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South Africa vs Zimbabwe 3rd T20I Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

As Zimbabwe’s limited overs tour of South Africa comes to a close, what can we conclude from it?

The home side has had a pretty good look at their squad, which will be tested more against Australia, Pakistan and Sri Lanka later this season. The tourists have had their moments, but have not been able to land the killer blow.

Will it finish 6-0?
That is what South Africa would be hoping for. On the back of a clinical bowling performance in Potchefstroom, South Africa’s batsmen mainly got in and got out, and in conditions that could see a decent balance between bat and ball today, it will be interesting to see how well the Proteas go about their work. Faf du Plessis could be rested, but if the bowlers are on the mark again, it won’t matter.

For Zimbabwe, it is a case of what might have been. What might have been had Blessing Muzarabani and Graeme Cremer been available? What about Sikandar Raza? In conditions where pace bowling has been difficult to handle, Muzarabani’s bounce might have been a handful, and Raza’s middle order efforts may have been handy, too. But, for various reasons, this has not been the case, and Zimbabwe have one final chance to pick up a win in their tour of South Africa.

Key to a South Africa win

Dane Paterson, Robbie Frylinck and Andile Phehlukwayo gave South Africa plenty to be encouraged about. In 12 overs between them in Potchefstroom, they gave away a measly 57 runs, with six wickets, which broke the back of Zimbabwe’s batting efforts. This was while two of South Africa’s more established bowlers – Lungi Ngidi and Tabraiz Shamsi – went for 73 in eight overs.
Can they pick up regular wickets again, in Benoni conditions that could assist the bowlers? To be successful in international cricket, consistency is important, and the Proteas bowlers have an opportunity to back up their good efforts from the second T20I.
Dane Paterson was impressive in the 2nd T20I
On the batting front, what do you make of South Africa’s performances over the past two weeks? Personally, there has been a bit to be desired, with plenty of starts not converted. Zimbabwe’s low score in the second T20I didn’t enable big scores, but all of the six South African batsmen reached double figures, with only one exceeding 30. If the batting, led by the likes of Quinton de Kock and JP Duminy, fires, then there is surely no way back for Zimbabwe.

Key to a Zimbabwe win

Regular wickets has been Zimbabwe’s biggest enemy on this tour, and it is something they must guard against in their final match. Captain Hamilton Mazakadza became the first Zimbabwean to reach 1,500 T20I runs, but his four scores in the 20s this tour is cause for frustration. He, Brendan Taylor and Sean Williams tried hard, but again it wasn’t to be, and that too without Imran Tahir on the opposition team.
Can Zimbabwe’s batting finally click when the pressure to win is gone? Solomon Mire hasn’t reached the heights of the T20I Tri-Series against Pakistan and Australia, and Tarisai Musakanda and Elton Chigumbura continue to be passengers. Is it as simple as throwing caution to the wind, running hard, and see what happens?
Zimbabwe need Hamilton Mazakadza to capitalise on his starts
Also, it is hard not to feel sorry for the bowlers. They have tried hard throughout the series, but haven’t had the support of their batsmen, which was well and truly on show in the 2nd T20I. Against a Proteas side still striving for their absolute best, can Zimbabwe’s bowlers trouble them one final time?

Possible XIs

Faf du Plessis could be rested for this game to give all squad members some more game time. With the series won, it would make sense to. One player to keep an eye out for is Quinton de Kock, who has scores of 5 and 26 in this series. With Heinrich Klaasen in decent touch, should de Kock feel any pressure?
South Africa possible XI: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Gihahn Cloete, 3. Heinrich Klaasen, 4. Rassie van der Dussen, 5. JP Duminy (c), 6. Christiaan Jonker, 7. Robbie Frylinck, 8. Andile Phehlukwayo, 9. Junior Dala, 10. Dane Paterson, 11. Tabraiz Shamsi
There are a few really out of form players for Zimbabwe. Tarisai Musakanda hasn’t scored a run in either of the two T20Is, and Elton Chigumbura continues to struggle. Neville Madziva, a pace bowling all-rounder, could come into the middle order.
Zimbabwe possible XI: 1. Solomon Mire, 2. Hamilton Mazakadza (c), 3. Brendan Taylor (wk), 4. Tarisai Musakanda/Chamu Chibhabha, 5. Sean Williams, 6. Peter Moor, 7. Neville Madziva/Elton Chigumbura, 8. Wellington Mazakadza/Tendai Chisoro, 9. Brandon Mavuta, 10. Kyle Jarvis, 11. Chris Mpofu

Dream11

  • Today could be the day where Quinton de Kock and Rassie van der Dussen truly fire for South Africa.
  • Hamilton Mazakadza has promised with his starts, and three promising all round options are in my side.
  • Chris Mpofu has bowled well for Zimbabwe in this series, and so too Brandon Mavuta.

Stats and Facts

  • Zimbabwe have lost 16 straight matches across formats since March.
  • This will be the first T20I between two full members at Willowmoore Park in Benoni.
  • Hamilton Mazakadza became the first Zimbabwe player to reach 1,500 T20I runs. No other Zimbabwe player has scored 1,000 runs in this format.

Prediction

Like the 2nd T20I, Zimbabwe’s batting just didn’t inspire enough confidence to say they would win.
South Africa to win again and clean sweep the T20I series.
Thanks for reading!

Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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The joys of a cricket series scheduled in monsoon season.

The thrill of checking updates to see when play might resume instead of watching the action is something to behold.

With a side struggling in ODIs against a side thriving, it would be very interesting to see what transpires in the home conditions of the struggling side. Rain is expected again, but with a reserve day scheduled for this particular match, could we be lucky enough to see a result?

Sri Lanka, in the first ODI, couldn’t restrict England’s scoring too much, which is an area for improvement even after such a short stint on the field. Lasith Malinga was expensive and ineffective, and will need to lay a better platform for his spinners to go at England in the middle overs. The rain might have us forget that Sri Lanka have lost 30 of their previous 40 completed ODIs, so a chance remains to put their ODI woes aside against the world’s best side.

For England, it looked promising. Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow couldn’t convert their starts, but a strong scoring rate was the key, paving the way for Joe Root to play as his accumulative best. That little period of play could give England confidence ahead of the 2nd ODI, and will be hoping that the rain stays away so they can unleash their batting and bowling potential on struggling Sri Lanka.

