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England vs India 4th Test 4th Day Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Are India gone?

That’s the impression I received from fans and pundits online, even with England five down for effectively 120. Now, there is every reason to believe India are finished in the series, given England are in front by 233, a hefty lead in challenging batting conditions, offering both seam and turn.

Can India defy the odds and keep the series alive, or will England go a long way to winning the series on the fourth day?

Before I explore three key things to look out for on day four, I want to express my biggest disappointment from day three.

Note – this is in no way taking credit away from the excellent efforts of Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler and Sam Curran in putting England in a position of strength from a position of vulnerability.

But, I thought Ravichandran Ashwin was disappointing and cause for a very frustrating Saturday night for an Aussie hoping England would lose completely lose the advantage of a 2-0 series lead. When he threw the ball up a little slower into the rough, he got some fantastic purchase. But, for some reason, he was hellbent on bowling plenty of quicker deliveries, causing me to not even remember when he bowled two genuine off-spinners in a row.

Interesting question by Ashwin…

Anyway, India have given away a few advantages in this Test, especially when having England 86/6 on day one, but that all has to be forgotten now. The fourth day is of ultimate focus, and here are my three key things to look out for.

How quickly can India get these last two wickets?

England lead by 233 with India’s biggest nemesis Sam Curran still at the crease.
233 is already perhaps too far out of India’s reach, but anything over 250 is just about “shut the lights”. These final two wickets need to be snapped up very quickly.
Alternatively, England will be looking to bat as long as possible. Stuart Broad isn’t the batsman he once was, but he can still hang around, and we know what Sam Curran is capable of. England are in a good position, made even more impressive by the ability of the middle order to rescue the team after another top order struggle.

India’s top five

Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul have been encouraging in the last two Tests, and the king pins are Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli.
Both these two have put on strong partnerships in the last two innings together, and India need both to perform. Of course, if the openers can lay an excellent platform, India will have hope.
Another battle to watch out for is Ben Stokes v Ajinkya Rahane. There was no sign of Stokes in the first innings until Rahane walked out to bat, and I’m sure the same will happen again in the second innings. Rahane needs to find a way to cope with Stokes better than he has.
Also, the top five is critical to India’s chances, given the somewhat unreliable lower order, which was on show in the first innings.

England’s spinners – can they outbowl Ashwin?

The pitch is drying out further and further by the minute, which opens up the game for first innings hero Moeen Ali and legspinner Adil Rashid.
India will have their hands full trying to counter seam and spin on a track offering assistance for both, and with Moeen in particular loving life against India at home, how India play him and Rashid will make for intriguing viewing.
Partnerships are key for India today. If they lose wickets in clumps, the series can be kissed goodbye.
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My verdict…
 
 
It’s not looking too rosy for India right now, and credit to England for their never-say-die attitude in this Test.
This track is offering assistance for both seamers and spinners, and England have the attack to take full advantage.
I think England will cross a lead of 250, and it’s hard to see India chasing that down. I back England to win this Test, even though that will go against my series prediction I put forward before a ball was bowled.
Thanks for reading!

England vs India 4th Test 3rd Day Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Image Credit: Getty Images

For the first time since the first Test, we are in for a potentially thrilling finish.

With India slightly ahead, as I thought they would be yesterday, you probably have to say England are favourites with a deficit of just 21 with all ten wickets in hand… after India yet again fell victim to Moeen Ali. However, I’m just so thrilled for Cheteshwar Pujara, a player who has had a challenging time overseas, who played an absolutely amazing knock to keep India right in the game.

With England’s top order STILL inspiring as much confidence as Arsenal Football Club’s defence, nothing is a given in a Test that has ebbed and flowed. So, what will the third day have in store?

Like yesterday, I will explore three key things to look out for on the third day that I think will shape the result of the Test. Day three is often considered “moving day”, and anything can happen, making this another much anticipated day of Test Cricket.

What can England’s top order offer?

India’s seamers have been all over England’s top order like a bad rash, and even a small first innings deficit represents pressure for the Poms’ top order.
I don’t think I look like Einstein when I say this is Keaton Jennings’ last chance, and I can’t even remember what life was like when Alastair Cook scored a double hundred on a Melbourne pitch that made a pancake look full of life. Those two need to knock off the deficit at least, and it’s time Joe Root imposes himself on the series.

