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Zimbabwe v Pakistan ODI Series Review – Less competitive than me vs. Usain Bolt in a race

Charbel Coorey
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1. Me vs. Usain Bolt in a race. Or Hamilton Mazakadza vs. Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe.

2. Me and 10 friends on Twitter vs. Pakistan in an ODI match.

3. Royal Challengers Bangalore.

4. South Africa in Sri Lanka.

In case you’re wondering, that is a list of more competitive events than the recently completed (WOOHOO) Zimbabwe vs Pakistan ODI series.

The most competitive match of the series was the final ODI, and Pakistan won it by 131 runs. The whole cricketing world is happy this series is now over. Well, except Pakistan I guess, who were breaking all sorts of records, with some fans believing they are the greatest side ever. Fakhar Zaman is better than Viv Richards ever was. There is now no doubt that Joe Root replacing Babar Azam at no.2 in the ODI batting rankings was a complete joke. Bless.

If you want to be really positive, Zimbabwe actually won the series 3-2 in coin tosses. And Faf Du Plessis wants them removed from Tests. What next? ODIs? Depriving us of an amazing achievement in an otherwise forgettable series? What nonsense!

This series helped save time. I wrote the shortest ever cricket preview known-to-man after the 2nd ODI. I’m pretty proud of it. Another joined in!

My groundbreaking 3rd ODI Preview! How talented am I?!
Others getting in on the act, too!

No doubt, Pakistan did what they had to do. They were ruthless and professional, and we can’t bag them for it. Fakhar and Imam are superbly talented players, and represent a potentially very fruitful opening pair for Pakistan in ODIs. But, we can bag those supporters getting carried away, thinking Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq are the two best things since sliced bread after hammering a Zimbabwe side missing eight key players. That too on flat pitches. Be realistic, please.

Nonetheless, congratulations to Fakhar Zaman who became the fastest ever to 1,000 ODI runs, reaching the mark in 18 innings. 515 came in this series, but he is a breath of fresh air for the nation. However, when watching the cricket on offer in Bulawayo, I was so keen to fly over, put my batting gear on and have some fun. I’m a right hander and lower order batsman, but could have scored runs batting left handed. It was a net session where records were on offer. Same was the case for the Pakistan bowlers.

For Zimbabwe Cricket, it’s now really time to get their act in order. I believe they should withdraw from international cricket, if possible, until they get their sh*t together. Ultimately, a series like this does no one any favours, except the statistics of the opposition, and the egos of some of their fans. And perhaps also, hopeful kids from around the world thinking international cricket could be this easy.

The performances were good by Pakistan, but please, stop getting carried away…

Let’s call him “Sir” Fakhar Zaman. Geez Dennis…

So, what were the bright spots for the hosts? Apart from winning the coin tosses 3-2, I hope we see more of Blessing Muzarabani. He looks a really good prospect. So too Ryan Murray, who showed some fight in his debut series. Otherwise, with players not getting paid and no World Cup for next year, it all looks extremely bleak for Zimbabwe.

For Pakistan, I say show us what you’re made of from here on in until the 2019 World Cup. Any of the top ten ODI sides in the world would have won this series with ease. Looking at their 5-0 loss in New Zealand earlier this year, Pakistan still have to prove to me they can consistently match it with the big boys, despite winning last year’s Champions Trophy.

So, there we have it. A series known only for records being broken and nothing else. One where I went to bed last night pretending it never happened. I’ll no doubt be keeping a close eye on Pakistan in the months leading to the World Cup, seeing whether all the hype over beating a weakened and battered Zimbabwe is worth it.

Thanks for reading!

West Indies v Bangladesh 1st ODI Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Change of format. Thank goodness.

I’m very grateful the Test series was just two Tests in length, as the entire series lasted as long as one Test should. Time for a more competitive series, hopefully.

A year out from the World Cup, both sides would be keen to get their preparations up and running, given the limited opportunities in ODIs so far in 2018.

West Indies scraped into the World Cup by qualifying unconvincingly in Zimbabwe. Now, though, they can put the nerves aside and start focusing on putting together consistent performances, starting against Bangladesh in Guyana. There will be a few changes from the Test series, but one thing is for certain, they will be a big test for Bangladesh once again. They start as favourites.

Bangladesh have offered as much resistance as a leaf in a cyclone so far on this tour. Even more disappointing have been the revelations that players are not keen on playing Test cricket, so if they are poor again in the ODIs, even more serious questions will be asked. However, they will be boosted by the return of inspirational captain Mashrafe Mortaza, who was originally in doubt for the series due to his wife being ill. Can Bangladesh put a better showing in the coloured clothing?

Key to a West Indies win

West Indies will be without Shannon Gabriel and Kemar Roach in the ODIs, but the template of targeting Bangladesh with pace will surely be on show again.
Jason Holder has been in excellent form with the ball over the last 12 months, and will be supported by Keemo Paul, Alzarri Joseph and the returning Andre Russell. That is enough pace to send jitters down the spine of the Bangladeshi batsmen who were in all sorts of trouble in the Tests. Can the Windies break the back of the Bangladeshi batting line up?
Also, can West Indies get enough out of their top order? They’ll need to, with their middle order options perhaps looking a little thin in my opinion. Chris Gayle and Evin Lewis, two players who showed promising form in IPL 2018, will be key at the top.

Key to a Bangladesh win

A massive turnaround in attitude is required from Bangladesh. Their effort in the Test series was nothing short of a disgrace, and they simply owe it to their fans to put on a better showing in the ODIs.
Over the years, including during their successful 2015, Bangladesh have struggled to rotate the strike effectively. This results in the middle order being left with a bit too much to do to finish well. The “big four” of Tamim, Shakib, Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah have a huge role in providing a strong platform for the others to thrive. If they fail, forget about a competitive match, let alone Bangladesh winning.
Also, Bangladesh’s bowlers will be happy to return to this format. It is the format they enjoy best, highlighted best by Rubel Hossain’s figures. In ODIs over the last 12 months, he has taken 14 wickets at 20.14, compared to an average of 157 in Tests in the same period. The return of Mashrafe, as well as the ODI know-how of the likes of Mustafizur Rahman and Shakib Al Hasan will give Bangladesh hope.

