here is an opportunity to iron a few things out.

With the bat, New Zealand don’t have as many issues. Kane Williamson and Martin Guptill fell cheaply on Saturday, but Colin Munro stepped up in the ODI format. Ross Taylor also did, as he often does these days, backed up by the in-form Jimmy Neesham. New Zealand’s top seven has an excellent balance of power and panache, and another opportunity awaits to set up a strong chance of victory with the bat.

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: AFP. New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI Preview Dream11: Will Ross Taylor continue his fine form?

ALSO READ: Congratulations India! Light hearted Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings!

Key to a Sri Lanka win

Sri Lanka, as the case so often in a terrible couple of years, rely on pieces of individual brilliance to get them over the line. Thisara Perera nearly pulled off one of the greatest achievements in ODI history, smashing 140 off 74 balls to nearly get Sri Lanka home. However, what preceded that is simply not good enough from Sri Lanka, and need a much better showing from the top and middle order in a desperate plea for batting cohesiveness ahead of the World Cup.

Also, who will support Lasith Malinga adequately enough? Who will take middle over wickets in the absence of Akila Dananjaya? Sri Lanka have their batting issues, but their bowlers can assist in reducing the pressure. New Zealand’s top four is dangerous, and pressure can build by dismissing two cheaply as they did in the second ODI. However, the Sri Lankans must find always to breakthrough in the middle overs, which might force Lasith Malinga to play his hand and have an extra man or so in the ring.

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI Preview Dream11
Image credit: AFP. New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI Preview Dream11: Thisara Perera was outstanding

Predicted Playing XIs

New Zealand can experiment now that the series is won. Doug Bracewell is a very good chance of playing, with either Matt Henry or Trent Boult a chance to make way for the returning Lockie Ferguson.

New Zealand possible XI: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Colin Munro, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Henry Nicholls, 6. Jimmy Neesham, 7. Tim Seifert (wk), 8. Doug Bracewell, 9. Ish Sodhi, 10. Lockie Ferguson, 11. Matt Henry/Trent Boult

Sri Lanka are carrying with them players who are simply not performing. Dasun Shanaka is again a chance of playing, after another middle order crumble by the Lankans.

Sri Lanka possible XI: 1. Niroshan Dickwella (wk), 2. Danushka Gunathilaka, 3. Kusal Perera, 4. Kusal Mendis, 5. Dinesh Chandimal, 6. Dasun Shanaka/Asela Gunaratne, 7. Thisara Perera, 8. Lakshan Sandakan, 9. Lasith Malinga (c), 10. Dushmantha Chameera/Seekuge Prasanna, 11. Nuwan Pradeep

Dream11 Prediction

Good batting conditions are expected in Nelson.

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI Preview Dream11 Prediction
New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI Preview Dream11
  • Kane Williamson averages 58 in seven ODIs at Saxton Oval.
  • Dasun Shanaka is a strong chance to play.
  • New Zealand’s top four is looking dangerous.
  • Thisara Perera offers run scoring and wicket taking potential.

Stats and Facts

  • Sri Lanka have won their last three dead-rubber matches. However, they have not won a live ODI since January 27, 2018.
  • New Zealand have won five of six completed matches at Saxton Oval.
  • Kusal Mendis has just one fifty in his last 25 completed ODI innings (avg. 14.65).

ALSO READ: Light hearted Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings!

Prediction

Sri Lanka are the kings of the dead rubber these days, but New Zealand look the better balanced side.

It is very hard to predict that a side will win, based on their reliance on individual brilliance. New Zealand to win.

Thanks for reading!

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI Preview Dream11

Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings

Charbel Coorey
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0
Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings

Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings

Series scoreline reads India 2-1 Australia.

Rather, it should read India 2-1 India’s poor team selection in Perth.

Rain and bad light saved Australia from an innings humiliation, after being forced to follow on for the first time in 31 years on home soil. Tim Paine might have been thinking to tell everyone to pack their bags and go home as soon as he lost the toss in Sydney, but the batting inspires low confidence to anyone but Shane Warne, it seems.

Australia’s top six struggled to the extent that they only batted 15.3 overs more than Cheteshwar Pujara on his own in the first innings, with the man of the series putting on a clinic in temperament and patience, something the Australians lack badly. In the end, the very light drizzle showed greater longevity than the Australian batsmen, which ultimately cost them as you look back at their poor first innings efforts at Adelaide and Melbourne. Australia’s Fox Sports commentators talked about a run-fest at the start of Australia’s innings, only to be bundled out for a deficit higher than their first innings total.

However, no credit can be taken away from India. They have won their first Test series in Australia, and in the process became the first team from Asia to win down under. Rain gave them greater competition than Australia’s batsmen, of which a lot is down to the quality in which they bowled. It is hard to remember an India attack so well-drilled and consistent, which holds them in good stead as they remain the number one Test side. Cheteshwar Pujara was deservedly man of the series, piling on the runs and misery for Australia in a masterclass in Test match batting.

In this article, I will rate each player out of ten. As always, feel free to leave a comment!