A tough time for Jennings…
With England having a middle and lower order very capable of holding the bat, England’s top six today could be vital to the chances. You simply can’t collapse and expect Sam Curran to pick you up out of the mire again.

Can Ishant, Bumrah and Ashwin have a big say?

India now possess a well-rounded attack away from home, and the form of Ishant Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah has been a key factor to their success.
Can they rip through England’s top order again? If they can, and focus on restricting England to a lead of (maximum) 200, India are a chance of winning even when having to bat last. However, India’s bowlers and fans will probably be having nightmares of closing out opposition innings away from home. If they have the opportunity to do so, they must be ruthless.
Lower orders have been a challenge for India
Also, if Ishant and Bumrah do find success, can Ashwin cut short England’s efforts of rebuilding? I would give him plenty of opportunities with the pitch beginning to take turn, and given the England line up is full of left handers.

Can England bat the whole day?

If England can manage this, they should throw a party mid-pitch.

The batting doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence right now, but the series is there to be won today.

Can they bat the full 90? That typically translates to about 300 runs, which could be too much for India to chase in the fourth innings.

My verdict…

With India slightly in front thanks to Cheteshwar Pujara’s brilliance, the third day is set up nicely.
I predict England will bat till halfway through the third session and set India a target of about 230 to win.
We’ll see what happens! Thanks for reading.

England vs India 4th Test 2nd Day Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: Getty Images

What a riveting day of Test Cricket yesterday.

Thought India would run away with things after a familiar England top order struggle? So did I. Thought Sam Curran couldn’t repeat his batting heroics from the first Test? I was also a little doubtful. Thought India are past the nightmares of not being able to clean up opposition lower orders away from home? Me too.

One thing is for sure though – we are in for a potentially special second day. Who will finish it on top?

In this short and sweet preview, I will explore three key things I think to look out for on the second day, and who I think will end up in the ascendancy by the day’s end.

India top three v England’s swing and seam

India’s seamers moved the ball around appreciably on the first day, especially in the morning and afternoon sessions. It made for fantastic viewing for India fans, but unfortunately for them, 246 is a total larger than they should really have conceded.
Now, the onus is really on the top three of India to stave off the new ball as best as possible.
I can see this pitch getting better for batting on days two and three, and the first session today is critical. Can England make inroads, or can India’s top three set a platform that gets us all set for possible Virat Kohli magic? For England, it’s important they get Virat Kohli in as soon as possible to target him with as much movement as possible. With the pace attack England have in these conditions, this is most certainly possible.
We know of the “first session is crucial” cliche, but in this case, it is just so crucial.

Influence of Sam Curran

There will be plenty of focus on James Anderson and Stuart Broad. Rightly so. These two have been superb in England for a number of years.
However, India have really struggled against Sam Curran’s angle. If you go back to the first Test, India’s openers put on 50 for the first wicket, and then capitulated against Sam Curran. In the third Test, I reckon England missed Sam Curran’s bowling. They also missed his batting, too.
A big key to how today goes is the impact of Anderson and Broad up top, and then how well India can negotiate the change bowlers, especially Curran, who will be on a high after his fantastic knock yesterday.

Will India force England into bowling lots of spin?

Yesterday, there was a big possibility that Ravichandran Aswhin wouldn’t get a bowl. In the end, he sent down almost 15 overs.
If England turn to spin, it is a sign that India are possibility on top in the play. I can’t see England turning to spin if the seamers are all over the Indian batsmen like a bad cold, so this will an interesting thing to look out for.
Of course, both Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali can’t be taken lightly. Rashid is bowling decently and has wicket taking ability, and Moeen took 19 wickets in India’s last tour of England.

My verdict….

What makes this Test potentially really special is the battles within the battle. 
Because the Test result is so difficult to predict, making a call as to how this day will pan out is a tough ask. 
Can India get a lead of 100 in the first innings and target England’s fragile top order? Or can England blow India away a’la Lord’s?
I think with India’s batting, following on from a good showing at Trent Bridge, will finish the day slightly in front.
Think there is something I’ve missed? Leave a comment!
Should be a good day’s play! Thanks for reading.

Ireland vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: Getty

Decider!

Can Ireland do it to Afghanistan again?

Two of the newest Test nations go head-to-head in a winner-takes-all clash. With a good rivalry building, neither of these two sides will give in easily.

