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Australia vs South Africa 1st ODI Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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How about some on-field action? That would be nice.

With more than seven months passed since the infamous Cape Town ‘Sandpaper Gate’ (yes, it’s still a hot topic), Australia’s cricketing culture has been placed under a microscope so large the whole world can see. Reinstating trust among parts (if not most) of the public will be key, but remains a difficult ask regardless of the result, as this ODI series only available on Pay TV in Australia. Fan engagement is critical to the future of the sport in this country, but that has taken a backseat in the huge TV rights deal landed by Cricket Australia earlier this year.
But, that is a discussion for another day. Can this series be the one where both sides start to put the pieces ahead of their respective 2019 World Cup campaigns?


Australia’s last 18 completed ODIs have yielded just two wins. Worse, you will have to go back to January 2017 for the last victory in an ODI that was not a dead-rubber. 2018 has been a tough year for many reasons in Australian Cricket, which includes nine defeats in ten matches against the old enemy England. With Aaron Finch taking over as captain, and with a strong pace attack on hand, can the Aussies begin to fine tune their preparations for a World Cup defence?
It is not exactly smooth sailing for South Africa, either. Sure, they have won their last two series, against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, but their batting leaves quite a bit to be desired. Their defeat to a very young Australian Prime Ministers XI on Thursday has further emphasised the need for batting solidarity, after a somewhat unconvincing 3-0 clean sweep against Zimbabwe recently. When you also consider South Africa lost 5-1 at home to India earlier this year, they too are in need for fine tuning ahead of the World Cup.

Key to an Australia win

Mitchell Starc is likely to play after recovering from a hamstring niggle in the UAE recently, who will be part of a very solid-looking Australian attack.
In Starc, Patrick Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, Australia have excellent ingredients to cause further problems for a shaky South African batting line up. With the Proteas likely to field a tail slightly longer than preferred, a fantastic opportunity for early wickets awaits, especially given the Prime Minister’s XI side were able to get in the wickets. Will the Aussies bowlers hit the ground running straight away, or will they be impacted by rust?
Also, the batsmen will be keen to put the recent UAE nightmare behind them, with typical Australian conditions awaiting. Aaron Finch and Travis Head will be vital at the top, so too the maligned Shaun Marsh, who played well in England this year. A strong top order effort will pave the way for Chris Lynn, Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis to play with greater freedom.

Key to a South Africa win

However, a strong top order performance from Australia is easier said than done, with South Africa also boasting a strong pace attack.
The battle between Starc-Cummins-Hazlewood and Rabada-Steyn-Ngidi could decide the game, with an opportunity also for South Africa to get into a batting line up that is looking to find its feet. The Proteas have had a better time with the ball than bat of late, and a strong bowling effort right throughout the Australian innings (including the ever-present Imran Tahir) arguably gives South Africa their best shot of a 1-0 series lead.
But, if the batting performance is poor, the bowlers can only do so much. This was on show against the PMXI, with South Africa unable to defend a poultry 173, raising further concerns about their inconsistent line up. Can Aiden Markram and Quinton de Kock provide a strong start? How well will an inconsistent Reeza Hendricks fare, along with skipper Faf du Plessis, with Hashim Amla and JP Duminy missing? As mentioned, the Proteas are likely to field a longer-than-ideal tail, so the efforts of the top order is crucial to success.

Possible XIs

Mitchell Starc is likely to play for Australia. If he is considered not fit enough, Nathan Coulter-Nile will get a run. Also, Aaron Finch copped a knock on his finger, but should be right to go.
Australia possible XI: 1. Aaron Finch (c), 2. Travis Head, 3. D’Arcy Short, 4. Chris Lynn, 5. Glenn Maxwell, 6. Marcus Stoinis, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Mitchell Starc, 9. Pat Cummins, 10. Adam Zampa, 11. Josh Hazlewood
Andile Phehlukwayo could come in for Dwaine Pretorius. There is the possibility of South Africa playing two spinners, but that is not likely in Perth.
South Africa possible XI: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Aiden Markram, 3. Reeza Hendricks, 4. Faf du Plessis (c), 5. David Miller, 6. Farhaan Behardien, 7. Andile Phehlukwayo, 8. Dale Steyn, 9. Kagiso Rabada, 10. Lungi Ngidi, 11. Imran Tahir

Dream11

Who will step up from a Dream11 perspective? Below is my team with a few pointers.

  • Will Quinton de Kock fire against Mitchell Starc? I’m not sure.
  • Just in: Shaun Marsh is out with injury. D’Arcy Short will play.
  • Aaron Finch is my skipper, with Faf du Plessis my Vice Captain.
  • Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis are dangerous in the middle order for Australia.
  • Four fast bowling guns make up my pace attack, with Steyn, Starc and Cummins all capable of holding the willow, too.

Stats and Facts

  • Australia have won six of 25 ODIs since January 2017.
  • Imran Tahir is one wicket away from 150 ODI wickets.
  • Aaron Finch has three ODI centuries in 2018. His best in a single year is four (2014).
  • The last meeting between these two sides was a 5-0 series win for South Africa (2016).

Prediction

A great rivalry has developed between these two sides, making for a potentially exciting clash.
It is disappointing to see that after decades of Free-to-Air cricket coverage in Australia, this one is only available on Pay-TV, which doesn’t help improve the mood of fans too much.
Nonetheless, I will back Australia to get an important win to kick-start what hopefully will be a successful summer with India to follow.
Thanks for reading!

Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe 1st Test Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: AFP

Amid a plethora of white-ball cricket, we have some Test action. Picturesque Sylhet hosts its first ever Test, but in this context, it is far from picturesque for these two sides.

Bangladesh have struggled in Test cricket in 2018, even casting doubts among management as to their commitment to the format. Zimbabwe are having a terrible time of things across formats, sitting on a 19-match losing streak, and are desperate for a change in fortune.

Who will blink first in a battle between these two sides who know each other well?


