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4 big predictions for the Zimbabwe Tri Series

Charbel Coorey
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Image credit: The Advertiser Australia

In case you didn’t know, a T20I Tri-Series begins this week. Before 2018, there had been no such series played in the T20I world (which included full members), but in the space of four months, we would have had four.

This week’s Zimbabwe Tri-Series involving Pakistan and Australia gives me a bit of an empty feeling. After this, Zimbabwe are not due to host any international fixtures until August 2019 when Afghanistan are due to visit. 92% of fans, as part of the ICC’s inaugural survey, said that they are interested in T20 cricket, and we will see some action this week, but in the least popular FTP nation – Zimbabwe.

All three teams face different challenges. Zimbabwe are in all sorts off the field, Australia were in all sorts on the field in England, and Pakistan need to develop greater consistency. In this cricket opinion piece, I will look at four key predictions, while discussing each team’s chances of lifting the trophy next week.

Prediction #1: Zimbabwe won’t win a game

After a heartbreaking end to the World Cup Qualifiers earlier this year, Zimbabwe have seemed to have fallen further in the mire. Graeme Cremer, then captain, and the entire backroom staff, were all sacked in the aftermath. Their financial situation doesn’t seem to be on the improve, with players still awaiting outstanding salaries and match payments, dating back to their tour of Sri Lanka last year.
To make matters worse, they will be without four key players for this series, and are yet to confirm a captain as I write this, just a day out from the series. Brendan Taylor, Graeme Cremer, Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza won’t be participating, which renders it improbable that Zimbabwe will enjoy any success against the number one and two ranked sides in T20I cricket. This is despite having the likes of Kyle Jarvis, Hamilton Mazakadza and Elton Chigumbura in their ranks, who can all fire on their day.
I predict there will be a solemn feel around Harare Sports Club this week.

Sikandar Raza was player of the tournament in the World Cup Qualifiers

Prediction #2: Leading run scorer – Aaron Finch (Australia)

Australia’s skipper for the series, Aaron Finch, is in excellent touch. 
In England, Australia fiddled with having Aaron Finch down the order in the ODIs, which was a big no-no. Since being moved back to opener in the 4th ODI at Chester-le-Street, Finch has knocked off 206 runs in his last three international innings, including 84 in the recent T20I v England.
Sure, the pitch conditions could be quite slow in Zimbabwe, but Aaron Finch is an excellent striker of the ball and loves batting at the top of the order. In addition, he is a strong leader, and will be keen to lead from the front with the bat. 
There are some candidates for leading run scorer, including Glenn Maxwell, Sarfraz Ahmed, and Fakhar Zaman, but Aaron Finch is looking in super touch, and for me, is a good choice to pick as leading run scorer.

Prediction #3: Leading wicket taker – Shadab Khan (Pakistan)

How good is this kid going?
Shadab was mighty impressive in Pakistan’s recent Test tour of England, scoring runs and bowling with excellent control. On pitches that are expected to be slowish in Zimbawe, against two teams who are suspect against spin, Shadab is a huge chance of taking a bagful of wickets in the next week.
I believe he is greater than a huge chance. I believe he will do it.
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Prediction #4: Winner – Pakistan

This one was really difficult to choose. Do I go with my heart (Australia) or my head (Pakistan)? In thinking about predictions and analysing the game, it’s important to think as rationally as possible. 
All matches will be played in Harare, and as the week goes on, I think conditions will get slower and lower in the middle of the Zimbabwean winter. This suits Pakistan. I have no doubt that if this series was played on faster, bouncier wickets, Australia would dominate, but Pakistan have the know-how and resources to be successful in these conditions. Australia, for me, just aren’t playing spin well enough to be confident about them, highlighted by Moeen Ali bagging a handful of wickets in the recent ODI series.
Of course, there is always the chance that Pakistan can put in a poor performance at the wrong time, but as the number one ranked T20I team, it’s fair they are considered favourites for the tournament. They have won seven matches in a row, and have lost just three of 22 since the World T20 in 2016. Despite not having Babar Azam available for this series, they will be hard to beat.
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So, what do you think of my predictions? Is there anything you think is ridiculous? Do you think I will be looked at as a genius when the series is over?

As always, feel free to leave a comment!

Thanks for reading.

Ireland v India 2nd T20I Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Photo credit: Ireland Cricket

The big question for India ahead of the first T20I was whether they would have on eye on the England series, and deliver a less than convincing performance in Ireland. It’s very safe to say that wasn’t the case, with India producing a sharp, professional display that was simply too good for their opponent.

Ireland can expect more of the same, looking at how well-drilled India are under the leadership of Virat Kohli. Unfortunately for the Irish, everything that could go wrong, did go wrong in the first T20I. However, they have an opportunity in the second T20I to put on a more competitive show, and will be encouraged by the positive showings of Peter Chase (4/35) and James Shannon (60 off 35 balls) in the series opener.

India will experiment with their squad a little ahead of the England series, according to skipper Virat Kohli. If it were up to Ireland, they would like to see the back of Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah and the two wristspinners, who were all excellent in the first T20I. At least three of these players could sit out this game, and the scary part is that India will still boast a very good T20 side.

