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T20I Tri Series Final Preview: NZ v Australia

Charbel Coorey
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Cheeky, cheeky New Zealand…

With just one win in the entire competition, including two losses at home, New Zealand are in with a chance of lifting the T20 Tri Series Trophy. Australia’s dominance, where they have won four out of four matches, has meant that they go into the final as favourites, and must against “choking”.

Over 30,000 fans will again pack out Eden Park for a rematch of one of the most extraordinary matches in T20I history. Even on a small ground, not many people would have predicted Australia to chase down a record 244 with more than an over to spare, and New Zealand face an almighty task to try and fight back from such a defeat.

Being kind, New Zealand’s T20 form is scratchy, with just one win in their last six starts, dropping from first to fourth in the T20I rankings in the process. They even lost to a side whose coach believes there is no room for T20 Internationals, which says something about New Zealand at the moment. Yes, you guessed correctly, it was England’s coach Trevor Bayliss.

For Australia, their rejuvenation in the format stems from rewarding the excellent Big Bash performers, who have made an impact in this series. Glenn Maxwell has shown he has to be in all of

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Australia’s limited overs plans, and David Warner hit a timely half century in the last game, to go with D’Arcy Short and Aaron Finch’s excellent batting performances. Australia’s bowlers, like New Zealand’s, didn’t have a fun time at Eden Park last time around, so it will be interesting to see how they go this time.

Key to a New Zealand win

New Zealand’s achilles heel this series has surprisingly been their bowling. In their four matches, New Zealand conceded 719 runs at an economy rate of 10.30, and in each of their home matches, they managed over 190 with the bat, and won only once.
Mitchell Santner returned in Hamilton vs England and was carted around, and New Zealand desperately need him to show his quality in the final. He was missing when Australia chased down 244, so his impact here will be key. In addition, New Zealand’s bowlers would have felt very unlucky with the edges that fell safe for Australia early in their pursuit of 244, and will be hoping those edges can either go to hand, or hit the stumps. 
New Zealand’s bowlers must avoid getting hit straight as much as possible, which means dropping the length a little (or executing excellent yorkers) and taking pace off the ball. Early wickets and getting into Australia’s middle order is key.
Can New Zealand’s bowlers get it right in the final?

Key to a Australia win

How will New Zealand respond to an early onslaught from Australia’s top order in the final?
Another successful powerplay for Australia can create deja vu for New Zealand, and will be a test of the Black Caps’ resolve and confidence to reel in Australia’s powerful batting line up. David Warner hit form with a quick fire 59, and D’Arcy Short was excellent after riding his luck early on. If these two can get Australia off to another flyer, it sets a superb platform for the powerful middle order.
Australia will want more from the dangerous Chris Lynn, who hasn’t quite hit his straps yet this tournament. 
Another key question is how will AJ Tye and the other bowlers bounce back from conceding 240+? With Australia winning, it was forgotten that Australia’s bowlers also struggled, and how they bounce back is an important factor in this game. David Warner has promised inventive fields, which is a good call, as the conventional is unlikely to work at Eden Park.
Warner & Short scored 91 in the powerplay last game. Image courtesy of Fox Sports

Predicted teams

For New Zealand, much will depend on Munro and Guptill at the top, as the middle order didn’t take advantage of the fast start last game against England. All eyes will also be on New Zealand’s bowlers, who haven’t had it easy this series. I expect the Black Caps to have faith that the same side can deliver.

New Zealand XI: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Colin Munro, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Mark Chapman, 5. Ross Taylor, 6. Colin de Grandhomme, 7. Tim Seifert (wk), 8. Mitchell Santner, 9. Tim Southee, 10. Ish Sodhi, 11. Trent Boult

In the 240+ game, only Ashton Agar went for under 10 an over with the ball for Australia. The bowling line up will be cause for discussion in the lead up to the game, but I think it would be wrong and unfair for Australia to make changes. The bowlers had to adjust from the MCG to Eden Park, which is a massive change, and should be better for the experience last week. However, it wouldn’t surprise me if Australia look to swap a fast bowler with a spinner to take further pace off the ball.