Possible teams

Andre Russell returns to the West Indies ODI squad after three years, and will be an excellent late order hitting option. He presents a huge danger to Bangladesh. Also presenting a huge danger to Bangladesh are Chris Gayle and Evin Lewis, as well as the Windies pace attack ready to go.
West Indies possible XI: 1. Chris Gayle, 2. Evin Lewis, 3. Shai Hope (wk), 4. Kieran Powell, 5. Shimron Hetmyer, 6. Jason Holder (c), 7. Rovman Powell, 8. Andre Russell, 9. Devendra Bishoo, 10. Keemo Paul, 11. Alzarri Joseph
It will be interesting to see who gets the middle order finishing role for Bangladesh. Will it be the frustrating Sabbir Rahman, along with Mossadek? Shakib Al Hasan batted very well at three during the ODI Tri-Series involving Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe in January, and he should be there again.
Bangladesh XI: 1. Tamim Iqbal, 2. Liton Das, 3. Shakib Al Hasan, 4 Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5. Mahmudullah, 6. Sabbir Rahman, 7. Mossadek Hossain, 8. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 9. Mashrafe Mortaza, 10. Mustafizur Rahman, 11. Rubel Hossain

Stats and Facts

  • Bangladesh played their last ODI on January 27.
  • West Indies won the last ODI series between the two sides in 2014 (3-0).
  • Evin Lewis needs 32 runs to reach 1,000 in ODIs. 

Prediction

There is rain forecast for the morning in Guyana, so hopefully we see enough cricket. If we do, then West Indies should pick up a win against a struggling Bangladesh side.
Thanks for reading!

REVISED: 4 keys to India having a successful tour of England

Charbel Coorey
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Like a little kid on their way to a candy store, I’m still very excited.

A few weeks ago, I wrote about four key things India need to do to have a successful tour of England. Quite a bit has changed since then, with India enjoying success in the T20Is, but losing the perhaps more important ODI series 2-1. More significant though are the injuries to Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah.

Can India still leave England with a feeling of success, despite the loss of two main fast bowlers?

Background

India are desperate to improve their Test record away from home, and definitely had the talent through Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah especially to mount a big challenge. Without them, it will be a very difficult ask to win a five-match Test series in England, but do they have any chance?

In this cricket opinion piece, I will again highlight four key things India need to get right to have a successful Test series, which will certainly have us saying that they had a successful tour.

Here goes:

Kumar and Bumrah will be big losses for India

Key #1: India’s seam bowling without Kumar and Bumrah


There were plenty of encouraging signs from India’s seam bowlers in South Africa earlier this year. What hurt India the most in that series was the lack of preparation in the lead up, which is something they are guarding against this time.

Two of their best seamers will be out for a good portion of the series (Bhuvneshwar first three Tests, Jasprit first two Tests), which is a huge blow to India’s chances. These two were superb in India’s win at the Wanderers earlier this year, and Bhuvneshwar especially brilliant in the early stages of India’s 2014 Test tour of England. Also, India struggled without these two in the ODIs, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar looking underdone in the final match.

So, what can Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav and Hardik Pandya offer? Will India rely too much on spin? All these seamers have consistency issues, but on their day, they can trouble batsmen.

Ishant Sharma was India’s hero at Lord’s in 2014, taking 7/74 to guide India home. This year in his county stint for Sussex, he took 15 wickets in four first-class matches, a very encouraging performance ahead of the Tests. Mohammed Shami was equal leading wicket taker in the tour of South Africa earlier this year, but he has his fitness issues. Can he get through consecutive Tests and have an impact? What about Umesh Yadav – can he convert promising limited overs performances to good Test showings?

It remains to be seen.

Key #2: Virat Kohli

This hasn’t changed at all since my previous article.

There is plenty of talk about Virat Kohli’s Test record in England, so this is his chance to show us just how far he has come since 2014. It was a nightmare series for Virat, scoring just 134 runs at 13.40, but he has shown his quality in abundance since then, piling on runs in all formats.

Virat Kohli is the kind of player people will rally around, and it showed when India won in Johannesburg this year. Kohli was brilliant on a very difficult pitch, leading the way for others such as Ajinkya Rahane, Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara to help India win the game.
Kohli has been in great form, reaching his highest ever ODI rating figure. If Kohli can convert this into a big Test series, you know India will be competitive.
Plenty depends on Virat Kohli

Key #3: Damage limitation early in the Test series

India got ahead in the ODI series but put in very disappointing performances for the remainder of the series.

In my previous article, I spoke about the importance of India getting ahead in the Test series, just as they did in 2014. However, without Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah for at least the first two-three Tests of the series, it becomes a sense of damage limitation for India.

They simply must get to the third or fourth Test with a chance of getting something out of the series. If they are 2-0 down, there is very little chance of coming back.

Key #4: India’s batting

To ensure damage limitation, much depends on India’s batting.

In the ODIs, India’s batting, especially middle order, let me and millions of others down. It was a disappointing display by a talented team.

In the Tests, Virat Kohli, as mentioned, will be key. But, can India settle on an opening combination? Is Shikhar Dhawan the answer? He averages in the 60s against West Indies, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, but 32 against South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and England. Can Cheteshwar Pujara get things right overseas, after a tough county stint? His record outside of Asia is not worthy of a player with such good temperament. Both these two struggled against Essex, which is a concern.

Also, can Ajinkya Rahane continue to prove his worth as one of India’s finest overseas batsmen at the moment?