Bangladesh’s year in Test Cricket has been horrendous, suffering three heavy losses in a row, at the hands of Sri Lanka and West Indies. These two sides, with all due respect, aren’t quite powerhouses, so assuming Bangladesh will swat Zimbabwe aside is risky. Fans will get a glimpse into life in Tests without Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan, who are both recovering from injuries. With a few new faces in the side, can Bangladesh continue their dominance from the ODIs vs Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe haven’t played a Test since December, and with rain ruining their practice game in Chittagong, they are short of practice. A Test against Bangladesh in Bangladesh is a difficult time to have to find your feet, but many of the Zimbabwean players have Test experience in the country, which can be a source of hope. In addition to their current 19 match losing streak across formats, Zimbabwe are winless in 12 Tests. Can they turn things around in Sylhet?

The beautiful setting for the first Test. Image credit: Dhaka Tribune

Key to a Bangladesh win

There will be changes in personnel with the absence of Tamim and Shakib, but the template for success remains the same for Bangladesh.
Will the batsmen display the patience and temperament required in Test Cricket? Bangladesh have not passed 200 in any of their last six innings, and now is the time to rectify that. Imrul Kayes, Liton Das, Mominul Haque and Mushfiqur Rahim will likely make up the top four, and on paper, it looks a very favourable proposition for Bangladesh. However, skipper Mahmudullah has guarded against complacency, which is something Bangladesh has struggled with in the past when favourites. The amount of hunger the Bangladesh batsmen display could ultimately determine the result.
Also, the Sylhet pitch is expected to turn, with some bounce on offer, too. Coach Steve Rhodes has spoken of his desire to see Bangladesh do well overseas, which presents an opportunity for the seamers to make a mark. But, it is likely to be the spinners to play the biggest role in this one, and how they keep the pressure on Zimbabwe will be key. If they can get the ball turning early, the straight balls become just as dangerous.

Key to a Zimbabwe win

In each of the ODIs, Zimbabwe had fantastic periods of play. In the end, though, they lost the series 3-0, a story reflective of their barren run of results since March.
They are short of practice, which is a challenge, but who will display the patience and temperament from a batting point of view? Skipper Hamilton Masakaza needs to step up after a string of 20s in recent ODIs, and with a middle order that possesses capability and experience, Zimbabwe will need to display a fine balance between technique and proactive batting to get on top of the Bangladesh spinners. The challenge, though, will be to put this to practice across two innings.
On the bowling front, the Zimbabweans are facing a side that has lacked patience in their Test assignments in 2018. Indeed, conditions will be different to what Bangladesh have encountered so far in 2018, but the Zimbabweans, led by Kyle Jarvis, would be keen on getting into the Bangladesh middle order as quickly as possible. Can they pile the pressure on Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah in the absence of Tamim and Shakib?

Possible XIs

Mohammad Mithun and Ariful Haque are in line to make their debuts. Left-arm nagin dancer Nazmul Islam is also a chance of making his debut, but Bangladesh are unlikely to play just one specialist seamer. Khaled Ahmed has been spoken of as a good option after his 10-wicket haul in FC Cricket, and could also be in line for a debut.
Bangladesh possible XI: 1. Imrul Kayes, 2. Liton Das, 3. Mominul Haque, 4. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5. Mahmudullah (c), 6. Mohammad Mithun, 7. Ariful Haque, 8. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 9. Taijul Islam, 10. Abu Jayed, 11. Mustafizur Rahman/Khaled Ahmed
Richard Ngarava, the left-arm seamer for Zimbabwe, was likely to make his Test debut, but has been replaced by Chris Mpofu after picking up a groin strain.
Zimbabwe possible XI: 1. Hamilton Masakadza (c), 2. Brian Chari, 3. Craig Ervine, 4. Brendan Taylor, 5. Sean Williams, 6. Sikandar Raza, 7. Regis Chakabva (wk), 8. Brandon Mavuta, 9. Wellington Masakadza, 10. Kyle Jarvis, 11. Chris Mpofu

Dream11

Below are the players who I think will perform best for Dream11, with a few pointers.
  • Brendan Taylor and Hamilton Masakadza are vital for Zimbabwe.
  • Mominul Haque has a superb record at home, Mushfiqur Rahim is in line for runs, and Mohammad Mithun represents good value.
  • Mehidy Hasan will be a threat, and Mahmudullah is a key batsman for Bangladesh. So too Sean Williams for Zimbabwe, coming off a century in the third ODI.
  • Taijul Islam will also get through plenty of bowling. Abu Jayed was impressive in West Indies, and Kyle Jarvis will be a threat with both new and old ball.

Stats and Facts

  • The last time Zimbabwe visited Bangladesh for a Test series was in 2014, where Bangladesh won 3-0.
  • In that series, Shakib Al Hasan became the third cricketer in Test history to take a 10-wicket haul and score a century in the same Test.

  • Zimbabwe are winless last 12 Tests, and Bangladesh are winless in their last seven since beating Australia last year.
  • Sylhet International Stadium is set to be the eighth Test venue in Bangladesh.
  • Zimbabwe lead the head-to-head 6-5, but Bangladesh have won the last four meetings.

Prediction

Both sides have their shortcomings, but at home, expect Bangladesh to win.
Thanks for reading!

Pakistan vs New Zealand 2nd T20I Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: AFP

It is not often the losing captain is all smiles after a defeat. New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson was, and rightly so, as his side pushed a strong Pakistan side all the way in the first of three potentially brilliant T20I matches.

Both sides played fantastic cricket in the first T20I, combined with periods of play that will call for improvement from the leadership groups of both camps.

Can Pakistan seal their 11th straight T20I series win, or will New Zealand keep the series alive?

In addition to the possibility of 11 straight series wins, Pakistan are aiming for eight straight wins in T20I matches. It is a simple conclusion that Pakistan’s bowling has been great, but who would have thought that one day Pakistan will be called one of the best fielding sides, in any format? Shoaib Malik and the electric Shadab Khan were vital in the field, accompanying Mohammad Hafeez who was superb with the bat. Can Pakistan’s batting finally fire as a whole, adequately supporting a bowling line up that has defended totals four totals of 145-155 in a week?

