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3rd Test Preview: South Africa v Australia – Spicy contest simmering nicely

Charbel Coorey
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Things have just got SPICY! I don’t know about you, but I’m loving this.

The competition, the fire, the tension. The cricket has been great, and it’s about to get even better.

Like the second Test, there has so much off-field incident in the lead up to the Cape Town Test, which promises to be an absolute beauty. Kagiso Rabada was banned, then not, then frowned upon by Australian captain Steve Smith, which means we are all so very excited for the battle that will take place on the picturesque Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town. No other form of cricket can bring this kind of drama to us, and hopefully the third Test incident-free and we talk about the cricket only in the aftermath.

Not in recent history can I remember so much talk between Tests, which has replicated the emotion and intensity of an actual match among fans. Opinion has been split on whether Rabada should play, which adds to the drama. In my opinion, Kagiso Rabada playing in this Test is good for Test Cricket, because people are talking about and looking forward to watching Test cricket, and Rabada playing adds spice to a simmering contest.

Australia, simply brilliant in Durban, were wiped out in Port Elizabeth by Kagiso Rabada and AB de Villiers in particular. However, if they focus on just those two for South Africa, it is very easy to see them getting blind-sighted by the likes of Vernon Philander, who has an extraordinary record in Cape Town, as well as the likes of Faf du Plessis, Dean Elgar and Hashim Amla, who have yet to put a huge stamp on the series, but have the potential to do so.

The same applies for South Africa. Resting on their laurels, and simply assuming Rabada and de Villiers will repeat their heroics is a very big mistake against a dangerous Australia line up. Australia possess arguably the best attack in the world, and if AB de Villiers doesn’t fire, who else will be stepping up for the Proteas? It makes for a super contest. Test cricket is alive and kicking right now.

Key to a South Africa win

The two South Africa teams that have turned up in this series have been unrecognizable from each other.
In Durban, they were very passive in their approach, allowing the Australians to dictate terms, which is the perfect recipe for defeat. In Port Elizabeth, going with the spice theme once again, South Africa changed their recipe, implemented a much more aggressive game plan, and reaped the rewards.
South Africa’s batting will once again be under the spotlight. Their improved performance in Port Elizabeth was heartening to see from a South African perspective, after a superb bowling performance led by Kagiso Rabada. However, even if Australia deal with KG better this time around, they’ll have the likes of Vernon Philander to contend with, who has taken 47 wickets at 16.34 in Tests at Cape Town, including 5/15 on Test debut when Australia were all out for 47. The batting of Dean Elgar and Hashim Amla was a positive for South Africa in the last Test, and if there is less reliance on AB de Villiers, South Africa will give their bowlers a good total to play with.

Key to an Australia win

The beast that is Australia is well and truly awake.
Expect Australia to come out all guns blazing, as backing down from a battle is not in their blood. Steve Smith was highly critical of Rabada being allowed to play, but how he and his teammates deal with Rabada and South Africa’s bowlers is crucial to the result.
Also, can Australia continue their success against South Africa’s top order? Apart from AB de Villiers, who sits top of the run scoring charts, and Aiden Markram, thanks to his hundred in Durban,  you’d have to scroll all the way to number seven to find a South African on the leading run scoring charts. That is Quinton de Kock, who has 112 runs, made up mostly of his 80-odd in the second innings in Durban.
Australia sense an opportunity to get into the South Africa line-up, where Amla is averaging 22 for the series, Elgar 19 and Du Plessis 10.

Possible teams

A couple of changes to the South Africa team could be the case for this Test. Temba Bavuma is now said to be fit, and should replace Theunis De Bruyn. Also, Lungi Ngidi is in doubt with a toe issue, meaning Morne Morkel could be in the frame. South Africa’s focus will be to play that aggressive cricket that was so successful for them. However, Kagiso Rabada in particular has to be careful, as any charge will mean he misses the fourth Test.
South Africa possible XI: 1. Dean Elgar, 2. Aiden Markram, 3. Hashim Amla, 4. AB de Villiers, 5. Faf Du Plessis (c), 6. Temba Bavuma, 7. Quinton de Kock (wk), 8. Vernon Philander, 9. Keshav Maharaj, 10. Kagiso Rabada, 11. Morne Morkel/Lingi Ngidi
The Australians will be pumped. It has been a while since they have been under pressure like this in Test cricket, especially after such a smooth Ashes campaign. On pitches that aren’t flat, Australia’s batsmen have struggled over the years, and this will be a sure test of their character. Can Mitchell Starc find the rhythm he had in Durban? Can Josh Hazlewood make an impact at the top? How will the batsmen deal with Rabada and co? Makes for a great contest – expect Australia to stick with the same XI.
Australia possible XI: 1. Cameron Bancroft, 2. David Warner, 3. Usman Khawaja, 4. Steve Smith (c), 5. Shaun Marsh, 6. Mitchell Marsh, 7. Tim Paine (wk), 8. Patrick Cummins, 9. Mitchell Starc, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Josh Hazlewood

Stats & Facts:

  • Australia were bowled out for 47 in 2011, and then won their next Test in Cape Town, making scores of 494 and 303 in 2014.
  • The last time Australian star captain Steve Smith went three Tests without a hundred was in 2016 against South Africa.
  • No Australia player has made a century in this series so far. The time is now for the Aussies.

Prediction:

The pitch in Cape Town looks to have a good covering of grass on it, and if it plays in any way similar to the Test against India in January, the batsmen will have a tough time of things.
Both sides have the bowlers to win the game for their respective teams, but which batting side will stand up more? These questions add to the intrigue ahead of the Test, and shows that this game will be a beauty. A prediction is very difficult to make, especially as I don’t expect the result to be a draw on this Cape Town track. I think South Africa are better equipped, thanks to the AB factor, to deal with the moving ball. However, if Smith can outplay AB on a seaming pitch, Australia will be in the box seat.
For this game, I’ll pick South Africa to win in another fiery contest, thanks to the confidence that KG and AB bring to the team, which can enable the others to perform well.

1st Test Preview: Can England rise from their “winter from hell” in NZ?

