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Australia vs India: India excellent, but what are Australia trying to achieve?

Charbel Coorey
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Australia vs India: India excellent, but what are Australia trying to achieve?

Barring something truly incredible, India are on the verge of a 1-0 series lead in their much-awaited Test series in Australia.

From an Australian perspective, everything that has happened since day one has been very disappointing, playing a brand of cricket reflective of their mindset at the moment. Muddled.

The batting has been of particular concern. Of course, India’s bowling has been fantastic, focusing on bowling with discipline, which is testament to their focus on fitness. However, the batting approach by Australia has been one of a lesser-ranked nation, almost completely unsure of the approach they should take.

It needs to be noted that this batting lineup is Australia’s least experienced since World Series Cricket, but these guys aren’t rubbish. They have played quite a bit of First Class Cricket, with Marcus Harris, Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb in particular showing strong form in the lead up to the series. But, the batting on display, especially on what was a good day two pitch, was so disappointing to watch. Why?

Block-leave-block-block-bash

A key sign that a side is struggling to find its identity is when get-out-of-jail shots are the answer to periods of pressure from the opposition. There has been no in-between. India have been relentless with the ball in this match to date, highlighted by magnificent economy rates from all their bowlers, but Australia’s block-block-T20 approach won’t bring any success.

The Australians have batted without a plan. What exactly are they trying to achieve? Today, Marcus Harris was hanging in, and threw his wicket away to Mohammed Shami on a pitch not too responsive for the seamers. Usman Khawaja batted 42 balls for eight, and thought slogging Ashwin out of the rough was the answer after playing out lots of dots. Peter Handscomb’s dismissal, and Aaron Finch’s no-review were also disappointing, indicating Australia’s lack of intent and direction.

Cricket Blog: Australia vs India 1st Test Opinion: What are Australia trying to achieve?

Intent without the big shots seemingly hasn’t been an option for Australia, with the lack of strike rotation evident for all to see. India, particularly Cheteshwar Pujara, batted with more patience as the Test went on, but the key difference was they came in with a plan. They expertly pierced the gaps, maneuvering the ball beautifully through excellent footwork and use of the crease/body. For Australia, their batting hasn’t matched India’s, and their bowlers haven’t been able to repair the damage, which is difficult when someone like Mitchell Starc is all over the place, taking possibly the worst 3/40 ever.

Cricket Blog: Australia vs India 1st Test Opinion: What are Australia trying to achieve?
Mitchell Starc has been underwhelming

India’s batting hasn’t been particularly flash in SENA over the last few years, but in this Test, there are plenty of things Australia can learn.

The challenge for Justin Langer

In the immediate term, Australia have a Test to win.

In the longer term, though, Justin Langer will have to put his mark on a side finding the goings really tough at the moment. There is nothing wrong with displaying patience, but when batsmen are getting stuck, and then trying to get out of jail with a big shot, it is very concerning.

Cricket Blog: Australia vs India 1st Test Opinion: What are Australia trying to achieve?
Sachin Tendulkar was surprised by Australia’s approach

Justin Langer will need to guide this group of players during this period, with a focus on scoring runs against good, tight bowling.

India have been fantastic with the ball.

It is easy to focus on Australia, but India have been absolutely outstanding with the ball in this Test. 

Ravichandran Ashwin and Mohammed Shami have been in the wickets, but their success is as much theirs as it is Ishant Sharma’s and Jasprit Bumrah’s. Bumrah has been a truly brilliant addition to the India Test attack, displaying the patience and discipline that is incredible for such a fantastic white-ball bowler.

Cricket Blog: Australia vs India 1st Test Opinion: What are Australia trying to achieve?
Bumrah was at his relentless best

Jasprit Bumrah’s first five overs of the Test went for 24, with no maidens. He was all over the place. His next 30 overs in the match have yielded just 40, with three wickets and 14 maidens. This has allowed Ashwin in particular to continue attacking from the other end, with the Australians increasingly edgy about moving the scoreboard along.

Final verdict

If Australia are to get close to the target of 323, their approach needs to be spot on. They need to maneuver the gaps as best as possible, not giving away wickets to desperate shots. The good news is that Shaun Marsh has passed double figures for the first time in seven Test innings, and Travis Head was very good in the first innings. 

219 runs is a very long way off, and India should win this. But, at the very least, Australia need to give their fans some hope that they can indeed push India hard in this series.

It remains to be seen.

Bangladesh vs West Indies 1st ODI Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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Bangladesh vs West Indies 1st ODI Preview + Dream11

Different country, same situation.

West Indies’ tour of Bangladesh has taken incredibly similar shape to Bangladesh’s tour of the Caribbean in July. The tourists were thrashed in the Tests on both occasions, with the entire series barely lasting longer than the length of a single Test. The ODI series offered much more competitive cricket in the Caribbean, and West Indies will be hoping for a successful ODI series in what has been a lean period of results.

Who will start the series with a win?

Bangladesh welcome back Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan, who have been, and will continue to be, central to Bangladesh’s ODI success. With a World Cup fast approaching, Bangladesh will be pleased to have a full squad on deck for this one, and will be keen to dish out a second ODI series defeat to West Indies in a single year. The hosts also have a good mix of pace and spin in their bowling attack, and have an opportunity to heap further pain on a West Indies side that ended their ODI series in India in awful fashion.

Changes are also prevalent in the West Indies line up. Rovman Powell, perhaps surprisingly, leads the Windies in their quest to improve their form ahead of the World Cup, in which a more consistent batting display is crucial. In addition to losing the series earlier this year, West Indies have lost three of their last four series to today’s opposition, and will be looking to spoil the party in what is a time of optimism in Bangladesh right now.

