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Bangladesh vs West Indies 1st Test Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: Getty Images

This Test series isn’t the most high profile on the cricketing calendar, given the respective rankings of the two sides, but boy is it unpredictable.

Bangladesh take on West Indies at home after being humiliated in the series earlier this year in the Caribbean, and will be hoping to use home conditions, as well as the absence of Jason Holder, to their advantage.
Is it as simple as saying that the winner of the toss goes a long way to winning this Test?
The return of Shakib Al Hasan is a huge boost for Bangladesh. Personally, heart wondered whether Shakib would ever play another Test again given the nature of his injury, as well as BCB President Nazmul Hassan’s extraordinary claim in July that Bangladesh’s senior players aren’t too keen on Tests. His return will boost both their batting and bowling line up, even if he is a little rusty, such is his quality. Will the Bangladeshis gain revenge over the Windies for their July drubbing?
On the flip side, the loss of Jason Holder is a huge loss for West Indies. The men from the Caribbean face a big test in improving their record in Asia, coming up against a Bangladesh side possessing tidy spinners. Kraigg Brathwaite, in his third Test as captain, will be tasked in leading from the front with the bat, with a focus on maintaining his superb record against Bangladesh. With no Holder in the side, the players in the side must hold extra accountability for their performances.

Key to a Bangladesh win

Bangladesh broke an eight-game winless run in Tests by beating Zimbabwe in Dhaka last week. However, their top order leaves plenty to be desired, crumbling to 26/3 and 25/4 across both innings in last week’s win, following a run of eight straight innings where Bangladesh failed to reach 200. 
Changes were made to Bangladesh’s squad, but that doesn’t necessarily mean instant success. Bangladesh’s top six, including Imrul Kayes and Soumya Sarkar, must display the patience and temperament necessary to tame a Windies attack hoping for Bangladeshi mistakes. Mushfiqur Rahim, Mominul Haque and Mahmudullah were all excellent in the last Test, and will need to be again to deliver victory for the hosts.
 
On the bowling front, there is little doubt that Bangladesh are putting together a good attack for home conditions. Taijul Islam is coming off 18 wickets in two Tests against Zimbabwe, and Mehidy Hasan is beginning to prove his worth as a Test quality allrounder. With Shakib back, Bangladesh will be keen to put the squeeze on a Windies line up that struggled badly in India. Also, it was encouraging to see Mustafizur Rahman and Khaled Ahmed get overs under their belt against Zimbabwe, and will also look to keep the Windies batsmen honest.

Key to a West Indies win

Roston Chase was the Windies’ shining light with the bat in India, and needs to be at it again in Bangladesh. However, more is required from Kraigg Brathwaite, who will skipper the side, as well as Shimron Hetmyer and Shai Hope, who need to prove they aren’t just white-ball specialists. With the Windies’ missing the security of Jason Holder down the order, the top six must hold its own against a Bangladesh attack that will look to accurate and effective in home conditions.
Also, there will be no Jason Holder to turn to with the ball. Kemar Roach (if picked) and Shannon Gabriel, who have both been in good touch, will be key against Bangladesh’s shaky top order, to pave the way for Devendra Bishoo and Jomel Worrican to keep the pressure on. Bishoo in particular has had a tough 2018, taking just eight wickets in six Tests at 60. Will the Windies attack thrive as a unit?

Possible teams

Liton Das, Nazmul Hossain Shanto, Abu Jayed, Shafiul Islam and Nazmul Islam were all dropped from the squad for the Zimbabwe series. Soumya Sarkar is set to open, alongside Imrul Kayes, and Shakib Al Hasan returns to skipper the side.
Bangladesh: 1. Imrul Kayes, 2. Soumya Sarkar, 3. Mominul Haque, 4. Mahmudullah, 5. Shakib Al Hasan (c), 6. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 7. Mohammad Mithun, 8. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 9. Taijul Islam, 10. Khaled Ahmed, 11. Mustafizur Rahman
For West Indies, there is no Jason Holder, which means more is needed from both their batting and bowling stocks.
West Indies: 1. Kraigg Brathwaite (c), 2. Kieran Powell, 3. Shai Hope, 4. Shimron Hetmyer, 5. Roston Chase, 6. Sunil Ambris, 7. Shane Dowrich (wk), 8. Devendra Bishoo, 9. Kemar Roach, 10. Jomel Worrican, 11. Shannon Gabriel

Dream11

Spent quite a bit of time putting this side together. Hoping it gets the points! Below is my team with a few pointers.
  • Mushfiqur Rahim is my wicket keeper choice, and captain.
  • Kraigg Brathwaite averages nearly 65 against Bangladesh. Shimron Hetmyer has all the talent in the world, and I back him to show the temperament needed in Tests.
  • I was impressed with Mohammad Mithun against Zimbabwe, and Mominul remains vital for Bangladesh.
  • Picking Shakib Al Hasan was not straight forward given he could be rusty, but he is class. Roston Chase is a must, so too Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
  • Khaled Ahmed was unlucky not to get wickets against Zimbabwe. He makes my side here, alongside Devendra Bishoo and Taijul Islam.

Stats and Facts

  • Shakib Al Hasan needs four wickets to become the first Bangladesh bowler to take 200 Test wickets.
  • Kieran Powell is 13 runs away from 2,000 in Tests.

Prediction

This could very well depend on the toss. Anything can happen!
With Jason Holder missing, and Shakib back, I am leaning towards Bangladesh.
Thanks for reading!