These are also big questions for India in such a big Test series.
What impact will these two have?
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So, with all that said, I can’t wait for the Test matches to begin. England start as big favourites no doubt, but take India lightly at your own peril. If India are to win these series, I think these four factors are key.
Thanks for reading!

16 cricket tweets that will make you LOL

Charbel Coorey
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It’s that time again.

It’s been a while since my last edition of funny tweets, but the time is right again.

Twitter can be a harsh place, but it can also be quite the place to be. It depends what kind of day it is. Like Bangladesh or Pakistan pre-Champions Trophy 2017, I guess. But, one thing is for certain – you are guaranteed a laugh quite often.

Let me get this straight – it was an amazing effort from Fakhar Zaman to score Pakistan’s first ever double century in ODIs. However, some of the social media reaction to it was so funny that I just had to share, as well as other funny tweets as well.

Of course, if you have any funny tweets you write or come across, share with me! I will be doing this on a regular basis. Hope you enjoy.

Cricket Tweet #1: A reply that had me laughing for a while…

In the second ODI of the one-sided Zimbabwe v Pakistan series, Ramiz Raja took to Twitter to voice his displeasure. 
 
Zimbabwe scored 194 in that match, which was not the best timing for Ramiz to ask for a double hundred from a Pakistan batsman. The reply from @zain_magsi was so simple yet so funny. I burst into laughter!
 
Like Ramiz shouting yesterday that “the ball has gone for six, on the full!”, the interesting Pakistan commentator will always give you something to laugh about.
 

Cricket Tweet #2: So simple, yet so funny…

Good tweet @deadmvck. Remember, Fakhar will find it more difficult getting off the mark in games against tougher opposition, than scoring centuries and double centuries here.
 
This time, a simple tweet had me laughing. Yes, it was a fine effort by Fakhar to score a double hundred in an ODI, but there is always an opportunity to have a dig at he opponent he is up against.
 

Cricket Tweet #3: There is no way I could leave this out…

Post Celebration Heroics! @imsgshinde put his own little touch on a hilarious video, where Hasan Ali bowled Ryan Murray with a good ball. Unfortunately, that’s where the good news ended for Ali, hurting his neck whilst performing his trademark celebration.
 
The cold weather in Bulawayo didn’t help Hasan Ali’s cause. Will Hasan Ali take more caution next time or get rid of the celebration? Caution is the better bet!
 

Cricket Tweet #4: “Yeah, talk to us about the previous series?”

Lord Commander @Holdthedoor19 with a tweet that made me chuckle. Great use of a famous meme. I approve. I like it.
 
To be fair, any of the top ten ODI teams would win comfortably in Zimbabwe right now… Pakistan have the talent to cause the top teams trouble, but doing it regularly is their biggest challenge. The 5-0 abomination in New Zealand proved that.
 

Cricket Tweet #5: @TweetsofBhogle is so good…

Hahahaha. I love turning football tweets into cricket ones, and this was very good by @dannnyy67.
 
I thought this was @TweetsofBhogle too, but it was the real Harsha, which made it all the more funny. All we needed from Harsha was to say “Unless of course Croatia won it.”

Cricket Tweet #6: What was Pat Cummins thinking?

I love Pat Cummins as a cricketer, but firing up Virat Kohli by claiming he won’t score a hundred in India’s upcoming tour of Australia is not a compliment.
@PoppingCreaseSA was not going to let this one slip, telling Pat to pull the other one! Had me chuckling, but she’s right, it wasn’t a compliment. It works the same in Australia as the rest of the world, but not for Pat, apparently.

Cricket Tweet #7: APPLY WATER TO THAT BURN

Rohit Sharma tried to channel his inner Harsha Bhogle, but @swing_seam was having none of it. A tweet for the ages… Good one, mate.
Has Rohit applied water to that burn yet? Someone make sure he has…

Cricket Tweet #8: You know you’re a cricket addict when…

Hilarious stuff from @FarziCricketer. At least someone thinks Rahul should be given more of a chance at number four for India…
Twitter name is Silly Point, but if any guy says that to his girlfriend, he should be called Silly Man!

Cricket Tweet #9: It’s been a looooong time…

Again, great use of a famous gif for cricketing purposes. One of many great tweets from @cricloverakku in recent times.
Joe Root was not able to even convert PDF to Microsoft Word for a while there, but he finally converted a fifty to a hundred!

Cricket Tweet #10: The English Media never get carried away…

Yes, yes, yes. As an Aussie, I can relate to this. What a tweet @vanillawallah!
Every four is the shot of the century, so too every six. And of course, every wicket by a legspinner!

Cricket Tweet #11: Sarcasm at its finest…

What a day for cricket! Well said @ImAbhishek7_. Carnage in a dead rubber…
…. But Dennis was actually serious, LOL.
STOP getting carried away. I could even score runs against this Zimbabwe side.

Cricket Tweet #12: Nice guy Fakhar!

Love sarcasm, and @imsgshinde was at it again!
What a nice guy Fakhar is. He was enjoying a great innings, but still had the well being of others on his mind!

Cricket Tweet #13: “That’s none of my business…”

Pat Cummins needs to learn that social media will be all over you if you don’t watch what you say!
When you say a player won’t score a hundred in the series, it’s a jab at him.
But, I thank Cummins. The tweets relating to his comments have made me laugh! Good one, @Viratcoverdriv…

Cricket Tweet #14: Three huge disasters…

Everything was so close to perfection @bhutada_piyush… So close!
Rohit Sharma missing his century by just 98 runs had be in stitches!

Cricket Tweet #15: First ever double century in ODIs, according to Daniel…

Haha. Good one @vijay_Singh84…
“I don’t remember the India ones”, said Daniel Alexander. “Fakhar’s innings was certainly better than anything Sachin, Rohit or Virat have played”.