Key to an Ireland win

The first T20I highlighted in the gulf in class between the two teams, but its important Ireland put Wednesday behind them, and focus on the next match. In the first T20I, James Shannon received very little support as he made a promising 60, with the next best score 12. However, the damage was done after Ireland conceded 200+.
Ireland need a wicket or two in the powerplay overs to push India back as much as they can. They need regular breakthroughs throughout the innings, too. Taking opportunities that come their way will be paramount.
Also, Ireland were all at sea against India’s wristspinners, mainly Kuldeep Yadav. Can they effectively rotate the strike against Kuldeep and Chahal and take runs off some of the other bowlers, especially with Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah possibly sitting out?

It will be amazing scenes if they get the job done. I’d be jumping up and down in my living room if Ireland win!

Key to an India win

India stamped their authority in their first match of their huge tour. 
The top order set things up beautifully, and will be hoping for the same again. One ominous warning for Ireland is that Virat Kohli wasn’t even a factor in the first T20I, and he will be keen to get some runs under his belt in the second T20I. Another powerful India batting effort will be too much for Ireland, and the men in blue will be especially happy if the middle order can also put in a strong showing.
Also, India’s attack showed its cohesiveness once again in the first T20I, and will be hoping they take all their chances in the field in the second. Their total of 208 was never under threat, and Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal continued their impressive performances for India following on from their exploits in South Africa. It is not safe to assume Ireland will read them better in this game, so back them to continue to be in the wickets.

Predicted teams

It was a tad disappointing to see Ireland not play Joshua Little in the first T20I. In the second match, they could stick with the same team.
Ireland XI: 1. Paul Stirling, 2. William Porterfield, 3. Andy Balbirnie, 4. Simi Singh, 5. Gary Wilson (c), 6. Kevin O’Brien, 7. Stuart Thompson, 8. Stuart Poynter (wk), 9. George Dockrell, 10. Boyd Rankin, 11. Peter Chase
Virat Kohli has expressed his desire to experiment with the team. Rohit Sharma is said to be sitting out this one. There is a chance Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah could sit out, too.
India XI: 1. KL Rahul, 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. Suresh Raina, 5. MS Dhoni (wk), 6. Manish Pandey, 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Umesh Yadav/Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 9. Kuldeep Yadav, 10. Yuzvendra Chahal, 11. Jasprit Bumrah/Siddarth Kaul

Stats and Facts:

  • Head-to-head: Matches 2, Ireland 0, India 2
  • Shikhar Dhawan needs 42 runs to reach 1,000 T20I runs. He will be the sixth Indian player to achieve this feat.
  • Time for Suresh Raina to stand up? He has scored just one T20I fifty since June 2010.
  • India are unbeaten in their last seven T20I series, including this one. However, if they win the 2nd T20I, it will be five series wins in a row, including the Nidahas Trophy.

Prediction

India again. Hard to see any other result. Hoping for Ireland to be more competitive this time around.
In the meantime, be sure to check out my 4 keys for India to having a successful tour of England!

Why I’m underwhelmed with the Test and ODI World Championship

Charbel Coorey
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The ICC recently announced the schedule for the World Test and ODI Championship, and I must say, I’m a little underwhelmed.

The idea is awesome. It adds more relevance to bilateral series cricket, a necessity in a world of T20 Leagues

In October 2017, when I really started focusing on cricket blogging as a passion, I highlighted three burning questions from the proposed Test and ODI Championships. Unfortunately, they haven’t been answered appropriately.

The ODI League doesn’t excite me at all

13 teams in the league, but not everyone will play each other. What sort of competition is that?
Each team will play eight series home and away over a two-year period. However, each team will have four teams they don’t play against. A team could finish top of the league without having played the second, third or fourth placed teams, for example. How is that fair? Can they really be called the best?
Also, I was hoping the ODI League would result in series we don’t get to see often. Surprise, surprise, we won’t be seeing Australia v Bangladesh, or India v Pakistan. How will points be properly assigned?
Even worse, nations will still have discretion to organise bilateral series that sit outside the ODI League. So much for context-less ODI series being a thing of the past.
Eh. I won’t be holding my breath for the ODI League to begin. Underwhelmed.

Neither does the World Test Championship

The World Test Championship is labeled the pinnacle of Test cricket, and will start following the beautiful, glorious (not) ten team World Cup in 2019.
However, good luck explaining it to those you know who may not be big cricket fans. Or, better yet, even those who are cricket fans.
For this to work, the length of each series needs to be the same. Otherwise, it’s not fair. The longer series will be between the “big three” (i.e. Australia, England, India), and will probably have points divided by the number of matches they play. But, the likes of Bangladesh, South Africa, West Indies and New Zealand, who often play shorter series, can gain a greater number of points from a single win.
In fact, the second ranked Test side right now, South Africa, will play just four Tests in 2020. Their 38 Tests across the next five years are far less than England (59), India (51) and Australia (47).
In my previous article on the issue, I wrote the following. Unfortunately, there won’t be the optimal solution.
If a team has plays their minimum of 12 Test matches across two years, what is their way of competing in the table against a team like Australia, India and England who might play 20+ Tests? Also, teams like India, Australia and England will likely play more games against higher ranked opponents, so what is their way of competing with teams who play less games against high ranked teams?
 