Key to a Sri Lanka win

Sri Lanka’s spinners, particularly Akila Dananjaya, again hold the key. England looked pretty good against Akila on Wednesday, and will be looking for a better economy rate. The same applies for Lasith Malinga.
Can Sri Lanka effectively build pressure on an attacking England side through dots? Powerplay wickets will again be important, but can they limit the likes of Joe Root and Eoin Morgan in getting the scoreboard ticking? Can they get Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler in with the need to rebuild the innings?
Also, Sri Lanka’s batting wasn’t tested on Wednesday, but how they cope with England’s high-variety attack will of course be key. Much depends on the struggling top order, which has been the root of many problems in their ODI fortunes of late.

Key to an England win

The same key as the first ODI applies here.
Sri Lanka’s top order still looks a delicious proposition for England’s bowlers, and it will be interesting to see how Olly Stone and Liam Dawson fare in an England attack sure to be keen to have a go. Can England do what many sides have been able to do in recent times and break the back of the Sri Lanka batting early?
Also, there was plenty to like about England’s batting on Wednesday. Of course, Jason Roy against spin remains a concern, but there is always a number of batting threats to keep Sri Lanka on their toes. England could be sent in by Sri Lanka, but if they do win the toss, should they bat first and aim for that 275-300 mark?

Possible XIs

Expect both sides to stick with the same XIs, given the no result on Wednesday.
Sri Lanka possible XI: 1 Upul Tharanga, 2 Niroshan Dickwella (wk), 3 Kusal Perera, 4 Dinesh Chandimal (capt), 5 Dhananjaya de Silva, 6 Dasun Shanaka, 7 Thisara Perera, 8 Akila Dananjaya, 9 Lakshan Sandakan, 10 Lasith Malinga, 11 Nuwan Pradeep
 
England possible XI: 1 Jason Roy, 2 Jonny Bairstow, 3 Joe Root, 4 Eoin Morgan (capt), 5 Ben Stokes, 6 Jos Buttler (wk), 7 Moeen Ali, 8 Chris Woakes, 9 Liam Dawson, 10 Adil Rashid, 11 Olly Stone

Dream11

  • Joe Root looks in excellent touch, and is my captain.
  • Both Sri Lanka spinners are included in my side, and so too England’s Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali.
  • Chris Woakes and Thisara Perera provide both batting and bowling potential.

Stats and Facts

 
  • Sri Lanka have not won an ODI in Dambulla since 2014 (7 losses, 2 no results).
  • Jonny Bairstow needs five runs to reach 1,000 ODI runs in 2018. The last England player to achieve this was Jonathan Trott in 2011.
  • Upul Tharanga needs 64 runs to complete 7,000 in ODIs.

Prediction

Rain is likely to have a say, but hopefully there is enough cricket to get a result.
England are looking the stronger unit, and will back them for a win.
Thanks for reading!

South Africa vs Zimbabwe 2nd T20I Preview

Charbel Coorey
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For the first time in Zimbabwe’s tour of South Africa 2018, could we see a different result?

Once again, the tourists had some decent moments in a match on this tour, but could not convert it into victory, as South Africa’s extra class has got them home. But, South Africa will now be without Imran Tahir, who has been rested from the final two T20Is, much to the delight of Zimbabwe. With Tabraiz Shamsi not at his best at the moment, can the Proteas get enough out of their batsmen to win without their star bowler in this series? Debutant Rassie van der Dussen and the experienced David Miller got the Proteas out of a bit of hole in the first T20I, before Imran Tahir cleaned Zimbabwe up. Can South Africa deliver a clinical performance here to take the series?

Zimbabwe have now lost 15 international matches in a row, dating back to March, and now face a fight to keep the series alive. Their top order was a let down at East London, losing three wickets in the first 18 balls of their chase, rendering their quest for a 1-0 series lead almost impossible. With their chief destroyer Imran Tahir rested, can Zimbabwe restrict South Africa to a similar extent to East London, and make a better start with the bat?

Key to a South Africa win

South Africa’s batting looked good on paper in the first T20I, but it was the performance of a select few that got them to a competitive total. Throughout the four matches of Zimbabwe’s tour, the Proteas’ batting hasn’t fully clicked into gear, and with the series on the line here, as well as project World T20 2020, now is a good time to get going.
Can South Africa get more out of Quinton de Kock at the top on a Potchefstroom pitch expected to be good for batting? Can a platform be set for a dangerous middle order, coming off a good outing?
Also, the spotlight will be well and truly on South Africa’s bowlers – especially Tabraiz Shamsi – with Imran Tahir rested. Who will be the chief tormentor this time? Or better yet, can the bowlers bowl as a unit so no single chief destroyer is needed? Execution of plans, against a shaky Zimbabwe line up, will be the order of the day.

Key to a Zimbabwe win

Zimbabwe’s bowlers have put them in decent positions throughout this tour, but the batting hasn’t stood up. Conditions were difficult early in the ODI series, but with conditions improving significantly, Zimbabwe’s batsmen haven’t quite.
Tahir’s absence will be a relief, but not exactly a free passage to success. The loss of early, as well as regular, wickets continue to haunt them, and if they are to keep the series alive, it’s the batting that especially needs to pick up. In the 1st T20I, their total of 126 flattered them, with PJ Moor playing a fine lone hand. In this game, their experienced players – the likes of Hamilton Mazakadza, Sean Williams and Brendan Taylor, simply have to fire.
On the bowling front, there continues to be encouraging signs. Brandon Mavuta will be even better for the experience (1/19 off four), and so too Chris Mpofu, who returned good figures at East London. Like South Africa, can Zimbabwe bowl well as a unit?

Possible XIs

Robbie Frylinck is in with a chance of playing for South Africa. On what is expected to be a good batting track, his strike rate of 148.22 in T20s could be a very handy addition to the lower order. Also, will Christiaan Jonker get another chance?
South Africa possible XI: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Gihahn Cloete, 3. Faf du Plessis (c), 4. Rassie van der Dussen, 5. David Miller, 6. Christiaan Jonker, 7. Robbie Frylinck, 8. Andile Phehlukwayo, 9. Junior Dala, 10. Lungi Ngidi, 11. Tabraiz Shamsi
Zimbabwe could make changes if their own, especially as Elton Chigumbura has made two ducks in his last three innings. Also, with Solomon Mire a T20 specialist, it would make sense to bring him back into the side.
Zimbabwe possible XI: 1. Solomon Mire, 2. Chamu Chibhabha, 3. Hamilton Mazakadza (c) 4. Brendan Taylor (wk), 5. Sean Williams, 6. Peter Moor, 7. Elton Chigumbura/Neville Madziva, 8. Tendai Chisoro/Tendai Chatara, 9. Brandon Mavuta, 10. Kyle Jarvis, 11. Chris Mpofu

Stats and Facts

  • Zimbabwe have lost their last 15 matches across formats.
  • Imran Tahir has taken 15 wickets at 7.6 across the four matches v Zimbabwe (3 ODIs, 1 T20I).
  • The last time South Africa played a T20I in Potchefstroom, David Miller smashed the then fastest T20I century, against Bangladesh (35 balls). Rohit Sharma soon equaled it.
  • Rassie van der Dussen has hit three domestic T20 hundreds. All of them have been at Potchefstroom.