New Zealand showed in the first T20I that they aren’t far behind, unlike their Trans-Tasman rivals Australia. Regrouping after no international cricket for seven months, New Zealand pushed Pakistan right back early, and then treated us to three of the finest catches you’ll see. Tim Southee’s final two balls and New Zealand’s middle order wobble proved vital in a game where the likes of Colin Munro, Ross Taylor and Ish Sodhi were superb. Can the Black Caps iron out a few little issues to level the series?

Key to a Pakistan win

The first 21 balls of Pakistan’s batting effort on Wednesday yielded 10 runs for the loss of two wickets, rendering Mohammad Hafeez’ contribution critical. However, Pakistan are once again getting into trouble with their middle order not quite firing, with the side dependent on the likes of Babar Azam and Mohammad Hafeez to get them going. Can these two provide vital runs at the top that gives Pakistan stability?

Also, Pakistan’s strength continues to be their bowling, and must continue their bowling exploits from the last four matches. Imad and Faheem are generally providing good results in powerplays, and Pakistan would be encouraged by their efforts to pull things back after the dismissal of the very dangerous Colin Munro. In the end, Hasan Ali and Shaheen Afridi largely held their nerve to see Pakistan home, and a repeat will go a long way to victory in this one.

Key to a New Zealand win

One interesting battle ahead of the first T20I was Colin Munro against the Pakistan bowling attack, and he was absolutely superb. The key is repeating the effort, to give New Zealand the upper hand, with more support needed from the likes of the uncharacteristically out of touch Kane Williamson and Glenn Phillips. Can the top order fire, giving the potentially dangerous New Zealand middle impetus to fire?

With the ball and in the field, New Zealand were impressive on Wednesday. Spinners Ish Sodhi and Ajaz Patel were economical and effective, with the pacers needing to cut down the boundaries as much as possible. As the first T20I proved, executing well right up until the end can prove the difference, and with a Pakistan line up that can be exploited if the likes of Babar Azam and Mohammad Hafeez are dismissed relatively cheaply, New Zealand have a chance.

Possible XIs

Fakhar Zaman’s inclusion depends on a fitness test, and will likely come in if he passes. Also, Hasan Ali was seen clutching his hamstring a little on Wednesday, but finished off his spell.
Pakistan possible XI: 1. Babar Azam, 2. Sahibzada Farhan/Fakhar Zaman, 3. Mohammad Hafeez, 4. Shoaib Malik, 5. Asif Ali, 6. Sarfraz Ahmed (c & wk), 7. Faheem Ashraf, 8. Imad Wasim, 9. Shadab Khan, 10. Hasan Ali, 11. Shaheen Afridi
New Zealand are likely to go in with the same side.
New Zealand possible XI: 1. Colin Munro, 2. Glenn Phillips, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Corey Anderson, 6. Colin de Grandhomme, 7. Tom Seifer (wk), 8. Tim Southee, 9. Ish Sodhi, 10. Ajaz Patel, 11. Adam Milne

Dream11

Which way do you think this game will go? Below is my Dream11 side, with a few pointers.
  • Today is the day I feel Kane Williamson will score well. He is all class. He is my captain.
  • Colin Munro showed he is more than capable of scoring in these conditions, and is a good pick. Babar Azam and Ross Taylor are my other two batsmen.
  • Corey Anderson promised in the last game, and the two wristspinners should get a run. I have left out Hasan Ali in case he has a hamstring niggle. However, keep an eye out for all team news!

Stats and Facts

  • Babar Azam needs 88 runs in next two innings to break Kohli’s record of fastest to 1000 runs in T20Is.

  • Pakistan need one more win victory to have most wins in a calendar year in T20Is.

  • Pakistan have defended four scores of 145-155 interval in a week.

Prediction

This game should be a beauty. Will Pakistan pick up their 11th straight series win?
I have a feeling New Zealand will win this one – they have the players to cause Pakistan some issues, which they can exploit, especially if they get the chance to bat first.
Here’s to a great game.
Also, a big thank you to @Abdushakoorcric for another great contribution to a Pakistan Preview. Be the person to get him to the magical century mark on Twitter!

India vs West Indies ODI Series PLAYER RATINGS

Charbel Coorey
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0

Couldn’t this series end at three matches?

The last two ODIs were so disappointing from a neutral’s perspective, after a series that promised plenty after the third ODI. But, credit to India on flexing their muscle to outlast the Windies significantly, finishing off with the most comprehensive nine wicket win you’ll see.

Kohli and co., it’s time to come to Australia and face the real test. The Marsh brothers are waiting for you.

In this piece, I will go through each player in the series and rate them out of ten. As always, have a laugh (please), and feel free to leave a comment!

India

Rohit Sharma: One of the only blokes in world cricket who scores a 162 in an ODI, which ends up being regarded as a missed double. Rohit was too good for the Windies for the most part, amassing 389 runs at 129.66, with a SR 118.96. No mercy. 9

Shikhar Dhawan: One of India’s disappointments this series. How’s @dhawanswarrior doing? 5

Virat Kohli: Went past 10,000 ODI runs this series, and was the quickest ever to do so. Thanks to the West Indies’ horrific batting performance in the fifth ODI, Fakhar Zaman’s record of 515 runs in a five match ODI series is safe. Three centuries this series, with a total of 453 runs at 151, with a SR of 112.96. Men against boys. 9.5

Ambati Rayudu: To say India have solved their number four conundrum is perhaps premature, but it was a good series from the CSK man. It’s his spot to lose now. 8

MS Dhoni: Here is a million dollar opportunity for you: Create a home security system that is as safe as MS Dhoni’s place in the side. You’ll be rich in no time. A disappointing series with the bat from MS, but excellent again behind the stumps. 3

Kedar Jadhav: Batted a total of seven balls in this series on his return to injury. He must have felt like Adil Rashid in the Lord’s Test against India earlier this year. N/A

Ravindra Jadeja: Four of his seven wickets were in the last game. With MS Dhoni struggling for batting form, Jadeja’s inclusion in the side will remain important. 7
Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Slowly found his groove by the end of the series, after returning in the third ODI. Just one away from 100 ODI wickets. 5