For example, Bangladesh might win four Tests across two two-match home series against West Indies and Sri Lanka (four Tests, four wins), whereas England might win three Tests across ten matches against Australia and India (two series losses). Bangladesh have won more games in this period, in less games, but England have played higher ranked opposition. So how will the points system ensure that both Bangladesh and England won’t be left feeling disappointed?Also, teams won’t play equal matches home and away. Think of the home advantage that is evident in Test cricket right now. Again, this has to be a equal playing field, which isn’t the case.

The game still isn’t being promoted on a global scale

Teams can still have a very big say in which series they choose to play.
Zimbabwe, Ireland and Afghanistan won’t take part in the Test championship, and certain nations get greater opportunity than others. This is in addition to the 2023 World Cup being looked at as a ten-team tournament again, which is a shame.
These Leagues are a good idea, but they have me asking questions instead of looking forward to it.
Your thoughts?

Ireland v India 1st T20I Preview

Charbel Coorey
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Oh how awesome it is. By the weekend, India would have played their last three international matches against Afghanistan and Ireland, something that is excellent for the growth and promotion of our great game.

Ireland held a great account of themselves in their debut Test against Pakistan, and their skipper Gary Wilson wants his side to go in with a positive attitude against a cricketing powerhouse. “We will go in with the belief we can turn them over”, he says, which is refreshing and the right way to go about it. There is one thing to know about the Irish – they will give their all, and make sure they leave the field with no regrets whatsoever.

Not since 2007 have India toured Ireland, and from that one-off ODI, only Rohit Sharma (on ODI debut) and Dinesh Karthik are in this squad. Since then, India have continued to be a major threat in limited overs cricket, and with a massive series against England coming up, the men in blue would be wanting to hit their strides nice and early on tour. One interesting thing would be the make up of their side, which I will touch on a little later in this cricket preview.

Key to an Ireland win

Ireland are ready to unleash pacer Joshua Little on India’s batsmen, which will be an exciting sight. So too will Simi Singh, an all rounder with a great T20I record to date. In what will be very important to Ireland’s chances, their bowlers need to hold their own against a side possessing a glut of T20 experience. 
On paper, it is not a contest. However, the beauty of T20 cricket is that it is not played on paper. Ireland’s best chance of causing a shock is by displaying strong intensity with the ball and in the field, in addition to stringing partnerships together against a potent and well-driven India attack. Can the likes of Paul Stirling, Simi Singh and Kevin O’Brien score well and fast, supported by others accumulating in the batting order?
What will ultimately be key is if the Irish can use home conditions to their advantage to make life difficult for India.
Kevin O’Brien has played some incredible knocks for Ireland

Key to an India win

It’s easy for India to think further ahead to the England matches, but under the leadership of Virat Kohli, they will be sure to stamp their authority. 
In my opinion, a threat could be having too many options to choose from in their side, which could muddle their strategy. The key for India begins with the make up of their side, and how well their middle order can contribute to the cause. If the top and middle order are on song, Ireland could be in for a long day on a short field.
Also, can India pick up regular wickets to make life even more difficult for Ireland? Again, a clear strategy will be key, starting with the make up of their side, and then executing the plans really well. Ahead of the England series, India will want to get things right in all stages of the innings – powerplay, middle and death overs. Not only will Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah be key, but so too Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav and Umesh Yadav (if picked), who were prolific wicket takers in IPL 2018.
Virat Kohli is back to lead the T20I side after the Nidahas Trophy

Predicted teams

For Ireland, William Porterfield is expected to return after being rested in the T20Is v Scotland. Also, a decision Ireland need to make is whether off spinner Andy McBrine or medium pacer Stuart Thompson gets a run. A player to watch out for is Simi Singh, a player with roots in India, who averages 32 with a SR of 150 in T20Is. He also averages 17.50 with the ball, with an economy of just 6.63.
Ireland XI: 1. Paul Stirling, 2. William Porterfield, 3. Andy Balbirnie, 4. Simi Singh 5. Gary Wilson (c), 6. Kevin O’Brien, 7. Stuart Thompson/Andy McBrine, 8. Stuart Poynter (wk), 9. George Dockrell, 10. Boyd Rankin, 11. Joshua Little

So many possibilities for India. They could go with Umesh Yadav over Yuzvendra Chahal looking at how good he was for RCB in the IPL. Of course, IPL form doesn’t always translate to international form, but he deserves a crack. So too KL Rahul, who I believe should get in over Suresh Raina and Manish Pandey for this match. With Dinesh Karthik leading India to a win in the Nidahas Trophy earlier in the year, he deserves a shot as his international career is finally taking some momentum.