Cricket Tweet #16: “Bitch please”

The first image says “Don’t dare to expose your stumps when you bat against Pakistan pacers”.
Haha brilliant tweet @Karangillaus. Steve Smith would have exposed a second set of stumps! A good chuckle…
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So, there are 16 of my favourite tweets from the last few weeks. Hope you enjoyed them!
As mentioned, please feel free to share any tweets to me for my next edition in a few weeks.
Thanks for reading!

Sri Lanka v South Africa 2nd Test Preview

Charbel Coorey
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“Get rid of the coin toss for Tests”, exclaims South African skipper Faf du Plessis.

I’m not buying it.
I haven’t heard it before from him when South Africa were thrashing teams at home, so why when in Asia? Sure, there have been pitches in Asia over the last few years that have not been fit for Test cricket in my opinion, but the one in Galle did not warrant the totals his team put up.
One player from Sri Lanka outscored the entire South Africa team across two innings, reflective of the hosts’ absolute dominance in Galle. Their first innings effort of 287 was thanks largely to the brilliant Dimuth Karunaratne, who was a welcome return for Sri Lanka after missing the West Indies Tests. Can he and the bowlers enjoy further success in Colombo?
Well, I’ve had showers longer than South Africa’s batting efforts in Galle, and I hate wasting water. Faf du Plessis should have been talking about the lack of fight from side, stemming from a lack of know-how in how to handle these conditions. The best non-Asian batsmen in Asia over the last 5-10 years – namely Alastair Cook, Jacques Kallis, Graeme Smith, Steven Smith and AB de Villiers, all have a key trait. They are patient, have the stomach for the fight and focus immensely on their footwork. South Africa showed none of that at all in Galle, and they must in Colombo to level the series.

Key to a Sri Lanka win

Turn will certainly be on offer from early in the Test. There is no question about it.
Dilruwan Perera is coming off his best ever Test figures (10/78), spinning the South Africans into the largest web they’ve seen since their 2015 tour of India. Backed up by the ever-present Rangana Herath, Sri Lanka will be again banking on these two to cause huge damage to a fragile looking South African line up in these conditions. The key will once again be to focus on the in-between length, causing doubts in the minds of the opposition whether to come forward or go back.
Also, how good was Dimuth Karunaratne? A bowler took a ten-wicket haul yet there was no doubt about the man of the match award, and Dimuth will again be key in Colombo. Who else will step up for Sri Lanka, with Dinesh Chandimal officially rubbed out for this Test?

Key to a South Africa win

From the moment Sri Lanka were on 176/8 in the first innings at Galle, it all went downhill for the Proteas.
Skipper Faf du Plessis let the hosts off the hook with some passive captaincy, and if he does the same in Colombo, hello 2-0. South Africa simply must keep the pressure on with the ball – Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi (back in the squad) are vital to the team’s chances in hot, humid, spinning conditions. In addition, Kagiso Rabada and Dale Steyn won’t be passengers.
Of course, I sound like an obvious commentator here (who comes to mind?) but South Africa can’t win Tests scoring 126 and 73. They looked as lost as a teenager without their smartphone, and while the toss is important, the Proteas simply must show greater stomach for the fight, with a focus on better technique, too.

Good effort from SA’s bowlers in Galle, but it was never going to be enough.

Possible teams

For Sri Lanka, they will probably stick with the same team. Dimuth Karunaratne did outscore South Africa in Galle, but so too his batting teammates, who also need to step up.
Sri Lanka possible XI: 1. Dimuth Karunaratne, 2. Danushka Gunathilaka, 3. Dhananjaya de Silva, 4. Kusal Mendis, 5. Angelo Mathews, 6. Roshen Silva, 7. Niroshan Dickwella (wk), 8. Dilruwan Perera, 9. Suranga Lakmal (c), 10. Rangana Herath, 11. Lakshan Sandakan
The big question for South Africa is whether Vernon Philander plays. The sad part is that he was one of their best batsmen in the last Test. Also, Tabraiz Shamsi is back in the squad after flying home after the 1st Test.
South Africa possible XI: 1. Dean Elgar, 2. Aiden Markram, 3. Hashim Amla, 4. Temba Bavuma, 5. Faf du Plessis (c), 6. Quinton de Kock (wk), 7. Vernon Philander/Theunis de Bruyn, 8. Keshav Maharaj, 9. Kagiso Rabada, 10. Dale Steyn, 11. Tabraiz Shamsi

Stats and Facts

  • South Africa are winless in eight Tests in Asia, dating back to their victory against Sri Lanka in Galle in 2014.
  • Hashim Amla needs just three runs to reach 9,000 Test runs. Jacques Kallis and Graeme Smith are the other two South Africans to achieve this figure.
  • Angelo Mathews needs eight runs to reach 5,000 Test runs. Will become the eight Sri Lankan to the mark.
  • South Africa will keep their no.2 ranking even if they lose this Test. Same applies to Sri Lanka (no.6) even if they win.

Prediction

There is rain forecast during the match, but I hope there is also a forecast for a more competitive match.
South Africa are known to show great fight, and the time is now. However, Sri Lanka at home is looking a difficult proposition for the Proteas, who look all at sea v spin, which is why I will go with Sri Lanka to take the series 2-0.

England v India 3rd ODI Player Ratings: India, you’ve let me down!

Charbel Coorey
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Ah, India. You’ve let me down!

How do you expect an Aussie to take the piss out of England when they win? I had the time of my life after the 1st ODI, making Harry Potter, Test cricket and Michael Vaughan jokes. But now with England winning the series, I have to praise them?!

That’s what I’ll do.

There were big questions about England after Trent Bridge was victim to large Kuldeep, Rohit and Virat storms. However, they bounced back brilliantly, led by Joe Root and fantastic efforts from their bowlers. You have to give it to England – they are a fantastic ODI side.