Kuldeep Yadav: Leading wicket taker and spun some of the Windies batsmen into a web so large that it wouldn’t be out of place in…. yep – Central Australia. Marlon Samuels, we are looking at you… And, remember when India left him out in the first ODI? Big no-no. 8.5

Khaleel Ahmed: Plenty of promise, and looks superb when swinging the ball like a banana. Doing it consistently will be the key, but the potential is there. 7

Jasprit Bumrah: Adds so much to the India attack. His delivery to get rid of Shai Hope had the man jumping as if to avoid a swarm of bees. Impressive as ever. 8

Other squad members:

Rishabh Pant: Victim of the strong MS Dhoni security system. We’ll see more of this kid. 3

Umesh Yadav: Not nice of Umesh to have RCB reliving IPL nightmares. 2

Mohammed Shami: “Get him away from the white ball”, screamed the India fans. With good reason. Let him stick to the red ball, where he is a threat. 2

Yuzendra Chahal: Quality bowler kept out of the side because India need to play a less threatening bowler who can bat a little to keep an out of form batsman in the side. That’s my take on it. Whether you agree or not, that’s fine. 5

West Indies


Chandrapaul Hemraj: Faced 75 deliveries across four games. Even those who know only a little bit of cricket reckon that’s not quite the return for an ODI opener. 2

Kieran Powell: Hit the ball around with purpose in the Tests, but was so out of balance with the bat this series that it reminded me of my days on the Nintendo Wii Fit. 2

Shai Hope: Has to understand how talented he is. Superb efforts in the first three ODIs, but like his side, fell away in the final two. The Windies can have Hope in Shai. 7.5

Marlon Samuels: If I can find a pillow as soft as some of Marlon’s dismissals this series, I’d be a happy man. I’ll sleep like a baby. For a player with such experience, as well as a fine record in India, it was a really disappointing series, topped off by a horror dismissal in the fifth ODI where even Virat Kohli didn’t celebrate. Yes. Kohli didn’t celebrate. 1

Shimron Hetmyer: Like Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer was superb in the first three ODIs, but fell away. A great effort from the young lad, and the fall away in the Windies’ performance is more reflective of the rest of the side than of he and Hope. 7.5

Rovman Powell: The “mini-Andre Russell”, they reckon. I didn’t see it. 2

Jason Holder: A double figure score with the bat in every ODI, but only two wickets, which was a dampener. Tried his best, as always, but needs more support. 5

Fabian Allen: 19 runs, no wickets, 109 runs conceded. Don’t think that’s the most sparkling performance you’ll see. 1

Keemo Paul: 12 overs in the series for 110 runs. I have made my gold digger joke in the past, but despite the risk of not being original, I have to bring it out. Keemo Paul was more expensive than a gold digger. 1

Devendra Bishoo: Decent effort in the tied second ODI, but for an experienced player, not much to write home about. 3

Kemar Roach: Largely ineffective, but he did shock the world, dismissing Virat Kohli for less than 20 in the fourth ODI. 4.5

Oshane Thomas: I hope the Windies take care of Thomas, as there is potential there. Played just the two games, and was expensive. 3

Other squad players:

Obed McCoy: Promised at times with his variation, but you can refer to Keemo Paul’s rating regarding economy rate. 2

Ashley Nurse: Magnificent during the Windies’ third ODI win, but his performances weren’t as sustained as the Windies needed. 4

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So, there we have it. India, predictably, proved too good in the end, but this series wasn’t short of meme moments.
Hope you enjoyed this player ratings article. Thanks for reading!

India vs West Indies 5th ODI Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: CricTracker

For the first time in this series, India totally dominated from start to finish.

The world number two side, across the first three ODIs, displayed the kind of inconsistency within matches that is not often associated with India in white ball cricket, especially at home. But, thanks to Rohit Sharma, Ambati Rayudu and the bowlers, India are now in pole position to deliver another series win.

Can West Indies show that the fourth ODI abomination was just a blip in what has been a very encouraging series?

The build up to the fourth ODI was dominated by Rishabh Pant vs MS Dhoni, but by the end, India were encouraged by the efforts of Ambati Rayudu and Khaleel Ahmed. Rohit Sharma’s brilliance, especially after passing 50, is something we’ve come to expect, but India can take heart in the effort of their number four, a position they have been looking to sure up for quite some time. With Virat Kohli picking up a rare low score, the contributions of his teammates is something India will be keen for again – will the batting and bowling fire as one for the second time in a row?

The performance by West Indies at Mumbai was a real dampener on what has been an encouraging series to date. In all three preceding ODIs, the Windies had some great periods of play, sometimes prolonged, which was totally absent in the fourth. Nonetheless, walking away from India with a drawn series will be a huge result for the Caribbean boys, who need to continue building confidence and momentum ahead of the 2019 World Cup.

Key to an India win

India flexed their muscle at Mumbai, starting off by not giving West Indies the early wickets that were key to their success in the second and third ODIs. The strong start by Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma is something India will want repeated, with Dhawan in particular needing to build on his starts. With Virat Kohli and Ambati Rayudu in good touch, India possess a top four that can once again bat West Indies out of the contest. Can these four create a great platform for the middle order, if needed?
Also, the performance of Khaleel Ahmed was cause for encouragement, causing the Windies batsmen significant problems thanks to his ability to get the ball moving. With Jasprit Bumrah at his economical best, Bhuvneshwar Kumar slowly getting back to form, and the spinners as tight as ever, India possess an attack that can blow the Windies away. Will it prove to be the case again?

Key to a West Indies win

Everything that could go wrong did go wrong for the Windies in the fourth ODI, headlined by all bowlers (who bowled a minimum of five overs) leaking runs at more than six an over, and Jason Holder being the only batsman to pass 20.
As mentioned, the ability of the Windies to pick up early wickets was crucial to their effort in leveling the series, exposing India’s still shaky middle order. Against a dangerous Indian top four, who will take the game by the scruff of the neck for the Windies? Can Kemar Roach and Jason Holder build more pressure at the top, with the change bowlers to maintain it? It is a big ask, but to keep the series alive, more control is required with the ball.
Also, Chandrapaul Hemraj and Kieran Powell are yet to go past the first powerplay at any point as an opening pair this series. What this has done is apply more pressure to a young middle order, who have stepped up admirably this series, but couldn’t do so in the fourth ODI, leading to a huge collapse. In addition, the form of Marlon Samuels and Rovman Powell – two potentially dangerous players – has hurt the Windies, and if they are selected, must step up in the quest to level of the series. Of course, Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer remain crucial to the Windies’ hopes.