India XI: 1. Rohit Sharma, 2 Shikhar Dhawan, 3.Virat Kohli, 4. KL Rahul, 5. MS Dhoni (wk), 6. Dinesh Karthik, 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 9. Kuldeep Yadav, 10. Umesh Yadav/Yuzvendra Chahal, 11. Jasprit Bumrah

Stats and Facts

  • This is India’s first T20I in Ireland, and second T20I vs Ireland overall. The only T20I between the two sides was in the 2009 T20 World Cup, where India won by eight wickets.
  • Rohit Sharma debuted in Ireland in 2007 as a 20 year old under the leadership of Rahul Dravid.
  • This is the first time The Malahide will be hosting a T20I between two full members.
  • Simi Singh, playing for Ireland, was born in India.

Prediction

It promises to be a special occasion with the match sold out and weather expected to be clear. I expect India to win well, looking at the quality in their side. However, if Ireland can be competitive, it will make for great viewing.
Here’s to a great game.

England vs Australia Only T20I Preview

Charbel Coorey
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It has been an interesting year in England v Australia limited overs matches.

In this case, though, interesting doesn’t mean competitive. Neither does it mean it is unlike India v Sri Lanka matches, which we see so often.
Many England fans claim they don’t care about T20s after missing the final of the Australia-New Zealand-England Tri-Series Final earlier this year. Many Australia fans claim that ODIs aren’t that big a deal after losing nine of ten matches against the old enemy. 
England and Australia will be at it again, but this time in a format that Australia favours. Can Australia end a miserable tour on a high?
England will be certainly hoping to send the old enemy back home empty handed. Going on the back of what the amazing Jos Buttler achieved in the 5th ODI on Sunday, you can say England are in no mood for favours. Buttler is set to open, and anyone who followed the IPL this year means that this could spell danger for Australia. It takes something special for Michael Vaughan to post a Twitter poll asking whether someone is better than MS Dhoni at the moment. Also, in the back of their minds, England will be seeking some revenge for a disappointing T20 Tri-Series in February.
While England would be seeking revenge, Australia would be encouraged. They swept England aside twice in the February Tri-Series, and won the tournament without losing a match. The selectors were rightly praised for picking a side perfect for the T20 format – a side filled with excellent performers in the BBL. This time, though, there will be no David Warner to lead the side, so how well can Aaron Finch fill the role? Can Australia enjoy a little more success on a tough tour?
Remains to be seen.

Key to an England win

Australia’s encouraging 1st and 5th ODI bowling efforts sandwiched absolute carnage. In the 2nd, 3rd and 4th ODIs, England amassed 1,137 runs at 7.87 an over. A run rate of this kind is remarkable to maintain in the ODI format, and England’s batting line up will once again be looking to take apart Australia’s bowlers.
Jos Buttler, Jason Roy, Alex Hales and Jonny Bairstow are all in rare form. Then you add Eoin Morgan and Joe Root, and England have a very strong top six. How their top six fares will be key to continuing the pain for Australia, and pave the way to improving their 5th place ranking.
Also, Australia tried to take apart England’s bowlers in the final ODI, but had little success. Against a good Aussie T20 batting line up, England need regular wickets to thwart the progress of the enemy.
Jos Buttler is in rare form

Key to an Australia win

Glenn Maxwell was player of the February Tri-Series, and Australia will be hoping he’s fit and firing in this clash. At his best, he is one of the most destructive players in the world, and if Australia’s strong BBL performers can fire too, Australia will be confident setting or chasing good scores.
In addition to Maxwell, the onus will be on the likes of Aaron Finch and D’Arcy Short, who registered underwhelming IPL campaigns, and will be hoping the vastly different conditions to India will be to their benefit. Can Australia’s top six match England’s?
Also, can Australia’s bowlers effectively thwart England? Australia’s bowling attack comprises of quite of a bit of T20 know-how. Andrew Tye was the IPL’s leading wicket taker, and Billy Stanlake continues to impress in the format. Kane Richardson has enjoyed some success and Ashton Agar will keep things as tight as possible. 
Here, the role of the fifth bowler is vital and it will be interesting to see which way Australia go with their selection.
Australia will be hoping Glenn Maxwell is fit and firing

Predicted teams

England may go with either Chris Jordan or Sam Curran for a bowling spot. It could be Jordan who pips Curran, who was a little expensive on ODI debut on Sunday. As mentioned, it has been confirmed Jos Buttler will open.
England XI: 1. Jos Buttler (wk), 2. Jason Roy, 3. Alex Hales, 4. Joe Root, 5. Jonny Baitstow, 6. Eoin Morgan (c), 7. Moeen Ali, 8. Chris Jordan, 9. Liam Plunkett, 10. Adil Rashid, 11. David Willey
Tim Paine makes way, with Aaron Finch to replace him as captain and Alex Carey the gloves. Glenn Maxwell could play after a shoulder injury, and so too legspinner Mitchell Swepson, given the conditions could be quite dry.
Australia XI: 1. Aaron Finch (c), 2. D’Arcy Short, 3. Travis Head, 4. Glenn Maxwell, 5. Nic Maddinson, 6. Alex Carey (wk), 7. Ashton Agar, 8. Marcus Stoinis/Mitchell Swepson, 9. Kane Richardson, 10. Andrew Tye, 11. Billy Stanlake

Stats and Facts

  • Australia have won their last six T20Is. England have lost four of their last five.
  • Australia have beaten England twice in 2018.
  • The last time England hosted Australia in a T20I was in 2015, where they won by five runs. Eoin Morgan and Moeen Ali were the chief destroyers that day.
  • Jos Buttler recently hit five straight half centuries in IPL 2018, which was after he was promoted to opener.

