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Ireland vs Afghanistan 1st ODI Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Image: CricTracker

After a thrilling battle back in March to see who will qualify for the “World Cup”, Ireland and Afghanistan are at it again in ODIs.

But, the story of this tour so far? The washed out third T20I on Friday was Ireland’s best moment of the series.

Yes, that is not an exaggeration.

Ireland’s problems against spin continued in the T20Is, where they were knocked over for less than 100 for the second time in four innings, dating back to the recent India series. The men in green are in desperate need of their experienced batsmen to hold the fort, and with a little more time available in the ODIs, a change of format could do the trick. After all, their record against Afghanistan in ODIs is encouraging, winning nine of 17 completed ODIs against them.

Afghanistan are continuing to fly high, and Ireland will have to play really well to beat them. After their miracle qualification for next year’s World Cup, Afghanistan have the opportunity to continue their amazing 2018 after their debut Test and T20I series wins against Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Ireland. The confidence taken from the shortest format of the game, coupled with excellent spinners and strong-hitting batsmen could see Afghanistan be too strong for Ireland again. However, cricket is a funny game, and Afghanistan need to ensure they are on their game against a side keen to make a better impression.

Key to an Ireland win

No disrespect to Afghanistan’s seamers, but that is where Ireland have to target for success.
To stand a chance in this clash, Ireland’s batsmen need to get runs on the board, and it could mean taking 35 or so without much damage off both Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. With set batsmen and wickets in hand, Ireland can look to score quicker against the other bowlers.
However, that is easier said than done. Can the likes of Paul Stirling, William Porterfield and Kevin O’Brien step up for Ireland against Afghanistan’s good bowling attack? Also, can their bowlers chip in with regular wickets? In the T20Is, Ireland managed to do this at stages, and with Tim Murtagh likely to come back into the side, they’ll be feeling good about their chances.
If they can combine this with runs on the board, they are a very good chance of taking a 1-0 series lead.

Key to an Afghanistan win

Hazratullah Zazai was Afghanistan’s star performer with the bat in the T20Is, but he is not in the ODI squad.
The other batsmen left a little to be desired during the series, so the onus is on them to deliver against an Ireland side looking to right the wrong of the World Cup Qualifiers, as well as the recent T20I series. In their side, though, Afghanistan possess experienced campaigners such as Mohammad Shahzad, Rahmat Shah, Asghar Afghan, Samiullah Shenwari and Mohammad Nabi, who will assist in providing the backbone to their innings.
Also, the spinners will have a key role to play, but what impact can the seamers have in these conditions? Can they put Ireland under so much pressure that both spin and seam becomes too challenging to handle?

Possible teams

Niall O’Brien and Tim Murtagh return to the Ireland squad, which will help bolster their line up.
Ireland possible XI: 1. Paul Stirling, 2. James Shannon, 3. William Porterfield (c), 4. Andy Balbirnie, 5. Kevin O’Brien, 6. Niall O’Brien (wk), 7. Gary Wilson, 8. George Dockrell, 9. Peter Chase/Josh Little, 10. Tim Murtagh, 11. Boyd Rankin
For Afghanistan, there are a few possibilities. The following could be their XI for this clash, with all-rounders assisting with the balance of their side.
Afghanistan possible XI: 1. Mohammad Shahzad (wk), 2. Gulbadin Naib, 3. Rahmat Shah, 4. Asghar Afghan (c), 5. Samiullah Shenwari, 6. Mohammad Nabi, 7. Najibullah Zadran, 8. Rashid Khan, 9. Aftab Alam/Wafadar, 10. Dawlat Zadran, 11. Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Stats and Facts

  • The head-to-head record between the two sides is quite tight, with Ireland winning nine matches to eight, with two no-results.
  • Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman took 12 wickets between them in the recently completed T20I series.
  • The last time these two sides met in a bilateral contest, Ireland won the series 2-1 in alien conditions in Sharjah.

Prediction

Ireland will take heart of their good record against Afghanistan in ODIs, but the visitors have the momentum.
For that reason, I think Afghanistan will win and take a 1-0 series lead.

15 Funny Cricket Tweets 2018 v.5: Hilarious stuff!

Charbel Coorey
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Another week in the cricket world. Another week of brilliant tweets.

It was a bit of a difficult week for not only England, but also the Kohli haters out there. In this difficult time for them, I have enjoyed quite a few laughs from cricket fans on Twitter. You guys are the real MVPs.

Here are 15 of my favourites from the last week or so, with a shout out to all who put them together!

Funny Cricket Tweet #1: Apply water to that burn!

Trust a Tottenham Hotspur fan to say something stupid. If it’s James Anderson taking wickets with swing, he’s better than Dale Steyn and is the best seamer ever.

Anyone else? Pfft. “I could do the same”.

@AdityaAadi018 with arguably the best tweet in ages. Savage!

Funny Cricket Tweet #2: Poor Broady…

Ben Stokes was found not guilty of affray, and returned straight to the England side for the third Test against India.

Took no time for @cricloverakku to bring out this beauty. Drop a catch off Stokes, and you’re in for a tough time.

Funny Cricket Tweet #3: Puntastic!

The good length ball moving away hasn’t forced Alastair Cook out of Tests. To be fair, the fact that England are still trying to replace Andrew Strauss is another factor.
I love a good pun, and this is a beauty from @FakeRainaNephew. This is a delivery better than anything Ravi Ashwin and Ishant Sharma could produce!
In all seriousness, good luck to Alastair Cook and his family. I remember at the birth of his second child in 2016, Cook flew from Bangladesh to England, and then went back to Bangladesh a couple of days later for the Test series. That couldn’t have been easy.

Funny Cricket Tweet #4: This one was more than a week ago, but I don’t care.