Possible XIs

Yuzvendra Chahal and Rishabh Pant were left out of India’s side for the fourth ODI to accommodate MS Dhoni. Expect India to stick with the same combination that won so handsomely on Monday.
India possible XI: 1. Rohit Sharma, 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. Ambati Rayudu, 5. Kedar Jadhav, 6. MS Dhoni (wk), 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 9. Khaleel Ahmed, 10. Kuldeep Yadav, 11. Jasprit Bumrah
For West Indies, there could be some changes. Sunil Ambris could come in for one of the openers, and Keemo Paul is under pressure after going for 88 runs in his 10 overs on Monday. Devendra Bishoo might also be recalled.
West Indies possible XI: 1. Chandrapaul Hemraj/Sunil Ambris, 2. Kieran Powell, 3. Shai Hope (wk), 4. Shimron Hetmyer, 5. Marlon Samuels, 6. Rovman Powell, 7. Jason Holder (c), 8. Ashley Nurse, 9. Keemo Paul/Obed McCoy, 10. Devendra Bishoo/Fabian Allen, 11. Kemar Roach

Dream11

Racking my brain to figure out the best combination! Below is my Dream11 team, with a few pointers.
  • I will keep the faith in Shikhar Dhawan. He is due a big score. Will Rohit Sharma get two big scores in a row?
  • Bumrah, Kuldeep and Khaleel all have excellent wicket taking potential.
  • Back Shai Hope to have a better today after a run out in the 4th ODI.

Stats and Facts

  • India’s 224-win at Mumbai is their third biggest win in ODIs.
  • MS Dhoni needs one run to become the fifth player score 10,000 ODI runs for India.
  • Bhuvneshwar Kumar needs two wickets to reach 100 in ODIs.
  • India have scored six centuries this series – the joint most for them in any ODI series/tournament.

Prediction

Have the Windies run out of steam? On the evidence of the fourth ODI, it could be the case, but they have played well enough this series to not write them off.
However, India have too much quality and experience, and will win to take the series 3-1.
Thanks for reading!

Must read: My passionate take on the review into Australia’s Cricket Culture.

Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st T20I Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Image credit: Pakistan Cricket

New Zealand. Remember them? They are a cricket playing nation.

If you forgot, you are forgiven, with the Black Caps about to step onto the field for an international match for the first time since April. But, as you remember them, it’s easy to recall the quality they possess in each format.

They begin their tour of the UAE with three T20Is against world number one Pakistan, who are fresh of clean-sweeping Australia 3-0. Who will take a 1-0 series lead?

New Zealand will provide a different challenge to Pakistan than Australia, but the blueprint for success remains similar. Scores of 150 proved way too much for Australia, and against a side that is short of cricket, piling the pressure by nailing the basics is something Mickey Arthur would be looking forward to. After Pakistan whitewashed Australia in a limited overs series for the first time (more than two matches), can they smash the Kiwis too? And no, not the fruit. The cricket side (in case you forgot about them).

In all honesty, though, it is fantastic to see New Zealand back in action.That we have been robbed of watching Kane Williamson in New Zealand colours for nearly seven months is a cricketing tragedy, along with the talented New Zealand side. After one side from Oceania was swept aside emphatically as recently as three nights ago, can the Black Caps put on a better show than Trans-Tasman rivals Australia?

Key to a Pakistan win

That Pakistan were able to dismantle Australia even with Fakhar Zaman not firing was something to behold. Babar Azam, with 163 runs at 81.50, was deservedly man of the series against Australia, and will have a key role to play at the top along with the likes of Shoaib Malik.

Will Sahibzada Farhan build well on his effort v Australia, after timing the ball well but playing lots of dots? How Pakistan’s top order fares is vital, given the middle order underwhelmed in the series win. Against a New Zealand side that won’t roll over, a cohesive, complete batting effort is needed.

Also, the Pakistanis must repeat their enthusiasm in hitting the timber, covering great ground and aiming at the sticks while bowling. Their straight, tight bowling choked the life out of Australia, and with New Zealand aiming to get accustomed quickly to conditions, Pakistan will be well served in limiting the room given to the Black Caps’ batsmen.

Key to New Zealand win

The absence of Martin Guptill, the all-time highest scorer in T20Is, is a blow to New Zealand.

However, Colin Munro has been in good touch, simply brilliant for the Trinbago Knight Riders in CPL, along with his form for New Zealand. He will be the key at the top, paving the way for the hard-hitting middle order to build a strong total, along with Glenn Phillips (second highest run scorer in CPL 2018), Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor.

Also, New Zealand possess some exciting and experienced pace bowling options, with the presence of Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson and Adam Milne. Can the selected seamers put pressure on Pakistan, like Australia’s seamers were able to at times? On the spin front, both Ajaz Patel and Ish Sodhi will likely play, and will need to play a key role in keeping Pakistan’s batsmen quiet throughout the middle overs. Can New Zealand get through Pakistan’s top order cheaply, paving the way for a shot at Pakistan’s slightly shaky middle order?

Possible XIs

Shoaib Malik has confirmed his availability for the match, after the birth of his son. The main question for Pakistan, with Fakhar Zaman still nursing a knee issue, is whether Usman Khan or Shaheen Afridi will play.

Pakistan possible XI: 1. Babar Azam, 2. Sahibzada Farhan, 3. Mohammad Hafeez, 4. Shoaib Malik, 5. Asif Ali, 6. Sarfraz Ahmed (c & wk), 7. Faheem Ashraf, 8. Imad Wasim, 9. Shadab Khan, 10. Hasan Ali, 11. Usman Khan/Shaheen Afridi

New Zealand named a 14 member squad in which Glenn Phillips and Ajaz Patel were included. Glenn Phillips, the attacking wicket keeper batsman had an excellent CPL season with a ton and two half centuries, and was just behind Munro in his performances in the tournament. Expect him to open.