Charbel Coorey
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Hell has been terribly cold for England fans back home, witnessing their team surrender the Ashes with a 4-0 loss, which put into perspective how much England have regressed over the last two or three years. Much has been said and written since then, with the likes of Geoffrey Boycott extremely vocal about what England need to do moving forward. Their chance to move on begins with an assignment in New Zealand which could bring them some joy, with Auckland conditions under lights in March somewhat mirroring what they’d get back home.

England’s fortunes in ODIs since then is a far cry for their Test woes. In their last ten away Tests, they have lost eight, and in the recent Ashes series, they were in the series for a total three days in Brisbane, and one in Adelaide. That was it. Stuart Broad and Alastair Cook in particular came under question in Australia, and while the latter saved face with an unbeaten 244 in Melbourne, how they go in New Zealand will be interesting.

Stuart Broad bowled plenty of pies in the Ashes…

In the midst of an Ashes nightmare, there were a couple of potential dreams for England. Mark Stoneman, especially early in the series, showed he could hang in there against the world’s best attack, and will need to build on his starts if he wants to spend years at the top for England. I’m especially keen to see how Dawid Malan performs in this series, on the back of being one of England’s best in a sadly beaten side in Australia. I think he should bat at three and replace James Vince. England will also welcome the return of Ben Stokes, who was a key absentee in the Ashes, and I believe he has some making up to do.

One relief for England is now finally playing a Test match where Steve Smith isn’t involved. Just like the ICC is unable to get rid of its incompetency, England just couldn’t get rid of the brilliant Smith, whose appetite for runs against a broken England attack was incredible to see.

New Zealand will be a nuisance for England, no doubt, and the key to this is displaying the same desire. The last time New Zealand hosted England in Tests was in 2013, which ended in one of the most thrilling 0-0 draws you’ll ever see, as Matt Prior and Monty Panesar held on for a last-gasp draw. Ross Taylor looks in career-best form at the moment, and Kane Williamson will be keen to rediscover his form, which at the moment, is a little patchy. The Black Caps certainly have the bowlers in Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Neil Wagner to test England, especially under lights where the pink ball typically moves around the most.

However, New Zealand have struggled to adequately hold their own against the big boys of Test cricket. Since 2012, New Zealand have played 29 Tests against the other current top five sides, winning just two times. Even at home, they’ve won one out of 13 Tests played. The Black Caps have to see this is as their best chance to beat England – the last time they achieved this was in 1999. With England vulnerable, and New Zealand possessing a well-balanced side, the time is now for Kane Williamson’s men.

Key to a New Zealand win

What impact will the quartet of Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, Trent Boult and Tim Southee have?
While I guess it is unfair to leave the excellent Neil Wagner out of this, these four have been some of New Zealand’s finest cricketers, and each will have a very important role to play. Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor are two of the finest batsmen New Zealand has produced, and have the potential to remind England of their Australian nightmares with the ball. Trent Boult and Tim Southee can certainly get the pink ball hooping around, and if they do, England could be in more Test match pain.
New Zealand have been excellent against the likes of West Indies and Bangladesh in Test cricket, but this is a great chance to beat a current top five side.

Key to an England win

What impact can their bowlers, and Joe Root have?
Out of the bowling group, only James Anderson left Australia with his pride intact. Stuart Broad was extremely wasteful and unthreatening, and it will be interesting to see if his apparent change in action works. Auckland under lights may very well bring success for these too, but they must pitch the ball up.
In their last day/night Test, in Adelaide, England were abysmal in the first innings, bowling way too short. In the second innings under lights, they got the ball swinging and were a handful for Australia. James Anderson took five, and Chris Woakes four. They’ll be hoping for the same here.
In addition, the performance of Joe Root will be key to England’s chances. His poor conversion rate has been spoken of in length, and here is a chance to take the first steps to improving it. He is a class player, and will want to benefit his team more with centuries.

Predicted teams:

In disappointing news for New Zealand, Mitch Santner, who was superb in the ODIs for England, won’t be available as he undergoes knee surgery that will keep him out for nine months. Kane Williamson will miss his control, and will be interesting to see how they replace him. Colin de Grandhomme will most probably occupy the number six spot, with BJ Watling coming back to the number seven slot. Todd Astle is the spinning option, if they do indeed choose to go with a spinner.
New Zealand XI: 1. Tom Latham, 2. Jeet Raval, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Henry Nicholls, 6. Colin de Grandhomme, 7. BJ Watling (wk), 8. Todd Astle, 9. Tim Southee, 10. Neil Wagner, 11. Trent Boult
Serious questions for England here. I think Mark Stoneman should get first crack at the opening spot, but do England stick with “20, 30 and out” James Vince, who continues to disappoint after 12 Tests? Should Dawid Malan be promoted to three, after a solid Ashes? How will Moeen Ali be used? Does Liam Livingstone get a shot? What will be the make up of their attack?
For England to win, they need to be clear in their thinking. One thing going for them though is the return of Stokes, who provides England with a better all-rounder option than New Zealand have.
England XI: 1. Alastair Cook, 2. Mark Stoneman, 3. Dawid Malan, 4. Joe Root (c), 5. Ben Stokes, 6. Jonny Bairstow (wk), 7. Moeen Ali, 8. Chris Woakes, 9. Stuart Broad, 10. Mark Wood, 11. James Anderson

Stats & Facts:

  • The last time New Zealand beat England in a Test series was in 1999.
  • Joe Root averages 17.60 in New Zealand, and 39.53 against them overall, his lowest in Tests.
  • Stuart Broad needs one wicket to reach 400 Test wickets. He is also 44 runs away from achieving 3,000 Test runs, which will make him just the ninth player in Test history to achieve the double of 3,000 runs/400 wickets.

Prediction:

Long winter for England, and still lots of question marks about the make up of their side.
The key in this Test is which batting line up holds up better under lights. The battle between the big guns – Taylor and Williamson v Cook and Root promises to be a beauty, and so too the battle between the bowling line ups. These battles make it very difficult to make a prediction, but I will go with New Zealand to win, simply because they are more certain about the make up of their line up, and are up against a vulnerable England side.