Australia

Marcus Harris: This man has written history. Unfortunately for Australia, it is not quite for the right reason. Harris’ 79 is the lowest highest Test score for Australia in a series in 100 years. His innings was promising, but his weak cut to get out was a late Christmas gift to India. The records keep breaking… 8

Usman Khawaja: “How long till Australia throw a wicket away?” Usman Khawaja didn’t keep us waiting very long. One of Australia’s most disappointing players for the series. Very little stomach for the big innings. If you compare him with India’s number three, Khawaja is The Big Bang Theory and Pujara is Seinfeld. 3

Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings Cricket Blog
Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings: Khawaja wasn’t at his best

Marnus Labuschagne: On a hiding to nothing. Thrown in the deep end and was basically asked to “sink or swim” by incompetent team management, hoping that he turned into Marnus LabuShane Warne out of nowhere. His 38 was promising, showing relatively decent technique apart from planting the front foot at times. Long term number three option? No. 5

Shaun Marsh: Apparently fuming at the Sydney rain which cost him the opportunity to make an irrelevant score of 30-60 that keeps his place in the side for the next Test. It is time for Australia to look past Shaun Marsh in Test Cricket, but that is unlikely to happen. 1

Travis Head: Australia’s leading runscorer in the series heading into the Sydney Test. His dismissals, including Sydney, shows just how bad Australia played when a player who just couldn’t convert his starts was the best batsman in the team. Did he get out to a good ball this series? 3

Peter Handscomb: Made a better effort to get forward in his innings, but I’ll be having heart troubles and high blood pressure watching Handscomb against the moving ball in England. All the best to him. 5

Tim Paine: You know the going is tough when there is silence behind the stumps. Paine, as loud and animated as Ravi Shastri throughout the series, was as quiet as Shane Warne as he began to realise a total of 800 is just a little out of reach for Australia. Even Usman Khawaja was asked to bowl. Can’t sleep due to Pujara. Out driving against the turning ball. Muddled mind. 2

Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings Cricket Blog
Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings: Tim Paine can’t sleep

Pat Cummins: Ran out of steam. His dismissal when batting almost a reflection of his series. All effort, not always the luck to go with it. Tough outing with the ball in Sydney but Australia’s best performer in the series. 2

Mitchell Starc: One of Australia’s most disappointing performers. All over the place. Failed to bowl a single maiden. Couldn’t find the movement he has in the past. Cue the sandpaper jokes. 2

Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings Cricket Blog
Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings: Starc meme

Nathan Lyon: Bowled nearly as many overs as Cheteshwar Pujara batted. Tried hard, but also ran out of steam. 5

Josh Hazlewood: An underwhelming series for Hazlewood. Didn’t find the movement he has in the past. Cue the sandpaper jokes. 4

India

KL Rahul: Australia’s best batsman in the series. A deserving guard of honour. 1

Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings Cricket Blog
Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings: Guard of honour for KL Rahul

Mayank Agarwal: Such a promising start to his Test career. He will be challenged by his peers to carry on from his starts. Threw it away when he had Australia at his mercy. Looks a good player indeed. 8

Cheteshwar Pujara: India’s rock. Tim Paine is sick at the sight of this man’s backside. A magnificent series ending with a brilliant 193 that kicked Australia while they were down. Deserved a double century. 10

Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings Cricket Blog
Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings: Magnificent series by Che Pu

Virat Kohli: If anyone said that India will win the series easily if Virat averages just 40, you might have laughed. 40 is certainly not a bad return, but given how much India relied on him earlier in the year, it was a big effort from others to step up. However, Kohli’s captaincy was superb, implementing great plans and fields to prize out wickets on a good batting track. The first India captain to ever lift a Test series trophy in Australia. 6

Ajinkya Rahane: He’s probably just done enough to keep his place in the side for the next series. Rahane can do better, though, and needs to lift as excellent talent in India is waiting in the wings for an opportunity. 3

Rishabh Pant: Knew Australia was there for the taking. Was challenged by coach Shastri to go out and get a big one, and that he did. Pujara had Australia on the mat, Pant kept the foot on the throat. A simple dropped catch the only lowlight. 9

Ravindra Jadeja: Superb all-round performance. Would India have won 3-0 had Jadeja been picked in Perth? Perhaps. 9

Mohammed Shami: Got the ball moving in the air and off the pitch. Impressive start to 2019. 8

Kuldeep Yadav: Tosses the ball up beautifully. Finds turn. Asks questions. This only means one thing – Australia will oblige and gift their wickets. Some absolutely beautiful bowling by Kuldeep. A very rewarding five-for. 8.5

Jasprit Bumrah: No big wickets in Sydney but what a performance in the series. Missed out only just to Cheteshwar Pujara for the man of the series award. Australian batsmen go to bed every night thinking of the threat of Bumrah. 7

Congratulations to India! It was a very deserved victory.

Pains me as an Australian fan to see Australia lose, but the gap between the two sides is quite large at the moment.