Now, the big questions are on India. They rely on their top order as much as a teenager relies on their smartphone. Like Donald Trump struggling and stuttering to talk himself after each controversy, India just struggled to going in the last 20, managing just over 100 runs. The last two games were very disappointing from an Indian perspective.

Like the other two games in this series, I will take a light-hearted look at the performance of each player and rate them out of ten. Laughs and smiles are welcome, of course!

England

James Vince: Victim of some of the best work you’ll ever see from a wicketkeeper. I can’t think of many keepers who could have done what MS Dhoni did to run out James Vince. Typical Dhoni. Typical Vince, too – making a good start then getting out. 6.5

Jonny Bairstow: Jonny felt sorry for Suresh Raina so he just chipped one to him so he could have some impact on the game. What a nice guy. Delivered a fast start for England in the modest chase. 7

Joe Root: India fans, blame me for Joe Root’s revival. Just as I started reading the Harry Potter series, Joe Root started reading Kuldeep well. Two centuries in a row, and England’s all-time top century maker in ODIs. Very well played. 9.5

Well played, Joe…


Eoin Morgan: The England skipper told me directly on Twitter that his team would win. I should have believed him. I was just in such disbelief that he would reply to me! 9

Nice of Eoin Morgan to reply to me

Ben Stokes: Brilliant run out to get rid of the dangerous Shikhar Dhawan. Other than that, another underwhelming outing with the ball, with some poor death bowling. 3

Jos Buttler: Missed a chance of Virat Kohli but other than that, pretty safe behind the stumps. Couple of catches, then put his feet up watching his teammates canter to a series win. 5

Moeen Ali: Again went for under five an over and nearly dismissed Virat Kohli again! Who said lightning can’t strike the same place twice? 6.5

David Willey: 3/40 off nine overs. Hooped it around beautifully in the opening overs. A real solid performance from Willey not only here, but also at Lord’s. A fine effort. 9

Liam Plunkett: Liam takes the “more expensive than a gold digger” award for this game. 2

Adil Rashid: Just how good is Adil Rashid bowling right now? All the talk was about Kuldeep a few days ago, but now he’s taken the limelight. 3/49 here is a great reward for plenty of good bowling in recent times. Great ball to get Virat Kohli out, again! 9

Mark Wood: Like Joe Root, India fans should blame me for Mark Wood’s revival. I referred to him as more expensive than a gold digger a few days back. Now, he took 1/30 in ten. Superb. 9


India


Rohit Sharma: “I have asked the BCCI to schedule a Sri Lanka series urgently”, said a dejected Rohit after the game. “I know we have the Asia Cup coming up soon, but it’s not enough.” As I’ve said previously, I am a fan of Rohit, but it was a very disappointing last two games from him. 2

Interesting words by Rohit Sharma after the match

Shikhar Dhawan: Some of the best strokeplay you’ll see, but was run out after yet another start. It was a “what could have been” series for Shikhar. 7

Virat Kohli: Kohli made the face that myself and the whole of India made when he was bowled by Rashid. It wasn’t only “what a ball” but rather “oh damn, Raina is next”. 8.5

Dinesh Karthik: His shot to get dismissed was the kind of shot a tailender would play when he gets excited about a looping leggy. Ugly stuff on his return to the side. Looked promising, though. 5

MS Dhoni: India need to have a big think about MS Dhoni’s role. They can’t have him batting while worried about getting out. He needs to be enabled to play his strokes. After all, even India’s tail is more capable than the likes of Bangladesh’s top order right now. 6

Suresh Raina: Some nice catching practice from Suresh to leg slip. Unfortunately, it wasn’t a training session. 2

Hardik Pandya: No offence, but if Hardik is opening the bowling for you, what chance do you have? A good option for the middle overs. 5.5

Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Struggle with the bat, expensive with the ball, and a dropped catch. Tough outing on Bhuvi’s return to the side. In and out of teams like a yo-yo at the moment. India need him fit and firing in the Tests. 3

Shardul Thakur: One of India’s best performers. Hit his team’s first six in 638 balls this series, which helped India get over 250. Then bowled pretty well to finish with 1/51. However, that this performance was one of the shining lights represents a dark day for India. 7

Kuldeep Yadav: England played him very well. Didn’t have the impact he had first up. 5

Yuzvendra Chahal: Another economic outing for Chahal, but the wickets column is as dry as some of Harsha Bhogle’s tweets and insights. 7.5
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So, there we have it. England deservedly win the series 2-1, which is a huge result for them. In fact, it’s their eighth straight series win.
For India, there is plenty to work on. No doubt about it.
But for now, it’s time to get excited for the Test series. Stay tuned for more on this series.
Thanks for reading!

England v India 3rd ODI Preview

Charbel Coorey
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In two games that will give the current Zimbabwe v Pakistan series a run for its money in terms of being one-sided, we saw the very good and very bad of both teams.

Will the third ODI balance itself out, and satisfy our craving for a close, enthralling game of cricket?

One can only hope.

In saying that, the first ODI had a silver lining to it. We were all interested to see how England would bounce back after a first ODI performance that was not pretty. In fact, Rohit Sharma’s shot to get out in the second ODI was prettier. But, bounce back they did, and now we are set for a decider with England’s bowlers, in addition to the batsmen, sending a strong message a year out from the Cricket World Cup.

Now, it’s India’s turn to bounce back. Their performance at Lord’s was one of their worst in recent times, falling short of everything they typically aspire towards. Their death bowling left a lot to be desired, with the absence of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah truly felt all throughout India. They will have to improve significantly, but you can count on England being good again, which should make this one an absolute beauty.

Nice guy Siddarth Kaul!

The biggest series of the tour so far has reached this point. Who will blink first in the decider?