Prediction

Like the 1st T20I, I give Zimbabwe a chance. In the 2nd T20I, even more so because of no Imran Tahir.
Can the men in red cause an upset? I think it is possible.
Am I brave enough to say I’d put money on them if I were a betting man? Not quite. The batting leaves too much to be desired.
South Africa to take out the series 2-0.

Pakistan vs Australia 1st Test Player Ratings: Usman Khawaja for PM!

Charbel Coorey
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0

What an amazing first Test.

Australia, with their backs to the wall for pretty much the entire Test, found the resolve to escape Dubai with a character-building draw. The optimists, like myself, always had hope that Australia could get the job done, but it was still realistically far-fetched. What a way to help win over the public after what has been a challenging 2018.

Australia has the better T-Paine, and Usman Khawaja should be made Prime Minister. Travis Head can now truly believe he is good enough for Test Cricket, and Aaron Finch, also on debut, was superb in blunting the Pakistan attack.

It is a time where fans are proud of the team, and it is a welcome change.

For Pakistan, it is a very disappointing result. If skipper Sarfraz Ahmed scores as many runs as he does prance nervously and yell at his teammates, he would easily be the world’s best batsman. The option to go on the defensive early, as well as poor use of reviews, has ultimately cost Pakistan what looked like a certain win after day three.

With an attempt to keep emotion aside, each player will be put under the CricBlog microscope, rated out of ten. Best of luck to the Marsh brothers…

Pakistan

Mohammad Hafeez: The “Professor” returned to the Pakistan side after a two year exodus, and basically told the selectors they were wrong for keeping him out for so long, especially in the UAE. Excellent first day century, and picked up the huge wicket of Travis Head on the final day. 8.5
 
Imam-ul-Haq: A good Test from Imam. It is a big blow for Pakistan that he has fractured his finger and will miss the second Test. Forced the Aussies to work hard for his wicket, twice. 8
 
Azhar Ali: A very disappointing performance from one of Pakistan’s more reliable players. His first day gift near stumps was a nice touch in the lead up to Christmas. 2
 
Haris Sohail: Superb first innings century, his first in Test Cricket. However, he was one of three Pakistan batsmen to reach double figures at a strike rate at under 50 in the second innings. Turned out to be key in the outcome. 8.5
 
Asad Shafiq: Solid batting performance, and gave Pakistan important impetus in both the first and second innings when Australia were looking to slow the scoring rate as much as possible. Remains an important cog in Pakistan’s line up. 8.5
 
Babar Azam: His screams in the second innings to avoid a run out gave everyone, including Mickey Arthur, a good laugh. Still yet to find his feet in Test Cricket. 6
 
Sarfraz Ahmed: Reviews and tactics were poor for the most part. Has to take a lot of responsibility for Pakistan not winning this Test. As mentioned, if he scores as many runs as he does prance nervously and yell, he would be the best batsman. A leader has to instill calmness among his teammates. 3

 

 
Bilal Asif: Whether you believe Bilal’s action is legal or not, he had a good debut. His six wickets in the first innings opened the game right up for Pakistan. No second innings wickets would have hurt. Credit to Australia for this excellent achievement. 7.5
 
Mohammad Abbas: Pakistan’s best performer in the Test. Credit to Australia for keeping this man wicketless on the final day. Ran in and threatened all game, and finished with match figures of 46-16-85-7. 9
 
Wahab Riaz: A passenger. A very disappointing performance from Wahab, who Pakistan needed to be an X-Factor weapon with the ball. Poor body language at times and can’t see him being selected for the next Test. 2
 
Yasir Shah: Was wicketless right up until midway through the second session of the fifth day. Burst into life on the final evening, nearly getting Pakistan home. Despite that, it wasn’t his best performance throughout the Test. 7
 

Australia

 
Aaron Finch: Superb debut. Helped Australia get two great starts in the Test. I’ll admit I’m skeptical about Finchy as an opening option for months to come, but I couldn’t be happier for him here. Top effort. 8
 
Usman Khawaja: The man of the match. The man with a proud Pakistani background helped deny Pakistan. What a performance. His hard work is paying off. Sarfraz will be having nightmares about looking at Khawaja’s backside for so long. Yasir Shah will be losing sleep over those amazing reverse sweeps. Entered the Test with an average of less than 15 in Asia. Exists the Test as a hero. 10

Uzzie for PM!

 

 
Shaun Marsh: Expected much more from a key player. So very disappointed. Will get a go again in the second Test, and has to be step up. I recommend Shaun stays away from Twitter. 2
 
Mitchell Marsh: Both of Australia’s Vice-Captains had the same impact on this Test. Josh Hazlewood was at home. 1
 
Travis Head: Proved he belongs. Australia lost three wickets on 87 in the second innings, and in walked Head on a pair on debut. Superb fight for 175 deliveries, in a 291-ball stand with Usman Khawaja. He should be very proud. 8
 
Marnus Labuschange: Memo to Marnus: Get forward to the spinners! He actually looked really good in the second innings when coming down the track, then fatally stayed back to a full ball. Showed promise with his legspin. Learning curve. 3
 
Tim Paine: Captain brilliant! So happy for Tim Paine, who was under plenty of pressure. Amazing show of fight after a nervous start to get Australia to safety. Conditions and circumstances were tough right throughout the Test, but he stood tall. We have the better T-Paine! 9

 

 
Mitchell Starc: As many wickets as runs. One. Tough outing for Starc, but will be better for the run. Remains a key player in the second Test. 3
 
Peter Siddle: Absolutely fantastic first innings bowling effort. Helped get Australia back on parity on the first evening, and was on the money every time he was called to bowl. 8
 
Nathan Lyon: Went past Fred Trueman in this Test. Bowled with heart all game, and saw Australia to safety with the bat at the end. Tim Paine’s faith in him as a batsman shows the type of guy ‘Gaz is. 8
 
Jon Holland: Was he more nervous when bowling, or when waiting to possibly bat in the final few overs? Too many loose balls. Should Ashton Agar come in for him in the Test? 5
 
——
 
Who said Test Cricket is dead? It was absolutely absorbing stuff.
Well done to Australia on a fantastic effort to draw the Test. For Pakistan, they’ll be disappointed, but the opportunity is there to adjust a few things for the second Test.
Series still up for grabs.
Thanks for reading!