Australia XI: 1. David Warner (c), 2. D’Arcy Short, 3. Chris Lynn, 4. Glenn Maxwell, 5. Aaron Finch, 6. Marcus Stoinis, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Ashton Agar, 9. Kane Richardson, 10. Andrew Tye, 11. Billy Stanlake

Stats & Facts:

  • New Zealand have scored 196/5, 243/6 and 192/4 in their three games at home, and have only won one.
  • Australia have won their last five T20Is, whereas New Zealand have won just one of their last five.
  • Glenn Maxwell averages over 106 in this series.

Prediction

Will this be as high scoring as the last meeting? Who knows.
One thing is for certain though is that this match will be a very competitive one, with the pressure on Australia to take the trophy after winning all their group games. New Zealand know these conditions well, and will be looking to learn from what happened last week, and Australia will be looking to put New Zealand under further pressure.
I will pick Australia to win simply because they have more firepower in their batting line up, which can be the ultimate difference on the small Eden Park field.
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RANT: Life after Shakib… what on earth are Bangladesh doing about it?

Charbel Coorey
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Life after Shakib.

Bangladesh MUST start thinking about it.

Heavy losses to Sri Lanka are UNACCEPTABLE!

Dating back to January where Bangladesh were bowled out for an embarrassing 82 vs Sri Lanka in the ODI Tri-Series, concerns have intensified in my mind and heart about where Bangladesh cricket is heading – namely the lack of direction, leadership and strategy.

With all due respect to Sri Lanka, this is one of their weakest sides in recent history, and their 2017 results show this. Only six months or so ago, Sri Lanka lost a home ODI series to Zimbabwe (in addition to three 5-0 losses in ODIs in 2017), and yet they came to Bangladesh, get beaten once by the hosts in the ODIs, and then dominated every game afterwards. Sure, the addition of Chandika Hathurusingha gave Sri Lanka an advantage in the sense that he understands the Bangladesh strengths and weaknesses, but the fact he was able to exploit them so easily is very concerning.

Shakib and Tamim contributed 44.58% of Bangladesh’s runs in the recent Tri Series

This leads to my biggest concern about Bangladesh cricket. Shakib Al Hasan will not be around forever, and the last few weeks have highlighted not only how important Shakib is, but the lack of players coming through and nailing down positions in the Bangladesh side. Mentally, the players look bereft of confidence and mental strength, and in international cricket where the going is often going to be tough, confidence and mental strength are two critical qualities to have.

Without these two qualities, you often rely on your best players to get you victories. Shakib has contributed significantly to many Bangladesh successes over the years, including their Test wins over Sri Lanka and Australia in 2017, and it’s all well and good to enjoy life while he is around, but you need to start thinking about what life will look like when he, along with Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah and Mashrafe (ODIs) are no longer around.

The biggest problem I find with Bangladesh at the moment is the total lack of consistency in their selections, and how often players drop into the wilderness after good showings in the early stages of their international career. I can’t for the life of me remember the last time Bangladesh played three or four games (in all formats) in a row with the same team –  why are players who show good form early in their careers not nurtured by coaches and management domestically? What on earth is going on in domestic cricket? Why are players with obvious talent in and out of the side constantly, not given a
chance to show their true talent?

For Bangladesh to be successful after Shakib finishes playing, the key is to focus on building a well-rounded team. At the moment, it is all over the place. Apart from Shakib, Tamim, Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah, what are the people in the management positions doing to ensure Bangladesh lock down more batting positions? Recent examples are a little concerning…