Australia vs India 1st T20I Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: Getty Images
India’s much awaited tour of Australia begins at the famous Gabba in Brisbane.
In a sign of the times, it is T20 action that precedes a huge Test series, which would have been unthinkable 10-15 years ago. Nevertheless, an Australia-India game always has plenty at stake, given the rivalry between the two nations, with Australia now desperate for a change in fortunes.
In what’s been a difficult 2018, can Australia challenge and beat a strong India side?


Australia have now lost four T20Is on the bounce; a disappointing run of results after an encouraging Tri-Series win against England and New Zealand earlier this year. Much of their ODI troubles against South Africa stemmed from a T20-dominated side, which will get the chance to prove themselves against a quality India attack. Can Australia start the big series on a high and help lift the mood?
India’s quest for success in Australia begins in Brisbane, and are in superb form in white ball cricket. The Indians were always going to be too good for West Indies recently, but India’s prowess in white ball cricket has been there for everyone to see in recent years. Will India’s batting click into gear right away, backed up by their efficient bowling attack?

Key to an Australia win


Australia’s batsmen just can’t seem to get going, hellbent on moving around the crease, when keeping it simple works best. Australia’s batting strategy currently resembles confusion and a lack of confidence, stemming from a lack of understanding of how to properly approach the game. “Elite honesty” needs to be replaced WITH “elite performance”, which stems from a mindset of going out and playing hard, fair cricket.
Much depends on the batsmen in this one, with India boasting a batting line up that can light up Brisbane and make the night worthwhile for attendees for the wrong reason from an Australian perspective. Aaron Finch, after his incredible Tri-Series effort in Zimbabwe, has been short of runs recently, and Chris Lynn and Glenn Maxwell need to get going. Will the Aussies handle India’s pace and spin options with a good mix of power and precision to get a competitive total?
With the ball, Australia face a big test. Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli are magnificent white ball players, and the key for Australia will be to test India’s ability to play bounce. It could be worth attacking a little more than usual in the opening six overs, and try to catch the edge of the Indian batsmen after recently arriving to these shores after a home series against West Indies. Will the likes of Billy Stanlake, Nathan Coulter-Nile and AJ Tye get through India’s top three relatively cheaply?

Key to an India win

Shikhar Dhawan and Rishabh Pant recently hit form, albeit in a dead-rubber T20I, after a quiet limited overs campaign against West Indies for the both of them. Of course, Dhawan, along with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, will be of huge significance to the result, but what impact will KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant have? Australia’s attack is understandably missing first choice seamers, but the Indians will need to be on their game and adjust to the bounce as quickly as possible.
On the bowling front, India are blessed with strong pace and spin options, so much so that Yuzvendra Chahal will likely miss out. Australia’s batting has had a real knack of losing wickets early in recent times, and India will be looking at those powerplay overs as a path to victory. Jasprit Bumrah continues to prove he deserves the number one title in white ball cricket, and will be looking for support from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Khaleel Ahmed in particular to extract the kind of impact the South Africans did over the last few weeks.

Possible teams

Australia went for an all-out seam attack in the hugely significant (not) one-off T20I against South Africa. A spinner would give the attack some variety, but Glenn Maxwell could be tasked with that role.
Australia: 1. Aaron Finch (c), 2. D’Arcy Short, 3. Chris Lynn, 4. Glenn Maxwell, 5. Marcus Stoinis, 6. Ben McDermott, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Nathan Coulter-Nile, 9. Andrew Tye, 10. Jason Behrendorff, 11. Billy Stanlake
India named their XII a day before the game, and it could be a shoot-out between wristspinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav, so Krunal Pandya’s all-round abilities can be called upon if needed.
India: 1. Rohit Sharma, 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. KL Rahul, 5. Rishabh Pant (wk), 6. Dinesh Karthik, 7. Krunal Pandya, 8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 9. Kuldeep Yadav/Yuzvendra Chahal, 10. Khaleel Ahmed, 11. Jasprit Bumrah

Dream11

Can Australia tame India’s top order? Below is my Dream11 for this clash, with a few pointers.
  • Who is likelier to get more batting time? Alex Carey or Dinesh Karthik? Carey for me.
  • When I think of KL Rahul starting off a tour in style, I think of England earlier this year. His T20 form was magnificent, and he makes my side, along with Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma and Chris Lynn.
  • Aaron Finch was a constant let down against South Africa. I won’t take the punt on him here at his price.
  • Time for Glenn Maxwell to shine. He is my VC, alongside Marcus Stoinis. Krunal Pandya is an option, but it remains to be seen how well he goes down under.
  • Jasprit Bumrah and Khaleel Ahmed could enjoy Brisbane conditions under lights, so too Nathan Coulter-Nile who has the ability to swing the ball. AJ Tye is one to take wickets at the death.
  • Jason Behrendorff is a decent option too, but beware as he could be the one left out if Australia choose a spinner.

Stats and Facts

  • Australia have won just two of their last eight T20Is – one against Zimbabwe and the other v UAE.

Prediction

An appetiser before the huge Test series.
A game against India is one I never want to see Australia lose, but India start this game as deserved favourites. Heart says Australia as always, but India will start their tour off with a win.
In this case, I do hope I’m wrong!
Also, to get in the mood for the big tour, be sure to check out my 5 key things to watch out for over the next two months.
Thanks for reading!

Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Test Player Ratings: “Winning easy is boring.”

Charbel Coorey
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Pakistan is the gift that keeps on giving. Wonderful timing with Christmas just around the corner.