Ireland won the last bilateral ODI series against Afghanistan, that too after suffering a convincing defeat in the first game. The Irish proved they could do it in foreign conditions in Sharjah, and with home ground advantage on their side, they’ll be really backing their chances. Their batting still leaves quite a bit to be desired, but if their bowlers, led by Tim Murtagh, are as relentless as the 2nd ODI, their batting won’t necessarily have to fire to win the series.

Afghanistan’s landmark 100th ODI was one to forget. They just couldn’t get going with the bat, highlighted by losing four wickets inside the first nine overs, and crawling at under three an over for much of the innings. Rotation of the strike is critical here, so too not losing too many wickets at the top which has been an issue in this series so far. Can they put in an improved showing in the decider?

Key to an Ireland win

Like the 2nd ODI, Ireland’s best chance of winning is through their bowling.
Reducing Afghanistan to 16/4 was a huge catalyst to victory, forcing the tourists to crawl for the remainder of the innings. Tim Murtagh was simply too good up top, backed up well by the likes of Boyd Rankin and Peter Chase. Can Ireland take all their chances in the field, and put Afghanistan under even further pressure?
Another strong showing from the bowling will render any total around 200 a winning score. Andy Balbirnie, backed up by Paul Stirling and Simi Singh, would be pleased with their efforts. Can the Irish get even more out of their experienced players, especially against the good spin attack of Afghanistan?

Key to a Afghanistan win

Afghanistan’s top order was a rabble on Wednesday. 
Mohammad Shahzad needs to stick through the challenging early periods, and it remains to be seen whether Hazratullah Zazai has the technical nous to do well outside of T20 cricket. The middle order again helped Afghanistan to respectability, but greater substance from the top order is needed, thanks to a busier, more positive mindset.
Also, Afghanistan’s spinners had another good day out in the 2nd ODI, combining for 6/116 in 28.5 overs. The best bet is that they’ll continue to give Ireland problems. Can the batting shape up?

Possible teams

Ireland possible XI: 1. William Porterfield (c), 2. Paul Stirling, 3. Andy Balbirnie, 4. Niall O’Brien (wk), 5. Kevin O’Brien, 6. Simi Singh, 7. Gary Wilson, 8. Andy McBrine, 9. Tim Murtagh, 10. Boyd Rankin, 11. Peter Chase
Afghanistan possible XI: 1. Mohammad Shahzad (wk), 2. Hazratullah Zazai, 3. Gulbadin Naib, 4. Rahmat Shah, 5. Hashmatullah Shahidi, 6. Asghar Afghan, 7. Mohammad Nabi, 8. Najibullah Zadran, 9. Rashid Khan, 10. Aftab Alam, 11. Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Stats and Facts

  • Ireland won the last bilateral series between the sides, also coming from 1-0 down.
  • Tim Murtagh’s 4/30 on Wednesday are now his best figures in ODIs.
  • Both sides are struggling with their batting, both averaging 22 per wicket in this series.

Prediction

Promises to be an interesting decider, which will come to which side can hold their own better with the bat.
The team most likely? I reckon Afghanistan, as Ireland are less likely to overcome Afghanistan’s spinners. This is why I will pick Afghanistan to pick up a win here to take the series.
Thanks for reading!

England vs India 4th Test Preview

Charbel Coorey
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The series has taken shape, and is well and truly alive.

That is absolutely fantastic for Test Cricket. Even better, you just can’t be sure which way the fourth Test will go. Will England bounce back well again at home after a Test defeat? Or will India continue on from their excellent win at Trent Bridge?

Despite England’s concerns at the top of the order, what will give their fans hope is indeed their ability to bounce back well following defeats at home. After being pummeled by Australia at Lord’s in the 2015 Ashes, England then pummeled Australia at Birmingham and Nottingham. Against South Africa last year, England were whacked at Trent Bridge, and then backed up well at The Oval. The same happened after a shock loss v West Indies last year. Against Pakistan this year, England lost the first Test, and then bounced back to level the series. Can they continue this pattern here?