Prediction

A much tougher match to predict than the ODIs, given Australia’s strengths in the format. However, with England looking a little more settled, I will predict them to win, but only by a slender margin.

England vs India: The curious case of Cheteshwar Pujara

Charbel Coorey
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Cheteshwar Pujara is an interesting topic of conversation, isn’t he?

His Test career has been nothing but a surprise to me, and I’m sure many others. I view Pujara as a player boasting seemingly endless levels of patience and temperament, coupled with good technique. Australia found this out the hard way last year, forced to toil against him for 672 minutes in Ranchi.

However, Pujara is a unique case. His figures away from home do not do justice to his ability. His Test average of 50.34 is one any batsman would be proud of, but his away average of 35 is underwhelming. Yes, he has copped some tough decisions at times, but for a player of his ability, the numbers between home and away are just too far apart.

He has played 34 of his 58 Test at home (58.62%), but the percentage of runs in India as a proportion of his total is much higher (68.89%). Further, his away average of 35 is boosted by runs in Sri Lanka (I think I could score OK against them, too), so when you disregard Asia completely, Pujara’s figures make for sorry reading.

Pujara has struggled outside Asia

To make matters more concerning, Pujara has had a nightmare county stint with Yorkshire. It’s incredible when a prolific Test batsman is cause for fans being fed up, asking why he was picked in the first place. 155 runs in 11 innings at 14 is nowhere near the kind of preparation you want for a Test series in England. In the last couple of weeks, he has dismissed for a duck twice by Dale Steyn.

So, what do India do with Pujara and how do they get the best out of him? Will he end his Test career as a player considered not very useful away from Asia?

In this piece, I will highlight a couple of reasons as to why I think Cheteshwar Pujara struggles away from home, and how he could prosper in the upcoming England series.

Technical issues for Cheteshwar Pujara?

Yes, Pujara has a simple technique that forms the basis of his play. He looks to play tight to his body, and has no problem in playing the patience game. These are two attributes players need when batting in foreign conditions. 
However, what has often led to his downfall away from home is how low his hands are when he is batting, as well as his tendency to play with an angled bat. On low, slow pitches, this kind of technique is fine as you can handle the low bounce. However, on bouncier pitches, you’re asking for trouble – the top of your bat and gloves will get a serious workout. In his last tour of England, he was out caught 7 of 10 innings. This year in South Africa, when he wasn’t run out, he was caught behind the wicket. It’s a worrying trend. He needs to play straighter, with slightly higher hands.
In preparation for this series, it’s vital that Pujara adjusts by changing the position of his hands when playing shots. There won’t be pace and bounce in England like there is elsewhere, but there will be more movement on offer for the seamers as opposed to back home in India.

Does Cheteshwar Pujara approach an away Test differently to a home Test?

Here, I’m not talking about technical approach. I’m talking about a mindset approach.
To me, Pujara doesn’t seem himself in an away Test. In India, he personifies calmness and is in his own bubble. In away Tests, he seems edgy, and that was on show in South Africa earlier this year, where he was run out twice in the same Test. Does he put a lot of pressure on himself to try prove to others that he is good enough away from home? Maybe.
The India team management need to make him aware that they are backing him fully, and to do what he does best – discover his pure love for batting, even whilst overseas.
Pujara seemed to have mental blocks in South Africa

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I think these two factors are absolutely paramount for Pujara to get right in the England series.

I believe India will pick him for the first Test, simply because of the potential he brings, and how well he can hold an innings together. If Pujara is on song, others such as Virat Kohli will be enabled to play their own game, and India will be much better off for it.

We’ll see what comes of this.

As always, feel free to share your thoughts and opinions! In the meantime, check out my 4 keys to India having a successful tour of England.

Thanks for reading.
 

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 very excited.

India have won a thrilling T20I series, and the stage is set for a huge ODI and Test series against England.

This tour just offers so many tantalising prospects that will have myself and millions of others glued to the action. England have just swept Australia 5-0 in ODIs, but India are sure to pose a greater challenge.

India are also desperate to improve their Test record away from home, and they now have the talent within their bowling ranks to mount a big challenge. They also have the batting talent. Can India cope well over five Tests, or will England get revenge for their 4-0 loss in India in 2016?

It promises to be a beauty.

In this cricket opinion piece, I will highlight four key things India need to get right to have a successful tour. By successful, I mean winning the ODI and Test series – the two series that have greater significance over the T20I series.

India won the T20I series, but how we rate whether they have had a successful England is via the ODI and Test series.

Here goes:

Key #1: The performance of India’s bowlers

ODIs:

Let’s start with the ODIs.

England took apart Australia’s bowlers in the 5-0 demolition, taking advantage of Australia’s inability to execute good lines and lengths throughout the innings.

With India, they possess two of the finest ODI bowlers in Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who can adjust their lines, lengths and pace depending on the conditions and situation. Unfortunately, Bumrah is out but India still have enough in their armoury to have a good series. For this to occur, Bhuvneshwar Kumar needs to find his best touch, after a shaky T20I series. 