Key to a Bangladesh win

Bangladesh welcome back plenty of experience in this clash, and much of the onus will be on the batsmen to pile the pressure on the Windies. Tamim Iqbal returns to the side boasting an average of 90.16 in nine ODIs this year, and in additional encouragement for Bangladesh, Imrul Kayes and Soumya Sarkar have been in excellent white-ball form, with the latter joining Tamim in scoring a whirlwind hundred in the tour game. Can the top three set things up for Bangladesh’s middle order, containing the experience of Shakib, Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah?

Also, the Windies’ reliance on Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer was prevalent in India, and Bangladesh have a chance to get into the tourists’ line up if they can contain these two players. Mustafizur Rahman and Mashrafe Mortaza continue to be a threat at home, and with Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Shakib Al Hasan sure to aim to put the squeeze, Bangladesh can look to pressurize the Windies batsmen in all three stages of the innings.

Key to a West Indies win

How well will the Windies batting hold up?

Darren Bravo returns to the ODI side after two years, and has been in strong white-ball form in 2018. He needs to sure up a batting line up that blew hot and cold in India, reliant on Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer scoring runs. These two youngsters are key again, but the likes of Kieran Powell and Marlon Samuels must step up to help set a platform for Rovman Powell and Carlos Brathwaite to launch. Both Powell and Samuels have been in poor form for the Windies in recent times, so eyes will be on them here.

Also, can the Windies breakthrough early with the ball? They were able to at times against a magnificent India top three recently, and are faced with the challenge of an experienced Bangladesh line up. A key factor in this game is how well the Windies can dry up the boundaries, forcing Bangladesh to score in singles and twos; an area of their game they haven’t been particularly great at over the years. For that, the spinners will be key in the middle overs, and so too Kemar Roach and Oshane Thomas at the top, who can help push Bangladesh onto the back foot.

Possible teams

This will be quite a different Bangladesh side that took to the field in the 3rd ODI against Zimbabwe recently, with players coming back from injury and rest.

Bangladesh possible XI: 1. Tamim Iqbal, 2. Imrul Kayes, 3. Soumya Sarkar, 4. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5. Shakib Al Hasan, 6. Mahmudullah, 7. Ariful Haque/Mohammad Mithun, 8. Mohammad Saifuddin, 9. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 10. Mashrafe Mortaza (c), 11. Mustafizur Rahman

Rovman Powell will lead West Indies in the absence of Jason Holder. Carlos Brathwaite will be called upon for a solid allround performance, in conjunction with good batting and bowling efforts from his mates.

West Indies possible XI: 1. Kieran Powell, 2. Shai Hope (wk), 3. Darren Bravo, 4. Shimron Hetmyer, 5. Marlon Samuels, 6. Roston Chase, 7. Rovman Powell (c), 8. Carlos Brathwaite, 9. Devendra Bishoo/Fabian Allen, 10. Kemar Roach, 11. Oshane Thomas

Dream11

Should Bangladesh dominate your Dream11? Below is my side with a few pointers.

  • Both wicketkeepers are good options, but Mushfiqur Rahim at home is a good pick.
  • Shimron Hetmyer has been in excellent touch, and so too Imrul Kayes in white-ball cricket.
  • Tamim Iqbal makes my side, but if you wish to proceed with caution as he is only just returning from injury, that’s fair enough. However, he dominated with a big hundred in the tour game.
  • Shakib Al Hasan captains my side.
  • Three seamers make up the bowling attack, with Mehidy Hasan Miraz an economical and wicket-taking option.

Stats and Facts

  • Bangladesh have won three of the last four ODI series vs West Indies.
  • Tamim Iqbal is averaging 90.16 in nine ODIs in 2018.
  • Kieran Powell needs five runs to reach 1,000 in ODIs.

Prediction

Bangladesh continue to improve as an ODI unit, and at home, I predict they will go 1-0 up against a West Indies side short of confidence.

Thanks for reading!

Pakistan vs New Zealand 3rd Test Player Ratings

Charbel Coorey
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Pakistan vs New Zealand 3rd Test Player Ratings

Co-written by @Abdushakoor_

Originally, Pakistan didn’t want Oye Hoye. Then, they did. Then, they didn’t.

After surprising fans with a fantastic win by an innings in the second Test, the men of Sarfraz decided to mimic the first test but this time with more intensity.

The “Oye Hoye” trophy about which Yasir Shah had convinced his teammates before the second Test, was then captured by New Zealand in a magnificent fightback to win the Test. Pakistan were way on top in the first innings, leading by 12 with seven wickets in hand, with Azhar Ali and Asad Shafiq in a 201-run stand.

Cricket Blog CricBlog Pakistan vs New Zealand 3rd Test Player Ratings
Quality meme from @Abdushakoorcric_!

Unbelievably, that big stand between Azhar and Asad made up nearly 40% of the team’s runs in the entire Test. Once again, Pakistan show us why they are the kings of getting people talking about Test Cricket.

In this piece, all players will be rated out of ten! As always, feel free to leave a comment!