India vs West Indies 2nd Test Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

After Australia’s amazing escape in Dubai, we can all exclaim how great Test Cricket is. But, could a match of Test Cricket be previewed in three words?

“India will win” seems a simple preview, but after a non-contest at Rajkot, one can only hope for a more competitive showing from the tourists.
Is it asking for too much? Probably. India went about their business with minimal fuss at Rajkot, yet picked up their biggest ever win in Tests. Such was the gulf in quality between the sides that if you blinked, you would have missed the batting efforts of the West Indies, which did no favours to all associated with Test Cricket. Ahead of a huge series in Australia, what can India take out of this series? On the evidence presented at Rajkot – not much, except mainly for players to gain further confidence by putting good numbers on the board.
Everyone knows the gulf in class between the sides, but the lack of fight from West Indies was bitterly disappointing. The least you should do when batting at any level is put a price on your wicket, and it seemed to everyone that the Windies simply didn’t believe they could cope. Coupled with a lack of pressure with the ball, it was a true nightmare at Rajkot. Will they have a better time of things in Hyderabad?

Key to an India win

In all honesty, it’s doing the basics well.
Despite winning by an innings and 272 runs in the first Test, India didn’t do anything extraordinary, but rather focused on their strengths, intent on grinding the Windies into the ground. The likes of Prithvi Shaw, Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara will be keen to continue their good form from Rajkot at the top, backed up by a handy middle-lower order, as Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja’s recent form suggests. However, eyes will be on KL Rahul as well as Ajinkya Rahane – will they have more influential performances in Hyderabad?
Also, the Windies simply had no answer to India’s well-rounded bowling attack in these conditions. For India, no complacency will be key, and under Virat Kohli, you can expect the bowlers to keep the heat on the Windies batsmen.

Key to a West Indies win

Twitter will go into meltdown.
Jason Holder has come out and spoken against the critics, saying that even a team with Brian Lara couldn’t win a series in India. Sure, an India tour is toughest in world cricket, but what the fans are asking for is greater fight. There is no shame in losing. However, there is shame in gifting wickets away.
Can the batsmen, led by Kraigg Brathwaite, show greater stomach for the fight? What could encourage the Windies was the efforts of Kieran Powell and Roston Chase in Rajkot – can others jump on board and make life somewhat challenging? Who will be willing to get through the first 20-30 balls and accumulate?
Also, Kemar Roach is expected to play, which is an important boost to a bowling attack that looked toothless at Rajkot. Skipper Jason Holder is also pushing to play, which will be another boost if fit – the pace of Gabriel and Roach, with the control of Holder and efforts of Bishoo could see the Windies have a slightly better time of things.

Possible XIs

India have named an unchanged XII to the first Test, with the only question being whether Shardul Thakur or Kuldeep Yadav get a game. With conditions expected to be similar to Rajkot, Kuldeep will probably get the nod. Keen to see Prithvi Shaw go at it again, and whether KL Rahul will waste a review score runs.
India possible XI: 1. Prithvi Shaw, 2. KL Rahul, 3. Cheteshwar Pujara, 4. Virat Kohli (c), 5. Ajinkya Rahane, 6. Rishabh Pant (wk), 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. Ravichandran Ashwin, 9. Kuldeep Yadav, 10. Umesh Yadav, 11. Mohammed Shami
For West Indies, Jason Holder and Kemar Roach are expected to return.
West Indies possible XI: 1. Kraigg Brathwaite, 2. Kieran Powell, 3. Shai Hope, 4. Sunil Ambris, 5. Shimron Hetmeyer, 6. Roston Chase, 7. Shane Dowrich (wk), 8. Jason Holder (c), 9. Kemar Roach, 10. Devendra Bishoo, 11. Shannon Gabriel

Dream11

  • Expect Rishabh Pant to enjoy a few dismissals, and get in the runs too.
  • Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara and Prithvi Shaw are too good not to have. Kieran Powell is my Windies batsman after a promising Rajkot Test.
  • Three allrounders all with potential of good scores make my side.
  • Keep an eye out for any news on whether Kuldeep and Bishoo will indeed play. Both have wicket taking potential.

Stats and Facts

  • India’s win in Rajkot was their biggest ever in Tests.
  • West Indies have not won a Test in India since 1994, and their last three Tests in India have lasted nine days in total. All three have been innings defeats.
  • India have made eight scores of 600+ since 2016, two more than the rest of the world combined.

Prediction

I don’t look like Einstein when I say India will win this Test and take the series 2-0.
Just too good.
Thanks for reading!

Cricket Opinion: Has Shakib Al Hasan played his last Test?

Charbel Coorey
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0

Bangladesh’s best ever cricketer, Shakib Al Hasan, is recovering from an extraordinary hand injury.

With a minimum of three months (and possibly up to twelve) on the sidelines, Shakib and those associated with assisting with his recovery have a task of getting his bowling hand back to 100%.

But, how did it ever get to this point? How was it allowed to? With management in the past also questioning some senior players’ desire to play Test Cricket for Bangladesh, have we seen the last of Shakib Al Hasan in the whites?
There is a good possibility we have.

Before more is explained on why we might have seen the last of Shakib in Tests, here is a timeline of Shakib’s injury that has caused a lot of grief. 

Timeline:

Shakib picks up injury in ODI Tri-Series Final

An ODI Tri-Series Final in January against Sri Lanka was an opportunity for Bangladesh to lift silverware in a multi-nation tournament for the first time in four attempts since 2009. Instead, it was a nightmare, losing the match comfortably, as well as their best player to a finger injury after a very awkward landing when trying to save runs.
There was a joint sprain that required stitches, which forced Shakib to miss the Tests and T20Is against Sri Lanka that followed.
Shakib Al Hasan left the field in lots of pain in January.

Shakib Al Hasan returns to captain the side in T20Is and Tests

All seemed well and good, with Shakib returning to captain Bangladesh in the Nidahas Trophy, the T20Is against Afghanistan and West Indies, as well as the nightmare Tests in the Caribbean.