Why Kagiso Rabada being cleared is great for Test cricket

Charbel Coorey
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Kagiso Rabada has been cleared. Common sense has prevailed. The ongoing Test series between South Africa and Australia, beautifully poised at 1-1, no longer feels ruined.

The decision to overturn Kagiso Rabada’s ban is not only good for this series, but good for Test cricket. For me, as an Australian, it’s not just about this series – the bigger picture needs to be looked at.

Test cricket is battling like it has never battled before. It is plodding along, passing aimlessly in the passing eye of the younger generation and commercially-minded administrators. In the world of T20 and commercialization, Test cricket in the present is often ignored, and its future constantly questioned. What Test cricket needs is PASSION, and KG has it in spades, and the ICC wanted him banned over some send offs. KG has fans watching and talking about Test cricket, with the IPL just weeks away. Unthinkable, right?

I bet you that kids are running to stadiums and their TV screens to watch KG bowl. In the years ahead, more kids will want to be just like KG, dominating Test cricket, in the world of IPL, BBL and the like. KG is the fire that Test cricket needs to keep burning. He has people interested. Please, stop picking on him for things many other cricketers do.

I’m in no way condoning any bad behaviour, but intimidation and fire from a fast bowler should never be punished. The best fast bowlers in history all had fire in the belly. As a fast bowler, your job is not to be nice. Your job is to be aggressive, get in the face of the opposition, especially if the opposition are the masters at doing it themselves.

The best fast bowlers to ever play the game all had the aggression needed to succeed at Test level. Sure, things got out of hand at times, but overreactions like we’ve had with KG is not the solution. Dennis Lillee, one of the finest ever to play the game, had the intelligence, quality and belief, all stemming from his mindset that he is better than the batsman, thanks to his aggressive, in your face attitude. His fight with Javed Miandad was a hell of a lot worse than what KG is doing now, so perspective needs to be taken. The West Indian pace attack of the 1970s and 1980s was frightening – were they nice? Absolutely not. Were they in your face? Most certainly yes. It’s why they were so successful.

Even the modern day greats fill the same quota. Glenn McGrath, a magnificent man off the field, was aggressive on the field, and the snowflake-like cricketing world today would have severely frowned upon him. And let’s not forget the great Dale Steyn. Those eyes. The aggression. I’m sure you can think of many others too. It’s Test cricket!

Kevin Pietersen summed things up brilliantly in a recent tweet: 

Test cricket is the toughest form of cricket, and I’m sorry, but Kagiso Rabada even getting charged for what he did is total rubbish. What Shakib Al Hasan and Bangladesh did last Friday against Sri Lanka was much worse, yet not much was spoken about it, and they got away with a slap of the wrist.

It’s time to stop picking on KG, and rather appreciate his brilliance and what he’s doing for our game. This kid has the potential to be an all-time great, as he is the burst of energy the flailing game of Test cricket needs. We can now focus properly on what matters – the third Test, which promises to be a beauty. KG is part of it, to the benefit of the beautiful game that is Test cricket!

Today is a good day.

12 hilarious cricket tweets that will make you laugh out loud

Charbel Coorey
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It’s been an eventful few weeks in the cricket world, and you can always count on fans on Twitter to make you laugh! Plenty has gone on – drama in the Nidahas Trophy, KG v Australia and the ICC, PSL 2018 and the World Cup Qualifiers.

I’ve compiled the tweets I found really funny over the last week or so, and give a shout out to all who put them together!

1. Beauty from @swing_seam:

During the heated exchanges at the end of the Sri Lanka v Bangladesh match, the winner was this tweet. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka nearly traded blows in an attempt to reach the final against India, which was the perfect opportunity for a cheeky tweet by an India fan aimed at the Asian rivals… You’ve got to love it.

Bangladesh nearly proved you wrong, mate, but they ended up runners up! All the drama in the end was certainly to be the runners up – superb tweet.

Be sure to give @swing_seam a follow!

2. The picture on the left had me in tears…

 
 
 
 
@LadyCharlotte01, this is brilliant!
As you all know, Steve Smith was brutally hit by Kagiso Rabada after being dismissed in the first innings of the 2nd Test. The Australian captain needed an ambulance, and all players paid respect by stopping play for 15 minutes, the number of headaches Smith has had since then after such a huge knock.
Cricket Babe is always posting awesome stuff, be sure to give her a follow!

3. Kagiso Rabada is so good that he can even remove Arsene Wenger!

I am also a football fan and support Arsenal, so I found this tweet by @simphiwe_majola so damn good!
Arsene Wenger has been manager for 21 years at Arsenal and has been in decline for at least three years. The board won’t remove him, and he won’t go, but KG is good enough to remove him! Great tweet!

4.  Snicko will tell us more!

@DirkiePret went to UltraEdge to detect any contact, and even the latest technology in the cricket world couldn’t detect anything! Had a huge chuckle at the “review” comment…
 
The ICC has carried on as if the UltraEdge was bigger than Stuart Broad’s edge to Michael Clarke in the 2015 Ashes in England, where he didn’t walk.
Brilliant tweet, sir.

5. Thoughts and prayers…

@MaxduPreez raising awareness of Steve Smith’s need for support in this hour of need.
 
Word on the street is that the ICC has donated US$10 million to the #RabadaAppeal instead of bothering to televise more games in the World Cup Qualifiers. Priorities, ICC…
 
 

6. Backed up beautifully…

@Whamzam17, going by the big donation by the ICC to the #RabadaAppeal, it is still very possible that Steve Smith’s career could be over after that shoulder barge.
 
Super reply!
 
 

7. Creativity at its finest…

Bangladesh, after beating Sri Lanka to reach the Nidahas Trophy Final, broke out in the “Nagin Dance” in the centre of the field, by which all Sri Lanka fans were pretty much like “yep, we’re supporting India in the final”.
 
@Sirbumrah93 posted this beauty of players photoshopped onto actors from Bajatey Raho, a movie I have no idea about, but still had me laughing as I searched the original clips. Sir, I still don’t know who made this, but since I first came across it through you, I say well done to you.
 
 

8.  Not today, you don’t!

A video of a child grabbing the neck of a bird as it tried to take its food went viral over the last few weeks.
 