New Zealand:

Jeet Raval: Contributed a good 45 in the 1st innings. In the 2nd one, a blob. 5

Tom Latham: One of New Zealand’s disappointments. Couldn’t contribute anything of note. Would fit in nicely as Pakistan opener. 1

Kane Williamson: One of the best batsmen on the planet. He showed his class and that he’s capable of building a long innings to shadow that of the opposition. He was building all series to the second innings century. He pushed the match away from Pakistan’s reach. Personally thanked Sarfraz for holding off on the new ball on the fourth day. 10

Ross Taylor: A golden duck in the first innings, courtesy of a ball that kept low. Dismissed trying to pull a good bumper by Shaheen in the second innings. 2.5

Henry Nicholls: 29 runs in the first innings across the series. 258 in the second. Brilliant. Accompanied the captain in the best possible way and proved his worth with a superb ton. Remained unbeaten. 9

Colin de Grandhomme: Slog, slog and then back-to-pavilion jog. Played like it was a limited overs match, but the second innings dictated that he could. His bowling has been good and bowled a beauty to Azhar Ali. 5.5

Tim Southee: Was warming the bench until this Test. Made a fine comeback, with a highlight the beautiful delivery to Mohammad Hafeez. 7

William Somerville: What an amazing debut for the 34- year old. Spun a web around some Pakistani batsmen. Seven wickets in the match. 8.5

Ajaz Patel: Was excellent once again. Makes the spin department strong. 7

Trent Boult: Excellent effort in the first dig as Pakistan fought hard. Gave his all as always. 7

Pakistan:

Mohammad Hafeez: All the class and run-scoring ability lies in his comeback match against Australia. Not much to write home about since. Couldn’t go out on a high. 1

Imam ul Haq: Some good shots early on in the innings but then the old story. Is Inzamam’s nephew, but doesn’t have the big presence at the pitch like him. Not talking literally. 3

Azhar Ali: Got back to form, making a 100 to get on top of Kiwis. Not involved in a runout this time. His second innings dismissal where he squared up and played with an open face is something he must avoid in South Africa. Will he be captain there? 8

Asad Shafiq: Coupled with Azhar Ali for a beautiful partnership. Couldn’t repeat in second innings and nicked one of the legside. 7

Cricket Blog CricBlog Pakistan vs New Zealand 3rd Test Player Ratings

Babar Azam: A good series for Babar, but a horrible shot in the second innings with Pakistan still a slight chance of causing a miracle and saving the Test. Fell into the trap Kiwis set for him before his dismissal delivery. A fifty but not enough. 5

Sarfraz Ahmed: Tactics, poor. Batting, poor. Seemed as though Sarfraz would go to South Africa carrying that same old ball to use over there. The first ball of day five was with the new ball, and a wicket was taken. Not a captain’s performance by any means. Loud shouts still persisting. 1

Bilal Asif: Called as an all rounder. Proved all wrong. 3

Hasan Ali: A rusty display of bowling. Generator’s fuel ran out. Not sensible enough to stabilise the tail. 4

Yasir Shah: Seven scalps and a good legspin display. With the bat, Pakistan might be better off batting with ten. 7

Shaheen Shah Afridi: A good debut. Produced some beautiful jagging-back-into-lefties seeds. Lots to be encouraged about. 5

So, there it is.

New Zealand pick up a magnificent 2-1 series win, their first away against Pakistan since 1969.

For Pakistan, next up is South Africa, and given their tendencies to collapse, they might not stand too much of a chance.

Thanks for reading!

Superb Cheteshwar Pujara and Aussie bowlers prove their worth

Charbel Coorey
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Superb Cheteshwar Pujara and Aussie bowlers prove their worth
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Australia vs India 1st Test Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Australia vs India 1st Test Preview + Dream11
Australia vs India 1st Test Preview + Dream11 Cricket Blog CricBlog Cricket Preview

The talk, over.

All off-field issues, put to the side.

The Australia-India Test rivalry, here again.

India’s much awaited Test tour of Australia is upon us, and they arguably have had no better chance than now to break their Test duck down under. Will this galvanise the tourists or will the pressure prove too much? On the flip side, will the absence of Steve Smith and David Warner hurt Australia? Will the batsmen hold their own, or will it be almost entirely up to the bowlers to be competitive?

It is all to play for in Adelaide, with each side needing to lay down a marker in the first Test to shape the series in their favour.

It has been a barren 2018 for Australia, only tasting victory in any format in the T20I Tri-Series involving England and New Zealand. They lifted the Ashes in January, but only because the series was won in 2017, before the events of Cape Town. Plenty of ideas have been thrown forward as to how Australia turn things around, and there is no better time than a series against arch-rivals India to lift the mood.

For India, there is indeed no better time than now. There is no better time to improve their record in SENA, as well as achieve their first ever Test series victory down under. Their seam bowling attack looks its most potent in years, and their batting line up is full of capable players looking to remind the Australian media that there is more to this Indian side than Virat Kohli. As great as he is, he can’t do it alone as the South Africa and England tours showed. Will he fire and get the support he needs, enabling India to get off to the perfect start?

Key to an Australia win

Steve Smith and David Warner have been the backbone of Australia’s Test success over the past few years, especially at home. The absence of these two in particular gives India a big chance in the series, which places the onus on the line up picked to deliver the goods.
Usman Khawaja has been touted as one of the players to watch out for this series, and he, along with Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb, must lead an inexperienced batting line up. If Australia leave too much for the inexperienced players to do, trouble awaits, with the Indians fielding a much improved pace attack since they last visited Australia. Sure, Marcus Harris has been in good form in FC Cricket and Aaron Finch and Travis Head were encouraging in the UAE, but Test experience is low, which makes regular partnerships most important for Australia.
However, Australia’s bowling personnel has not been impacted by Cape Town, and contains the ingredients required to cause India a hard time. Virat Kohli is the prize wicket, but the Australians need to ensure that they plan and execute well against an Indian line up that had the potential to perform to pile pressure on the Indian captain. Can Mitchell Starc get the ball swinging prodigously? How economical and effective will Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood be? Also, and very significantly, can Nathan Lyon continue India’s tendency to struggle against offspinners overseas?