When comparing Sam Curran and Ben Stokes, I didn’t expect to see this.

But it is so bang on. Sam Curran would be a pleasure to have over at a lunch or dinner, just as mum remarks that he looks younger than 20. Looks like a harmless kid. Ben Stokes on the other hand… don’t know if you can introduce him.

@SharlandNM, this is pure gold.

Funny Cricket Tweet #5: Sparks are flying out of him…

I have no doubt that all residents in my street heard me laughing at this one.

Many things have been used to describe Harbhajan Singh’s commentary, but I think this is the best one. I am just imagining the sparks flying out of Bhajji the robot. Gold, @LordShastri. 

Funny Cricket Tweet #6: Another gem from coach…

Remember when Cheteshwar Pujara convinced KL Rahul to channel his inner Shane Watson and review a plumb LBW?

@LordShastri saw the funny side. Pujara just didn’t want to be run out by Kohli again! 

The two ended up putting a fine partnership together in the second innings, so all worked out well.

Funny Cricket Tweet #7: YEAH HOLDING, TALK NAH

We know Michael Holding has been critical of Hardik Pandya, but if you turn that into a quality tweet that makes people laugh, I salute you.

@ImNsamy reminded us all of Denesh Ramdin’s episode in 2012 and applied it to events. Brilliant!

Funny Cricket Tweet #8: James Anderson and clouds = better love story than Twilight

I think James Anderson is a terrific bowler, but this made me chuckle in a Melbourne cafe, probably resulting in other patrons thinking what was wrong with me.

@theStumpCam thanks for the laugh! A better love story than Twilight.

Funny Cricket Tweet #9: No luck for Holding…

Michael Holding criticised Hardik Pandya. Pandya then had his best game. Holding said Jasprit Bumrah can’t bowl with the new ball. Bumrah then picked up wickets with the new ball. Holding then said this woman is infertile. She then gave birth to four babies in less than a year.

What a tweet, @FarziCricketer. A good chuckle. Holding has no luck at the moment!

Funny Cricket Tweet #10: “But, but…”

As mentioned, it was a difficult week for the Virat Kohli haters. @imsgshinde put it perfectly.

There is no doubt that Virat Kohli is truly world class and fantastic in all conditions. The “but, but” had me laughing! Well said, indeed.

Funny Cricket Tweet #11: SCREAMING.

The best non-joke in history? 

Of course, if you smash it to slip, you should not even look at the umpire. But, that’s my opinion.

@omgbroady putting forth an opinion in brilliant fashion. Quality tweet.

Funny Cricket Tweet #12: Sir Shikhar Dhawan

There is no doubt that Shikhar Dhawan played well in the 3rd Test. 

In saying that, surviving the first ten overs was a surprise to me and to others. @HitmanCricket reckons he deserves knighthood! Funny stuff.

Funny Cricket Tweet #13: I’ll pay you!

Harbhajan Singh isn’t the only commentator rattling a few cages. I do believe that there are worse commentators than Sanjay Manjrekar out there, but this is funny.

500 bucks! What an offer! Cheers @Crichipster.


Funny Cricket Tweet #14: Wait, the Kohli haters might actually say this…

Desperate times call for desperate measures and @brainfadesmith has probably read the minds of all Virat Kohli haters.

Earth track bully! Hilarious stuff.

Cricket Tweet #15: James Anderson = Vince McMahon!

As I’ve mentioned, I think James Anderson has been a superb bowler for England, but the cloud jokes are just too good.

Like Vince McMahon, Jimmy probably wouldn’t be able to handle his excitement with those heavy clouds around! Brilliant tweet again from @Holdthedoor19.
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So, there we have it.

15 of my favourite cricket tweets in recent times. Thanks to all for making me laugh.

Keen to continue the laughs? Be sure to check out my light-hearted 3rd England v India Test Player Ratings!

Thanks for reading!

Ireland vs Afghanistan 3rd T20I Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: CricTracker

58 rating points separate these two sides in the T20I rankings, but given the conditions on offer in this series, you would not have been considered silly if you expected a more competitive one.

Unfortunately for Ireland, their best chance of making a mark in this series was in the first game, as Afghanistan had to adjust to the conditions. They were on the end of an Hazratullah Zazai onslaught on Monday, followed up by a spin test on Wednesday which they couldn’t pass, just like the recent India series. Can the Irish put up a better show in the 3rd T20I, and build some momentum ahead of the ODI series?

Afghanistan continue to fly. They have now won all seven of their T20Is in 2018, and they are not in the mood to stop. Yes, Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Ireland are ranked 10th and below, but each series still represented threats that the Afghans have dealt with in expert fashion. Hazratullah Zazai showed his talent in the 2nd T20I, after not making anywhere near as fast a start as the first T20I, and then Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman further emphasised just how valuable they will likely be to Afghanistan in the next 10-15 years.

A series whitewash awaits.

Key to an Ireland win

In their last four T20Is, Ireland have knocked over for under 100 twice. India’s spinners were too good in the recent series, and so too Afghanistan’s spinners, who have now taken 14 wickets between them in the first two matches.
Who will step up for the Irish with the bat?
Ireland desperately need more from experienced players such as Paul Stirling, William Porterfield and Kevin O’Brien. Just quietly, O’Brien needs to be batting higher up the order – having him at six is a little too low, so Ireland need to get their strategic game in order, too.
Also, despite the heavy loss on Wednesday, Ireland showed encouraging signs with the ball, with Boyd Rankin, George Dockrell, Simi Singh and Peter Chase having decent outings. However, can they get into Afghanistan’s top order a little further, owing significantly to Hazratullah Zazai’s wicket? Remains to be seen.