“I’m only 20-30% fit”

Shakib then took everyone by surprise, including Bangladesh Team Management, by claiming he was only “20-30%” fit ahead of their Asia Cup 2018 campaign. It didn’t matter though, as he was thrown in and asked to manage the injury.

From one farce to another

The timeline of events is rounded off with another farce, unfortunately a prevalent occurrence in Bangladesh Cricket.
Shakib was reportedly in unbearable pain ahead of Bangladesh’s crucial do-or-die clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup. He was unable to even grip the bat, with swelling on his left hand forcing management to urgently get him out of the UAE and back home. The amount of pus in his left hand was extraordinary, even leading to BCB President Nazmul Hassan questioning how it could reach that point.
How could something like this happen? Who was helping Shakib manage this injury? As painful as the original injury was, there was fortunately no fracture. What seemed to be a minor finger injury turned into an infection that risked completely disabling Shakib’s hand and wrist. Instead of Shakib putting the hard yards for Bangladesh in their upcoming campaigns against Zimbabwe and West Indies, we could very well have seen the last of him in Tests, with his place at the 2019 World Cup also in doubt.
Who is accountable for this?
Shakib’s little finger was strapped during Asia Cup 2018

Where does Shakib’s career stand?

The infection is now under control, according to Shakib, with the possibility of avoiding surgery if the pain subsides. He is currently in Melbourne, on a dose of antibiotics, and it remains to be seen when he can go back to Bangladesh for rehabilitation.
It’s an unbelievable situation.
Even more concerning for huge Shakib fans like myself, who have seen him accomplish some incredible things in the Test format, is the possibility he might not play a Test again.
During Bangladesh’s awful Test series against West Indies in July, BCB President Nazmul Hassan claimed that Bangladesh’s senior players are reluctant to play Tests. Matching this statement with the total lack of fight from Bangladesh in the Caribbean during that series, the future of Bangladesh in red ball cricket was concerning.
“We are seeing in our country that some of our senior players don’t want to play Test Cricket,” said Hassan. “Shakib doesn’t want to play Tests. Mustafiz [Rahman] also doesn’t want to play, but he hasn’t mentioned it. He wants it to a point. Maybe since he is injury-prone, he feels he will get injured playing Tests? Maybe they feel Test is quite tough, say for someone like Rubel [Hossain]. Bringing in younger players is our only option.”
Parts of that statement by the BCB President could be considered rubbish, but remember Shakib Al Hasan made a peculiar decision to request rest for Bangladesh’s massive Test series in South Africa last year.
A series like that should motivate a top player to go and perform against quality opposition away from home, but Shakib perhaps believed the limited overs matches were more important. Bangladesh were thrashed in both Tests, missing Shakib significantly, in the country where he famously took 11 wickets in two innings back in 2008.
Now, with an injury that can keep him out for potentially six to twelve months, who is to say that Shakib, now 31, won’t officially hang up the boots in Tests to try and prolong his career as he manages this injury?
If he does indeed hang up the boots, it will be a huge shame that it ends this way. Without a doubt Bangladesh’s best ever cricketer, Shakib averages nearly 40 with the bat in 53 Tests, which also includes 196 wickets at less than 32 a piece. Just over a year ago, he put in one of the best individual performances in recent memory, scoring 84 and taking ten wickets to lead Bangladesh to a famous Test win over Australia.
If the end is indeed here, Bangladesh will have to urgently figure out what life after Shakib looks like in Tests.
Today, I sit anxiously waiting to see whether indeed the end has come. Today, I’m hoping for the best.
Thanks for reading!

Sri Lanka vs England 1st ODI Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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A side that has lit up the ODI format in recent times up against one that has stunk it up.

It is incredible to believe the turnaround in fortunes of these two sides since England’s last visit to Sri Lanka for an ODI series. The Lankans thrashed England 5-2 just before the 2015 World Cup, which led to the demise of Alastair Cook. Then, for good measure, Sri Lanka hammered England in the World Cup as well – the wretched tournament behind England’s ODI transformation.

So, will there be a reversal of fortunes this time, or can Sri Lanka defy the odds?

The last 20 months in particular have been chaos for Sri Lanka. In 40 ODIs in this period, they have lost 30, with the latest disappointment a very poor showing at Asia Cup 2018. Sri Lanka’s management believe Angelo Mathews’ poor fitness is the main cause of their struggles, which has seen him shafted and Dinesh Chandimal employed with the arduous task of getting this team off the mat. At home, though, with spin to play a key role, Sri Lanka can’t be written off – can they push England on the back foot straight away?

For England, this is a big tour. The subsequent Test series is one many fans are looking forward to, but as the number one side in ODIs, here is an opportunity to flex their muscle away from home. Excluding their one-off defeat to Scotland in June, England have won eight bilateral ODI series on the bounce, and enter Sri Lanka with a well-balanced side. Their transformation as an ODI side since 2015 has been something to behold, and now they can showcase the true reversal of fortunes of these two sides with a big performance in the 1st ODI.

Key to a Sri Lanka win

Sri Lanka were simply horrendous in the Asia Cup, with their batting and fielding, in particular, a standard that a club side would be condemned for. These issues were also prevalent in the preceding ODI series at home to South Africa, where their top order couldn’t get going. Their star performer in the final two matches of that series – Angelo Mathews – won’t be available here.
So, what will be different this time?
The additions of Dinesh Chandimal and Niroshan Dickwella can give Sri Lanka fans hope, but with what substance? Dinesh Chandimal has not played an ODI for nine months, and Dickwella continues to be inconsistent. However, now is the time, against the best ODI side, to change that. To stand a chance in this clash, Sri Lanka’s top order must fire, giving their middle order a platform to launch.
Also, what challenge can Sri Lanka’s bowlers pose to England’s dangerous batting line up? Lasith Malinga, who marked his return to the side with an unbelievable performance against Bangladesh, will be key at the top. So too will the spinners, who will be tasked with building pressure and forcing get-out shots from England’s batsmen, who are often keen to get things moving rapidly.