In addition, we can’t forget the demolition job from Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav in the 5-1 series win in South Africa, and Umesh Yadav’s excellent IPL campaign. These three were very good in the T20Is. India have the resources in their bowling line up to keep England relatively quiet. No doubt this is key.

Tests:

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.

India’s pace attack looked threatening, admittedly on helpful surfaces, but if they can get the ball moving on a full length, England need to watch out. Bhuvneshwar Kumar started the 2014 tour of England absolutely brilliantly, but now that he has a little extra pace about him, he’ll be one to watch as leader of the attack.

These four have plenty to offer

Key #2: Virat Kohli

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.
He is such a key for India in this tour. If he has a poor series, I can’t see India winning. He 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.
If Kohli has a big series, you know India will have a big series, too.
Plenty depends on Virat Kohli

Key #3: Getting ahead

Despite India showing time-and-time again how good they are coming from behind to win an ODI series, this is a tour where they’d love to play from in front. In a three match ODI series, against a quality England team, it’s important to try and win that first game.
In the Tests, it’s also important to get in front, despite it being a longer series. In 2014, they were able to get in front after a special win at Lord’s, but then lost steam in the remaining Tests. Again, India can show us just how far they have come as a Test team if they maintain a strong level of performance across the five Tests.

PS enjoy the cricket today with discounted meals!

Key #4: India’s batting

This seems obvious, but there are specific things India need to get right to be successful.
The T20I series will be useful in assisting India’s big hitters to get some form ahead of the ODIs. With England boasting magnificent finishers, namely Jos Buttler, India’s middle order must stand up to win the ODI series. MS Dhoni was superb in the IPL, hitting 455 runs at 75.03 with a SR of 150. Can he be at his best in England? Can the likes of Suresh Raina and Hardik Pandya also step up? 
India’s middle order is said to be their achilles heel in ODI cricket in recent times, so these are big questions.
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 technique and temperament. 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 tour.
What impact will these two have?
——
So, with all that said, I can’t wait for the matches to begin. All three series could go either way, but the ODIs and Tests, looking at what’s at stake, will be particularly huge. If India are to win these series, I think these four factors are key.
PS enjoy the cricket today with discounted meals below!

England v Australia 5th ODI Preview

Charbel Coorey
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History for all the wrong reasons if you’re an Australia. For all the right reasons if you’re English. The way this series has panned out (expected, yes), history looks very likely.

England are on the verge of achieving their first ever 5-0 ODI series win over Australia, and in the lead up, they a trying to fool us a little. “I think 5-0 doesn’t really make a difference in the grand scheme of things”, says Eoin Morgan. So, can we just forget this match and end the series, then? Of course England would be motivated to beat the old enemy 5-0, and with their batsmen simply all over Australia’s bowlers, tipping anything other than an England win would be brave (and stupid).

Australia, before 2016, had never lost an ODI series 5-0. Now, they face the prospect of two in two years, after losing by the same margin against South Africa in 2016. Of course, Australia have it in them to fight back after a series like this, but the bowling, comprising of good T20 talent, has struggled badly in these ODIs. Can they somehow restrict England’s batting, and score more runs of their own, to avoid a series whitewash?

Key to an England win

In the last three ODIs, England have amassed 1,134 runs at 7.85 runs per over. The beast has awoken after a shock loss to Scotland, then a shaky batting display in the first ODI at The Oval. 
The top order, especially Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow, are in irresistible form. The key for England would be another strong opening stand to push Australia on the defensive, and then take advantage with a firing batting line up.
Also, England would have been pleased to restrict Australia to 310/8 on Thursday, when 330+ looked on the cards. Mark Wood showed encouraging signs, so too David Willey, so here is another opportunity to put on a decent showing in the quest for 5-0.
Jason Roy has been on fire

Key to an Australia win

Is it alright if I leave this blank?
Fine, I’ll think of something.
The fact that Joe Root bowled ten overs for 44 in the 4th ODI is major cause for disappointment. What’s that about? Root should not be achieving such figures on flat pitches. So, Australia need to be much more ruthless when the opportunity presents itself.
Also, how can Australia keep England’s batsmen somewhat quiet? A good start would be a couple of early wickets, and force England to rebuild for a little while. As they say, the best way to slow the scoring rate is to take wickets. Also, some yorkers at the death will help.
Shaun Marsh has performed well in this series.

Possible teams

For England, Craig Overton could miss out after a scratchy ODI debut on Thursday. Also, there is a chance Mark Wood will be rested, meaning Jake Ball could come in.
England XI: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Jonny Bairstow, 3. Alex Hales, 4. Joe Root, 5. Eoin Morgan (c), 6. Jos Buttler (wk), 7. Moeen Ali, 8. David Willey, 9. Liam Plunkett, 10. Adil Rashid, 11. Jake Ball/Mark Wood
Glenn Maxwell could return for Australia after missing the 4th ODI with a shoulder complaint.
Australia XI: 1. Aaron Finch, 2. Travis Head, 3. Shaun Marsh, 4. Marcus Stoinis, 5. Alex Carey, 6. Glenn Maxwell, 7. Tim Paine (c & wk), 8. Ashton Agar, 9. Jhye Richardson, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Billy Stanlake

Stats and Facts:

  • Australia had never lost an ODI series 5-0 before 2016.
  • England have never beaten any top nation 5-0 before. The last time they achieved this was v Zimbabwe in 2001.
  • Australia’s economy rate of 7.10 is the worst they have ever conceded in an ODI series of five or more matches.
  • Jason Roy (81 runs needed) and Jonny Bairstow (96 runs needed) are both with a chance of overtaking Alex Hales as the highest run getter in a single series for England (383 runs).
  • Australia need to win to move back to fifth in the ODI rankings.