Key to an Afghanistan win

The template has been set.
The last four T20Is have seen Ireland attempting to chase scores against good spin attacks and crumbling badly. Afghanistan, on the back of Zazai’s quality performances, have put up 160 twice, and both times it was too much for Ireland. If they bat first, expect a similar run of events.
But, you get the feeling Afghanistan’s spinners will be too strong even if they bowl first. This is something they could be keen on, to see how well they can chase a total in these conditions.

Possible XIs

I expect Ireland to make some changes to their batting, especially in terms of the batting positions of certain players.
Ireland possible XI: 1. Paul Stirling, 2. William Porterfield, 3. Andy Balbirnie, 4. Kevin O’Brien, 5. Gary Wilson (c & wk), 6. Simi Singh, 7. Stuart Thompson, 8. George Dockrell, 9. Josh Little, 10. Peter Chase, 11. Boyd Rankin
Will Afghanistan experiment now that the series is over? Big hitting Shafiqullah was brought into the side in the 2nd T20I, and will likely get another chance. What about the bowling? I would give the other seamers in the squad a chance, namely Gulbadin Naib.
Afghanistan possible XI: 1. Mohammad Shahzad (wk), 2. Hazratullah Zazai, 3. Asghar Afghan (c), 4. Samiullah Shenwari, 5. Shafiqullah/Usman Ghani, 6. Mohammad Nabi, 7. Najibullah Zadran, 8. Rashid Khan, 9. Aftab Alam, 10. Mujeeb Ur Rahman, 11. Fareed Ahmad/Gulbadin Naib

Stats and Facts

  • Afghanistan have won the last seven T20Is against Ireland.
  • Ireland have won just one of eight T20Is in 2018.
  • Rashid Khan has taken three wickets in five consecutive T20 innings (three for Sussex, twice for Afghanistan). The world record is six by Alfonso Thomas.

Prediction

I had Ireland to cause an upset in the first match, as that was their best chance with Afghanistan possibly needing to adjust to these conditions. 
It has all been downhill in this series for the Irish, and I expect it to continue. Afghanistan to win and make it 3-0.

England vs India 3rd Test Player Ratings: I’M HAPPY AGAIN

Charbel Coorey
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After the second Test, I was one angry Aussie.

The series was going down the path of what Test cricket has become – dominant in favour of the home team.

Now, we have an interesting fourth Test to look forward to!

Also, thank you to India for enabling me to showcase some Photoshop skills, breaking the story that Joe Root was caught flooding the pitch before the last day’s play. On a day where I had a work colleague from England tell me that England would win next year’s Ashes 5-0, I’m even happier with this result. All part of the rivalry.

In this Test, India’s adjusted approach was there for everyone to see on the first morning. Unlike Lord’s, India mostly played the ball late and they reaped the rewards. Virat Kohli again starred, but this time he had support, and the bowlers were fantastic, too.

For England, we could fast forward to 2030 and they could still be looking to replace Andrew Strauss. Even worse, they may have to look at replacing Alastair Cook, too. Also, I’ve seen less drops on a very rainy day when it comes to England’s fielding. A Test to forget for them.

So, which way will the series go? Could still go either way, but in the meantime, I will do my usual player ratings for matches in this series, looking at each player out of ten. As always, I try bring a laugh or two!

England:

Keaton Jennings: England and Wales Cricket Board’s Day 5 highlights on YouTube will probably last longer than Keaton’s stays at the crease. It is disappointing that he has proven his recall was the wrong decision, as he possesses a technique that is made for edging the ball. More edges than a Australian 50c coin, as they say. And that dropped catch off Hardik Pandya in the first innings… Best to not talk about it… 2
Alastair Cook: Refer to my Arsene Wenger reference from the 1st Test. The end looks near for Alastair Cook, which is a shame. His off stump, good length technique is copping a battering. The “bunny” status has been passed on from Ravichandran Ashwin to Ishant Sharma. 2


Joe Root: Will have nightmares of Jasprit Bumrah, no doubt. And the third umpire, too. Tough decision against Root in the first innings, but he too is getting squared up quite often and playing at deliveries he just doesn’t have to. Leave the ball, Joe. 3

Ollie Pope: Can drive a truck through the gap between his bat and pad. India will surely continue focusing on bowling wider to Pope, who loves to reach for the ball. Dangerous. 3

Jonny Bairstow: Feel sorry for Bairstow. His purple face when he fractured his finger will be forever in my memory, and how about the ball he got in the second innings? A luckless Test, but great fight to come out and bat injured. 3

Felt really sorry for Jonny Bairstow.


Ben Stokes: Back from court, and put in a much improved second innings performance with both bat and ball. Great second innings fight. Still believe he is nowhere near his absolute best form. Down on pace a little with the ball. 6.5

Jos Buttler: The man in a few people’s firing line when Ben Stokes came back to the side, given Sam Curran’s amazing form. Like Hardik Pandya proved Michael Holding wrong, so too did Jos Buttler. Magnificent second innings century. Even took some catches in the slips. An England player took catches in the slips. Unbelievable. 8.5

Chris Woakes: Took the first three Indian wickets to fall, but then a relatively quiet Test thereafter. Always hard to back up a Lord’s performance like he had, I guess. 6

Adil Rashid: Had a “fresh air” Test at Lord’s as Bumble Lloyd likes to say. Adil is actually not bowling too badly for someone so bereft of red ball cricket, and showed good fight in his second innings batting display. 5

Stuart Broad: Some cracking deliveries that didn’t get wickets. A cracking send off to a 20-year old deburant. England may have gone home empty-handed in this Test, but not Broad, who picked up a nice demerit point for his efforts. 6

BE CAREFUL BROADY


James Anderson: Some special bowling, going past the edge countless times, and watching catches go down more regularly than Kim Kardashian acts stupidly. 7