@Chainaka used it perfectly as a way of saying to Bangladesh that they still have to wait for their first ever win in T20Is v India and first win in finals… Dinesh Karthik stole it!
 
 
 

9. Yes, the ICC continues to make us all laugh…

Come on, ICC. You can’t donate against the #RabadaAppeal and then make it as if you love him.
@PoppingCreaseSA put it perfectly… “hey let’s praise this kid, tell everyone how much we love watching him play, but we’ll do everything we can to ban him!”
Super tweet. Be sure to give @PoppingCreaseSA a follow for excellent cricket content.

10. ICC will still find a reason to ban him, @titchdefyne…

If South Africa want Kagiso Rabada to play as many games as possible, they should take advice from @titchdefyne
What a brilliant caption!
 

11. The final step!

As a Bangladesh fan, I’m heartbroken at another loss in a final, but this is a brilliant tweet deserving of all those likes and retweets! Bangladesh have made the Nagin Dance famous in this tournament, and showed it off (which was cocky) after beating Sri Lanka in a spiteful clash two days before the final.
Pictured is a distraught Soumya Sarkar who bowled the last over. @zZoker delivered when it counted, sending Twitter into laughter just as Bangladesh lost.

12. ICC: “We are really smart! We care so much about the Associate Nations and the World Cup Qualifiers! Oh wait…”

@jperry_cricket exposed the ICC and their stupid mistakes, mixing up the results in the Scotland v Zimbabwe match at the 2018 World Cup Qualifiers. It was a memorable match that finished in a tie, but it clearly wasn’t memorable enough for the ICC.
Didn’t know a tie was a loss for one team and a win for another…
Laughed at loud at this… Good work ICC.
Also, @jperry_cricket put out a magnificent article on the World Cup Qualifiers and how the ICC is thinking short term. It is a quality read, make sure you check it out here.
——Any other tweets you found hilarious! Be sure to share them with me! I’d like to make this kind of post a regular one.

——

Nidahas Trophy Final: Preview – India v Bangladesh

Charbel Coorey
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The great news is that it is not another India v Sri Lanka cricket match! It’s the team that smashes fours and sixes vs. the team that smashes dressing rooms.

In case you didn’t know who these teams are, one is India and the other Bangladesh, who are coming off a controversial but enthralling two wicket win over rivals Sri Lanka. Both teams’ fans have joined in unison in trolling Sri Lanka fans on social media, but there will be no love lost in a final where bragging rights are up for grabs.

Bangladesh successfully stopped another India v SL match from happening.

India have bossed this tournament after their opening loss to Sri Lanka, and will be pleased about executing better since that match. The bowlers have been key to their performances, restricting both Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to below-par scores in their next two games, and then becoming the only team in this tournament to successfully defend a total in their last meeting against Bangladesh. Rohit Sharma returning to form is also pleasing for India, and their death hitting against Bangladesh will give them belief they can put in close to a complete performance again. Like a boxing match, India look the heavyweight in this clash, and if they can land their punches, they’ll be lifting the trophy.

For Bangladesh, they need to pretend the cricket ball is a dressing room window. If they do, they’ll be smashing balls into the crowd like Mahmudullah did the other night in a magnificent match-winning innings. It would be wonderful to see Bangladesh win, simply because they have suffered heartache after heartache in finals in multi-team tournaments, but they need to show more composure at key times throughout the match.

In 2009, Bangladesh lost the final of an ODI Tri-Series involving Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, Bangladesh lost by two wickets after they had Sri Lanka 6/5. In the 2012 Asia Cup Final, they lost by two runs to Pakistan, and then lost the 2016 Asia Cup Final, which was a T20I tournament, to India. They then lost another final less than two months ago in an ODI Tri Series against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. Will they be luckier this time? Will they be doing the “nagin dance” come the end of this match

Key to an India win

This tournament has given us a real look into the talent of Washington Sundar. The 18 year old leads the wicket taking charts with seven after four matches, and his displayed excellent control, going for less than six an over.
The key for India is another solid display with the ball, as their batting has what it takes to score against a Bangladesh side that is struggling bowling at the death. India possess four of the top five wicket takers in this tournament, and if they all click one final time, it could be a tough outing for Bangladesh.

Key to a Bangladesh win

Well, considering Bangladesh are outsiders in this game, they need to focus on two key things, rather than one, to improve their cricket, and finally get a win over India in T20Is.
First, their death bowling is a big concern. Bangladesh seem to work in “halves” when it comes to death bowling – either a “half” volley or a “half” tracker. In the last game, they had Sri Lanka 53/5 off ten overs, and went on to concede 106 in the last ten overs. Mustafizur Rahman, who was sitting on 2/4 off two overs, went onto conceded 2/39 off his four overs – this has to change against India, as they possess a better bowling line up than Sri Lanka, which means runs will be harder to come by. Also, what is this rubbish about not bowling left-arm spinners to left handed batsmen? Shakib, one of the best T20 bowlers going around, refused to bowl himself in key moments of Sri Lanka’s innings. As a massive Shakib fan, he started brilliantly with his leadership, but then fell away as the game went on, headlined by the feisty end to the match.
Another key for Bangladesh is how they deal with India’s variety. India’s bowlers have employed a battery of deliveries in this tournament – different types of slower balls, knuckle balls, bouncers, yorkers, you name it. Bangladesh need to focus on keeping the scoreboard ticking, and that might mean having one player go hard at one end, and another knocking it around at the other. This will be a big test of their cricketing mettle.