Key to an India win

Josh Hazlewood has cheekily reminded India of the need to support Virat Kohli, and that is indeed key to India’s quest to go 1-0 up in the series. The brilliant Indian batsman will likely have a big say as he did in South Africa and England earlier this year, but will he get greater support?
The loss of Prithvi Shaw for the first Test is a blow to the young man and India, which puts the spotlight on the Murali Vijay, fresh off a tour game hundred, and the out-of-form KL Rahul. Also, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are two players who haven’t performed as best they can in 2018, and must help wear the Aussie bowlers down.
On the bowling front, India are in good shape, despite their less-than-convincing showing in the tour game. Much has been made of Ishant Sharma’s record in Australia, but his better, fuller length in recent times will be key for India here. Can Jasprit Bumrah cause problems with his pace? How quickly can Mohammed Shami find his rhythm? Also, can Ravichandran Ashwin win the battle against Nathan Lyon on an Adelaide pitch that could take turn later in the Test?

Possible teams

Mitchell Marsh, vice-captain of the Test side, has been left out as Australia have confirmed their XI.
Australia: 1. Marcus Harris, 2. Aaron Finch, 3. Usman Khawaja, 4. Shaun Marsh, 5. Peter Handscomb, 6. Travis Head, 7. Tim Paine (c & wk), 8. Mitchell Starc, 9. Pat Cummins, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Josh Hazlewood
For India, Prithvi Shaw is out with injury, which paves the way for Murali Vijay and KL Rahul to open the batting. The pitch in Adelaide is said to have some grass on it, but personal opinion suggests it is still unlikely India will pick Bhuvneshwar Kumar, especially given that the hot conditions in Adelaide will dry out the pitch.
India: 1. Murali Vijay, 2. KL Rahul, 3. Cheteshwar Pujara, 4. Virat Kohli (c), 5. Ajinkya Rahane, 6. Rohit Sharma, 7. Rishabh Pant, 8. Ravichandran Ashwin, 9. Mohammed Shami, 10. Ishant Sharma, 11. Jasprit Bumrah
P.S. be sure to check out my five big predictions for the series!

Dream11

The first Test of the big series! Below is my Dream11 team with a few pointers.

Australia vs India 1st Test Preview + Dream11 Cricket Blog CricBlog Cricket Preview
  • Tim Paine will be primed for a big Test as captain. His glovework remains solid, and his batting down the order will be of great use to Australia.
  • Virat Kohli captains my side, and Usman Khawaja vice-captains. Ajinkya Rahane has a good record in Australia, and Shaun Marsh, despite a very poor home record against India, is a key batsman for the Aussies.
  • R Ashwin makes my side because the warm weather will dry out the pitch quicker, and likely make it conducive to spin as the Test goes on.
  • India’s batting will be tested against Australia’s fine quartet. They all make my side, along with Jasprit Bumrah. Will Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Shami hit their straps straight away? What about KL Rahul? For me, the Aussie bowlers might get the early upper hand.

Stats and Facts

  • Australia are unbeaten in their last nine home Tests (eight wins).
  • India are the current holders of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, courtesy of a tight 2-1 win at home in 2017.
  • Australia will be missing Steve Smith, who averages 84.05 in 10 Tests against India.
  • India have never won a Test series in Australia, and haven’t won a Test down under since 2008 (nine Tests).

Prediction

Very excited for this series to begin.
Australia are without key players, but won’t let India win without a big fight. India, to be successful in this series, need a good start. It promises to be a good clash.
In home conditions, and in lovely Adelaide, I will pick Australia to take a 1-0 series lead on the back of a fine bowling display.
I could very well be wrong, which is the beauty of this series. Here’s to a good one!
Thanks for reading!
P.S. be sure to check out my five big predictions for the series!

Pakistan A vs England Lions 5th Unofficial ODI Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

Preview written by @JonSNOW26008605

Pakistan A and England Lions will take each other on in the series decider, after Pakistan A picked up their second 180+ run win of the series.

Conditions at the ICC Academy in Dubai are generally good for batting, and with the weather forecast looking fine, lots of runs can be expected.

Who will take out the series?

Key to Pakistan A win

A lot will depend on Shan Masood as they have lost their most consistent run scorer M Rizwan. Masood and Adil Amin will look to continue their good form while it is an opportunity for their new comers to make a statement.

However, Pakistan’s bowling is their strongest department, and will give England another tough test.  If the batsmen provide enough support to their bowlers, they are a strong chance of clinching the series.

Key to England Lions win

England look a better side than their opponents on paper. But their batsmen have found it difficult to cope with the pacers and spinners of Pakistan.

The pitch seems to be a belter and England hopes of clinching the series will depend a lot on their batsmen.

On the bowling front, Wood and Gregory will be key and will hope the spinners do their job in the middle overs. If England exploit this new look Pakistan batting then they have a great chance to win the series.

Venue: ICC Academy, Dubai

Pitch & conditions

It is generally a very good batting wicket. Weather is expected to be fine, so we can expect a high scoring encounter for this one.

Expected Teams and Dream11 Fantasy Tips:

Pakistan A: Shan Masood (c), Mukhtar Ahmed, Adil Amin, M Hassan (wk), Israrullah, Zohaib Khan, Amir Yamin, Waqas Maqsood, Umaid Asif, Amad Butt, M,Irfan

  • Rizwan will not play this match as he will join the Pakistan squad for Emerging Asia cup.
  • Amir Yamin joins the squad for the final match after returning from T10 league . He is an excellent allrounder and can be your differential pick.