Key to an England win

England gifted Kuldeep Yadav three wickets at Lord’s, but their approach was just about spot on. They knew they could get runs off the other bowlers, and that they did, consigning India to deep thoughts about just how they can improve in both the powerplay and death overs.
111 runs were scored off India’s wristspinners at Lord’s, which was a big win for England. One thing they would like to do better here is force Virat Kohli into wondering where else the wickets will come from. If England win the middle overs period, they can take advantage at the death, especially if Bhuvneshwar Kumar is still out with back trouble.
Also, England’s bowlers simply dominated India’s batsmen at Lord’s. Liam Plunkett and David Willey, combining with Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid put on a very good exhibition, and exposed India’s questionable middle order. They kept the Indians on their toes, and the same is required at Leeds.

Key to an India win

Bhuvneshwar Kumar replacing Siddarth Kaul would be like replacing your old Datsun for a new BMW. Or your old TV for two for the price of one thanks to Amazon. Whether Bhuvneshwar Kumar plays will be key to India’s chances – but then again, will he be underdone? Will he be required to do too much?
India’s spinners, especially Kuldeep Yadav, would like to be a little more economical this time around. Subtle variations on that in-between length on a straight line will continue to test the Indians, and if this can come off the back of good powerplay overs by India’s seamers, it could set them up beautifully for a series win.
Also, what happened to India with the bat at Lord’s? It was very uncharacteristic of a usually very good batting side. The key at Leeds would be to get more output from at least two out of the top four, to provide a strong platform for the middle order (which has its issues) to launch effectively. Whether KL Rahul and Suresh Raina get the nod will be interesting to see.

Possible teams

England put on a very good show at Lord’s and you would expect that they stick with the same XI. One player they would love more from is Ben Stokes. Can he stand up in the decider?
England possible XI: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Jonny Bairstow, 3. Joe Root, 4. Eoin Morgan (c), 5. Ben Stokes, 6. Jos Buttler (wk), 7. Moeen Ali, 8. David Willey, 9. Adil Rashid, 10. Liam Plunkett, 11. Mark Wood
India aren’t quite as settled. Virat Kohli had to come out in defence of MS Dhoni, KL Rahul isn’t nailing down his ODI position, and Suresh Raina could make way for Dinesh Karthik. Also, if Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns, he’ll come in for the knuckle ball king Siddarth Kaul.
India possible XI: 1. Shikhar Dhawan, 2. Rohit Sharma, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4 KL Rahul, 5. Dinesh Karthik/Suresh Raina, 6. MS Dhoni (wk), 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar/Siddarth Kaul, 9. Umesh Yadav, 10. Kuldeep Yadav, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal

Stats and Facts

  • The last ODI bilateral series England lost (excluding one off match v Scotland) was against India in January 2017. They have won seven straight since then.
  • If India win this clash, it will be their tenth straight bilateral ODI series triumph.
  • MS Dhoni became the only player to score 10,000 ODI runs with an average of 50+.
  • Joe Root is one century away from being England’s all-time top ODI century maker (currently 12).
  • KL Rahul’s last eight innings in ODIs: 8, 5, 11, 4, 17, 7, 9*, 0

Prediction

Hoping the two one-sided games balance out and this one is an absolute thriller.
I back India’s top order to have a much better outing and set things up nicely. Of course, plenty depends on the availability of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. I think England will be very hard to beat, but if Kumar plays, India could have enough in them to take the series 2-1.
Here’s to a great game. Thanks for reading!

Zimbabwe v Pakistan 2nd ODI Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Pakistan broke their 2018 ODI duck in emphatic fashion on Friday, and Zimbabwe fell deeper into the doldrums at the same time.

That’s a very accurate picture of the first match, and unfortunately, promises to be the picture for the rest of the series. The best thing on show was the enthusiasm and support from the Bulawayo crowd. It was great to see (except for the Manchester United jersey)!

Despite the huge 201 run defeat, I believe Zimbabwe still have things to be positive about. Before you call me a fool for saying that, I will mention the fantastic opening spells from Tendai Chatara and Blessing Muzarabani, with the latter in particular causing centurion Imam-ul-Haq quite a few issues in the opening overs. Can the edges be found today? Can Zimbabwe have a more competitive outing? I hope so.

Pakistan, as predicted, were too good for Zimbabwe on Friday, but will want to continue improving as part of their preparations for next year’s Cricket World Cup. The total of 308 was perhaps a little underwhelming given the position they were in to launch, so that’s something they could look to work on today. Of course, they start as overwhelming favourites after their fifth biggest win in ODIs (by runs), and should make it 2-0.

It was a big day for Pakistan!

However, cricket can be a funny game, and if you’re complacent, you can pay the price. Pakistan need to guard against it.

Key to a Zimbabwe win

As mentioned, Zimbabwe’s biggest positive from the 1st ODI was the excellent effort from their opening bowlers. They conceded just 36 in the first ten overs. Unfortunately, though, it wasn’t transferred into wickets.
With an early morning start in winter, Zimbabwe will likely bowl again if given the opportunity, and if they do, early wickets will put them right into the game. It’s vital they get more out of the follow up bowlers, and test the Pakistan middle order. Restrict Pakistan to 250, and you just never know what can happen.
Also, the batsmen simply have to show more fight. Hamilton Mazakadza continues to underwhelm – today is the day where he must lead from the front and tell his teammates to jump on board. If he’s in the runs (which he has to be considering all the players missing), Zimbabwe have a good shot at a competitive total.

Key a Pakistan win

Pakistan broke their ODI duck for 2018, and surely more wins are on the way. Their bowlers simply blew Zimbabwe away on Friday, and they’ll be keen for another hit out.
The seamers picked up regular wickets at the top, and Zimbabwe’s lower order had little answer to Shadab Khan, who had a good day out. With a Zimbabwe line up as fragile as a broken bone, the Pakistanis need to remain ruthless.
Also, a good platform was set by the top order in the 1st ODI, with debutant Asif Ali auditioning well as Pakistan’s finisher. Zimbabwe will once again look for wickets and good economy rates at the top, so it’s important Imam-ul-Haq and Fakhar Zaman get through that period again.