There can be no doubt that Pakistan is the only side in world cricket that can go from world class to meme class in the space of half an hour. They gave away victory in Abu Dhabi when it seemed as certain as that bloke who always says he’s shouting dinner next, but then never shows up.
 
46 runs with seven wickets in hand doesn’t represent the hardest of equations, but what’s a Pakistan run chase without a little drama? Or a Mickey Arthur face palm? They simply just don’t want to bore us all, and for that, we thank them.
UAE Tests can often put one to sleep, but this one was so good that I didn’t want to sleep, such was the beauty of Twitter during and in the aftermath of Pakistan’s capitulation.With Test Cricket under increasing threat, everyone seems to have their solutions to keeping it alive, but Pakistan are screaming out that it is only them who can get everyone talking so much. In fact, it was the third lowest scoring Test in the UAE, courtesy of @imsgshinde, who keeps coming up with the goods.

However, it would be unfair to New Zealand to focus only on Pakistan, as the Black Caps held in right throughout the Test. A total of 153 in your first innings in the UAE spells the level of trouble you got into as a child if you spoke back to your parents, but Kane Williamson’s men pulled it off, taking a 1-0 series lead into the second Test in Dubai.
Below are my ratings for each player out of ten. As always, feel free to leave a comment!

Pakistan:

Imam-ul-Haq: Fans on Twitter, including myself, could not believe New Zealand opened the bowling with Colin de Grandhomme in the first innings. Thought it was a silly move, but then was made to look silly, thanks to Imam’s silly shot. 3
 
Mohammad Hafeez: Nice guy Hafeez. Delivering two early Christmas gifts for New Zealand to take back home. 3
 
Azhar Ali: If Azhar went around the dressing room slapping the heads of a few players (cough…Bilal Asif, Hasan Ali), you could not have blamed him. Fell just short of guiding Pakistan home. Heartbreaking for him, but should have farmed the strike better. 7

 

 
Haris Sohail: Ish Sodhi has found the weakness of Haris. Full tosses. Like, Hafeez, Haris was in a giving mood. 3
 
Asad Shafiq: Two 40s that set up Pakistan perfectly. But the lower order were in no mood to stick around after that. 7
 
Babar Azam: Pressure moments in a Pakistan game will always bring out the interesting moments. Babar Azam, coming off a fine first innings effort, was run out needlessly in the second. 7

Make room! Here comes another meme.

 

 
Sarfraz Ahmed: A quiet game for Sarfraz, unlike his voice. If he makes as much an impact with the bat as he does to the entire Abu Dhabi city with his voice, he would be the world’s finest batsman. Virat Kohli? Steve Smith? Please. 3
 
Bilal Asif: One of the blokes on the end of an Azhar Ali back hand in the dressing room. Awful shot in the circumstances with the game on the line. Did he actually walk out to bat wanting CricBlog to take the ‘mickey’ out of him? Reportedly in tears wishing he was playing Australia again. 2
 
Yasir Shah: Superb with the ball. So superb that if Adil Rashid bowled like that, we’d be seeing comparisons between Rashid and Shane Warne by the English media (yes, always need to have a go at them). Yasir’s batting? Ugly. 8
 
Hasan Ali: His breakthrough Test with the ball, bowling with great control and reverse swing. However, I couldn’t stop laughing at his shot in the second innings. Another early Christmas gift for New Zealand. Unforgivable. Absolutely unforgivable. Boom? 7.5

Meme #1 of many
 
Mohammad Abbas: Unbelievable economy rate by Abbas, conceding just 44 runs across 34 overs in the Test. As tight as buyers in a thrift store. Held in with the bat at the end and nearly helped get Pakistan home. 7


New Zealand

 
Jeet Raval: Fighting second innings effort but you know Pakistan will hone in on his off stump for the remainder of the series. You never know, though, Pakistan might consider that too easy a tactic… 5
 
Tom Latham: Underwhelming Test from a key player. Was in the gift-giving spirit in the first innings, followed by a golden duck in the second. 1
 
Kane Williamson: Picturesque first innings batting. It is an absolute pleasure watching this guy play. Will be keen to push on from his starts in this series. Got his team home with his captaincy that didn’t let Pakistan get away. He might have an odour problem, though. 8

“We may have lost the game, but at least I don’t stink like this guy.”

 

 
Ross Taylor: Quiet Test for the man who caused plenty of noise in the ODI series. 2
 
Henry Nicholls: Dug deep in both innings, but would rue giving his wicket away twice. Nevertheless, his partnership with BJ Watling in the second innings was crucial in: 1. Getting more runs on the board. 2. Batting more time to help wear the pitch out further. 7
 
BJ Watling: Incredibly underrated. Superb player. Victim of a good ball in the first innings, and a loss of concentration in the second. Was also very good behind the stumps. His catch to dismiss Azhar Ali in the first innings was especially special. 7.5
 
Colin de Grandhomme: Colin de KL Rahul or Colin de Watson? Both. Reviewed an LBW so plumb that even umpire Bruce Oxenford was wondering what was up. Two first innings wickets was his highlight. 3

Colin de Grandhomme’s inspiration.
Neil Wagner: This guy just doesn’t stop trying. Incredible stamina to keeping lifting his intensity in the middle part of an Abu Dhabi day, where he picked up the crucial wicket of Asad Shafiq that started the procession. A clap for Wags. 8
 
Ajaz Patel: What a story. Test debut at 30, and led his team to victory with a five-fer for the ages. India fans will take heart that an Indian-born player is beating Pakistan again. Patel reportedly has taken Bilal Asif and Hasan Ali for dinner as a thank you for their gifts. 9
Ish Sodhi: Wasn’t at his best, but picked up crucial wickets for his side. 7
 
Trent Boult: World class in the first innings. Fantastic from Boult to help keep New Zealand in the game. 8

——–

So, another Pakistan game that delivers quality material.Hope you enjoyed this piece. If you laughed, let me know. If you didn’t, be nice.