Key to an England win

Like a tasty looking dish coming to your table at a restaurant, Sri Lanka’s top order looks a delicious proposition for England’s bowlers. The absence of Liam Plunkett and David Willey is a blow, but in Mark Wood, Chris Woakes, Ben Stokes and one of Sam or Tom Curran, England still possess a seam attack that is capable of ripping through a beleaguered batting line up.
Add Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali, who were excellent in the England summer, and Eoin Morgan will be confident of a complete bowling performance that reduces the pressure on his batsmen.
But, plenty of eyes will be on England’s batting. How well will they cope with the spinners, particularly Akila Dananjaya, who took 6/29 in his last ODI outing in Sri Lanka? Can they rotate the strike effectively, and curb natural instincts if the situation demands it? It should be an interesting battle.
Of course, the heat and humidity will be a test of England’s fitness – can they beat Sri Lanka, as well as the conditions?

Possible XIs

As mentioned, Dinesh Chandimal and Niroshan Dickwella are the two main changes, coming in for Angelo Mathews and Kusal Mendis (both dropped).
Sri Lanka possible XI: 1. Upul Tharanga, 2. Niroshan Dickwella (wk), 3. Kusal Perera, 4. Dinesh Chandimal (c), 5. Dhananjaya de Silva, 6. Dasun Shanaka, 7. Thisara Perera, 8. Akila Dananjaya, 9. Lakshan Sandakan, 10. Dushmantha Chameera, 11. Lasith Malinga
Will Sam or Tom Curran play as the third seamer for England? Or will Olly Stone play? Apart from that conundrum, England’s side looks pretty settled, with Jason Roy to come back to the side after missing England’s last ODI with a finger injury. Whatever the bowling combination, England will have a long batting line up, which will be a tough ask for Sri Lanka to dismantle.
England possible XI: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Jonny Bairstow, 3. Joe Root, 4. Eoin Morgan, 5. Ben Stokes, 6. Jos Buttler (wk), 7. Moeen Ali, 8. Chris Woakes, 9. Adil Rashid, 10. Sam Curran/Tom Curran, 11. Mark Wood

Dream11

  • Jos Buttler is a player capable of exceeding even in Asian conditions. Quality player.
  • A couple of milestones await Jonny Bairstow in this one, and Joe Root is a fantastic accumulator, which is important for England in Sri Lankan conditions.
  • Thisara Perera, a key player for Sri Lanka, makes the side, and so too Moeen Ali.
  • Adil Rashid and Akila Dananjaya are important additions to your side. From a seamers point of view, Chris Woakes and Lasith Malinga have wicket taking potential.

Stats and Facts

  • England have won their last eight bilateral ODI series (excluding one-off ODI v Scotland).
  • Sri Lanka have lost 30 of their last 40 ODIs, as well as each of their last seven completed ODIs in Dambulla.
  • Jonny Bairstow needs 30 runs to reach 1,000 for the calendar year in ODIs. The last England batsman to achieve this was Jonathan Trott in 2011. He also needs 38 to reach 2,000 ODI runs.

Prediction

The conditions bring these two sides closer together, in my opinion.
A battle between number eight and number one typically shouldn’t be tough to predict, but England fans shouldn’t expect a walkover in this one.
If the rain stays away, though, I think England will overcome Sri Lanka thanks to the extra quality they possess, despite a key practice game washed out a few days ago.
Thanks for reading!

South Africa vs Zimbabwe 1st T20I Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0

After an ODI series that wasn’t quite one for the ages, we now move to Michael Holding’s most favourite format.

Jokes aside, while a format change will have little impact on Project 2019 for the Proteas, it is an opportunity to improve their less-than-impressive T20I record over the past two years. For their opponents, the shortest format of the game (for now…) gives them a shot at breaking a losing streak dating back to March.

Since the beginning of 2017, South Africa have played 13 T20Is, losing seven. Closely following Project 2019 for South Africa is Project World T20 in 2020, and now is a good time for them to successfully decode the format. Quinton de Kock and David Miller return to the side after being rested in the ODIs, and opportunities for inexperienced players to impress are also available. Following a successful, but somewhat unconvincing ODI series, can the Proteas inflict more hurt on the men in red?

Zimbabwe, the men in red, have now lost 14 games across formats since their win over Ireland in the World Cup Qualifiers in March. What will give them hope is not only the return of key players, but also the fact that they pushed both Pakistan and Australia to last-over finishes in the Zimbabwe Tri-Series back in July. The top ten ranked T20I teams by December 31 2018, excluding Australia, automatically qualify for World T20 2020, and Zimbabwe will likely finish outside the top ten by then. However, if momentum and confidence can be built, there could be some light in what is a very dark tunnel right now.

Key to a South Africa win

South Africa’s batting didn’t fire in the ODIs, attributed to both inexperience and difficult pitches. The return of Quinton de Kock and David Miller is a boost, and so too the form of Rassie van der Dussen, who has had a good year in T20s. You get the feeling if the South Africans fire with the bat, Zimbabwe won’t have enough runs in them to compete.
With the possible XI on paper, and a good pitch expected, there is no excuse.
But, whether the batting fires or not, there are places up for grabs in the bowling attack. Junior Dala showed promise earlier in the year against India, and will likely get a chance here. With Lungi Ngidi, Imran Tahir, Andile Phehlukwayo and Robert Frylinck likely to make up the bowling attack, re-opening Zimbabwe’s batting wounds with regular wickets will be the order of the day.

Key to a Zimbabwe win

Apart from Lungi Ngidi and Imran Tahir, South Africa’s team possesses quite a bit of inexperience on the bowling front. An opportunity awaits Zimbabwe, who put on a better show in the 3rd ODI, but still not enough to win.
In their close matches against Pakistan and Australia earlier in 2018, Zimbabwe, mainly through the excellent Solomon Mire, were able to get runs on the board and put pressure on the opposition. Can they repeat this away from home? Mire again will be key, so too Hamilton Mazakadza, Brendan Taylor and Sean Williams, who all showed some promise in the ODIs.
However, how Zimbabwe’s bowlers fare will also be key. Can they contain what looks to be a potent South African top seven? Can they build as many dots as possible and build pressure? For Zimbabwe, nailing the basics is vital to giving them a chance in this match.