India


Shikhar Dhawan: I saw a comment that Shikhar’s performance in this Test is worth the same as a century against Sri Lanka on familiar pitches. After getting through the first hour on the first morning, he should have been knighted! Can he get starts again, and then build on them? 7

KL Rahul: Same as Shikhar. Involved in two 60-run stands that got India off on the right foot. Took seven slip catches out of seven attempts. 7.5

Cheteshwar Pujara: His breakthrough Test in England. Very challenging conditions for batting, but dug deep. Nasser Hussain rightly said on commentary that teams need a Pujara in their team. Super effort. 8

Virat Kohli: I officially announce August 21 as “Hug a Kohli Hater” Day. They are all going through a tough time at the moment, so show them some love. For the second time this series, Virat Kohli has struck 200 runs in a Test. Do yourself a favour and read five amazing Kohli stats. Dominating. 10

August 21 is a new special day on the calendar


Ajinkya Rahane: A key part of India’s success in this Test. Reminded us why he has a good overseas record. The way he played, especially in the first dig, it was almost as if Rahane had the attitude of “doubt me? Watch.” 8

Rishabh Pant: Off the mark with a six (no surprises there), and while there were positives such as his first day batting and five first innings catches, he has lots to work on. With the gloves, he often goes to the leg side initially, which means he has to travel further to take a catch. Also, with the bat, would he be able to play the moving ball effectively? Remains to be seen. 6

Hardik Pandya: Yeah Holding, talk nah. In this case, it is also “yeah Coorey, talk nah.” In my India side for this Test, I had Hardik Pandya missing out to cater for an extra batsman. Boy, did I have to eat my words. Great performance. 9

Ravichandran Ashwin: Hip problem and still did a job for his captain. Took the winning wicket for India, going for less than two an over in 22.5 second innings overs. 6

Mohammed Shami: Consistency is not his best friend. Bit all over the place at times, mixed with good deliveries. With Bhuvneshwar Kumar all but ruled out of the final two Tests, Shami’s position is safe, but needs greater consistency. 3

Jasprit Bumrah: What an addition to the side. Caused further pain to Michael Holding, who said he is not a good option with the new ball for India. Boy, did he prove him wrong. Tougher Test for Holding than England’s slip fielders and batsmen. Magnificent bowling by Bumrah, and acknowledged Test cricket is a patience game. Good signs. 9

Ishant Sharma: Cooked Alastair Cook again. All over the England opener. Bowling well, is Ishant. Another solid outing with four wickets. 7.5

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So, there we have it.
Series alive, and I’m a happy man again.
The fourth Test could be a close one with the series nearing its end. All to play for!
Thanks for reading.

Ireland vs Afghanistan 2nd T20I Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Cricket Ireland summarised things well after the 1st T20I.

Ireland suffered an absolute onslaught in the first half of their bowling effort on Monday, which in the end was the catalyst to their fifth loss in seven T20Is this year. Skipper Gary Wilson and co probably had nightmares of Nazratullah Zazai blasting the bowlers to all parts of the ground, which turned out to be such a significant factor in the result.

However, what will give Ireland hope in their attempt to level the series was the lack of form of the other Afghanistan batsmen – only Mohammad Shahzad and Asghar Afghan Stanikzai reached double figures. Can Ireland’s bowlers avoid serious onslaughts and also handle Afghanistan’s spinners a lot better?

Afghanistan continued their perfect run in T20Is in 2018, picking up their sixth win in six attempts on Monday. What was most pleasing was the form of 20-year old Nazratullah Zazai, as well as their ability to bowl well in conditions alien to them. Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Rashid Khan picked up five wickets between them on Monday – will they be too strong for Ireland again? Who else will step up with the bat? With the series on the line for Ireland, these are important questions for Afghanistan.

Key to an Ireland win

Despite their fightback with the ball, 160 in 18 overs was always going to be a tricky chase for the Irish against a good Afghanistan bowling attack.
18-year old Josh Little, in just his third T20I match, led the way beautifully for Ireland with 2/20, backed up well by Simi Singh (1/27) and Peter Chase (1/29). However, in this must-win game, all of Ireland’s bowling resources have to provide results for the team – Afghanistan’s batting wilted in the second half of their innings, so Ireland have to believe they can get early wickets, which can expose Afghanistan’s middle order which simply didn’t finish well in the 1st T20I.
Also, with the bat, can Ireland rotate the strike better? There were plenty of big shots attempted, which resulted in wickets falling at regular intervals. The likes of Paul Stirling, Gary Wilson and Simi Singh looked good, but against a good spin attack, the Irish need to keep busy and give themselves the best possible chance of victory with runs on the board.

Key to an Afghanistan win

How good was Nazratullah Zazai? His 33-ball 74 was the key difference between the two sides, but Afghanistan need to guard against another poor finish with the bat.
Flying at 119/1 after 10.5 overs, Afghanistan had 200 in their sights, but knocked off just nine runs in the last three overs to finish with 160. Mohammad Shahzad and Asghar Afghan Stanikzai threatened with starts, but other than that, there was very little to write home about. In this match, more partnerships are required, because what happens if the top three, who scored 84% of the runs on Monday, fall cheaply?
Also, all five bowlers were in the act in the 1st T20I, each picking up at least a wicket. They have great know-how in this format, and against a side struggling with the bat, Afghanistan will sure to be banking more on their bowlers to get the job done.