For India, they are aiming to emulate Don Bradman’s 1936-37 team and come back from 2-0 down to win a series 3-2. Of course, with two Tests to go, that is still a long way away, and the focus needs to be on repeating the fantastic form they showed at Trent Bridge. The pitch was not easy to bat on by any means, but the batsmen, led by Virat Kohli, showed a lot more stomach for the fight after the abomination at Lord’s. In the bowling department, just about all the bowlers starred at some point, putting England’s batsmen under serious pressure. We are set for a fascinating fourth Test.

Key to an England win

Yes, it’s all well and good to hold hope in England’s bounce back abilities at home, but the top order need to put this into action.
England’s openers, Alastair Cook and Keaton Jennings, inspire as much confidence as Arsenal Football Club’s defence right now. Joe Root has not managed a Test century in over a year, and Jonny Bairstow will be playing with what certainly won’t be a 100% finger. With a middle order capable of causing damage, England’s top four need to ensure that Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali and Sam Curran aren’t left with damage to repair.
And speaking of Sam Curran, his inclusion in the side is a boost for England. Leaving him out at Trent Bridge, given his form and India’s struggles against his angle, was controversial, but he’s back to play a key role in England’s attack. With six genuine options up Joe Root’s sleeve, England must look at consistently maintaining the pressure on India’s batsmen, over after over.
Also, England’s slip fielding was absolutely horrible at Trent Bridge, and it’s something they must sort out.

Key to an India win

At Lord’s, India lost their first wicket for no runs in both innings. At Trent Bridge, this figure ballooned to 60. 
Openers KL Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan certainly didn’t score large, but what they managed to do was get India in the game, especially on the first morning. Making England work hard was the name of the game for India at Trent Bridge, and they were rewarded with runs. Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane played their most significant innings of the series, supporting the magnificent Virat Kohli. The same from the top five is vital here, giving the likes of Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya freedom to express themselves with the bat.
Also, India’s bowling looked a very well oiled machine. On this form, they could even threaten on the pancakes that are Australian pitches, given their attacking mindset. The addition of Jasprit Bumrah has taken India to another level, and with Ishant Sharma, Hardik Pandya and Ravichandran Ashwin bowling really well, India have it in them to cause trouble for England again.

Key battles

  • Ishant Sharma v Alastair Cook: The England opener is really struggling with the ball curving away from around the wicket. His edge can be found with alarming ease at the moment, so it will be interesting to see what approach Cook takes in the fourth Test. Will he bat outside his crease and perhaps move more towards off stump?
  • Jasprit Bumrah v Joe Root: The England captain was sure to have nightmares about Jasprit Bumrah after the third Test. Because of the angle Bumrah creates, Joe Root was playing at deliveries he was leaving comfortably against other bowlers. This led to his demise, and makes for a fascinating fourth Test battle.
  • India v Sam Curran: The likes of James Anderson will certainly be a threat, but how well will India play Sam Curran? Left-arm seam has been a problem for India’s batsmen in this series, and Curran is a fantastic replacement for Chris Woakes. Not getting the front pad too far across is key to avoiding LBW, and watching the seam closely is vital to knowing which way it will go. I can’t wait for the contest.

Possible teams

England have confirmed their side. Moeen Ali comes in for Ollie Pope and Sam Curran in for Chris Woakes. Joe Buttler will take the gloves in this game, given Jonny Bairstow’s finger injury.
England XI: 1. Alastair Cook, 2. Keaton Jennings, 3. Joe Root (c), 4. Jonny Bairstow, 5. Ben Stokes, 6. Jos Buttler (wk), 7. Moeen Ali, 8. Sam Curran, 9. Adil Rashid, 10. Stuart Broad, 11. James Anderson
For India, will they go with the same XI for the first time under Virat Kohli’s captaincy? The pitch could take spin later in the Test which might tempt India to play Ravindra Jadeja.
India possible XI: 1. Shikhar Dhawan, 2. KL Rahul, 3. Cheteshwar Pujara, 4. Virat Kohli (c), 5. Ajinkya Rahane, 6. Rishabh Pant (wk), 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Ravichandran Ashwin, 9. Mohammed Shami, 10. Ishant Sharma, 11. Jasprit Bumrah

Stats and Facts

  • Virat Kohli needs six runs to reach 6,000 in Tests. If he achieves it in the first innings, he will be outright sixth fastest ever to the mark.
  • Ishant Sharma is one wicket away from 250 in Tests.