Predicted teams:

For India, the Nidahas Trophy was considered an opportunity to test their bench strength, and their cricket has been excellent to date. They have passed with flying colours. Expect the Indians to go in with the same team that beat Bangladesh a few nights ago, except for Jaydev Unadkat or Axar Patel possibly coming in for Mohammad Siraj, who had an expensive outing last time around.
India XI: 1. Rohit Sharma (c), 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Suresh Raina, 4. Dinesh Karthik (wk), 5. KL Rahul, 6. Manish Pandey, 7. Vijay Shankar, 8. Washington Sundar, 9. Shardul Thakur, 10. Jaydev Unadkat, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal
Do Bangladesh make any changes? Should Sabbir Rahman get another chance? Stick with the same bowlers? Should Shakib bat higher? What’s the point of playing Nazmul Islam if he’s not going to bowl to left handers? Bangladesh have more questions than India, but to avoid confusion, could stick with the same line up that has got them to the final.
Bangladesh XI: 1. Tamim Iqbal, 2. Liton Das, 3. Soumya Sarkar, 4. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5. Mahmudullah, 6. Shakib Al Hasan, 7. Sabbir Rahman, 8. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 9. Mustafizur Rahman, 10. Rubel Hossain, 11. Nazmul Islam

Stats and Facts:

  • Bangladesh have lost all finals they have played in since 2009.
  • India have won all seven matches against Bangladesh in T20Is.
  • Interestingly, Bangladesh lost to Sri Lanka twice in T20Is at home last month, and now beat them twice in Sri Lanka to reach the final.

Prediction:

The first game between these two sides in the Nidahas Trophy was incredibly boring and terribly one-sided. In the second game, Bangladesh improved, and as the series has gone on, they have got better.
However, India, even without some of their biggest stars, still look better-rounded than Bangladesh. You can have more trust in India delivering when it counts, and I think they will. My heart says Bangladesh, but head says India. Whatever happens, here’s to a good game.

Nidahas Trophy – 6th T20I Preview: Virtual semi-final for Sri Lanka and Bangladesh

Charbel Coorey
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If you’re sick of India v Sri Lanka matches, you’d surely be hoping for a Bangladesh win. Well, unless you’re a Sri Lanka fan I guess, but surely even they are sick of seeing their team play (and often lose) to India. For the sake of Sri Lanka’s “revival” (and Daniel Alexander’s Twitter which will get hammered by India fans), reaching the final of this tournament is the minimum requirement.

Just since July 2017, India and Sri Lanka have played each other in 20 matches across formats, which is absolutely ridiculous. Bangladesh stand in the way of match number 21, as this match is a virtual semi final – winner goes through to the final.

Can Bangladesh stop ANOTHER Sri Lanka v India match?

Sri Lanka have lost the plot somewhat after their excellent first up win against India. Both India and Sri Lanka have veered in opposite directions – India have won three games in a row, and Sri Lanka have lost two, finding themselves in a sudden death situation as the home nation. Their bowling fell in a heap when they failed to defend 214 against Bangladesh, and then their batting struggled against India, losing too many wickets en route to 152/9.

For Bangladesh, my man Shakib Al Hasan makes his return to their squad. One of my favourite cricketers, Shakib was originally ruled out of the tournament, and his return will provide much needed support with the ball, as well as extra experience and quality with the bat. Bangladesh showed good signs against India in a more competitive showing, however their death bowling is of concern, and they need to fix their issues in this must-win game.

Sri Lanka coach Chandika Hathurusinghe, previously Bangladesh coach, has ramped up the pressure ahead of this clash, claiming that Bangladesh are taking a desperate measure bringing Shakib back if he’s not fully fit. Chandika, the Bangladeshis chased 215 against your boys last week without Shakib – shouldn’t the focus be on your team instead?

Nonetheless, this should be an interesting clash.

Key to a Sri Lanka win

Can the bowlers put on a better showing?
Can the bowlers put on a show that ensures Daniel Alexander doesn’t cop a barrage of trolling on Twitter after his team fails to make a final at home against Bangladesh and a weakened India?
In all seriousness, yes, I spoke of their disappointing batting effort against India, but their bowlers are leaking plenty of runs at the moment. A week ago, Bangladesh chased down 214, when their previous best chase in T20I history was in the 160s. That is the biggest concern for Sri Lanka.
Against Bangladesh, despite Shakib’s return, expect Sri Lanka’s batsman to have a pretty good time of things. Sri Lanka’s top order has been impressive in this series, especially the two Kusals – Kusal Mendis and Kusal Perera. However, the likes of Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Pradeep have struggled to execute their lengths, and Sri Lanka find themselves in this sudden-death position because of their poor execution with the ball. Expect that to be their big focus in this game.

Key to a Bangladesh win

Can the possible return of Shakib lead to a better bowling display for Bangladesh? If he doesn’t play, will Bangladesh’s bowlers show improvement? Bowling coach Courtney Walsh has spoken of the need for an improved bowling performance, and he’s right…
In this tournament, Bangladesh have missed Shakib’s services with the ball especially. Against India in the previous match, Bangladesh leaked 79 runs in the last six overs, and eventually fell short by 17 runs. To have a chance in this match, they need a consistent bowling performance, headlined by Mustafizur Rahman in particular, who unfortunately hasn’t been able to reach the heights he reached before his major shoulder injury.
Also, with the bat, support is required for Mushfiqur Rahim. He seemed to play the lone hand in the previous game against India, which saw Bangladesh fall short. In the match before that against Sri Lanka, Tamim and Liton were superb at the top, setting the tone for the innings. Mahmudullah has had a quiet tournament so far, so there is no better time than now to get things right.

Predicted teams:

Don’t expect too many changes for Sri Lanka. They need to pick up their game to avoid an early exit of a competition they are hosting. It will be disastrous after talking about a “revival”.
Sri Lanka XI: 1. Danusha Gunathilaka, 2. Kusal Mendis, 3. Kusal Perera (wk), 4. Upul Tharanga, 5. Thisara Perera (c), 6. Dasun Shanaka, 7. Jeevan Mendis, 8. Akila Dananjaya, 9. Suranga Lakmal, 10. Dushmantha Chameera, 11 Nuwan Pradeep
Pending a fitness test, Shakib is likely to return to the Bangladesh side. He batted very well in the recent ODI Tri-Series against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe at number three. It will be interesting to see where he bats for Bangladesh if he plays. Nazmul Islam is likely to miss out.
Bangladesh XI: 1. Tamim Iqbal, 2. Soumya Sarkar, 3. Liton Das, 4. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5. Mahmudullah, 6. Shakib Al Hasan (c), 7. Sabbir Rahman, 8. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 9. Mustafizur Rahman, 10. Rubel Hossain, 11. Abu Hider

Stats & Facts:

  • Kusal Mendis in T20Is this year: 246 runs at 49.20 with four fifties in five matches.
  • In the last meeting, Bangladesh achieved their highest ever chase, mowing down 214 set by Sri Lanka.
  • Mahmudullah has scored just 32 runs in three innings. Will the return of captain Shakib release the pressure?