New Zealand possible: 1. Colin Munro, 2. Glenn Phillips (wk), 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Mark Chapman, 6. Corey Anderson, 7. Colin de Grandhomme, 8. Tim Southee, 9. Ish Sodhi, 10. Ajaz Patel, 11. Adam Milne/Lockie Ferguson

Dream11

  • Leaving out Colin Munro was a tough call, but I am skeptical as to how he will go in these conditions straight away. He has to better spot the ball that is going both ways.
  • Glenn Phillips takes the keeper role, as he is likely to open. Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor make up a pretty reliable batting quartet.
  • Faheem Ashraf was mostly impressive against Australia, so too the Pakistani Cristiano Ronaldo, Imad Wasim.
  • Both wristspinners (Sodhi and Shadab) are important additions in these conditions.

Stats and Facts

  • New Zealand are playing their first T20 after 8 months. They last played with Australia in Tri-series final in February. 

  • Pakistan have won their last ten T20I series.
  • Babar Azam is ranked first among T20I batsmen. In his list five innings, he averages 103.66, with a SR of 131.22.
  • Pakistan beat New Zealand 2-1 earlier this year (in New Zealand).

Prediction

After such a long break from international cricket, New Zealand return to arguably the toughest test in T20Is.
Back Pakistan to win on the back of excellent consistency and rhythm in the format, as well as strong knowledge of the conditions.
Thanks again to @AbduShakoorcric for his contribution to a Pakistan Preview! Be sure to give him a follow.
Must read: My passionate take on the review into Australia’s Cricket Culture.

My two cents on the review into Cricket Australia’s culture

Charbel Coorey
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The Ethics Centre’s review on the culture of Cricket Australia was published on Monday (29th October), and it has struck fear in me, as well as other Australian Cricket fans. Of course, the way Cricket Australia went about things over the last few years was always in question, and on the back of the events of Cape Town, it is there for the world to see.

But, should winning be the opportunity cost for a change?

No less than 145 pages make up the report, containing 42 culture review recommendations for Cricket Australia. 2018 is a year that has been challenging for Australian Cricket, but could very well be one that we look back on and say ‘that needed to happen’.

However, has the review swung things too far in the opposite direction, headlined by a ‘cringeworthy’ Player Pact?

What comes of this will be most interesting.

Reading parts of this review has resembled treating adults like they are children at school, and has seemingly put winning further down the pecking order. The review recommends red cards for “abusive” sledging, but what constitutes an abusive sledge? If I comment on the way a bloke plays his cover drive, is that a warning? What constitutes the ‘line’ that even the review struggles to address?

Personally, three big things stand out in a rotten culture, which CA unfortunately was not only ignorant towards, but the cause of. The review, though, is disregarding performance quite significantly.

The first is playing the “victim” card, after being the first to dish it out then cry foul when the same is done in return. Darren Lehmann cried foul earlier this year in South Africa, and the cricketing world laughed at us, after he called for Australia to send Stuart Broad home “crying” in 2013. David Warner walked off the field (bless) in a Sydney Grade Cricket match on Saturday, and we all laughed. A strong culture says that if you are dishing it out, expect it in return and get on with the job. What strong culture says “let’s give it to everyone, but get mad if we get it in return”? It was happening for too long. CA turned a blind eye.

The second is when a man like Mickey Arthur – a fine coach in many respects – wasn’t loving life to the full in the Australian set up. According to the current Pakistan coach, everyone felt they were untouchable. “We are the Australian cricket team. We can do what we want.” The solution for CA was drive the importance of being humble, from the top. They didn’t.

Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft face the media in Cape Town

The third is where there is a complete lack of accountability at executive level. It took a ball tampering incident for CA to wake up, and then they admitted responsibility in creating a poor culture. Then, only a small portion of players and executives actually took time to complete the survey. Why is there a reactive approach? Now, we are all wondering if heads will roll like Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft. Unfortunately, CA didn’t do anything about this earlier, and we now face a review that risks having Australian Cricket flip upside down.

The result? Hard-hitting sledging to Player Pacts. The public has never asked for this, and Michael Vaughan labeled it as “cringeworthy”. He has a point. What Australia must never lose is the mindset to play hard and win, giving their absolute all in every game. The disappointing performances in the UAE, following the magnificent first Test escape in Dubai, needs more than just a Players Pact to improve the mood of fans.

It was a very tough UAE tour for Australia

Now, we are at risk of seeing Australia not minding if they lose, as long as it’s all rainbows and roses on the field. The review talks about promoting grassroots cricket, but at the expense of the national team, asking for players to sit out matches to go play state and grade games. Promoting grassroots cricket can be done in other ways, such as having national and state players attend training sessions and organise “workshop” like days with kids.

Cricket should be played hard but fair, and winning should be of utmost importance. Drilling this into grassroots cricket is possible not only by having national players play two Shield and one Grade game a season. This is where the review misses the mark, and where CA needs to be strong about the direction it is heading in.

Now, the Australian Cricket Players Association has made clear of their desire to have the ball tampering bans lifted, as this was part of CA’s ignorance. It will be interesting to see what comes of this, as well as whether heads will roll at the top. Will chairman David Peever resign? Who at the top believes their positions are now untenable?

With this review, it is paramount CA works to improve its culture, but not at the expense of winning.

That is the balance they must strike.

Thanks for reading!

Batting Tips: 6 keys to improving your game

Charbel Coorey
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Batting is a beautiful thing. The sound of bat crunching the ball, either in solid defence or in a stroke that has the ball whistling away to the fence, is one to behold.

However, batting takes lots of practice, and it can get easy to get caught up in things that impact performance. Do check out my six key things to keep in mind to build, improve and maintain batting skills.

Batting Tip #1: What do I watch?