Predicted teams

Malcolm Waller is the latest player to withdraw from the Zimbabwe squad, citing labour practice laws. In this game, surely Tendai Chisoro gets a chance after a promising showing in the recent T20I Tri-Series?
Zimbabwe possible XI: 1. Brian Chari, 2. Chamu Chibhabha, 3. Hamilton Mazakadza (c), 4. Tarisai Musakanda, 5. Peter Moor, 6. Ryan Murray (wk), 7. Donald Tiripano, 8. Liam Roche/Tendai Chisoro, 9. Wellington Mazakadza, 10. Tendai Chatara, 11. Blessing Muzarabani
Until the series is sewn up, Pakistan are unlikely to experiment.
Pakistan possible XI: 1. Fakhar Zaman, 2. Imam-ul-Haq, 3. Babar Azam, 4. Shoaib Malik, 5. Asif Ali, 6. Sarfraz Ahmed (c & wk), 7. Shadab Khan, 8. Faheem Ashraf, 9. Hasan Ali, 10. Mohammad Amir, 11. Usman Khan

Stats and Facts

  • Pakistan’s 201 run win on Friday was their fifth biggest in ODIs.
  • Zimbabwe have now lost their last three ODIs.
  • Shoaib Malik needs just three runs to reach 7,000 ODI runs. He will become the 8th Pakistani to reach that landmark.

Prediction

Conditions are expected to be cool again, with the pitch to flatten out after any morning moisture dissipates. Early morning wickets represent Zimbabwe’s best chance of causing an upset, but I can’t see it happening.
Pakistan to make it 2-0.

England v India 2nd ODI Player Ratings: Bigger reversal than Kaitlin Jenner

Charbel Coorey
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What an interesting series it has been. What a reversal. Refer to article title.

India have now channeled their inner Australia, delivering a performance that the weakened Australia side in England would have even been disappointed with. The absence of Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar is like the feeling you have when you’re missing something important in your life. The 2nd ODI was proof of just how important these two are to their World Cup chances in 2019.
For England, it looked like Eoin Morgan was in a generous mood. Batting first was always a risk against an India side that loves to chase, and then he hit a full toss into the hands of deep midwicket. 
However, it all turned out well for England, who have leveled the series. They can start tweeting and writing articles that they are unbeatable again believing that they can beat their biggest challenger, India, at home ahead of next year’s World Cup.
Two of the top ODI sides in the world have both had a shocker each, which will definitely mean the 3rd ODI will be a thriller. One can hope, right?
In this cricket opinion article, I will go through each player and rate them out of ten. As always, it’s light hearted. As always, feel free to leave a comment!

England

Jason Roy: Couldn’t believe his luck, but I couldn’t believe his shot. Was always going to pick out deep midwicket. Again looking really dangerous, but would love to kick on in the third ODI. 7

Jonny Bairstow: As an Aussie, it’s always nice seeing an England batsman get out after the ball hits the pad, then glove, then goes onto the stumps. Unlucky as it gets. Looked good for more. 7

Joe Root: “What did that CricBlog guy say about reading Harry Potter quicker than I could read Kuldeep?” asked Root. “I proved him wrong”. Fantastic response from Joe Root after a disappointing limited overs campaign v India so far. Kept the scoreboard ticking right throughout the innings. When Jos Buttler was out, England looked in real trouble, but he stuck around till the end. Excellent century. 9.5

Eoin Morgan: “Here you go” said Eoin Morgan. “Thank you”, replied Kuldeep Yadav. I said to myself that I’ve seen less gifts at Christmas time, but all worked out well for Morgs after winning the toss and batting first. Made a good half century. 8



Ben Stokes: Hasn’t been the same since the incident last year. Three catches brightened up what was otherwise another underwhelming outing. England will be hoping he recaptures his best punch form. 4
Jos Buttler: Superb glovework after a rare failure with the bat these days. The catch to dismiss KL Rahul was like the best thing since sliced bread. 5
Moeen Ali: Moeen dismissed Kohli. I repeat. Moeen dismissed Kohli. Went for just 42 in his ten. A much improved outing from ‘Mo. 7.5

David Willey: A fantastic all-round performance. Basically told MS Dhoni that he looks forward to being part of the CSK squad again next year. He would be dreaming about Umesh Yadav and Siddarth Kaul, no doubt. 9

Adil Rashid: “It seems Kuldeep and Chahal are the only wristspinners playing”, said Rashid post match. “Don’t forget about me”. We won’t. Fantastic bowling effort, taking 2/38 off his ten. 8.5

Liam Plunkett: Blew the Indians away. Excellent response after a challenging first ODI. 8.5

Mark Wood: More expensive than a gold digger in the last match but went a little better this game, despite nowhere near his best in his five overs. Big wicket of Sharma, though. 6.5

India

Rohit Sharma: Think of someone posing nicely for a photo, then deciding to make an ugly face out of absolutely nowhere. I’ve seen prettier things at 2am on a Saturday night outside nightclubs than Rohit’s shot to get out. Took an amazing catch that is definitely worth mentioning, though. 2.5

Shikhar Dhawan: Again looked good, but again couldn’t convert. Backward point is his enemy so far this series. 6.5

Virat Kohli: On track for one of those masterclass chases but was dismissed by Moeen Ali. Yes, anything can happen in life. 7

KL Rahul: Not his best day in the field and was victim of a great catch by Buttler. Quiet day. 1

Suresh Raina: Suresh’s strike rate is written as 73. However, it should say “cause for Dinesh Karthik being in the side growing louder”. 6

MS Dhoni: A disappointing day to go past 10,000 ODI runs. I don’t agree with booing a great servant to Indian cricket, but his innings was definitely disappointing. Of course, Dhoni needed more support, but his Test days are over. No need to audition for it. 4