Prediction

Wow, what a difficult match to predict. England often bounce back well at home, and India were absolutely superb at Trent Bridge.
I predicted the series result will end up 2-2, and I will stick to it, backing India to continue their excellent form to win this Test and take us to a decider!

Thanks for reading!

Ireland vs Afghanistan 2nd ODI Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Quadrangular ‘A’ Series Final: India B vs Australia A Preview

Charbel Coorey
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The Quadrangular ‘A’ series in India has provided a good insight into the bench strength of India, Australia and South Africa.

Weather aside, it has been a good test of temperament as much as talent from players looking to breakthrough consistently into their respective national sides.

Now, it is a rematch of the final game – India B v Australia A, after Jack Wildermuth hit a six to win the match off the final ball on Monday. The second take should be very interesting, indeed.

Without a doubt, India B’s success in this series showcases the depth of talent in India, despite the disappointment of India A missing out on a spot in the final. Manish Pandey, a player who has disappointed throughout his career, could not have timed his run better. With the Asia Cup fast approaching, his 233 runs in three innings without being dismissed is sure to have selectors interested. Can he, along with other hopefuls, pick up a win against an Australian side looking to continue its quest for improvement in Asian conditions?

Australia A began their series in awful fashion, suffering a heavy loss at the hands of India A. However, two good wins under pressure is an encouraging sign for a team full of players looking to enter or cement their places in the national side. Usman Khawaja and Jack Wildermuth were excellent under pressure to get the Australians to the final, but can the batsmen, along with the bowlers, put in a complete show against a side with strong knowledge of the conditions?

Key to an India B win

Manish Pandey has been superb for his team in his series, and he again holds the key in the final. The rest of his teammates could step up a little more, with the next best score to Pandey’s 117 on Monday being 36 by Mayank Agarwal.
In the likes of Ishan Kishan, Shubman Gill, Kedar Jadhav and Deepak Hooda, India B have players they can count on to do well in the final. Can they stand up?
Also, India B’s bowling and fielding in the last game v Australia A was cause for defeat. With the Australians tottering at 155/5 in their chase of 247 in 40 overs, the Indians let Jack Wildermuth in particular off the hook. Missed stumpings, poor length bowling and dropped catches need to be rectified in the final.

Key to an Australia A win

Conceding 270 odd in a limited overs game these days is a decent result, and I reckon the Aussies would have been mostly pleased with their efforts on Monday.
This was despite Pandey’s efforts, and this represents a significant opportunity for the Aussies. If they can break the opening partnership early and get to Manish Pandey as soon as possible, I think it gives them the best chance of getting his wicket early, with him possibly having to rebuild things a little. Of course, there are other players in the India B side that require careful attention, so the Aussie bowlers and fielders need to be switched on.
Also, something Australia A need to guard against is losing wickets in clumps. Usman Khawaja’s century in these conditions is highly encouraging, but partnerships are vital, and fortunately Jack Wildermuth was able to take advantage of India B’s sloppiness on Monday. Who else will put their hand up in the final?

Possible teams:

India B possible XI: 1. Ishan Kishan (wk), 2. Mayank Agarwal, 3. Shubman Gill, 4. Manish Pandey (c), 5. Kedar Jadhav, 6. Deepak Hooda, 7. Jalaj S Saxena, 8. Shreyas Gopal, 9. Kulwant Khejroliya, 10. Prasidh Krishna, 11. Siddarth Kaul
Australia A possible XI: 1. Alex Carey (wk), 2. Usman Khawaja, 3. Travis Head (c), 4. Peter Handscomb, 5. Marnus Labuschagne, 6. Jack Wildermuth, 7. Ashton Agar, 8. Jhye Richardson, 9. Mitchell Swepson, 10. Michael Neser, 11. Billy Stanlake

Stats and Facts

  • Jack Wildermuth’s remarkable fifty on Monday was his first List A fifty.
  • Australia A qualified for the final with a negative net run rate (-0.204).
  • Manish Pandey has hit 233 runs in three innings, without being dismissed.

Prediction

Really keen to see Australia A do well in the final after matches in this series and hopefully win the series.
That is my heart talking.
My head says that India B deserve to be favourites in this game, with their strong know-how of the conditions, as well as their desire to right the wrongs of Monday. If I had to put money on this one, I’d say India B will get the job done.
Thanks for reading!

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.
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