Possible XIs

South Africa’s possible side is a good mix of youth and experience. There is a question mark over whether both Heinrich Klaasen and JP Duminy will play. It is likely they will, in my opinion.
South Africa possible XI: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Gihahn Cloete/Rassie van der Dussen, 3. Faf du Plessis (c), 4. JP Duminy, 5. David Miller, 6. Heinrich Klaasen, 7. Robbie Frylinck, 8. Andile Phehlukwayo, 9. Junior Dala, 10. Lungi Ngidi, 11. Imran Tahir
For Zimbabwe, their attack remains to be seen, with Tendai Chatara a chance to be left out after a poor 3rd ODI. However, his good first two ODIs should be taken into account by Zimbabwe’s management.
Zimbabwe possible XI: 1. Solomon Mire, 2. Chamu Chibhabha, 3. Hamilton Mazakadza (c), 4. Brendan Taylor (wk), 5. Tarisai Musakanda, 6. Sean Williams, 7. Elton Chigumbura, 8. Tendai Chisoro, 9. Brendon Mavuta, 10. Kyle Jarvis, 11. Chris Mpofu/Tendai Chatara

Dream11

  • Quinton de Kock screams out to me as a captaincy choice.
  • Solomon Mire’s good T20 form this year gives him a place in my team. Faf du Plessis, David Miller and Hamilton Mazakadza make up the rest of the batting.
  • Andile Phehlukwayo could bowl his four overs, and Sean Williams was very promising in the ODIs.
  • Junior Dala represents good value, so too Imran Tahir, Lungi Ngidi and Kyle Jarvis.

Stats and Facts

  • South Africa have played 13 T20Is since the beginning of 2017, winning six and losing seven.
  • Zimbabwe have lost 14 straight games across formats since beating Ireland in March.
  • East London has played host to one T20I before, with New Zealand just beating South Africa thanks to Martin Guptill.

Prediction

I give Zimbabwe a good chance of winning this one, given the potential they showed at times during the ODIs.
However, logic does suggest South Africa’s batting might be too strong in this one, which is why I will predict South Africa to go 1-0 up.
Thanks for reading!

India vs West Indies 1st Test Player Ratings: Blinked? You missed it.

Charbel Coorey
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0

Wanted to see some fight?

The all-in brawl in the UFC clash between McGregor and Khabib was the place to be. Not Rajkot, unfortunately.

Even India’s rival fans know there is a huge gulf in class between India and West Indies, but the lack of fight from the latter was as disappointing as it is harmful to all involved. Even against a new-look Australia this year, this does India no favours. Neither the West Indies. Nor Test Cricket.

It is a match where it served no purpose other than several players giving me the opportunity to put forward a decent, somewhat funny (hopefully) player ratings piece.

So, in a forgettable Test Match, here are my player ratings out of ten. Watch out…

Meme time!

India

Prithvi Shaw: An innings full of class from the teenager. Couldn’t have hoped for anything else but to start his Test career against a side that Harbhajan Singh questioned where they are Ranjit Trophy quality. Beautiful strokeplay, and hopefully a long, successful career ahead for the 18 year old. 9.5
 
KL Rahul: To be fair to KL, his first over review was decent. The ball was missing off and leg. If poor reviews was a sport, KL Rahul would be a multi-Olympic Gold Medal winner. Took a catch which gives him a point. 1
 
Cheteshwar Pujara: Back at home and cruisy as. Was on track for not only a century, but maybe even a double, before nicking off out of absolutely nowhere. 8
 
Virat Kohli: This man topped the run scoring charts in challenging batting conditions in South Africa and England. A home Test against this West Indies side was going to be like a park cricket match for him. Too good. 9.5
 
Ajinkya Rahane: Scratchy innings at times, and got out for his career average. His review, like Rahul, was selfish. Not at his best at the moment. 6.5
 
Rishabh Pant: Swashbuckling innings, and missed out on the chance for two straight Test hundreds. I can’t wait to see him taking on the Aussie bowlers down under. Some nice glovework, too. Time to put him in the ODI side… 9
 
Ravindra Jadeja: India waited for the declaration not only for the century, but to see that celebration. Wickets and runs for Jadeja in a great outing for him. I’ll take half a point off him for his lack of respect in running out Shemron Hetmeyer in the first innings. Not cool. 9.5
 
Ravichandran Ashwin: Not much to write home about in his batting, but as always in the wickets at home. Kieran Powell took him on, but it didn’t matter. Six wickets for Ashwin, who bowled well for the most part. 8
 
Kuldeep Yadav: The Windies batsmen had no thoughts of fighting it out, and Kuldeep said thank you. His first five wicket haul. It was just too easy. 8.5
 
Umesh Yadav: Bowled with pretty good pace in the first innings. Can he fight his way into the side in Australia? Will the West Indies bat long enough in the second Test to actually give him the opportunity to express himself? 6.5
 
Mohammed Shami: Started the procession on day two, and proved why his strike rate is so good in Asia. Very good first innings bowling effort. 7.5

West Indies

 
Kraigg Brathwaite: His second Test as captain, and I’m sure he’ll be really keen for the next game… In all honesty, this was one hell of a tough outing. West Indies need more from him in the second Test. 2
 
Kieran Powell: Played some cracking second innings shots. Would have been a good hundred, but unfortunately missed out. Question is – will he play the same way straight away in the second Test? 6.5
 
Shai Hope: Yet to relive the heights of England 2017. 3
 
Shemron Hetmeyer: Supposed to be West Indies’ most promising batsman, but played a second innings shot that belonged on a “world’s worst” TV show. A match to forget. 1
 
Sunil Ambris: First class record not too flash, so it is a big ask to go well against India in India. Scored well in the tour match, but needs more runs to justify his position. 1
 
Roston Chase: Tried his guts out during the match. Forced to do lots of bowling, mostly wayward, and then dug as deep as he could with the bat with chaos around him. 7
 
Shane Dowrich: Finished with a not out. As good as it got. West Indies need to get the best out of Dowrich, who is a decent player. 4
 
Keemo Paul: In the side for his bowling, but ended up outplayed most of his teammates with the bat. Tells the story, doesn’t it? 4
 
Devendra Bishoo: His 54 overs in the first innings was more than West Indies’ entire first innings (48 overs) and second innings (50.5 overs). Lots of loose bowling, but tried his best. I reckon he slept pretty well during the Test… 5
 
Shermon Lewis: Wickets of Kohli and Pujara on debut. Otherwise a very tough debut. 4
 
Shannon Gabriel: Opening over success and that’s all she wrote. 3
 
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Boy, can’t wait for the second Test!
Said no one ever.
Well, here’s hoping it’s more competitive than this one.
Thanks for reading!

Pakistan vs Australia 1st Test Preview + Dream11

Charbel Coorey
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0
Image credit: Flipboard

The slate has been wiped clean, but can a new, amazing narrative be written?