Prediction:

England. Nothing more to say.
If you have some spare time, be sure to check out my funny (I hope) 4th ODI review!

West Indies v Sri Lanka 3rd Test Preview

Charbel Coorey
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This series wasn’t going to be the most memorable one on the calendar. However, it has delivered some fine moments, thanks to some wonderful individual performances. It has also offered controversy, which will impact the third and final Test, with still plenty to play for. The first Day/Night Test in the Caribbean could be where West Indies finally pick up their first home Test series win since 2014.

Before the series, if you thought West Indies were outsiders, you were not alone. I thought the same. The Windies have overcome their poor Test form over the last 18 months, and Sri Lanka’s encouraging run of results since October 2017, and sit very close to a cherished series win. Shannon Gabriel has been outstanding, notching up a 13-wicket haul in St. Lucia, breaking a bunch of records. They have lost two out of two Day/Night Test to date, but this represents their best opportunity for a win.

Sri Lanka are in all sorts. Their three key players – Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews and Rangana Herath will all be missing in this Test, in addition to the possibility of Chandimal, coach Chandika Hathurusinghe and manager Asanka Gurusinha facing suspensions. They were better with the ball in St Lucia (perhaps because it was tampered with), but they face a huge mountain to climb. Suranga Lakmal will lead – he will become Sri Lanka’s 8th captain in the last 12 months across formats. If Sri Lanka level the series, it will be a very memorable result.

Key to a West Indies win

There is serious pressure on Kusal Mendis now that Dinesh Chandimal, one of Sri Lanka’s key batsmen, had his appeal dismissed. This presents a magnificent opportunity for Shannon Gabriel and co to pounce, especially with the pink ball that could do plenty, particularly under lights.
In addition to Gabriel, Kemar Roach, Jason Holder and Miguel Cummins have all had some good moments in this series. On a Bridgetown pitch that typically favours seam bowling, Sri Lanka’s batsmen could be in for a very tough Test. It’s the job of the Windies bowlers to ensure that is the case.
Also, in St Lucia, all of the Windies’ top seven batsmen notched up double figures in the first innings. However, only two converted to half centuries. After knocking over Sri Lanka for 253, there was a chance to get a bigger first innings lead. Starts need to be converted better in Bridgetown.

Key to a Sri Lanka win

Do Australia have a better chance of avoiding an ODI series whitewash in England?
It’s difficult to see Sri Lanka winning this Test, but I believe they have a couple of key avenues to victory.
The performances of the seam bowlers in the 2nd Test would have encouraged all associated with Sri Lankan cricket, especially debutant Kasun Rajitha and Lahiru Kamara. There is so much onus on the Sri Lankan seamers to get it right with the pink ball, looking at how fragile their batting line up is.
Speaking of their fragile line up, 23 year old Kusal Mendis is vital to their chances. Thankfully for Sri Lanka, he has been in good form, notching up scores of 4, 102, 45 and 87. In four Test this year, he averages 72.71. Can he get some support from the likes of Gunathilaka (who’s likely to play), de Silva and Kusal Perera (who’s likely to move down the order)?

Predicted teams

Miguel Cummins has had some decent moments in this series, but needs more output. I still believe he will be picked and West Indies will go with the same XI.
West Indies XI: 1. Kraigg Brathwaite, 2. Devon Smith, 3. Kieran Powell, 4. Shai Hope, 5. Roston Chase, 6. Shane Dowrich (wk), 7. Jason Holder (c), 8. Devendra Bishoo, 9. Keemo Paul/Miguel Cummins, 10. Kemar Roach, 11. Shannon Gabriel
Sri Lanka will be without four Test regulars, which makes predicting their team quite difficult. Kusal Perera should be down the order, with Danushka Gunathilaka to open. Sri Lanka could go with this option.
Sri Lanka XI: 1. Danushka Gunathilaka, 2. Mahela Udawatte, 3. Dhananjaya de Silva, 4. Kusal Mendis, 5. Roshen Silva, 6. Kusal Perera, 7. Niroshan Dickwella (wk), 8. Suranga Lakmal (c), 9. Akila Dananjaya, 10. Kasun Rajitha, 11. Lahiru Kumara

Stats and Facts:

  • West Indies have not won a Test series against a team other than Bangladesh or Zimbabwe since 2012.
  • West Indies’ last home Test series win was in 2014 v Bangladesh.
  • Sri Lanka’s winless time in the Caribbean will continue. They have never won a Test series in West Indies.
  • Shannon Gabriel has taken 51 wickets at 23.49 since the start of 2017.
  • West Indies have won their two most recent Tests at Kensington Oval – vs. Pakistan and England.