England Lions: Alex Davies(wk), Sam Hain, Joe Clarke, Liam Livingstone, Ollie Pope, Lewis Gregory(c), Dominic Bess, Nick Gubbins/ Cadmore, Danny Briggs, James Porter / Saqib , Mark Wood

  • Since it is the series decider and the team lost badly the previous match they can ring in some unexpected changes. Only the place of Gubbins is risky.

Captain and Vice Captain picks:

Pakistan A:

  • Shan Masood – Inform player and very consistent in domestic cricket
  • Umaid Asif – Excellent fast bowler who did well for Peshawar in the last season of PSL.
  • Alternative options – Amir Yamin , Adil Amin.

England Lions:

  • Livingstone – Will bowl all his quota of overs and is a dangerous batsmen.
  • Hain – He has been the most consistent batsmen for the Lions this year .
  • Alternative options – Davies, Wood.

Prediction

England Lions to win the series on the back of Sam Hain.

Pakistan vs New Zealand 3rd Test Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

Preview co-written by @Abdushakoorcric.

Here are some truths you can’t deny:
1- Sun rises in the East
2- Earth is round
3- Pakistan team is unpredictable

You just don’t know what you’ll get with when watching a Pakistan match. They can eradicate your hopes when expected to win, and can prove you wrong in your Pakistan-to-lose predictions. One day they find it difficult to stay at the crease and on other occasions they take rest on the pitch for two days. That is the thing Pakistani fans can sometimes boast about when they come out to win the title out of nowhere like the ‘RKO’ of Randy Orton.

Will they come out and take the series or will New Zealand bounce back?

Pakistan gave fans a scare of a match draw (with possibly an end like ODI series), grinding their way to 418 in nearly two days. But they say “collapses start from ordinary/soft dismissals”, and New Zealand’s started with a drag on by Jeet Raval but not to take credit away from the Yasir Shah who spun a web around the Kiwis. He started to become better and better and unplayable for them, with Mickey Arthur in admiration of Yasir Shah post match. It was one of the finest spells you’ll ever see, which well-and-truly turned the series. Will he take centre stage in Abu Dhabi?

The rain was falling early on day three, and New Zealand were sitting pretty 1-0 up in the series in the changing rooms. The Dubai Test was about how would blink first, with both sides displaying significant patience over the first two days. Unfortunately for the Black Caps, it was they who blinked first, losing 10 wickets for 40 runs in an unforgettable period of play. There was improvement in the second innings, but was ultimately too late thanks to a bad period, which is something New Zealand must avoid in the decider.

Key to a Pakistan win

Pakistan’s batsmen sucked the life out of New Zealand in Dubai, but not before Mohammad Hafeez and Imam-ul-Haq continued their run of underwhelming scores. Hafeez has struggled after his fine comeback-hundred against Australia, not even hitting 50 in six innings since. The following batsmen were superb, though, with Azhar Ali, Babar Azam and Haris Sohail grinding the Black Caps down, which is something Pakistan will be after once again.
Also, another thing Pakistan would probably be keen for is not losing Azhar Ali to a run out. Azhar and runouts is arguably the world’s most beautiful love story right now – he’s involved in more runouts than Umar Akmal in controversies, and has to discuss running with his teammates to not gift New Zealand wickets.
On the bowling front, Pakistan were simply superb in Dubai. Before the start of the series, Hasan Ali had a lot of critics questioning his place in the XI but he has proved them wrong. He bowled some excellent spells of reverse swing and has gripped the dismiss-the-Grandhomme mission tightly. His partnership with the magnificent Yasir Shah will be of even greater importance in Abu Dhabi, with Mohammad Abbas ruled out with a shoulder injury. Yasir’s superb drift, turn and flight was something Mickey Arthur was so impressed with and would be keen to see in Abu Dhabi. Can he rip through New Zealand again?

Key to a New Zealand win

There is little doubt that New Zealand showed stomach for the fight for the most part in Dubai.
However, the short period in which they didn’t cost them the game. They say you can’t win a Test in a session, but you can lose it, which came to the fore in the 2nd Test, and is something the Black Caps must avoid in the decider. Ross Taylor showed his touch with runs, so too Kane Williamson who has had a series full of starts. Like the skipper, New Zealand need to convert their starts into hundreds to pile the pressure on Pakistan.
Also, what will the make up of New Zealand’s bowling attack look like? Colin de-Grandhomme, like fellow batting all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, is bowling quite well, with his batting the disappointing aspect of his game. Ish Sodhi bowled just 20 odd overs out of 167 in Dubai, which renders his position in the side questionable. Regardless of who is picked, New Zealand will need to find ways of penetrating a Pakistan line up that will again look to grind them down. Can the likes of Trent Boult and Ajaz Patel find greater success?

Possible teams

Pakistan are at sixes and sevens by the news of Mohammad Abbas’ shoulder injury. Although he has just two wickets this series, he has built pressure, enabling the other bowlers to pounce. Shaheen Shah Afridi is reportedly in line to make his debut, and Bilal Asif could be replaced by Faheem Ashraf.

Pakistan: 1. Imam-ul-Haq, 2. Mohammad Hafeez, 3. Azhar Ali, 4. Haris Sohail, 5. Asad Shafiq, 6. Babar Azam, 7. Sarfraz Ahmed (c & wk), 8. Bilal Asif/Faheem Ashraf, 9. Hasan Ali, 10. Yasir Shah, 11. Shaheen Shah Afridi

For New Zealand, Tim Southee could come in for Ish Sodhi, who isn’t having the best of times.