Thanks for reading!

Australia vs India: 5 big things to keep an eye on

Charbel Coorey
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India are in town!

Ranked number one in Tests, two in ODIs and two in T20Is, India promises to be a huge challenge for an Australia side desperate for a turn in fortunes.

But, what makes this tour fascinating is that India are too looking for a turn in fortunes, arriving to these shores on the back of a lack of success in SENA, especially in Tests.

With an action-packed (and very stupid) schedule of T20Is, Tests and ODIs, here are five things to look out for in India’s big tour of Australia.

As always, feel free to leave a comment!

Will Australia compete well in the limited overs formats?

Since the beginning of 2017, Australia have won just seven of 26 completed ODIs, and are fresh off a 2-1 series loss to South Africa at home. In the same period, India have won 35 of 47 completed ODIs.
But, India are still quite top-heavy in their batting line up, relying significantly on at least two of Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to score well in setting up a big total. Ambati Rayudu was impressive in the recent home series against West Indies, but this will be a different test, and it will be up to Australia to put pressure on the middle order in both the ODIs and T20Is.
That is easier said than done, though, with each of India’s top three in ODIs on fire since the beginning of 2017. 
  • Shikhar Dhawan has scored 1,857 runs at 48.87, with a strike rate of 101.81.
  • The great Virat Kohli, who recently smashed the record for fastest to 10,000 ODI runs, has ammassed 2,662 runs at 95.07, with a strike rate of 100.60.
These are ridiculous numbers from fantastic players, and eyes will be glued on their performances here in Australia, against an Aussie attack that do their best to dislodge them as cheaply as possible. Who will win this battle across the T20Is and ODIs?

How will India’s fast bowlers fare in the Tests?

India’s pace attack has come leaps and bounds in recent years, producing seamers capable of working together and taking 20 wickets.
But, Australia could arguably be their biggest challenge in SENA tours, with Australian surfaces becoming increasingly difficult for tourist bowlers, given their flat nature right across the country.
Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami have each had excellent moments in their Test tours of South Africa and England earlier this year, but can they get the ball talking in Australia? Just because Australia will be missing Steve Smith and David Warner does not mean life will be easy for India’s seamers, who will need to be accurate and relentless on tracks that might not offer too much help.

Who will win the battle of the bat in Tests?

Australia’s batting is under the microscope in all formats, and especially so in Tests.
There is a crucial round of Sheffield Shield cricket that has just ended, which will give selectors more of an idea of the make up of the Test side. In the UAE against Pakistan, Australia lost wickets in spurts, which is something they must avoid at home. Will Usman Khawaja be at full fitness for the first Test? Will the Marsh brothers step up, with both Shaun and Mitch scoring first class hundreds very recently? Who will plunder the runs that Steve Smith and David Warner do at home? 
It’s all at stake for Australia. Losing to India at home is not an option.
For India, it will be very interesting to see whether their batsmen can help deliver their first ever Test series win down under. Including the likes of Murali Vijay has been questioned by some, but there is no doubt that Virat Kohli once again holds the key. The man is unstoppable, with 2018 confirming his greatness, knocking off 879 runs at 54.94 in South Africa and England on bowling-friendly surfaces. 
Other players to keep an eye out for are Prithvi Shaw, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant. Shaw has has been hallmarked as a future great, so there is no question the Australian attack will aim to make life difficult for him. Will he hold his own? How about Rahane and Sharma if called upon in the middle order? Will Pujara improve his record in SENA after encouraging moments in England earlier this year?

Will India know more about MS Dhoni at tour’s end?

MS Dhoni has become a real talking point, given his situation and the emotion around the man who has been a great cricketer for India.

However, his form in ODIs has been on the decline in 2018, mustering just 275 runs at 25, with a strike rate of 71.43. In addition, the talented and explosive Rishabh Pant is being kept on the bench, and so too Yuzvendra Chahal so India can play Ravindra Jadeja to provide extra batting cover.

With the World Cup fast approaching, India will need to make a call on MS Dhoni. India recently played their first ever T20I at home without Dhoni, as he was left out of the squads for the West Indies and Australia T20Is.

It will be interesting to see how he goes in the ODI series which follow the Tests, in terms of whether he can silence the doubters a little.

How fiesty will things get on the field?

Australia’s approach to life after Cape Town has been a little cringeworthy, going to an extreme to try repair the damage.
“Elite honesty” was something on everyone’s lips, but what everyone is actually crying out for is good, hard cricket, played fairly and in the spirit of the game. Forget smiles, dreams, sunshine and rainbows, there are matches to win, and it’s time Australia regained their mojo. It starts with mindset.
There is nothing wrong with a few words shared on the field, as long it’s not personal. The Australians shouldn’t stay quiet, because you know the likes of Virat Kohli won’t. And vice versa. I’m certainly expecting some words to be exchanged between two great rivals. 
It’s all part of the game. Here’s to a competitive and memorable series.
Thanks for reading!

Sarfraz Ahmed and Kane Williamson: The tale of a UAE tour and growing friendship

Charbel Coorey
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“Hope the Test pitches aren’t like this road”

By @Abdushakoorcric

You might not have known this, but after a drawn ODI series between Pakistan and New Zealand, both captains wanted to have a bit of a good time in the UAE to help boost the cricketing relations between the countries.