Possible teams

Tyrone Kane was very expensive in the 1st T20I, going for 50 in his four overs. It remains to be seen whether he gets another chance. The failed experiment of Stuart Thompson as opener probably won’t be repeated. Also, more is expected from the likes of Kevin O’Brien and George Dockrell to support the encouraging efforts of the likes of Little, Chase and Singh.
Ireland possible XI: 1. Paul Stirling, 2. William Porterfield, 3. Andy Balbirnie, 4. Kevin O’Brien, 5. Gary Wilson (c & wk), 6. Simi Singh, 7. Stuart Thompson, 8. George Dockrell, 9. Josh Little, 10. Tyrone Kane, 11. Peter Chase
For Afghanistan, why not stick with the same combination? Any experimentation will probably be saved for if the series is won in this match.
Afghanistan possible XI: 1. Mohammad Shahzad (wk), 2. Nazratullah Zazai, 3. Asghar Afghan (c), 4. Najibullah Zadran, 5. Mohammad Nabi, 6. Samiullah Shenwari, 7. Usman Ghani, 8. Rashid Khan, 9. Aftab Alam, 10. Fareed Ahmad, 11. Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Stats and Facts

  • When Nazratullah Zazai reached fifty in the 1st T20I, his opening partner Mohammad Shahzad was on 4.
  • Afghanistan are looking for their seventh win in seven T20Is in 2018.
  • Ireland have won just one of seven T20Is in 2018.

Prediction

I backed Ireland for an upset in the 1st T20I, and they could very well possibly achieve victory in this game.
They fought back well, but Afghanistan’s players who weren’t quite up to the mark on Monday have it in them to cause damage. Afghanistan to take the series out in a close one…

5 amazing stats on the great Virat Kohli

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit – Reuters

Spare a thought for the Virat Kohli haters on this fine Tuesday.

They don’t really have a leg to stand on right now, and England are on track to lose the third Test. It’s a fine Tuesday indeed.

I’ve stated before that even as an Australian, I believe Virat Kohli is the world’s best batsman. This England series, after his magnificent South Africa tour, has further reinforced this position as one that is very difficult to dispute.

These two series would test the very best of batsmen, given the quality of bowling and challenging batting conditions on offer. Kohli, though, is of a different class altogether, and his average of 60.50 across six Tests against the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Vernon Philander, Morne Morkel, James Anderson and Stuart Broad is testament to that.

The England media and Kohli’s non-admirers were loving life before this big Test series, constantly reminding us of his tough 2014 tour.

Now, he is dominating.

Here are my five favourite stats about Virat Kohli that are a testament to his class, brilliance and greatness.

Stat #1: Australia, South Africa, England…

Virat Kohli has scored the most runs out of any Indian captain in Test series in Australia, South Africa and England.
These nations are the toughest tours for India, and Virat Kohli is hellbent on improving India’s poor record in these countries.
Magnificent 2018 for Virat Kohli…

Stat #2: Joe Root and Virat Kohli have the same number of centuries! Oh wait…

Virat Kohli now has the same number of Test centuries away from home (13) that Joe Root has in total. 
Also, whether it is home or away, Kohli has Root’s measure.
In England’s tour of India 2016, Joe Root struck 491 runs at 49.10, with a century. In that same series, Kohli hit 655 in two less innings, averaging 109.1, with two centuries, including a double. “Of course, he’s at home”, said the haters.
Fast forward to 2018 in England and it’s an even better story. In tough batting conditions, Virat Kohli has hit 440 runs at 73.30, with two centuries. Root has struck 129 runs at 32.20 with no centuries.
I predicted Kohli would score at least 400 runs for the series and bury his England demons. Looking back, that was far too conservative. Why didn’t I say more?!

Stat #3: Dominant as Indian skipper

Not only has Virat Kohli scored the most runs in a series in Australia, South Africa and England out of all India captains, there is more.
Among all Indian captains, Virat Kohli has the most Test runs (3,864), most Test runs outside India (1,802) and most Test runs outside Asia (1,394).
Remarkable.

Stat #4: Third on the list…

Virat Kohli is now third on the list of most Test hundreds as skipper.
Graeme Smith leads with 25, scored in 193 innings, followed by Ricky Ponting, who scored 19 in 140 innings. Virat Kohli though, has scored 16 in just 63 innings. If he maintains the same rate in the same amount of innings as Ponting, he will score 36 as skipper!
As captain, Kohli averages 63.13 in 38 Tests. What’s been special though is his performances this year in bowling friendly conditions which separates him from the current crop.
Stuart Broad deep in thought…

Stat #5: Second to Bradman among captains

Among captains with 10+ Test centuries, Virat Kohli’s ratio of one every 3.93 innings is second only to Sir Donald Bradman (2.71). 
Also, with this century, Virat Kohli now has a second innings century in Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and South Africa, in addition to India. 
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So, if you are ever feeling down, just remember you are alive at the same time as Virat Kohli. 
Witnessing greatness.

Ireland vs Afghanistan 1st T20I Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: Fantasy Cricket News

2018 has been a prosperous year for both Ireland and Afghanistan. Any time they are involved in cricketing action, it brings joy to me, just as a cricket fan, to see them giving their all.

Yes, Ireland suffered heartbreak not qualifying for the 2019 World Cup, suffering a five-wicket defeat to eventual World Cup participants Afghanistan in Zimbabwe earlier this year. But, they have made their Test debut, which will hopefully mean greater opportunities for them in the coming years.

In relation to this match, think Ireland have forgotten about the Super Sixes WCQ defeat to Afghanistan? Think again. Ireland coach Graham Ford believes that result and heartbreak will give his side “extra added incentive.” After a very difficult T20I series against India recently, Ireland will be keen to improve their 17th place ranking against a good Afghanistan side – can they hold a good account of themselves?

It’s been an even better year for Afghanistan. They too also made their Test debut, highlighting an absolutely incredible journey, as well as qualifying for the World Cup and sitting above Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the T20I rankings. Their journey towards the 2020 World T20 in Australia continues in Ireland, where they will be looking to continue their perfect run of results in 2018. Can they build on their five from five record?