Hardik Pandya: Is Hardik offering enough? On current evidence, probably not, looking at these Twitter poll results. 4



Umesh Yadav: The master of three good balls, two awful balls at the death. I would still buy that ten storey mansion over Umesh Yadav at the death. Execution as good as his haircut! 4


Siddarth Kaul: “It’s not fair that all the focus is on Umesh at the death. I’m worried about him when he gets criticised,” said Siddarth. “I will take some of the focus off him by bowling some rubbish.” 2

Kuldeep Yadav: England clearly had plans to go after him. Took three wickets but with balls that didn’t deserve wickets. Still a very dangerous prospect for England, though. 6.5

Yuzvendra Chahal: All the talk has been about Kuldeep, but Yuzvendra Chahal continues to play an excellent role for India. 1/43 is a fabulous return/ India’s best performer for the day. 7.5

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So then, a complete reversal from the first game!
England were very good in this game, and India poor. Will things balance out in the third match so we can get an absolute thriller? One can hope so.
Thanks for reading!

Sri Lanka v South Africa 1st Test Player Ratings: NICE GUY FAF

Charbel Coorey
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BREAKING NEWS: Faf Du Plessis was pictured on the phone, reportedly begging AB de Villiers to come back.

Because, how good is life without him?

So good that one player (Dimuth Karunaratne) scored more runs on his own (218) than the entire South Africa team across two innings (199). Kim Kardashian’s first marriage seemed to last longer than South Africa’s batting.

Sure, conditions in the subcontinent are the complete opposite to home, with the humidity and pitch conditions a real challenge. Credit to Sri Lanka, though, as they were able to force no challenge from the Proteas, who need to pull their socks up if they dream of becoming the world’s number one Test team. On this evidence, they have a way to go.

In Galle, nice guy Faf Du Plessis felt sorry for Bangladesh, so it was only fair the Bangladeshis aren’t the only team crumbling with the bat! He also gifted Sri Lanka some first innings runs. Touching stuff.

Lovely words by Faf

Also, before I do a little more grilling, I know I will have to do pretty well to even get close to this guy:

Here, I will go through the player ratings for each player, and as always, I will try get a laugh or two!

Sri Lanka

Dimuth Karunaratne: One man outscores the entire opposition across two innings. Deserves man of the match on his magnificent first innings 158*. Fantastic effort. 10

Danushka Gunathilaka: Compared to the South Africans, Danushka was like Bradman. Only one instance of a South African going past his first innings 26. Involved in two good opening stands. 6.5

Dhananjaya de Silva: Two dismissals he’ll be a little disappointed with. Talented player, will bounce back. 3

Kusal Mendis: 24 runs for the Test but still averaged more that South Africa (12 v 9.95). What a time to be alive. 3

Angelo Mathews: Good second innings effort with wickets falling around him. Still not close to his best, but baby steps for Angelo. 5

Roshen Silva: Looking as confident as my father trying to use a smartphone. Translated: not very. Out of form. Does he play the next Test? 2

Niroshan Dickwella: Two stumpings for Dickwella. More runs from him will be handy for Sri Lanka down the order. 4

Dilruwan Perera: Spun a web so big on the South Africans that it won’t only be England having nightmares about spinners. Namely Kuldeep. 10/78 for the match, his best ever figures. 9.5

Suranga Lakmal: Played as a specialist number nine batsman for a while. But, what a cracker of a ball to get Faf Du Plessis in the first innings, to go with a 48 run stand with Karunaratne in the first innings and 33 not out in the second. 7.5

Rangana Herath: Went past Shaun Pollock and Dale Steyn in the wicket-taking charts. An absolute legend. 8.5

Lakshan Sandakan: Excellent first innings runs to help Sri Lanka to get to 287. Took two wickets in just eight overs in the Test. Did well when he had the chance. 7.5

South Africa:


Aiden Markram: Welcome to life away from South Africa, Mr. Markram. I really rate him though, and he’ll need to back himself to bounce back.2

Dean Elgar: Made as much an impact as a leaf in a cyclone. Has a lot of fight in him and will bounce back. 2
Hashim Amla: So much respect for the Hash, but I get the feeling the end is near. I hope I’m wrong. Made a double figure score in the first innings! 2

Temba Bavuma: One of South Africa’s top performing batsmen, as he made a double digit score…. 2

Faf Du Plessis: Batted well in the first innings, but Faf is a really nice man. Gifted Sri Lanka plenty of runs towards the end of their first innings, and now won’t let Bangladesh be the only embarrassed low scorers. 6

Quinton de Kock: Needs to show the same fight against spin that he showed against David Warner earlier this year. Six dismissals is a silver lining, though. 4

Vernon Philander: 40 runs for the Test, with just one dismissal. Showed his teammates how to bat. Bowled OK with limited chances. Not sure if he will play the next Test as South Africa may look to beg AB de Villiers to come back bring another specialist batsman in. 5

Kagiso Rabada: I’d rather walk through a garden of thorns than face this guy. Fastest ever to 150 wickets. A future great. 8

Dale Steyn: Steady without being spectacular. Equalled Shaun Pollock’s all-time record of 421 wickets. An all-time great, and will be better for the run. 5

Keshav Maharaj: Inconsistent first innings, better second. Will only get better. 6.5

Tabraiz Shamsi: Good effort from him throughout the Test. I was impressed. 7

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So, South Africa went from winning by 492 runs in their last Test to losing by 278 here. And guess what, 278 was AB de Villiers highest Test score.
The hurt is real.
Nonetheless, credit to Sri Lanka, who are just one Test away from a great series win vs. one of the top sides. I’m interested to see how the next Test pans out.
Thanks for reading!

P.S. Enjoy the cricket with some fantastic food coupons below!

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