Sarfraz Ahmed and Kane Williamson decided to travel together to explore what the UAE has to offer.

What could they have discussed?

In a CricBlog exclusive, we have managed to gather reports which have contained the wide range of topics discussed in this outing.

1- Sarfraz Ahmed getting a hold of Ross Taylor.

2- Kane wishing to learn how to get dismissed normally in UAE.

3- Who is this Mohammad Abbas guy?

4- Colin Munro’s Chris Lynn-like problems in adjusting from T20Is to ODIs.

5- Ferguson’s resemblance with David Warner.

6- Rain in Dubai. Yes, rain in Dubai.

Exploring the UAE desert in Blazers

7-  Why does Cristiano Ronaldo copy Imad Wasim?

8- The strength of Sarfraz’s vocal cords.

9- Is Danny Morrison a Kiwi?

10- What is Ish Sodhi’s problem with Hasan Ali?

11- Why does Sarfraz want the balls after wickets to just be dots?

12- Who is the fastest, Twista or Sarfraz?

13- There is a lot of heat in UAE, so why was Haris Sohail warming the bench?

14- Fakhar Zaman’s batting style.

15- Mickey Arthur’s favourite player.

16- Ramiz Raja’s geometry classes (Pakistan are turning this match 360°).

Many snaps were captured of their adventure, and here are the answers of FAQs after seeing those pictures:

Q: Why are their heads up in each photo?

A: Our secret photographer had the flashlight of his mobile camera was switched on and obviously it took pictures after blinking 2-3 times in the process. So seeing the light for the first time, they would deliberately lift their heads up to spoil the photos.

“Let’s ask Ronaldo why he copies Imad.”

Q: Why they are wearing Test Whites?

A:  (1) Because they were waiting for tests badly.
(2) White colour was appropriate to match the clothes worn in the UAE.

“We are really keen for the Tests to begin.”

Q:  Why does Kane have paper in his hands?

A: He was having some Arabic lessons.

Q: Why did they have blazers on?

A: The rain caused everyone to go a little silly.

They had gone too far in the discussion and realised that when they met an Australian.

“Aren’t you guys meant to be in the UAE?”

Expect the rest of the Test series to be a friendly one with both captains exploring lots together.

According to report, Sarfraz is totally fine with Ross Taylor now.

Thanks for reading and be sure to follow @AbduShakoorcric!

Women’s World T20 Match 19: West Indies vs England Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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Like in India’s big win over Australia in Group B, Group A also sees a game where two teams eye off for topping the group.

The winner here will play Australia in the semi finals, which on yesterday’s evidence, certainly cannot be considered a tougher game than India.

Who will finish the group stage on a high?

West Indies have swept aside all before them so far in World T20 2018, and would be especially encouraged by their batters firing against Sri Lanka. Their tournament victories before the Sri Lanka game was certainly on the back off their bowling, but with both departments on song last time out, West Indies will be keen to continue the momentum heading into the semi finals.

Like the Windies, England have been utterly dominant with the ball, so much so that they have only needed to bat a total of 23.4 overs in their two games. Bangladesh and South Africa were no match for one of the tournament favourites, who have launched into gear nicely after a no result against Sri Lanka. Currently sitting one point behind the hosts, can England set up a mouthwatering semi finals clash against Australia?

Key to a West Indies win

The Windies’ batting fired against Sri Lanka, but how well will they fare against an England side firing with the ball?
Hayley Matthews, Deandra Dottin and Stafanie Taylor were superb in the last game, and will need to be at their best to repel England’s attack that made a mockery of South Africa and Bangladesh. Can the top three set up the innings nicely to enable the middle order to have a good shot at England’s bowlers?
Also, with the ball, the Windies, like England, have been superb. The 104 mustered by Sri Lanka last start is the biggest total the hosts have conceded, by far, after knocking over Bangladesh and South Africa for 46 and 76 respectively. Can the Windies effectively target an England side still short of overs with the bat in this tournament?

Key to an England win

A big test for England in this clash is whether their batting will stand up against a good Windies attack. England’s batting has been short of overs in this tournament so far due to rain and their strong bowling, and it will be interesting to see how their batting shapes up. Will the likes of Danielle Wyatt, Tammy Beaumont and Heather Knight stand strong against the hosts?
Also, England have what it takes to test this Windies batting line up. Remember, the hosts were not quite on form with the bat in the opening two games, which should give the England side confidence that they can cause them problems. Natalie Sciver and Anya Shrubsole were absolutely superb against South Africa, and will be tasked with getting through the all-important Windies top order.
Will it be England’s night?

Possible teams

West Indies: 1. Hayley Matthews, 2. Deandra Dottin, 3. Stafanie Taylor (c), 4. Natasha McLean, 5. Kycia A Knight (wk), 6. Britney Cooper, 7. Chinelle Henry, 8. Shermaine Campbelle, 9. Afy Fletcher, 10. Shakera Selman, 11. Shamilia Connell
England: 1. Danielle Wyatt, 2. Tammy Beaumont, 3. Natalie Sciver, 4. Heather Knight (c), 5. Amy Jones (wk), 6. Lauren Winfield, 7. Anya Shrubsole, 8. Sophia Dunkley, 9. Sophie Ecclestone, 10. Linsey Smith, 11. Kirstie Gordon

Dream11

Superb players to choose from for Dream11. Below is my side with a few pointers.
  • Amy Jones is likelier to get more batting than Kycia Knight, in my opinion.
  • Tammy Beaumont is a superb player, and is due a score.
  • Stafanie Taylor, Hayley Matthews and Deandra Dottin make my side.
  • Mix of youth and experience in my bowling attack, with wicket taking potential.
  • Natalie Sciver is a difficult choice to leave out, but it remains to be seen how she will go against a good Windies line up.