New Zealand: 1. Jeet Raval, 2. Tom Latham, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Henry Nicholls, 6. BJ Watling (wk), 7. Colin de Grandhomme, 8. Tim Southee/Ish Sodhi, 9. Neil Wagner, 10. Ajaz Patel, 11. Trent Boult

Dream11

Pakistan’s batting to set things up well again? Below is my Dream11 side with a few pointers.
  • BJ Watling continues to be a solid cog in New Zealand’s batting lineup.
  • Kane Williamson is a due a score, and is an option for C or VC. I have gone with Azhar Ali, who looked to be near his best in Dubai.
  • Mohammad Hafeez is also due a score. Bilal Asif is a chance of being replaced by Faheem Ashraf, so stay clear of Bilal.
  • Yasir Shah is my captain, with Hasan Ali in the side thanks to his excellent bowling this series.

Stats and Facts

  • Pakistan’s win in Dubai was their first against New Zealand in five Tests.
  • Yasir Shah is five away from becoming the fastest ever to 200 Test wickets. The current record is 36 Tests by Clarrie Grimmett. Yasir Shah has 195 in 32 Tests.
  • If Pakistan win this Test, it will be their first Test series win v New Zealand since 2010/11.

Prediction

This has the makings of a very competitive series decider.
Do New Zealand have anything left in the tank? Can Pakistan put one final big effort? I think they will and take the series 2-1.
Thanks for reading!

5 big predictions for Australia vs India Test Series

Charbel Coorey
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The big Test series is upon us.
Australia will play their second Test series since Cape Town, looking to rediscover the winning feeling in what has been a barren 2018 to date. It will be a big test without Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, with the former captain and vice-captain particularly key to Australia’s successes at home in recent years.
For India, it is their third big away tour of the year, and after defeats in South Africa and England, India will be hoping for a better time in Australia.
Many pundits believe this is India’s best chance to win in Australia for the first time ever. Dean Jones has gone as far to say that “if India don’t win this series, they’ll never win in Australia.” Their tour game has not gone exactly to plan, with their bowlers struggling and losing 19-year old whiz kid Prithvi Shaw to a nasty ankle injury.
On the other side, Australia’s bowling attack is good enough to cause India’s batting line up problems, but will the batting hold its own? In a series between two great rivals, who will gain the upper hand? Below are my five big predictions for the series. As always, feel free to leave a comment!
Prediction #1 – Leading run scorer: Virat Kohli (India)
 
Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting came out and said Usman Khawaja will top the charts. However, it is just too difficult to go past Virat Kohli.
This man has arguably had his best year to date. Tours to South Africa and England provided the ultimate test for batsmen in bowling friendly conditions, and Kohli stood head and shoulders above the rest. He scored in excess of 70 more than the next best in South Africa, and a huge 244 more than the next best in England.
This goes with his magnificent tour of Australia in 2014. He is the best batsman in the world, and will top the run scoring charts.

Prediction #2 – Nathan Lyon will show why he’s the premier Test offspinner in the world

Nathan Lyon vs Ravichandran Ashwin has been a topic on many fans’ lips over the last few years. Personally, there is little doubt that Nathan Lyon is the world’s best offspinner, thanks to his ability to adjust to a range of conditions.
He conquered Asia in 2017, and has been superb in Australia. Ravi Ashwin, on the other hand, has already made clear he won’t look to bowl like Lyon, and his desire to bowl with lots of variations (as his disappointing Southampton Test earlier this year showed) could continue to render him ineffective in Australia.
Nathan Lyon will outbowl Ashwin, continue some of the problems India have with offspinners overseas, and finish with more wickets.

Prediction #3 – Leading wicket taker: Patrick Cummins (Australia)

 
Both sides possess seam bowlers that can do well in this series, so picking who will be the leading wicket taker is a tough ask.
However, it is hard to go past the brilliant Pat Cummins. Mitchell Starc will have a say, so too Josh Hazlewood and Jasprit Bumrah, but Cummins’ attributes will hold him in good stead. Pace and consistency is so important in Australia these days, and Cummins has both.

Prediction #4 – Australia’s leading run scorer: Usman Khawaja

 
Usman Khawaja might not do enough to outscore Virat Kohli, but he will be Australia’s best and the series’ second highest run scorer.
Superb in the UAE, Khawaja is a key cog in the Aussie line up, and possesses a superb record at home. He is in for a big series.

Prediction #5 – Winner: Australia (2-1)

The big one.
This series is likely to be very closely fought, with Australia possessing a good bowling attack at home, and India keen to pick up their first ever series win.
However, will it be different for India’s batsmen this time as they look to improve their SENA record? The loss of Prithvi Shaw for the first and possibly second Test is a blow, and I believe Australia’s bowlers have enough in them to get Australia home, backed up by a batting line up that has largely done well in Australian conditions.
Australia will win a closely fought series 2-1.
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So, there are my five predictions.
What are yours? Would love to hear them!
Thanks for reading!

Bangladesh vs West Indies 2nd Test Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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History was made in Chittagong. Recent history in Test Cricket held true.
Bangladesh won their first ever Test against West Indies on home soil, on the back of a strong first innings effort, where they took a crucial lead not far off the margin of the result. The toss proved critical, and Mirpur will likely prove the same, with both sides struggling in recent times to compete in matches where they lose the toss.
Can Bangladesh pick up their first Test series win since 2014, or will the Windies bounce back to level the series?
The Chittagong pitch suited Bangladesh perfectly. Their spin attack proved too much for the Windies batsmen, who were victim of nerves against spin, which saw top order collapses in both innings. The return of Shakib Al Hasan was a significant boost, combining beautifully with Taijul Islam and the two off spinners to make life difficult for the Windies’ batsmen. Will Bangladesh stave off their own regular batting collapses on the way to a 2-0 series win?
West Indies had never lost a Test in Bangladesh before in Chittagong, and will rue loose bowling in the first half of day one. Bangladesh plundered their way through the first half thanks to Mominul Haque’s fine century, and through Shannon Gabriel, who won’t be available for this Test, the Windies fought back. It proved too little, too late, so the Windies have to cut down the number of poor moments throughout the Test in their quest to avoid becoming the first ever side other than Zimbabwe to lose a Test series in Bangladesh.