Watching the ball seems such a simple tip, but it’s one players can often forget, especially when short on runs. You can end up focusing instead on every single technical thing while the bowler is delivering the ball, instead of watching it.
My father used to tell me as a kid to always watch the bowler’s hand, focusing intently on what the bowler is trying to do. Is the pace bowler you are up against trying for an outswinger, inswinger, slower ball or cross seam delivery to try get extra bounce? Is the spinner trying to bowl a googly or genuine leg spinning delivery?
As the bowler gets to their final few strides, watch their hand and the ball intently.
This provides two key benefits:
  • You are able to pick the ball earlier, which enables you to get into position quicker and give you more time. Note: the best players in the world always have time!
  • You can read what the bowler is trying to do out of their hand, rather than off the pitch. Even international players are getting caught trying to read the ball off the pitch, which is a dangerous move.

Batting Tip #2: Your head position

When batting, it can be very easy to get caught up in seeing where the ball goes after you hit it. In terms of your head position, there are three key tips to keep in mind:
  • Make sure your head is perfectly still at point of impact. If your head is moving, your balance will suffer, and so will performance.
  • Head over the ball. Kevin Pietersen in his masterclass talks about the importance of your head being over the ball, with your weight going forward if the ball is full. When the ball is short, keeping your eyes on the ball is critical. Even if your foot movement is limited, your head being over the ball enables you to get in line.
  • Don’t lift your head too early to see where the ball goes. Keep your eyes on the ball right through to even after impact! Martin Guptill is a player who does this well in limited overs cricket.

Batting Tip #3: Your footwork and body position

This tip goes hand in hand with the first two.
If you are seeing the ball earlier, you’re in a better position to judge whether to go forward or back. If your head position is still, your balance will benefit.
One thing to keep in mind is the position of your back shoulder. For a right hander, this is your right shoulder, and the opposite for the left hander. If your back shoulder is ending up facing the bowler, it is a sign of squaring up, which will eventually give your outside edge a serious workout.Aim to always stay as side on as possible!

Batting Tip #4: Showcase the bat maker’s logo proudly

Whether you are playing in a T20 or longer format, playing straight is so important.
Be proud of showcasing the bat maker’s logo! A great way of practicing to play as straight as possible is to place a ball on a cone, and have your bat come through nice and straight when hitting the ball.
  • Ensure your bat doesn’t come down on an angle, which puts you at risk of getting out LBW, bowled and even caught behind the wicket.
  • Focus on getting your head over the ball.
  • Ensure your front doesn’t get too far across to the off side when the ball has just left the bowlers’ arm. Shane Watson is a player who struggled with this. Again, watching the ball early will enable you to get into position based on the merit of the delivery.

Batting Tip #5: Play the ball late

Lots of international players, on a dose of flat pitches, can get caught out pushing out too far in front of their body.
A nightmare innings that comes to mind is Australia’s 60 all-out capitulation in the 2015 Ashes. Notice how many batsmen are pushed at the ball with hard hards, well in front of their body.
Soft hands and playing the ball under your eyes is a great way to improve your batting. Kane Williamson is one player who does this exceptionally well, and so too Matt Renshaw from Australia, who simply must be in the Test side!

Batting Tip #6: Your mindset

Practice the way you would play in the game.
What separates Virat Kohli, for example, from others, is his commitment and determination to always improve his game. This is derived from his practice.
I’ve had friends tell me “what? You’re leaving the ball in the nets?”
Yes. Practice the way you aim to play! It’s the way you will constantly evolve and improve as a batsman.
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So, there are my six simple tips to batting. Do you have anything else to add? Leave a comment!
Thanks for reading!

India vs West Indies 4th ODI Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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The fourth ODI is upon us, and in a welcome surprise, it is not a dead rubber.

The build up to this match is almost as much about who Kedar Jadhav comes into the side for, as much as who wins the game. West Indies have been superb in exposing India’s shortcomings, with the home side now under pressure to avoid the disappointing result of not winning the series at home to the number eight ranked ODI side.

Who will take a 2-1 series lead?

India’s skipper Virat Kohli could very well be in doubt due to a back problem, carrying the batting line up over the last two ODIs. 48% and 44% have been Virat Kohli’s contributions to India’s runs over the last two games respectively, and the men in blue desperately need more from the middle order. Will Kedar Jadhav’s return inspire an improvement?

West Indies have grown in belief with every passing ball in this series. Their ability to get into the middle order has been key to their success, and so too of course the fantastic form of Shai Hope, Shemron Hetmyer and Ashley Nurse. Can West Indies get to the fifth ODI with no chance of losing the series?

Key to an India win

India’s top three have averaged nearly 62 since the World Cup in 2015, paving the way for many a victory for the men in blue. However, the difference between the top three and numbers five, six and seven is the most among too teams in this period.
Ideally, India will want their middle order to contribute to victory, but so much still relies on the top three. Kedar Jadhav’s return could be a boost, but will the balance of the side improve? Rumours of Rishabh Pant being the player to potentially make way leaves India in the same predicament of carrying an out of form MS Dhoni, possibly piling the pressure on Kedar Jadhav to perform if needed. Can the top order, led by the incredible Kohli, perform to lift the pressure?
Also, with the return of Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, India improved with the ball but plenty was left to be desired as a whole. Kumar was below his best, reflective of India’s series with the ball, topped off by conceding 280+ in Pune, a total 30 more than they were on track to concede. Can they put together a more cohesive performance?