Prediction:

This promises to be a very interesting match, and the return of Shakib might shift this in Bangladesh’s favour. Even though he might be a little rusty, Shakib will have plenty to offer, and walks into a Bangladesh side that has improved as the tournament has gone on. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, have got worse, and could struggle to deal with the pressure of missing the final.
I have a feeling Bangladesh will win in a close game, because they will play with a mindset of “having nothing to lose”. Bangladesh have the talent to expose any Sri Lanka nerves, and I think Sri Lanka will have a few. Bangladesh to progress to the final.

Nidahas Trophy: 5th T20I Preview – Please Bangladesh, help avoid another India v Sri Lanka match!

Charbel Coorey
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I mentioned in my last preview that India and Sri Lanka play each other more often than Donald Trump stirs up controversy.

I tried to talk up the last India v Sri Lanka clash as a “high stakes” clash in this series, but received a reply on Twitter that said “stakes as high as a hollow tree”, which was funny, but true. The beautiful thing here is that if Bangladesh put two good performances in their remaining two games, we might see a non India v Sri Lanka final. It starts here against India, and the Tigers will be hoping for some revenge after being thrashed by India first up.

Bangladesh v India in T20Is reminds me of a little brother that tries to beat his big brother – Bangladesh are yet to win a T20I against India in six attempts. Bangladesh have tried unsuccessfully, and now have the confidence of an amazing chase of 214 against Sri Lanka. However, India have been super impressive with the ball, restricting both Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to below par scores in the last two games. Bangladesh will need to repeat their batting heroics from the previous game to have a sniff here.

Key to a Bangladesh win

Can they repeat their batting heroics against the best bowling attack so far in the tournament?

Captain Mahmudullah has spoken of finding Bangladesh’s identity in T20I cricket, which is great to see. Over the years, Bangladesh have struggled in the format, and will be hoping their incredible victory against Sri Lanka is the catalyst for a good run of results.

Bangladesh’s top order was superb by Sri Lanka, headlined by Mushfiqur Rahim’s amazing 72* off 35 balls. Tamim and Liton were awesome too, giving Bangladesh a rocket start, and the difference in their innings compared to the India game was incredible to see. Repeating it again will be key here.

Key to an India win

In their previous meeting against Bangladesh, India forced 68 dot balls, restricting Bangladesh to 139/8.
Doing the same this time around could be more difficult against a more confident batting line up, but the Indians will take heart from their good bowling performance against Sri Lanka as well. Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur were instrumental in destroying the Sri Lankans, and will need to ensure they show no complacency against a Bangladesh side looking to build on recent gains.
Also, India will be wanting more from Rohit Sharma to ease pressure on the rest of the top order. If Rohit can fire, watch out Bangladesh.

Predicted teams:

If Bangladesh win, they put themselves in pole position to book a spot in the final ahead of hosts Sri Lanka. Ohhh my goodness, if Sri Lanka miss out on the final at home against Bangladesh and a weakened India, could you imagine the trolling Daniel Alexander will receive?! That will be something no one would want to miss!
Anyway, I expect Bangladesh to stick with a similar line up when they beat Sri Lanka, and will be hoping for much better from their bowlers who were carted around for plenty. Taskin Ahmed could very well miss out in this game after a tough outing v Sri Lanka, and so too Sabbir Rahman, who continues to frustrate all associated with Bangladesh.
Bangladesh XI: 1. Tamim Iqbal, 2. Liton Das, 3. Soumya Sarkar, 4. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5. Mahmudullah (c), 6. Sabbir Rahman, 7. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 8. Taskin Ahmed, 9. Mustafizur Rahman, 10. Rubel Hossain, 11. Nazmul IslamIndia are likely to stay with the same team that beat Sri Lanka

India XI: 1. Rohit Sharma (c), 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. KL Rahul, 4. Suresh Raina, 5. Manish Pandey, 6. Dinesh Karthik (wk), 7. Vijay Shankar, 8. Washington Sundar, 9. Yuzvendra Chahal, 10. Shardul Thakur, 11. Jaydev Unadkat

Stats & Facts:

  • India have beaten Bangladesh in all six meetings between the two sides.
  • If India win, they are through to the final.
  • In the previous meeting between the sides in this tournament, Bangladesh played out 11.2 overs in dot balls.

Prediction:

Hopefully the weather holds because if it does, we could be in for an interesting game. I expect it to be less one-sided than the previous India-Bangladesh game, with Bangladesh likely gaining so much confidence from their magnificent chase against Sri Lanka.
My heart says Bangladesh, and while my head also says they are a good chance, India have a better bowling line up than Sri Lanka to restrict Bangladesh. India to win in a tight game.

PLAYER RATINGS: Kagiso Rabada to move to rugby?!

Charbel Coorey
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How the ICC perceives the “shoulder barge” by Rabada on Smith

What a Test we just experienced!

What is a rugby or cricket Test? We saw a vicious, rugby like shoulder charge that knocked Steve Smith back 10 metres, nearly knocking him out cold. The ambulance had to come in, and the game was stopped for a little while to make sure Smith was alright. Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2019, the Springboks have a close eye on Kagiso Rabada after such a brutal hit…

… and this, ladies and gentlemen, is basically how the ICC portrayed the “shoulder nudge” incident which will cost the best Test bowler a spot in the final two Tests, and rob us of Kagiso v the Aussies take three at Cape Town. And for what, showing passion?

What about the band being asked to stop? Since when does culture, atmosphere and good vibes get frowned upon? Our society today is filled with snowflakes, and I hope cricket doesn’t go down the same path.