Key to an Ireland win

Ireland were simply clueless against India’s wristspinners in their recent T20I series, losing 13 wickets to the spinners across the two games.
The good news is that series was short, but the bad news is that they welcome T20I’s number one ranked bowler Rashid Khan, as well as Mujeeb ur Rahman and Mohammad Nabi. The spin test will continue, so can the Ireland batsmen pass the test they failed disappointingly against India?
Of course, India’s batting was too good for Ireland’s bowlers, racking up 208 and 213 in the two matches. Afghanistan’s batting, whilst respectable, doesn’t have the same class, so the Irish bowlers need to restrict Afghanistan as much as possible to reduce the pressure on the batting.

Key to an Afghanistan win

Despite conditions being quite alien to Afghanistan, a great opportunity presents their spinners against an Irish side smarting from their most recent T20I series.
The Afghans were simply magnificent in their 3-0 series win over Bangladesh in June, building so much pressure on the Bangladeshis through their spinners. A similar template can be used here, given Ireland struggle against quality spin, but Afghanistan need more from their seamers, who were expensive at times vs the Bangladeshis.
Also, a key factor to the result here is how Afghanistan’s batting will cope in these conditions, which will be cold with chances of rain. Will they be handle any movement on offer, as well as rotate the strike effectively to make full use of their boundaries?

Possible teams

Ireland possible XI: 1. Paul Stirling, 2 James Shannon, 3. Andy Balbirnie, 4. Simi Singh, 5. Kevin O’Brien, 6. Gary Wilson (c & wk), 7. Stuart Thompson, 8. Joshua Little, 9. George Dockrell 10. Andy McBrine, 11. Boyd Rankin
Afghanistan possible XI: 1. Mohammad Shehzad (wk), 2. Usman Ghani, 3. Asghar Afghan (c), 4. Samiullah Shenwari, 5. Mohammad Nabi, 6. Najibullah Zadran, 7. Shafiqullah, 8. Rashid Khan, 9. Karim Janat, 10. Mujeeb Ur Rahman, 11. Aftab Alam

Stats and Facts

  • Afghanistan have won all five of their T20Is in 2018.
  • Ireland have won just one of six T20Is in 2018.
  • Afghanistan have won their last five T20Is against Ireland.

Prediction

Big opportunity presents both sides to play good cricket and showcase their skills. For me, Afghanistan start favourites with their bowling attack, which, even in the cold Ireland conditions, could trouble the home team. 
However, the conditions could take getting used to for Afghanistan, which is why I will go with Ireland to win in an upset.
Here’s to a good match.

England vs India 3rd Test Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: AP

As we are at the third Test, it was absolutely vital that India did not put themselves in the predicament they find themselves in right now.

A series of such huge billing, given England’s desire to maintain their home record and India to improve abroad, started with an absolute thriller at Edgbaston. Lord’s was one to forget, unless you’re English (and a Pakistan fan, perhaps), headlined by a very quick cricket match that seemingly interrupted all the rain. Can we expect anything different at Trent Bridge? One thing is for sure, though – expect to see changes in personnel in either side.

Ben Stokes returns for England in their quest to knock over the number one Test side in three Tests. Lord’s was a match of dreams for the Poms, with the home side merciless against India’s batsmen begging for mercy, but also unwilling at times to fight it out. With India’s batting in all sorts of trouble, England are now picking up the hammer to hit the final nail in the coffin, on a pitch sure to offer seam with clouds about.

For India, I guess things could have been very different had it not been for Sam Curran’s fantastic second innings knock at Edgbaston. But, I, and perhaps many others, expected them to do much better. For starters, they have been unable to adjust to the conditions, challenging as they are, thanks to a lack of ‘playing the ball late, under the eyes’. With the series on the line, batsmen in awful touch and Jasprit Bumrah back, expect a range of changes in an attempt to keep the series alive.

Key to an England win

England have knocked India over for 162, 107 and 130 in the last three innings of this series.
Like a boxer with his opponent on the ropes, England have India tottering on the edge, with the seam bowlers simply relishing the conditions on offer. England’s gateway to success thus far has been ripping through the India top order, highlighted significantly by the fact that Hardik Pandya is India’s second highest run scorer in the series to date.
England will pitch the ball up, and test India’s ability (or inability) to select when to drive the ball, and when not to. The inclusion of Ben Stokes at the expense of Sam Curran (controversial as that may be) still gives England four quality pace bowling options in these conditions, and India can expect an onslaught – one you don’t want when 2-0 down.
Also, England’s middle order came to the party at Lord’s when India perhaps started to believe they could bounce back. Can they get more out of their top order? Alastair Cook and Keaton Jennings in particular are in need of runs. If England get big runs on the board, do India have it in them to match it? Doubt it.

Key to an India win

As mentioned, Hardik Pandya is India’s second highest run scorer in this series. 
No disrespect to Pandya, but with such an onus on the top order to deliver in this series, it is an absolute abomination to see Hardik second to Kohli. Who will stand up? Will Ajinkya Rahane show us why he has a good overseas record? Who will open? What impact can Rishabh Pant have on his debut?
These questions, and many others, face Shastri and co, but they simply must stay in the fight as long as possible, and play in partnerships. It has come down to a session-by-session proposition for India, where they must win more than they lose, and when they do lose, make sure it’s not by a huge margin. Easier said than done, but the time is now to deliver for their millions of passionate fans.
With the ball, I would pick four bowlers, with Ravi Ashwin playing the all-rounder role to cater for an extra batsman. India have shown they can take wickets, but they desperately need more runs to play with.