Stats and Facts

  • West Indies have won three of the past five meetings against England, which includes a tie.
  • England have batted for a total of 23.4 overs in World T20 2018 so far.
  • The winner of this clash will face Australia in the semi finals. Loser will play India.

Prediction

Should be a cracking game.
Two good sides go at it, and I think West Indies are starting to hit their best form.
Windies to win.
Thanks for reading!

Women’s World T20 Match 18: Ireland vs New Zealand Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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When the fixtures for Group B were released, this game had the potential to dictate who finished in the top two.

Unfortunately though, it won’t be the case, with New Zealand in particular suffering a disappointing performance, not qualifying for the semi finals as the second ranked T20I side in world cricket.

For Ireland, they have tried the best they can, and will be better for the experience of playing good sides. Their batting has been stuck all tournament, and will be hoping for a good performance here to cause a big upset.

Who will end their campaign on a high?

Key to a Ireland win

Like the game against Pakistan, only Clare Shillington and Isobel Joyce reached double figures for Ireland against India. It has been a real issue for the Irish in the tournament, reaching 100 only once, in a 40-run loss vs Pakistan. In their final hit out, will they get more output from the likes of Laura Delaney, Shauna Kavanagh and Gaby Lewis?
Also, with the ball, Ireland have had some good moments throughout the tournament, and will be keen to showcase that once again in their final match. Eimear Richardson, Lucy O’Reilly and Kim Garth have been honest all tournament. Can they pick up early wickets, especially that of Suzie Bates, to push New Zealand onto the back foot?

Key to a New Zealand win

The White Ferns got on the board in World T20 2018 with a convincing win over Pakistan. The top four of Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Amy Satterthwaite and Katey Martin all picked up starts to set up the New Zealand innings pretty nicely. Can they have the same impact against Ireland?
Also, given the way New Zealand choked Pakistan for runs, one can bank on the White Ferns doing the same to Ireland, who have struggled to get going with the bat this tournament. Jess Watkin and Amelia Kerr were superb last start – can they support their seamers well once again?

Possible teams

Ireland: 1. Clare Shillington, 2. Gaby Lewis, 3. Isobel Joyce, 4. Laura Delaney (c), 5. Kim Garth, 6. Shauna Kavanagh, 7. Eimear Richardson, 8. Mary Waldron (wk), 9. Lara Maritz, 10. Celeste Raack, 11. Lucy O’Reilly
New Zealand: 1. Suzie Bates, 2. Sophie Devine, 3. Amy Satterthwaite (c), 4. Katey Martin, 5. Leigh Kasperek, 6. Maddy Green, 7. Jess Watkin, 8. Bernadine Bezuidenhout, 9. Hannah Rowe, 10. Amelia Kerr, 11. Lea Tahuhu

Dream11

Seven New Zealand players should be in your side. Below is my team with a few pointers,
  • My four Ireland players are their two honest bowlers, as well as their two batters reaching double figures.
  • Katey Martin will be key for New Zealand in the top order, so too Suzie Bates, Amy Satterthwaite and Sophie Devine.
  • Jess Watkin and Amelia Kerr will be a handful for Ireland, in my opinion.

Stats and Facts

  • Neither side can qualify for the World T20 2018 semi finals.
  • New Zealand have won all three T20Is against Ireland.
  • Claire Shillington and Isobel Joyce are the only two players to reach double figures for Ireland in the last two games.

Prediction

New Zealand to finish their tournament with a big win.
Thanks for reading!

Women’s World T20 Match 17: Australia vs India Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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Are we looking at a preview of the World T20 Final?

Undefeated India and Australia go head-to-head in one of the blockbuster games of the tournament so far, and despite both qualifying to the semi finals already, victory over a rival is always the order of the day.

Which of the two will go through the group stage undefeated?


Australia have been in superb touch in this tournament, led by the magnificent Alyssa Healy. They have swept past all challengers so far, including New Zealand and Pakistan, and now have India in their sights. The Indians will likely provide Australia with their toughest test to date, so how will the Aussies respond?

It has truly been a fine tournament for India. Grouped against the top two T20I sides in Australia and New Zealand, you would have been forgiven for thinking that India were third favourites in this group. But, for the first time since 2010, India have qualified to the semi finals, and are playing cricket worthy of their position in the tournament. Will they finish top of the group?

Key to an Australia win

What has set Australia apart from most teams in this tournament has been their incredible powerplay batting. Alyssa Healy has been in irresistible form, hitting 178 runs at 78.50, with a strike rate of 160. With a top order also comprising of Beth Mooney, Ashleigh Gardner and Meg Lanning all looking to hit top form, another onslaught from Alyssa Healy can help them do just that.
Also, with the ball, Australia might very well face their biggest challenge. Harmanpreet Kaur, Mithali Raj and Jemimah Rodrigues have been in fine touch for India in this tournament, and Australia need to find a way to dismiss at least two of the three cheaply to pile pressure on the batting line up. Can the likes of Megan Schutt and Ellyse Perry send an even bigger message to the tournament rivals by dismantling India?