Key to a Bangladesh win

Four of Bangladesh’s top five reached at least 20 in the first innings at Chittagong, with Mominul Haque scoring his sixth century in eight Tests at the venue. Bangladesh’s start on day one was a welcome change from their regular top order collapses in recent times, but the challenge will be to maintain this consistently in Test cricket. Bangladesh, albeit on a difficult track, gave the Windies a sniff via a first innings collapse and second innings effort that contained questionable shot selections. Can Mominul fire again, this time with more input from the likes of Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim (if selected, as he is in doubt with a finger problem)?
However, it is with the ball where Bangladesh’s best chance lies. Bangladesh’s four specialist spinners shared all 20 wickets in Chittagong, with Taijul Islam and Nayeem Hasan enjoying five wicket hauls. Against a Windies batting line up comprehensively outplayed in their last three Tests across India and Bangladesh, an opportunity awaits for the Bangladesh bowlers to keep the pressure on.

Key to a West Indies win

No Jason Holder and no Shannon Gabriel in this Test represents a huge challenge for the West Indies. The absence of these two places significant onus on the top six, who were largely blown away in Chittagong, which included being reduced to 11/4 in the second dig. Of utmost importance to the tourists is not getting out to straight balls, which was the case at times in the 1st Test, thanks to a fear of the sharply turning ball. Kraigg Brathwaite’s lack of runs needs to be addressed, to help hold the innings together for his side, to pave the way for the likes of Shemron Hetmyer, Sunil Ambris and Shane Dowrich to continue on from their promising 1st Test efforts.
But, the batting doesn’t represent the only challenge for the Windies in Mirpur. The absence of two key bowlers leaves a huge hole that needs to be filled by disciplined, patient bowling. The Bangladeshis are known to display a lack of patience at times, and it is up to the Windies bowlers to test it. Devendra Bishoo and Jomel Worrican grew into the game at Chittagong, and will be critical to whether the Windies level the series. Also, what impact can Kemar Roach have after an expensive outing last week?

Possible teams

Mirpur tracks have taken significant turn in Tests in the last couple of years, so expect Bangladesh to go in with just the one seamer again. Imrul Kayes is out with injury, which leaves Bangladesh in a bit of a tricky situation. Soumya Sarkar needs to step up after twin failures in Chittagong, and is set to be partnered by 23-year old Shadman Islam, who does have a fine FC record. Also, Mushfiqur Rahim has picked up a finger injury in the lead up to the test, and is in doubt. Liton Das is on standby.
Bangladesh: 1. Shadman Islam, 2. Soumya Sarkar, 3. Mominul Haque, 4. Mohammad Mithun, 5. Shakib Al Hasan (c), 6. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 7. Mahmudullah, 8. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 9. Nayeem Islam, 10. Taijul Islam, 11. Mustafizur Rahman
For the Windies, Shannon Gabriel is out after picking up a suspension for making contact with Imrul Kayes. Shermon Lewis or Keemo Paul could replace him.
West Indies: 1. Kraigg Brathwaite (c), 2. Kieran Powell, 3. Shai Hope, 4. Sunil Ambris, 5. Roston Chase, 6. Shimron Hetmyer, 7. Shane Dowrich (wk), 8. Jomel Worrican, 9. Keemo Paul/Shermon Lewis, 10. Kemar Roach, 11. Devendra Bishoo

Dream11

Spin to win. Below is my updated Dream11 team with a few pointers.
  • Shannon Gabriel troubled Mushfiqur Rahim significantly in Chittagong. Gabriel is not available, so picking Mushfiqur with confidence was the way to go. However, he is in doubt with a finger injury, and it is probably best to not risk him. Shane Dowrich promised in Chittagong, and will be key for West Indies again.
  • Shadman Islam has a fine first class record of 3,023 runs at 46.50. His strike rate of 45 suggests he is a patient player, too.
  • Shimron Hetmyer, despite throwing his second innings wicket away badly, is a threat to Bangladesh. Mominul Haque has two centuries in his last two Tests.
  • I previously had Kraigg Brathwaite, but Roston Chase is too promising to ignore.
  • All four Bangladesh spinners make my side, with the in-form Taijul (25 wickets in his last three games) my captain.
  • Both specialist West Indies spinners make my side. Plenty of turn expected!

Stats and Facts

  • Bangladesh’s win at Chittagong was their first ever Test win against West Indies at home.
  • Taijul Islam needs six wickets to become the third Bangladeshi to take 100 Test wickets.
  • West Indies have lost their last three Tests.
  • Mushfiqur needs eight runs to become the second Bangladeshi after Tamim Iqbal to reach 4,000 runs.
  • Nayeem Hasan became the youngest ever Test cricketer to take a five-wicket haul.

Prediction

Again, the toss will prove crucial to the result.
Like the first Test, my prediction will be based on which side is likelier to do well if they need to bat second. Bangladesh at home look too good for West Indies, and it could prove to be the case again.
Bangladesh to win the series 2-0.
Thanks for reading!