Teams

England have finalised their XI for the Test, with Sam Curran very unlucky to miss out. Leaving a spinner out was considered too big a risk, and with the other options perhaps leaving Ben Stokes or Jos Buttler out, England have decided that the least experienced man would miss out, despite his magnificent performances in this series.
England XI: 1. Alastair Cook, 2. Keaton Jennings, 3. Joe Root (c), 4. Ollie Pope, 5. Ben Stokes, 6. Jonny Bairstow (wk), 7. Jos Buttler, 8. Chris Woakes, 9. Adil Rashid, 10. Stuart Broad, 11. James Anderson
For India, their XI is still uncertain. I have put out my XI they should choose, which includes Karun Nair. Yes, he is suspect against the moving ball, but I think the following top three would give India the best chance of a decent start. Also, for me, Jasprit Bumrah should slot in, with Hardik Pandya the unlucky one to miss out to cater for an extra batsman.
My India XI: 1. Shikhar Dhawan, 2. Cheteshwar Pujara, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. Karun Nair, 5. Akinkya Rahane, 6. KL Rahul, 7. Rishabh Pant (wk), 8. Ravichandran Ashwin, 9. Mohammed Shami, 10. Jasprit Bumrah, 11. Ishant Sharma

Stats and Facts

  • Virat Kohli tops the run scoring charts in this series with 240. India’s next best run scorers are Hardik Pandya (90) and Ravichandran Ashwin (85).
  • James Anderson is ten wickets away from equaling Glenn McGrath’s 563 Test wickets.
  • England have won the last five Tests v India in England.
  • Trent Bridge is the least happiest ground for England spinners, averaging 35.89 runs per wicket.
  • The last game between the two sides at Trent Bridge was a dull draw to open the series in 2014. India fans, would you take the same result here?

Prediction

Call me delusional, but I had high hopes for India in this series. They have evaporated somewhat, but with the right XI, they could put up a better fight.
Still, England are looking too strong at home and they look a safe pick right now. Series over after three Tests? Head says yes, heart says no.
Here’s to a competitive match. Thanks for reading!

England vs India 3rd Test: My possible XIs

Charbel Coorey
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So, it has already come down to this.

For India, it was paramount they made a good start to the series, like they did in 2014. They could have won the first Test, which was followed by an absolute abomination at Lord’s. Think of a movie that promised plenty and had you keen for the sequel, which turned to crap.

For England, Ben Stokes is back in the squad. Whether you agree with his inclusion or not, his return is a bonus for England, who are now gunning for a series win, literally in the blink of an eye. Who misses out for him? It is a big call.

With different combinations possible, and a range of opinions out there, I thought I would put together the XIs I would choose for both sides in this all-important third Test. This is assuming conditions at Trent Bridge are relatively cool during the match, with possibilities of rain throughout.

England:

Like India, the make up of England’s side is uncertain. Here is my team, with explanations below!
1. Alastair Cook: Short on runs, but England have yet to properly replace Andrew Strauss who retired six years ago. Cook will still get a run.
2. Keaton Jennings: Jennings should get another run with England winning, but he needs runs to clamp down that opening spot. An option could be to promote Bairstow to opener, but opening against the red ball is a whole other ball game.
3. Joe Root: Obvious one. Needs to convert his starts to bigger scores. I sound like a broken record, but it has to be done.
4. Ollie Pope: Promising debut at Lord’s. Even with Ben Stokes in the side, Pope remains England’s best option for number four right now. If you leave Pope out, who bats at four, especially if Bairstow continues to keep?
5. Ben Stokes: Slots back into the team. Can now focus solely on cricket. His bowling was brilliant at Edgbaston. Can he perform well with the bat?
6. Jonny Bairstow (wk): In very good touch at the moment.

7. Jos Buttler: I was really thinking hard as to whether Buttler makes my team. Do you pick a spinner or have Buttler in the side? I’d stick with Buttler.

8. Chris Woakes: Centurion with four wickets at Lord’s. Enough said.
9. Sam Curran: There is no way this guy can be left out. If it wasn’t for him, India would have been 1-0 up and it would have been a completely different series. Adil Rashid misses out for me, even though it’s a risk not playing a spinner, even in England. England v South Africa 2012, anyone? But, Trent Bridge is the least fruitful English ground for England spinners in Tests, averaging 35.89 at the venue.
10. Stuart Broad: Broke into the all-time top ten wicket takers. Very good in home conditions. Obvious selection.

11. James Anderson: Will get a rest if England take the series in the third Test. Eyeing out Glenn McGrath’s record of 561 Test wickets.
So, England have five genuine bowling options by going with this line up. Could be a positive or negative, depending on how well Joe Root manages his bowlers. Sam Curran has proved he is good enough to stay in the team. With England unlikely to provide conditions that suit spin too much, I’d have Rashid sitting out.

India:

Lord’s was a horror show for India, stemming from a long run of disappointing batting performances in “S.E.N.A”. Will this be the Test that their batsmen, in particular, fire? There will be some controversial selections to some, but hear me out!
1. Shikhar Dhawan: India left Shikhar Dhawan out at Lord’s, but it didn’t help their cause. Yes, Dhawan has his issues away from home, but he should get a chance here with KL Rahul and Murali Vijay really struggling at the top.

2. Cheteshwar Pujara: This is a very interesting selection on my part. Of course, Pujara should be in the XI, but I’d open with him. At Lord’s, India lost their first wicket in each innings before a run was scored. Pujara batted time in the second innings, and he is capable of it again to try blunt the new ball. Also, Dhawan and Pujara could complement each other well. It’s a risk, but what else is working for India?

3. Virat Kohli: Virat Kohli should move up to three. There is already enough responsibility on his shoulders, so he should just come in at first drop and take further control. India must hope he is fit.

4. Karun Nair: Kohli should also go to first drop to accommodate Karun Nair at number four. He has scored 227 in his last three games for India A in England. Give him a chance.