Key to an India win

A huge key for India is to contain Alyssa Healy at the top. None of Pakistan, Ireland or New Zealand were able to, and they all paid the price. Mansi Joshi, Radha Yadav and Deepti Sharma need to bowl well up front, paving the way for Poonam Yadav to test Australia’s middle order with her spin.
Also, the trio of Kaur, Raj and Rodrigues are key to the Indian cause. Can they, instead of Australia, send a big message out to the other challengers that they are indeed able to win the whole tournament?

Possible teams

Australia: 1. Beth Mooney, 2. Alyssa Healy (wk), 3. Meg Lanning (c), 4. Ashleigh Gardner, 5. Elyse Villani, 6. Rachael Haynes, 7. Ellyse Perry, 8. Sophie Molineux, 9. Delissa Kimmince, 10. Georgia Wareham, 11. Megan Schutt
India: 1. Mithali Rah, 2. Smriti Mandhana, 3. Jemimah Rodrigues, 4. Harmanpreet Kaur (c), 5. Veda Krishnamurthy, 6. Dayalan Hemalatha, 7. Deepti Sharma, 8. Taniya Bhata (wk), 9. Radha Yadav, 10. Mansi Joshi, 11. Poonam Yadav

Dream11

Superb cricketers in both sides. Below is my Dream11 team with a few pointers.

  • Alyssa Healy is a must-pick, and she is my captain.
  • Mithali Raj, H Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues possess good batting potential. Meg Lanning is due for a big score for Australia.
  • Ashleigh Gardner is key at the top for Australia, and Dayalan Hemalatha has been impressive in this tournament to date.
  • Megan Schutt and Poonam Yadav make my side, as they are quality assets to both bowling line ups.

Stats and Facts

  • Australia have won the last three T20Is against India.
  • Both sides have won three from three games in this tournament.

  • Alyssa Healy’s 178 runs is the most by any player in World T20 2018 to date.

Prediction

This one promises to be a goody!
With both sides in the semi finals, the pressure won’t be full on. But, both sides will be up for it.
Will Australia have a bit too much in them? I think so. Australia to win.
Thanks for reading!

Australia vs South Africa Only T20I Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: Getty Images

A week is a long time in the cricket world. It is even longer when South Africa remain in the country for an extra week just for a single T20I, where commercial purposes are at the forefront of Cricket Australia’s thinking, with the Gold Coast in Queensland set to host its first ever international fixture.

Nonetheless, it is time the home side get back to winning ways, no matter the format, with India literally around the corner. Australia’s performances vs Pakistan in the UAE were disappointing and unworthy of the talent on paper, and it is time to get things right after defeat in the ODI series against South Africa.

For the Proteas, their main aim was to come to down under and win the ODI series. They deservedly did, and will now finish their tour of Australia with a T20I that is unlikely to evoke too much pressure, except the chance to heap further disappointment on an Aussie side short of victories at the moment.

Who will take out the only T20I?


Australia will play their first T20I at home since the triumphant Tri-Series campaign involving England and New Zealand earlier this year. The Australian T20I side then was brimming with confidence, eliciting very positive reviews from the public about how a very good Big Bash XI was put together with excellent output. Since then, they lost to England away, Pakistan in the T20I Tri-Series Final in Zimbabwe, as well as a 3-0 defeat to the same opposition last month in the UAE. Can they pick up their form?

South Africa have not had the brightest of years in this format either, losing 2-1 at home to India, as well as 1-0 in Sri Lanka. Australia at home represents a good challenge for South Africa, with conditions likely to be conducive to run-scoring, which will ask plenty of South Africa’s bowlers. Can the Proteas’ spinners in particular re-open the Aussie wounds?

Key to an Australia win

Australia’s ODI side had too much T20 about it, so this game will help this side feel more at home.
D’Arcy Short, since his magnificent 2017/18 BBL campaign, has been inconsistent, which is in line with Chris Lynn and Glenn Maxwell’s performances of late. Aaron Finch has also been short of runs, which places significant onus on Australia’s top five to perform on what is expected to be a good batting track. Runs were nowhere to be seen in the UAE, if they aren’t anywhere to be seen on the Gold Coast, another defeat awaits.
Also, Australia will be without Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon, as they are currently in Canberra playing red ball cricket for NSW in preparation for the India Test series. Like the batting, Australia’s bowling attack will be made up of T20 specialists, who will be tasked with getting into South Africa’s batting line up as early as possible. Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis and David Miller will be key wickets for Australia – can they limit the boundaries and build pressure?

Key to a South Africa win

How well will the Australians respond to South African pressure?
Skipper Faf du Plessis knows very well that pushing Australia onto the back foot early could prove difficult for them to come back from, given their lack of results in recent months. Quinton de Kock and Reeza Hendricks were underwhelming after Perth in the ODI series, and a lot rests again on the brilliant duo of Faf du Plessis and David Miller. With Australia’s likely attack a little hit-and-miss recently, can South Africa pile on the runs?
Also, unlike Australia, South Africa could have some of their international first choice bowlers on board, if they choose so. Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi were mighty impressive throughout the ODI series, and could benefit against an Australian batting line up that seems to be in one gear most times. If Andile Phehlukwayo and Dwaine Pretorius both play, they will be tasked with the important middle overs, alongside Tabraiz Shamsi/Imran Tahir, who will be looking to remind Australia of their spin issues. 