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One of Bangladesh’s best batting talents, Mominul Haque was DROPPED for the second Test in Sri Lanka last year. Yes, maybe it was Chandika Hathurusingha’s decision, and despite Bangladesh winning the Test, management needed to realise that this is a player who is a gem for Bangladesh not only in the Test format, but in the ODI format too. Mominul needs to be enabled and encouraged to express himself, and his rate of scoring in the Test matches against Sri Lanka recently was so impressive, and showed he is very capable of being the answer to Bangladesh’s search for an opening partner for Tamim in ODIs. Why haven’t management thought of this? Why do they continue to chop and change without a proper strategy? Where is the planning? Who is accountable? Why was Mohammad Mithun, a player unproved in international cricket, brought in for a Tri-Series Final in place of Anamul Haque with Mominul Haque sitting down watching? Despite failing, it was fine to bring in Anamul Haque for another chance after seeing the potential he showed early in his ODI career, but for me, Mominul is the answer at the top of the ODI order for Bangladesh, and management need to be better in their thinking and strategy to see this.

Chopping and changing creeps into the middle order, too. Nasir Hossain, one of my favourite players, constantly finds himself stuck down very low in the batting order in limited overs cricket, and is not utilised as much as he can be with the ball – an economy rate of 4.71 shows he should be utilised more. Over the last few years, Nasir has been in and out of the side regularly – how can you build consistency and confidence as a player if you are not given opportunities regularly? Why are certain players dropped constantly, and the likes of Sabbir Rahman constantly given opportunities? In the Tri-Series game where Bangladesh were bowled out for 82, Nasir Hossain came in all the way down at number eight, was dropped for the final instead of Sabbir, who played an absolutely horrid shot to get out when Bangladesh were 57/4. What is the strategy behind this from management? How are they going to get the best out of Nasir, who obviously showed great talent when he burst onto the scene nearly seven years ago? Why isn’t this the thought instead of having him in and out of the side, and just hoping he can find a way to perform? Why isn’t he given an extended run a little higher in the order, with overs with the ball? Please, utilise his ability properly.

Nasir Hossain needs to be given proper opportunities to show his talent.

Another recent example was the inexcusable dropping of Mosaddek Hossain in the second Test. Sure, he didn’t play a good shot to get out in the first innings of the first Test, but he showed good composure and patience to help Bangladesh save the game in a tricky situation. Bangladesh are crying out for players with composure and patience, and yet a player who obviously shows these qualities is dropped instead of being enabled and encouraged to continue his good work. Who was the player who came in? The frustrating Sabbir Rahman, who contributed 0 and 1 in Mirpur. At a young

 age, Mosaddek needs clarity, not confusion.

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There are other examples but I don’t have a full week to spare where I can list them all for you.

Solution #1 to life after Shakib: Nail down your batting line up, and have faith in players who show encouraging signs.

This leads me to my next point. Bangladesh also rely significantly on Shakib with the ball in all formats, and his absence left a massive hole. In the Tests, Bangladesh lacked variety and control in the attack, and this was also the case in the T20Is. Significant chopping and changing occurs on the bowling front too, and for Bangladesh to be successful after Shakib finishes, they must have a plan to form a good bowling attack to give them variety at home, as well as a chance to compete overseas.

The decline of Taskin Ahmed is particularly worrying – why has this happened? Why hasn’t Courtney Walsh been able to get the best out of him, and other Bangladesh seamers? Why is Mustafizur Rahman’s pace still down? Where is the leadership? What is management doing about this? What has happened to Mohammad Shahid, who showed excellent control and potential in 2015? Robiul Islam, anyone? Who remembers him? Best bowling figures by a Bangladesh seamer in away Tests, and has fallen off the face of the earth seemingly…

Solution #2 to life after Shakib: Build a well-rounded, consistent bowling attack through good coaching and strong leadership to get the best out of these players.

Bangladesh simply can’t keep going like this and expect to be successful after Shakib retires. The lack of leadership and strategy is not only hurting the Bangladesh National side, but also players coming through, looking to be successful in international cricket. There needs to be a focus on enabling and encouraging players to show off their skills in a well rounded first class competition where players are exposed to all types of conditions. Then, when they are in international cricket, and if they are performing well, it comes down to the leaders to ensure they stay there.