It is onto the ODI series for both these sides (3-0), followed by Sri Lanka for Australia. For India, a world of opportunity awaits.

Thanks for reading!

Australia vs India 4th Test Player Ratings

Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Preview Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Preview Dream11

Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Preview + Dream11

Remember when these two sides were both undefeated in BBL08? It seems like an age ago, given the form of both sides since their respective second matches.

Melbourne Renegades have seemingly fallen off the face of the earth. Two excellent wins against tournament favourites Scorchers and Strikers has been followed up with three disappointing defeats. Skipper Aaron Finch returns in what is a big boost for the struggling batting lineup, and he will have to lead his side very well against a side on top of its game.

Hobart Hurricanes are still undefeated in BBL08, and they are looking a really good side. Challenging conditions await them at Marvel Stadium, with the sluggish pitch accounting for many an opposition in the past. Their spinners have been good in recent matches, and their batsmen will need to showcase their versatility in conditions different to Tasmania. On paper and on form, the Hurricanes should win easily, but conditions could dictate otherwise.




Key to a Melbourne Renegades win

The Renegades have struggled badly for batting fluency in their three defeats. The likes of Cameron White and Tom Cooper have not delivered the kind of results expected of their experience, and it has placed too much pressure on the all-rounders to deliver. The return of Aaron Finch can be the boost the Renegades need to step up against an in-form Hurricanes attack that has a good blend of pace and spin right now.

Also, can the Renegades bowlers get the better of the Hurricanes’ firing top order? Kane Richardson and Usman Khan Shinwari have showed excellent form in Melbourne this season, and will be crucial to getting the better of the Hurricanes’ top order. Jack Wildermuth, Cameron Boyce, Mohammad Nabi and Daniel Christian represents a good attack for these conditions, and will be tasked with keeping the pressure on the Hurricanes right throughout the innings.

Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Preview + Dream11 Prediction
Image credit: Getty Images. Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Preview + Dream11: The return of Aaron Finch is a big boost for the Renegades.

Key to a Hobart Hurricanes win

D’Arcy Short and Matthew Wade have had excellent tournaments to date, and have been backed up well by Ben McDermott and George Bailey. Each of these four players could count themselves unlucky not to be in Australia’s ODI squad, and might have further points to prove as they can deliver the side their sixth straight win in BBL08. How they handle the slower conditions at Marvel Stadium will be crucial to the result.

Also, Johan Botha was superb against the Sixers last game, and will be key again at Marvel Stadium. D’Arcy Short and Clive Rose can also be effective with pace off the ball, as well as James Faulkner who continues to be in the wickets. With Jofra Archer and Riley Meredith providing variety to this Hurricanes’ attack, can they scythe through a Renegades lineup struggling badly for partnerships and good scoring rates?

Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Preview + Dream11 Prediction
Image Credit: Getty Images. Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Preview + Dream11 – It will be a big test for Matt Wade and D’Arcy Short.

Predicted Playing XIs

Aaron Finch returns to the Renegades squad, and will likely replace Mackenzie Harvey.

Melbourne Renegades XI: 1. Aaron Finch (c), 2. Sam Harper (wk), 3. Cameron White, 4. Tom Cooper, 5. Beau Webster, 6. Mohammad Nabi, 7. Daniel Christian, 8. Jack Wildermuth, 9. Cameron Boyce, 10. Kane Richardson, 11. Usman Khan Shinwari

Hobart Hurricanes have named an unchanged 13-man squad for this clash.

Hobart Hurricanes XI: 1. Matthew Wade (c & wk), 2. D’Arcy Short, 3. Alex Doolan, 4. Ben McDermott, 5. George Bailey, 6. Simon Milenko, 7. James Faulkner, 8. Johan Botha, 9. Jofra Archer, 10. Clive Rose, 11. Riley Meredith

Dream11 Prediction

Not the best of days yesterday. Below is my Dream11 Prediction for this clash, with a few pointers.

Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Preview + Dream11
  • On a slow Marvel Stadium track, going with one of D’Arcy Short or Matthew Wade is a safe bet. D’Arcy Short gets the nod thanks to his spin.
  • Aaron Finch returns, and while he has struggled for form in Tests, his BBL record can’t be ignored.
  • James Faulkner and Daniel Christian will be difficult to get away with their effective changes of pace.
  • Kane Richardson bowls well at Marvel Stadium, and Jofra Archer will target a shaky Melbourne Renegades lineup.

Stats and Facts

  • Melbourne Renegades have won five of their past six matches against Hobart Hurricanes.
  • D’Arcy Short needs 12 runs to pass Jos Buttler as leading run scorer in BBL08.
  • Only Dan Christian has passed 100 runs in BBL08 so far for Melbourne Renegades.

Prediction

As mentioned, Hobart Hurricanes are easy winners on paper and on form.

However, this is a big danger game for them. With Melbourne Renegades possessing a good record against Hobart Hurricanes, plus conditions that are very different to Hobart, I will pick Melbourne Renegades to cause an upset.

Thanks for reading!




Melbourne Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes Preview + Dream11

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