Prediction

Sri Lanka look decimated at the moment, and it’s hard to see them win this Test. West Indies look far more settled, and their seam bowlers can exploit the conditions better. Weather permitting, I will confidently pick West Indies to win this Test and take the series 2-0. 

Will you laugh? 4th ODI England v Australia player ratings

Charbel Coorey
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0

Australia have travelled to England FOUR nothing.

I didn’t manage to write a preview for the 4th ODI, but another predictable result presents the perfect opportunity to write a light-hearted match review.

Yes, the World Cup will hold greater significance than this series, but Australia still don’t possess rubbish players. Sure, you can’t imagine seeing the likes of India, South Africa and other top sides shaking and shivering scared of this team, but the thrashings are still disappointing. Even Royal Challengers Bangalore would fancy a win against Australia at the moment. Could Glenn McGrath or Chris Martin even score runs as well?

Scotland were able to expose England’s shortcomings, and the fact Australia have barely come close to England so far is quite sad. It’s time to go back to the drawing board and focus on the basics. A good start would be to execute some damn yorkers. You know, the balls that are difficult for batsmen to get under. They have about 1,064 different types of balls they try to bowl, but are missing the basics. Knuckle balls, cutters, back of the hand, side of the hand, front of the hand, fast bouncer, slow bouncer, balls in the pads, short-wide balls and the good old length ball that is so hard to hit at the death (not).

The underarm delivery is looking tempting, too… They might try that before reverting to the yorkers.

For England, it’s been a good series. The 4th ODI further emphasised their dominance, but it remains to be seen whether they can translate it to tangible success in the future.

In this cricket opinion piece, I will go through each player from the 4th ODI and rate them out of ten! I’ll start with Australia. Some solace in a tough period.

Australia:

Aaron Finch: Century at the top and batted through to the 40th. Travis Head outscored him quite significantly in the early stages, though. 8.5

Travis Head: Adil Rashid owes him dinner for such a nice gift. It was so perfectly wrapped, with a nice little ribbon on top. Looked really good. Shame he didn’t kick on. 8

Shaun Marsh: Can you at the start of 2018 if someone said Shaun Marsh would be arguably Australia’s best ODI performer? Happy for Shaun, but I might start crying at the same time. 9

Marcus Stoinis: 1 run and no wickets. Another reason to start crying. 0

Ashton Agar: Went for six an over. Absolute scenes. That’s the equivalent of maiden after maiden in Tests. Couple of wickets, too. Did OK. 7

Alex Carey: Was rightly brought into the side, didn’t get much time at the crease, and then smoked one straight to deep midwicket. Tried to swing the Willey, but got it wrong. 2

Tim Paine: Tim is in a whole lot of Paine. 3

Michael Neser: If you got rating points for bowling on the pads when fine leg is up in the ring, Michael would get 20/10. Instead he gets two. 2

Jhye Richardson: Big learning curve for the young bloke. 1

Billy Stanlake: Was getting driven on the up a few times. Expensive outing and lacked impact, which was disappointing. 2

Nathan Lyon: The GOAT. Under six an over. Started bowling in the fifth over. Decent effort. 6

Special mention – Andrew Tye: Didn’t play this game but so what? Great century at Trent Bridge.

England

Jason Roy: Roy the boy. His amazing form continues. Thought he wouldn’t deliver any more favours to Australia after running himself out at Trent Bridge. Ruthless. 9.5

Jonny Bairstow: Nearly scored his fifth hundred in seven matches. Got out to a ball that should have been smashed to the fence? 9

Alex Hales: 45 balls for 34? What is this nonsense? All jokes aside, still a very composed effort for England after smashing Australia at Trent Bridge like they were an under 11s side.

No, no that’s unfair…. on the under 11s. 8

Joe Root: That Joe Root gave away only 44 in his ten overs is cause for massive celebrations. Can’t believe Australia would let him get away with that. Played a couple of decent shots in the chase, too. 7.5

Eoin Morgan: Paid a tribute to Shane Watson and reviewed when he was out. Led him team pretty well in the field when Australia were on track for 330+. 4

Jos Buttler: Send Jos to Australia and give him an Australian citizenship. Is it possible, please? 42 of his 54 runs came in boundaries. Carnage to end the game. 9

Moeen Ali: Seven fruitless overs for 43 and then chilled out watching his teammates take apart Australia again. 4

David Willey: Bit of a tough start for Willey but then came good towards the end of the innings. Took four and kept Australia to a lower-than-desired score. 7

Craig Overton: Craig kept getting hit OverTheBoundary. Not the answer for England’s pace attack in ODIs, in my opinion. 2

Adil Rashid: Should take Travis Head out for dinner for gifting a wicket off a long-hop filthier than Australia’s death (especially) bowling. Took two wickets but was expensive. 5

Mark Wood: Before Willey came good, Wood took two in the 40th to start the loss of momentum for Australia. Wood and Willey combining. Geez. 7

Final word: 5-0 whitewash incoming. No more to say.

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