Possible teams

As mentioned, Australia’s Test bowlers are in Canberra playing Sheffield Shield for NSW. On the spin front, either Adam Zampa or Ashton Agar will get the nod, while Jason Behrendorff could get a run in the seam attack.
Australia possible XI: 1. Aaron Finch (c), 2. D’Arcy Short, 3. Chris Lynn, 4. Ben McDermott, 5. Glenn Maxwell, 6. Alex Carey (wk), 7. Marcus Stoinis, 8. Nathan Coulter-Nile, 9. Adam Zampa/Ashton Agar, 10. AJ Tye, 11. Billy Stanlake
For South Africa, a big question would be how they balance their side. Where does Aiden Markram bat?  He could bat either at opener or lower down, to allow the in form Faf du Plessis and David Miller the most time possible at the crease. Also, do they go in with two spinners, or two seam bowling all-rounders?
South Africa possible XI: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Reeza Hendricks, 3. Faf du Plessis (c), 4. David Miller, 5. Aiden Markram, 6. Heinrich Klaasen, 7. Dwaine Pretoriu/Chris Morris, 8. Andile Phehlukwayo/Imran Tahir, 9. Kagiso Rabada, 10. Lungi Ngidi, 11. Tabraiz Shamsi

Dream11

Various combinations can work wonders in Dream11. Below is my team, with a few pointers.
  • There is no Mitchell Starc, so Quinton de Kock is in line for runs.
  • I will skipper Aaron Finch again, like the ODI series. He is surely due for runs. Chris Lynn gets the nod for this clash, and so too Ben McDermott who offers good value.
  • Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis are my allrounders. With South Africa, none of Dwaine Pretorius, Andile Phehlukwayo or Chris Morris are assured of a place.
  • Lungi Ngidi is mighty impressive, and Billy Stanlake and Andrew Tye are proven wicket takers in this format. Tabraiz Shamsi could get a run in this one, but team news in the lead up is something to keep an eye on.

Stats and Facts

  • This is the first ever international to be held at Gold Coast Stadium.
  • Ben McDermott was run out in all three T20Is against Pakistan, as well as the tour game vs South Africa during the week.
  • Australia have won 11 of 17 T20Is against South Africa, including the two most recent encounters in 2016.

Prediction

The word “context” doesn’t scream out to you when thinking of this game, but it should be an exciting clash.

At home, with a number of T20 specialists, I will back Australia to win.

Thanks for reading!

Women’s World T20 Match 16: West Indies vs Sri Lanka Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: Getty

What is the first thing that comes to mind as we look forward to this clash?

West Indies have been simply unbelievable with the ball in this tournament, and come up against a side that is not particularly firing with the bat. However, it is not to say that this game will be entirely one-sided, as the Windies have not had the best of tournaments with the bat so far, mustering just 106 and 107 against Bangladesh and South Africa respectively.

Sri Lanka, like West Indies, are in with a shot of a semi finals appearance. The point against England was welcome, but their clinical effort with the ball against Bangladesh has them rewarded with an opportunity to cause an upset and move above West Indies in the Group A standings. Can Sri Lanka’s batting hold up against a firing Windies attack?

Key to a West Indies win

The intensity, desire and passion of the Windies side can take them far in this tournament. Their batting leaves a little to be desired at the moment, but their bowling performances have been extraordinary, allowing them to pick up two comfortable wins from positions of discomfort.
With the ball, the Windies have been a well-oiled machine so far in World T20 2018, conceding just 122 runs in two matches. Against a Sri Lankan side struggling with the bat currently, the opportunity awaits for the Windies to pounce, after Deandra Dottin and Stafanie Taylor were chief destroyers against Bangladesh and South Africa respectively. Who will be the chief destroyer today, and will they get good output from the supporting bowlers?
But, with the bat, West Indies have been putting themselves under pressure. Positions of 4/36 against Bangladesh and 4/29 against South Africa tells us exactly what we know of the host nation right now – the top order is not quite aiming up, and need to if they are to make an impact against the higher ranked sides in the tournament. Will they start today?

Key to a Sri Lanka win

The big question for Sri Lanka is whether their batting can cope with the Windies’ bowling might. In their two games to date, Sri Lanka have struggled on their way to sub-100 totals, which ended up being enough against Bangladesh. However, this is their biggest test to date, and need their skipper Chamari Atapattu and Shashikala Siriwardene to step up again.
However, what will give the Sri Lankans hope is that the West Indies have only scraped past 100 twice themselves. The Windies top order has not fired yet in this tournament, so an opportunity awaits Sri Lanka to continue this trend. Udeshika Prabodhani, Shashikala Siriwardene and skipper Atapattu were all in the wickets against Banglaadesh – can Sri Lanka make this a tight game on the back off their bowling? 

Possible teams

West Indies: 1. Hayley Matthews, 2. Deandra Dottin, 3. Stafanie Taylor (c), 4. Shermaine Campbelle, 5. Kycia Knight (wk), 6. Natasha McLean, 7. Britney Cooper, 8. Chinelle Henry, 9. Afy Fletcher, 10. Shakera Selman, 11. Shamilia Connell
Sri Lanka: 1. Yashoda Mendis, 2. Hasini Perera, 3. Dilani Manodara, 4. Chamari Atapattu (c), 5. Shashikala Siriwardene, 6. Eshani Lokusuriyage, 7. Nilakshi de Silva, 8. Sripali Weerakkody, 9. 9. Oshadi Ranasinghe, 10. Udeshika Prabodhani, 11. Inoshi Priyadharshani

Stats and Facts

  • West Indies have won the last five T20Is against Sri Lanka.
  • Sri Lanka, with a win, will pass West Indies on the Group A table.
  • West Indies have conceded just 122 runs in two games so far in World T20, including taking 9/28 to beat South Africa.

Prediction

West Indies’ bowling should be too strong for Sri Lanka, which will see them get a victory to seal their spot in the semi finals.
Thanks for reading!

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