5. Ajinkya Rahane: There is lots of pressure on Rahane after a continued poor run of form, but I’d give him another chance. He must show more appetite for the fight.

6. KL Rahul: Struggle at opener and number three for KL Rahul. I’d bat him down at six in these conditions, with the onus on the top order to provide a good platform. 

7. Rishabh Pant (wk): Dinesh Karthik is having a shocker of a time. DK out, Pant in.

8. Ravichandran Ashwin: My all-rounder for India in this Test. After all, he was their best batsman at Lord’s!

9. Mohammed Shami: Bowled well in patches at Lord’s. Has wicket taking ability, does Shami.

10. Jasprit Bumrah: Back from injury, and should slot in. 

11. Ishant Sharma: Only Indian to score a century at Lord’s, but his excellent first Test, and promising FC performances before that, still makes Sharma a key man.

For India, I’ve gone with four bowlers to accommodate extra batting cushion. Boy, do they need it.

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So, there we have it.

Do you agree with my two teams? Leave a comment.

It will be interesting to see which way the two sides go. Here’s to a more competitive match.

11 Funny Cricket Tweets: 2018 v.4

Charbel Coorey
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0

In the days of one-sided Test matches, there is a silver lining.

You’ll get some funny cricket tweets.

The state of Test cricket at times is not a laughing matter, but these tweets are. As I think of ways Test cricket can be improved, I’m treated to laughs, and I hope you will laugh as well!

Enjoy these classics, and of course, be sure to send through anything to me via Twitter (@cric_blog) that you feel deserves a mention! (Could be yours or someone else’s tweets).

Funny Cricket Tweet #1: Change of gloves? What for?

Lucky I wasn’t drinking anything upon seeing this, otherwise I would have needed a new phone, computer and the lot.
I believe Hardik Pandya is overrated myself, but I also believe at the same time that he is a bit of a scapegoat. But, this is an absolute ripper of a tweet from @ImNsamy. I’m just imagining Hardik having his hands up asking for new gloves and the guys looking at him with those facial expressions.
Laugh out loud…

Funny Cricket Tweet #2: Congratulations in advance to Fakhar Zaman

There is no doubt that Fakhar Zaman is a class player, but @Holdthedoor19 has struck again! Following Pakistan’s very fruitful series of Zimbabwe recently, you’re bound to get these.
How Tuvalu Island was thought of as the opposition beats me, and that’s probably the funniest part of this, as well as the professional “breaking news” layout of the image. Good one! (and congrats on 2,000 runs, Fakhar…)

Funny Cricket Tweet #3: Good competition! But the wrong competition…

At times, Sri Lanka and South Africa both outdid each other in let’s say, not their best cricket.
@CricFan2000 put it bluntly and beautifully. So simple yet so elegant. True cricket artistry. I wonder if the real Kane makes people chuckle like this!

Funny Cricket Tweet #4: A desperate plea…

Kagiso Rabada was crowned Wisden’s best young player in the world. This led to a desperate plea from @swing_seam who continues to tweet absolute fire.
It says a lot about India’s batting when you’re keen to cash in on three batsmen at a discounted rate, in exchange for a bowler. A good chuckle!

Funny Cricket Tweet #5: Another desperate plea…

The Asia Cup can’t come quickly enough, but that’s still not adequate enough for India right now.
Two big Test series v Sri Lanka is needed to recover from a Lord’s nightmare. Lahiru Kamara and Suranga Lakmal on a subcontinent pitch definitely look better than James Anderson and Stuart Broad on a seamer.
I’m hearing the BCCI have called Sri Lanka Cricket, @ImAbhishek7_!
                                 

Funny Cricket Tweet #6: It was all MS Dhoni’s fault, huh?

The face. The face is brilliant.
@DhoniFangirl is just that… A big Dhoni fan. 
I must say, I agree with this tweet. MS Dhoni shouldn’t be blamed for everything by some fans. India’s top order is an absolute wreck at the moment. Delivery of this point in this tweet = 10/10.

Funny Cricket Tweet #7: True statement. Do something about it, BCCI

@slicesoflife, with a brilliant Seinfeld reference in the Twitter bio, with a beauty. 

If life wasn’t bad enough for India, Virat Kohli went down with a back injury and protocol suggested he couldn’t bat for a little while. Even in that little while, India’s top three couldn’t ensure he could come in at his usual top four slot.

Ajinkya Rahane had to be sent in. What a time to be alive…

Funny Cricket Tweet #8: It’s already bad enough…

Harbhajan was a fine offie. Ricky Ponting would tell you that.

Commentator? Hmm, still have my doubts (I’m being kind here). Then, he hands out batting tips. From bad to worse for India fans. Well said @Shyam23389.

Funny Cricket Tweet #9: Moving to counter the moving, right?

@cricdrugs often comes up with some beauties, and this was another.

“Moving to counter the moving ball works, right?” asked Shastri. Don’t forget moving players in and out of the side! More chopping and changing than one in a kitchen preparing a meal.

Funny Cricket Tweet #10: He’s hit the cover off that one!

A huge thank you to @RadioCricket for showing us this magnificent review. This was shown in court and the jury deemed there was no evidence to overturn the decision. It looked like he hit the cover off that one!

Full tweet here.

Funny Cricket Tweet #11: Um, batting coach, a word please?

When your batting coach wishes Sri Lanka bowled their seamers IN SRI LANKA, it’s a good time to go home.

“Words of wisdom” by @PoppingCreaseSA had me laughing! Love the sarcasm! All one can do is laugh I guess… Awful stuff from Dale (not Steyn).

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So, there were my 11 favourite tweets over the last week or so. 

I will be doing this on a weekly basis, so if you’re reading this, tweet away! (and feel free to reach out at @cric_blog)

Thanks for reading!
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