Pakistan vs New Zealand 2nd Test Player Ratings: “I want Oye Hoye”

Charbel Coorey
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Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed and coach Mickey Arthur faced the media after Pakistan’s big win the 2nd Test.
“During the 1st Test, we agreed we didn’t want the Oye Hoye trophy,” said Mickey Arthur. “Then Yasir Shah convinced us that we should go for it. He’ll keep it at his house.”
It was honest stuff from the Pakistan coach

In all seriousness, it was a magnificent fightback from Pakistan after the capitulation in Abu Dhabi last week. Led by a patient batting display and the magnificent Yasir Shah, Pakistan have taken this series to a decider which, on Dubai’s evidence, they start as favourites.

In this article, I will go player-by-player and rate out of ten. If this is your first time reading my player ratings, it is a light-hearted review of the match!

Pakistan:

Imam-ul-Haq: Imam’s quiet series continues. The second wicket early on the first day that prompted an ultra-watchful approach by Pakistan. Good catch under the lid to remove Tom Latham in the first innings. 2
 
Mohammad Hafeez: Magnificent return to the side against Australia, but not much joy since. Did he really have to play that well against us? 3
 
Azhar Ali: Azhar and run outs… A better love story than Twilight. Not his fault this time, though, as there was a single on offer for sure. Haris sold him down the river. Looked good for a first century in 18 Test innings. Played very well in grinding New Zealand down. 8
 
Haris Sohail: An innings completely out of context in the modern game. At one point, I was asking who was slower – Sohail or KL Rahul in the T20Is v Australia? In the end, his approach worked a charm, with two days in the field for New Zealand taking its toll. Batting 421 balls is an incredible achievement, even if there were runs on offer that could have been pounced upon. As you can tell, I’m a purist. 9
 
Babar Azam: Ladies and gentlemen, this man knows his limits. He thinks before he does everything. Knew he had to be patient in the nervous 90s, and picked up his first Test century. A good moment for him. Not so much Zainab Abbas. 9
 
Sarfraz Ahmed: I’m heading to Abu Dhabi to break the stump mic when Pakistan go out to field. The loudest man in cricket, Sarfraz Ahmed, had plenty to shout about with Yasir Shah simply brilliant, plus a few mishaps in the field he simply needed to get off his chest. Plus the laughs when a wicket was taken. Had to lower the TV volume. 7
 
Bilal Asif: Isn’t quite finding the bite he did against Australia, but picked up the vital wicket of Ross Taylor. To the relief of Pakistan fans everywhere, he wasn’t required to bat. 6
 
And this is why…

Yasir Shah: 14 wickets. Absolutely outstanding. The deliveries to get Ross Taylor and Henry Nicholls in the first innings and Kane Williamson in the second would have had Shane Warne tweeting great things (which he did). The saying “as excited as a kid in a candy store” should be changed to “as excited as Ramiz Raja when Yasir takes a wicket.” Also, imagine the English media if it were Adil Rashid? 10

Hasan Ali: Boom. One of Pakistan’s best once again, bowling beautifully on a tough pitch for the seamers. Reportedly had a dream of Colin de Grandhomme. “I hope to see him play again for New Zealand in the next Test”, said a thrilled Hasan Ali after the Test. 8
 
Mohammad Abbas: Wicketless in the Test. Incredible. Wicketless in his last three innings. Even more incredible. But, he is building the pressure on New Zealand’s batsmen, as his economy rate of 1.95 for the Test suggests. A vital cog in Pakistan’s line up. 5
 

New Zealand:

 
Jeet Raval: First wicket to fall on day three, the first of 10 in the space of 13.5 overs. Disappointing lack of awareness in the second innings to get stumped without realising where his back foot was. 4
 
Tom Latham: Two starts. New Zealand desperately need him to carry on and go big. 6
 
Kane Williamson: Kane Williamson batted right through the first innings!…. But scored 28, such was the calamity of New Zealand’s batting effort. Some absolutely gorgeous strokeplay in both innings, before being undone by a cracking Yasir Shah delivery. Reportedly smacked Colin de Grandhomme over the head after his second innings shot. 7
 
Ross Taylor: Done by a beauty in the first innings, and played fluently in the second. Will he dominate in the decider? 7
 
Henry Nicholls: Could have driven an 18-wheeler through Henry Nicholl’s gap between bat and pad in the first innings, despite it being a magnificent delivery by Yasir. Showed his fighting qualities in the second innings. Key player. 7
 
BJ Watling: His wicket truly spelt the end for New Zealand on day four. 4
 
Colin de Grandhomme: Colin de Grandhomme’s performance was like going to a party, enjoying the first 15 minutes, and hating the rest of it. Reportedly had been watching a few highlights of Bilal Asif’s batting. Disappointing strokeplay after an honest bowling effort. 5
 
Ugly

Ish Sodhi: Just 22 overs out of 167 in the first innings for Sodhi, which isn’t a confidence booster. Neither is exposing your stumps to Yasir Shah. 2

Neil Wagner: Ran in tirelessly for no wickets. Economy rate superb. He and Mohammad Abbas best buds? The UAE effect. 5
 
Ajaz Patel: The grind of Test cricket realised very quickly by Ajaz. On a high in Abu Dhabi, followed by 1/120 in Dubai. 5
 
Trent Boult: Shocked the cricketing world when New Zealand had their first wicket of day two, in the third session. Trying effort, but couldn’t repeat his first innings Abu Dhabi heroics. 5
 
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So, a magnificent fightback by Pakistan.
An innings victory within four days did not look on the cards when the rain was falling on the third morning. It looked even less on the cards when New Zealand were 50/0 in their first dig.
All to play for in the decider!
Thanks for reading!
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