Key to a West Indies win

When India have been successful, it has largely been on the back of at least two of their top three scoring large. However, West Indies have been able to dismiss Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan cheaply in the last two games, which has seen the Windies be ultra competitive. The same key stands today, with the likes of Jason Holder and Ashley Nurse vital in taking the pace off the ball, and building pressure on India’s line up.
Also, it is an incomplete claim to say the Windies bowling at the top has been central to their efforts. The visitors have now piled on 926 runs in three matches, on the back of Shai Hope and Shemron Hetmyer, who now must believe in their amazing talent. Who else (i.e. Kieron Powell and Marlon Samuels) will deliver for the visitors with the bat? Can West Indies put together another fighting effort against an India attack keen to improve?
Possible XIs

 
Kedar Jadhav is back from injury, and will likely replace Rishabh Pant, which still leaves India with the MS Dhoni problem. This is unlikely to be the day where India management make the big call on Dhoni. Also, expect Ravindra Jadeja to come in for Khaleel Ahmed.
India XI: 1. Rohit Sharma, 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. Ambati Rayudu, 5. Kedar Jadhav/Rishabh Pant, 6. MS Dhoni (wk), 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 9. Yuzvendra Chahal, 10. Kuldeep Yadav, 11. Jasprit Bumrah
West Indies will likely field the same side that won in Pune. A lot of the spotlight will be on Marlon Samuels, who is yet to deliver this series.
West Indies XI: 1. Chandrapaul Hemraj, 2. Kieran Powell, 3. Shai Hope (wk), 4. Shimron Hetmyer, 5. Marlon Samuels, 6. Rovman Powell, 7. Jason Holder (c), 8. Ashley Nurse, 9. Fabian Allen, 10. Obed McCoy/Oshane Thomas, 11. Kemar Roach

Dream11

Should batting or bowling dominate your Dream11 side? Below is my team, with a few pointers.
  • You’d be very brave to pick MS Dhoni over Shai Hope.
  • Virat Kohli has three consecutive hundreds in this series, and is a must. Also, I am still backing Shikhar Dhawan to go big.
  • Kedar Jadhav will likely slot back into the team, and offers plenty with his round-arm off spin, as well as his street-smart batting.
  • Ashley Nurse offers good value, and picking the Bumrah-Chahal-Kuldeep trio is a good move.

Stats and Facts

  • West Indies’ win in Pune was just their fifth ODI win vs India in India since January 2007.
  • West Indies have scored 926 runs in this series to date.
  • India’s top three averages 62 in ODIs since the 2015 World Cup. That is 16 runs more than next best England.
  • If Virat Kohli scores a century in the fourth ODI, he will become the second player to score four consecutive ODI hundreds.
  • This will be the first ODI hosted by Brabourne Stadium since the ICC Champions Trophy Final in November 2006.

Prediction

From a neutral perspective, it is great to see such a competitive series.
Will India ease fans’ concerns or will West Indies take a 2-1 lead?
India remain the favourites, and I will back them to take a series lead on the back of a more clinical display. However, as I love an underdog, I am hoping the Windies do well!
Thanks for reading!

Pakistan vs Australia 3rd T20I Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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Can Australia’s UAE tour just end so preparation can start for a much-welcomed home series against South Africa?

After being knocked down on 89 chasing 156 on Wednesday, Australia put on a bit of better fight in the 2nd T20I. Their bowling again gave them a chance of victory, restricting Pakistan to below 150, but a controversial run out was the beginning of another batting struggle in Asia.

Can Australia finish off a tough tour with some pride, or will Pakistan pick up a nice clean sweep?

Key to a Pakistan win

Fakhar Zaman is not having the best of times in the UAE in T20Is, averaging 10.50 in four matches. But these statistics don’t tell less of the player Fakhar Zaman is, who has the ability to change the direction of the match. Can he, along with Mohammad Hafeez and Babar Azam, who are in good touch, give Pakistan a really strong start?

A strong start puts Pakistan in with a chance of completely batting Australia out of the game. Asif Ali is one player who can benefit from another good platform, as he has not yet fulfilled his reputation of batting big in last five or so overs, except a big six he hit off Billy Stanlake.

On the bowling front, Pakistan are firing. Imad Wasim’s economy rate is a key factor to stopping the run flow in powerplays, paving the way for his teammates to expose Australian batsmen looking to play get-out-of-jail shots. One player who improved in the 2nd T20I was Shadab Khan, who will be key again in a well-drilled Pakistan attack. Can they roll over Australia again?

Key to an Australia win

Win the toss. Bat first. Hope for the best.

The Australian bowlers are doing a commendable job in restricting Pakistan from reaching Mickey Arthur’s standard score of 170-180.  However, their batting resembles an overpriced meal at a restaurant that fails to deliver; plenty of T20 quality on paper, unfortunately no results. Leaving plenty to be desired, the top order simply has to fire in the last match, paving the way for the likes of Glenn Maxwell to take advantage, and put pressure on Pakistan.

Possible XIs

As it is a dead rubber, Pakistan might look to check their bench strength by playing left-arm seamer Waqas Maqsood. There are murmurs too that Sahibzada Farhan could add to his solitary T20I cap.
Pakistan XI: 1. Babar Azam, 2. Fakhar Zaman, 3. Mohammad Hafeex, 4. Shoaib Malik, 5. Asif Ali, 6. Sarfraz Ahmed (c & wk), 7. Faheem Ashraf, 8. Imad Wasim, 9. Shadab Khan, 10. Hasan Ali, 11. Shaheen Afridi/Waqas Maqsood
For Australia, it might not be too much of a personnel change, but rather the changing of batting positions. Should Chris Lynn open? Will Ben McDermott get another chance after two run outs?
Australia XI: 1. Aaron Finch, 2. D’Arcy Short, 3. Chris Lynn, 4. Mitchell Marsh, 5. Glenn Maxwell, 6. Alex Carey (wk), 7. Ashton Agar, 8. Nathan Coulter-Nile, 9. Adam Zampa, 10. Andrew Tye, 11. Billy Stanlake

Dream11

The batsmen haven’t fully fired in this series to date. Below is my Dream11 side with a few pointers.
  • Neither Sarfraz Ahmed or Alex Carey have fired in the series, but I will stick with Sarfraz.
  • Babar Azam is in excellent accumulation form, and is looking good for another decent score. I believe Fakhar Zaman will play and will score well. He is in my side.
  • Two of Australia’s spinning all-rounders make my side.

Stats and Facts

  • Pakistan have now won 10 straight T20I series.
  • Australia are winless on this tour of the UAE (1 draw, 3 losses).
  • If Pakistan win, it will be their first ever limited overs whitewash over Australia in a series consisting of three or more matches.

Prediction

Expect more fight from Australia, but they simply haven’t been able to sustain pressure for extended periods so far.

Head over heart – Pakistan to win.

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