Yes, Kumar…

Anyway, here are my player ratings out of ten from South Africa’s magnificent series-leveling win in Port Elizabeth:

South Africa

Dean Elgar: The one, the only, Dean Elgar! Is there a top order batsman in world cricket that actually looks worse the longer he stays in?! All jokes aside, nearly 3,000 Test runs at 40.81 shows he is a fine Test opener. His gritty, tough first innings fifty was key for South Africa in terms of making the Australians work hard. A good effort. 7

Aiden Markram: A quiet Test for the youngster after his brilliant second innings century in Durban. However, he did provide us with a moment of delight in this Test, edging a dolly to Mitchell Marsh at first slip, who was too busy saying “f— you c—” and dropped it! 3

Hashim Amla: A good Test by the Hash. His partnership with Elgar in the first innings was key in blunting the Australian attack a little, and enabled AB de Villiers to go hard. He is past his best, but performances like this, in addition to his recent heroics against India on a very tough Johannesburg pitch shows he still has what it takes. 7

AB de Villiers: Genius, as his bat says. Yet again, AB delivered for the Proteas when they needed it, and his 126* was one of his finest innings yet. It was if he picked up a flat pitch from Australia, replaced the Port Elizabeth one, and batted on it. It is incredible to think he was batting on the same pitch as everyone else who had a much tougher time. All class, AB. 10

Check out brilliant AB in 2018! Genius…



Faf Du Plessis: A quiet game with the bat for skipper Du Plessis. However, his hugs and kisses for Kagiso Rabada (don’t we all want to kiss Kagiso) showcases his leadership and how he was able to get the Proteas firing from 1-0 down in the series. 4

Theunis de Bruyn: Hit the winning runs for South Africa but is yet to cement the number six spot. Whether he makes way for Temba Bavuma in the next Test remains to be seen. 4

Quinton de Kock: The man at the centre of the controversy. The man who could have very well ignited the fire in South Africa’s belly, after a very passive performance in the first Test. With the bat, de Kock received a good ball from Nathan Lyon, and was pretty decent with the gloves, snapping a very good catch to get rid of Steve Smith in the second innings. 6

Vernon Philander: Super performance from the Vern. He was the bowler displaying the most control in a disappointing first session for South Africa on Day 1. He took 2/25 in 18 overs in the first innings, and while he wasn’t as effective in the second innings, it’s clear he’ll have a say in the series especially if we see typical South African pitches in the last two Tests. He also made a very handy 36 in the first innings. 7

Keshav Maharaj: Contributed with both bat and ball. Removed Steve Smith with a beauty in the second innings, after a whirlwind 30 with the bat, combining for a 58 run stand with AB de Villiers. 7

Kagiso Rabada: WOW. What a performance by this star. He tore the Australians apart with truly amazing bowling in both innings, finishing with 11 wickets. So disappointed he will miss the rest of the series. 10

Lungi Ngidi: The quiet achiever! Ngidi took five wickets in the Test, and justified the selectors’ decision to drop Morne Morkel in favour of him. 8

Australia

Cameron Bancroft: Fighting effort in both innings, including nearly getting through a tough first session where the ball was moving around. Disappointed not to get a big score. He should keep his place for the next Test. 6

David Warner: Another man at the centre of the controversy. He pushes harder at the ball than a rugby player pushes in a scrum, getting bowled in identical fashion twice. Scored a good 63 in the first innings. 7

Looks like Rabada wasn’t the only one screaming….


Usman Khawaja: Batting spot was seemingly on the line before the second innings and responded with a good 75, that gave Australia a sniff at getting a lead over 150. Also should keep his spot for the next Test. 7

Steve Smith: I can’t remember the last time Steve Smith and Australia played on a pitch with such assistance for the seam bowlers in particular. The Aussie captain struggled, and his average continues to take a huge hit. Almost as big as the hit he copped by Rabada…. 5

Proud of this article… you should check it out!

Shaun Marsh: Quiet Test for Shaun, dismissed on both inside and outside edge from Kagiso Rabada. 4

Mitch Marsh: Swore Played pretty well considering he was down with illness early in the Test. Threatened to knock South Africa cheaply in the first innings with two quick wickets in the first innings, but wasn’t to be. Also showed good form in his second innings 45. 7

Tim Paine: Steady with the bat, making two starts (including a not out), and steady with the gloves. 7

Patrick Cummins: Bowled well in this Test without the rewards he perhaps deserved. Australia will be also hoping for a bit more with the bat as he can bat really well. 6

Mitchell Starc: It was all about Rabada v Starc in conditions expected to reverse, and Starc was the clear loser after picking up man of the match in Durban. 4

Nathan Lyon: Bowled pretty well, asking questions in the first innings. However, have to say he was outbowled by Keshav Maharaj. Not a bad return, though. 6

Josh Hazlewood: Little more expensive than usual, with three wickets at over 40 a piece. Challenging game for Josh. 5

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A fiesty, competitive Test that has had its consequences. With Rabada seemingly gone, it remains to be seen whether Australia take advantage. For now, it’s 1-1 and all to play for.
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Nidahas Trophy: 4th T20I Preview – Pressure on India and Sri Lanka

Charbel Coorey
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Well, well, well!

India play Sri Lanka more often than Donald Trump stirs controversy. Thought I’d write a preview anyway!

Bangladesh’s shock win over Sri Lanka two nights ago has meant that it won’t all be smooth sailing for India and Sri Lanka. Ladies and gentlemen, the Nidahas Trophy has just got a whole lot more interesting.

Can India extract some revenge for their first up loss to Sri Lanka? Can Sri Lanka bounce back after failing to defend 214 against Bangladesh? These questions add spice to a tournament that even die hard fans called meaningless. Now, it’s all to play for.

The second half of the tournament begins with all three teams sitting equal with one win out of two games. Awesome. Which team will succumb to the pressure first? India and Sri Lanka will face the music first.

Key to a Sri Lanka win

Sri Lanka’s batting has been dynamic in this tournament, but so much went wrong for them last game, being on the receiving end of Bangladesh’s highest ever chase in T20Is. What on earth went wrong for them? After players and their fans talked of their biggest “revival” in recent years, this is a huge reality check, and proof of how far Sri Lanka still have to go to become a truly dangerous team again.
Their blueprint for success in the first game against India was their efficiency in the powerplay, where they restricted the Indians to just 40 runs, and took two wickets. Against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka conceded 74, which gave Bangladesh the momentum they needed at the start of such a huge chase. 
Against India, the key for Sri Lanka would be to control the likes of Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan (especially) and Suresh Raina at the top.