Test Cricket finally arrives again for Australia, but who could have ever thought circumstances like these could present them? Against a Pakistan side with strong know-how in UAE conditions, Australia will have three debutants in their starting XI, in conditions where more experienced players have struggled with in the past.

Good luck.

Pakistan, like Australia, are longing for some Test action. Coming off a very poor Asia Cup 2018 campaign, the Pakistanis are also looking for a bit of a confidence boost, and enter this Test series as overwhelming favourites. Skipper Sarfraz Ahmed, who was reportedly under pressure after the recent tournament, has put the onus on his batsmen to deliver, possessing a team mixed with experience and unproven talent in the Test arena. This is not to assume that the bowlers will have it all their own way by simply turning up, though. Can they turn the heat on Australia?

What a year it has been for Australia. Tim Paine, who was considering quitting cricket last year, now has the task of not only building a new era so to speak, but also public trust among fans back home. Yours truly was part of the very disappointed public back in March, letting out steam in a rant for the ages. But, now, the slate has been wiped clean and an opportunity presents an inexperienced side to write their own little chapter in Australian Test Cricket folklore. Very hot, dry conditions face the Aussies in Dubai – can the batsmen hold their own against Pakistan’s attack?

Key to a Pakistan win

It might be easy to conclude that Pakistan are overwhelming favourites here, and will win comfortably. However, with their own lack of Test fixtures in 2018, and a batting line up comprising of unproven players, Pakistan will need to ensure they are not caught up in the favouritism hype. In addition, Yasir Shah has not played a Test for a year, and Bilal Asif will debut to partner Shah in the spin department, given the absence of Shadab Khan.
One of those unproven players is Babar Azam. A player possessing a clean technique, so easy on the eye, has not taken off in the Test arena. An average of 28 after 13 Tests does not do him any justice, so the time is now for him to deliver. Of course, much depends on the experienced duo of Azhar Ali and Asad Shafiq, who need to play a key role in grinding the Aussies down into the Dubai soil. Against an in-form spin duo of Nathan Lyon and Jon Holland, can Pakistan find the resolve and temperament to bat the Aussies out of the Test when given the chance?
Of course, this opportunity will arise when the bowlers do their job. Sarfraz Ahmed will be hoping his spinners hit the mark straight away, against a side that has won three of 24 Tests in Asia this decade, with those teams boasting far greater experience. Another conundrum is in their pace bowling department – Wahab Riaz was poor in the practice match, which means Mir Hamza could make his debut alongside Mohammad Abbas. What movement can the seamers provide, in support of the spinners? If both pace and spin turn up the heat, Australia could easily get very burnt.

Key to an Australia win

What a famous victory this would be if Australia can achieve it.
Leaving out Matt Renshaw, a player who can dig in and bat for hours, is a controversial one, but the batsmen simply must play that role. Without Steve Smith, one of the best players of spin in the world, Australia’s batsmen must have a focus of fight rather than trying to look pretty. In these circumstances, output is of greater importance than appearance, and with three of the top six making their Test debuts, every ounce of determination needs to be on display.
Aaron Finch’s technique will be put to the test, and so too Usman Khawaja’s poor record in Asia, where he averages less than 15 in eight Tests. In Khawaja lies a player who has been accused of scoring only pretty runs, so here is an opportunity to prove the doubters wrong. In a top six also comprising of Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh is undoubtedly a key to Australia’s chances. His 53 in helping Australia save a Test in India last year, in his own tough tour, proves he has stomach for the fight.
Also, so much depends on Australia’s spinners. For years since Shane Warne’s retirement, Australia have struggled for quality output from their spinners in Asia. In 2017, though, that changed, with Nathan Lyon simply brilliant in India and Bangladesh. Here, he has stamped his claim by taking eight wickets in an innings in the practice game, and will again be vital, along with Jon Holland who is also in good touch. Can Mitchell Starc find reverse swing, and Peter Siddle the accuracy to build the pressure? Against a Pakistan line up not entirely filled with confidence, an opportunity awaits.

Possible XIs

Pakistan will play one debutant in Bilal Asif, who will partner Yasir Shah as the specialist spinners, with Shadab Khan ruled out with injury. Mohammad Hafeez has been hastily brought back into the squad, and could play. Another decision is whether Wahab Riaz or Mir Hamza will play, after Mohammad Amir was dropped from the squad.
For more information on Amir, check out Bimal Mirwani’s article here: https://battingwithbimal.com/2018/09/28/mohammad-amir-dropped-australia-tests/
Pakistan possible XI: 1. Mohammad Hafeez, 2. Imam-ul-Haq, 3. Azhar Ali, 4. Babar Azam, 5. Asad Shafiq, 6. Sarfraz Ahmed (c & wk), 7. Haris Sohail, 8. Yasir Shah, 9. Bilal Asif, 10. Mir Hamza, 11. Mohammad Abbas
Tim Paine has confirmed Australia’s side for the first Test, with three debutants selected. Matt Renshaw is unlucky to miss out, but with all talk set to be over, this side has to deliver.
Australia XI: 1. Aaron Finch, 2. Usman Khawaja, 3. Shaun Marsh, 4. Mitchell Marsh, 5. Travis Head, 6. Marcus Labuschagne, 7. Tim Paine (c & wk), 8. Mitchell Starc, 9. Peter Siddle, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Jon Holland

Dream11

  • Azhar Ali is my captain, thanks to his ability to bat long periods. For Babar Azam, this could be the series where he announces himself as a Test player.
  • Shaun Marsh is key for Australia, so too Asad Shafiq for Pakistan.
  • Bilal Asif and Travis Head are two well priced all-rounders. Asif in particular will do plenty of bowling.
  • Yasir Shah and Nathan Lyon need to be in the side, and Mohammad Abbas and Mitchell Starc could be excellent exponents of reverse swing. Plus, Starc can bat well.

Stats and Facts

  • Pakistan’s last Test in the UAE was exactly a year ago, losing the 2nd Test to Sri Lanka to lose the series 2-0.
  • Australia’s last assignment in the UAE was a 2-0 defeat in 2014. That side contained Michael Clarke, David Warner and Steve Smith.
  • Pakistan have played three Tests this year, and won two, one against Ireland and the other against England. Australia have played five, losing three and winning two.
  • Peter Siddle and Mohammad Hafeez both have not played a Test in two years.

Prediction

Heart says Australia, head says Pakistan. It is difficult to expect such an inexperienced Australia side to win, but the hope lies in that they will put in a really good fight.
Pakistan to win and take a 1-0 series lead.
Thanks for reading!
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