Most will be wrong, but check this out anyway!

Key to an India win

Powerplay domination.
In the first game, India were on the wrong end of the powerplay scores. Sri Lanka smashed 75/2 after India only managed 40/2, and such a difference is almost always going to lead to one result.
India need more from their skipper Rohit Sharma who has had two failures so far in this tournament. India would also want to back up their pleasing bowling performance against Bangladesh, forcing 68 dot balls, and will also look to put the pressure on the in form Sri Lanka top order, namely the two Kusals.

Predicted teams:

There is no Dinesh Chandimal for Sri Lanka, after being suspended for two games thanks to a very slow over rate against Bangladesh. Thisara Perera will take over the captaincy, and Dananjaya de Silva will replace Chandimal. Sri Lanka’s bowlers were carted around big time against Bangladesh (the least expensive bowler for 9.25) and need a response against India.
Sri Lanka XI: 1. Kusal Mendis, 2. Danushka Gunathilaka, 3. Kusal Perera (wk), 4. Dananjaya de Silva, 5. Upul Tharanga, 6. Dasun Shanaka, 7. Thisara Perera (c), 8. Jeevan Mendia, 9. Akila Dananjaya, 10. Dushmantha Chameera, 11. Nuwan Pradeep
India should retain the same XI that won against Bangladesh, and will be hoping for the same result. Shikhar Dhawan has hit two fifties in the tournament, and is a danger for Sri Lanka, and Jaydev Unadkat will be looking to build on his performance against Bangladesh ahead of what will be a pressure-filled IPL tournament for the expensive man.
India XI: 1. Shikhar Dhawan, 2. Rohit Sharma (c), 3. Suresh Raina, 4. Manish Pandey, 5. Rishabh Pant, 6. Dinesh Karthik (wk), 7. Vijay Shankar, 8. Washington Sundar, 9. Shardul Thakur, 10. Yuzvendra Chahal, 11. Jaydev Unadkat

Stats & Facts:

  • A loss for either side will put them in a sudden death situation against Bangladesh.
  • Before the first match, India had beaten Sri Lanka in seven consecutive T20Is.
  • Chasing sides have won all three matches so far in the Nidahas Trophy.

Predictions:

Very difficult to pick a winner here.
Sri Lanka’s batting has been awesome, but their bowling has left them a little bruised. Can they bounce back? I’m not so sure. I feel India would have learnt a lot from their first up defeat, and backed by their promising bowling attack and Shikhar Dhawan, will win in a tight game.
Here’s hoping no rain occurs during the match.
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Timeline of Super AB’s amazing 2018 so far

Charbel Coorey
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So, AB de Villiers has still got it!

The general consensus when AB returned to Test cricket against Zimbabwe on Boxing Day 2017 was whether or not he could still show the form we’ve seen from him over the years. It’s safe to say that AB is well and truly back with a bang, not only because of the runs he’s scored, but because his team desperately needed them.

Here is a closer look at each of his significant scores in 2018 so far, and how he really helped his team:

65 (84) v India, 1st Test, 1st innings, Cape Town


2018 began with a high profile Test series between World no. 2 South Africa at home to World no. 1 India. The Proteas could not have had a worse start, falling to 12/3, at the hands of the excellent Bhuvneshwar Kumar on the first morning of the series.

This is a situation where most players coming in would go into their shell and try figure out some way to help their team get out of the hole. Not AB. AB played a wonderful counter attacking knock on a challenging, seaming pitch that shifted the momentum his team’s way. De Villiers helped lift South Africa from 12/3 to 126/3, and when he was dismissed, he had turned the momentum enough to help the middle and lower order rally to reach 286, which ended up a huge score in the context of that match.

AB played a fine knock on the opening day of the big series v India

35 (50) v India, 1st Test, 2nd innings, Cape Town


You might ask – “how is 35 significant”?

In South Africa’s second innings score of 130, it was really significant as he ensured South Africa gave India a target of over 200 in the fourth innings. de Villiers once again showed his class, scoring at a very good pace on a pitch where pretty much all batsmen were struggling. A special player stands out when things aren’t easy, and AB did that in the Cape Town Test.

South Africa eventually won the Test by 72 runs, and took a 1-0 series lead.

AB made another vital contribution in the second innings

80 (121) v India, 2nd Test, 2nd innings, Centurion

South Africa take a first innings lead of 28 after Virat Kohli’s magnificent 153 propelling India to 307.
South Africa lose Aiden Markram and Hashim Amla, both LBW, with Amla in particular copping one that stayed a little low. So, South Africa were 3/2, and leading by only 31. Nervous times? Not for AB. AB De Villiers hit a vital 80, again at such a good pace on a challenging surface, and propelled South Africa to a lead of 286, which in the end was too much for India to chase down.
AB played a key second innings knock in Centurion v India
71* (127) v Australia, 1st Test, 1st innings, Durban


How bad would it have been for South Africa had it not been for AB?
The Proteas were knocked over for just 162, and all batsmen struggled except for AB. In my opinion, he gave belief to his team mates that Australia’s bowlers can indeed be dealt with, and since then, South Africa have had the upper hand in the series up until the second innings of the Port Elizabeth Test.
AB fought a lone battle in the 1st innings in Durban v Australia
126* (146) v Australia, 2nd Test, 1st innings, Port Elizabeth


One for the ages.
What a knock by AB de Villiers, arguably one of the finest in his career. Once again, he was at the crease with South Africa facing a tricky situation, and what was so impressive about this innings is that he made it as if he was batting on a completely different pitch. Dean Elgar and Hashim Amla combined for a gutsy, grueling stand of 88 in 44.2 overs, and the pitch seemed it was difficult to bat on.
Not for AB. Even with South Africa 183/6, AB continued the attack to the Aussies, and helped propel his team to a lead of 139. His strokeplay was superb, and forced Australia into a state of defence. This innings tells the world that AB still deserves to be mentioned among the elite. 
Memorable 126* by AB. Even Warner was clapping.
When his team has needed it, AB has stepped up. 
We are lucky to be witnessing greatness. Never stop, AB.
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