For Bangladesh to be successful after Shakib, they need a well-rounded team, instead of hoping another Shakib comes around. Shakib is a one-in-a-generation player, and one man simply cannot replace him – only a well built team can.

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6th ODI Preview: Equal worst ever series defeat on the way for South Africa?

Charbel Coorey
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It was supposed to be a competitive series between world no.1 and no.2. In a long series, the hope was that it would be tight, and that we’d have a magnificent finale. At the start of the series, South Africa, the World No.1 ODI side, would have wanted to continue their winning ways after the Tests against the challengers, World No.2 India.

What’s transpired has been the sort of thing you’d see between a no.1 and no. 9 team. Incredibly, it hasn’t even been the seamers that have been India’s star performers in South African conditions. The Proteas will be very happy to play Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav for the final time in this ODI series, but with wrist spin a trend now in limited overs cricket, they must find ways to play this bowling a lot better ahead of the 2019 World Cup.

This debacle of a series may actually be a blessing for South Africa, if they understand the learnings they need to take from it and take action to ensure they are better for the experience.

For India, they have the chance to consign South Africa to their equal worst series loss in a home bilateral ODI series comprising of 5+ games. Rohit Sharma, as predicted, hit form nicely with a century in Port Elizabeth, and forms part of an excellent top three with Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli showing great form. However, India’s middle order is not quite firing at the moment, and

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represents a concern for them in their preparations for the 2019 World Cup.

Key to a South Africa win

Expose India’s middle order early.
South Africa’s best chance of winning is chasing, restricting India to a score below 250. To do this, they need to make inroads into India’s top three and expose the middle order which looks a little uncertain at the moment. If they can do this, they can sit against India’s wrist spinners, and look to take more risks against the other bowlers.

Key to an India win

Top order runs again will be the order of the day.
The beauty of this dead rubber for India is that they can test some new combinations in the middle order, to ensure they take full advantage of the build up work from Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. A score in excess of 300 will be way too much for South Africa’s batsmen, who are struggling badly against the wrist spinners in particular.

Two supermen: Kohli needs 36 runs to beat Kevin Pietersen’s record in SA

Predicted teams:

For South Africa, I expect to see Kagiso Rabada get a rest, as this is a game that doesn’t matter to the series. With a T20I series v India and huge Test series v Australia coming up, a rest is very important for Rabada. Chris Morris is also in doubt with a stiff back. In terms of their batting, the likes of Amla and Markram have got starts, but just haven’t gone big. To avoid a 5-1 series loss, a top order batsman needs to go big.
South Africa XI: 1. Hashim Amla, 2. Aiden Markram (c), 3. JP Duminy, 4. AB de Villiers, 5. David Miller, 6. Heinrich Klaasen (wk), 7. Chris Morris, 8. Andile Phehlukwayo, 9. Lungi Ngidi, 10. Morne Morkel, 11. Tabraiz Shamsi
For India, I expect to see some experimentation. It would make sense to rest Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah, and potentially bring in two of Axar Patel, Mohammed Shami and Shardul Thakur. It will be interesting to see if India go with the same middle order, including Shreyas Iyer, to give them another chance to launch.
India XI: 1. Rohit Sharma, 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. Ajinkya Rahane, 5. MS Dhoni (wk), 6. Shreyas Iyer, 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Axar Patel/Shardul Thakur, 9. Kuldeep Yadav, 10. Mohammed Shami, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal

Stats & Facts:

  • South Africa’s heaviest defeat in a home series (5+ matches) is 5-1 v Australia in 2001/02.
  • Virat Kohli needs just 36 runs to pass Kevin Pietersen’s tally of 454 runs in a bilateral ODI series in South Africa, which is the highest tally by any visiting batsman.
  • In the whole tour, South Africa have registered just one century. India have registered five, including Virat Kohli’s three.
  • Ajinkya Rahane needs 72 to reach 3,000 ODI runs, and MS Dhoni needs 33 to reach 10,000 ODI runs.
  • Yuzvendra Chahal (14) and Kuldeep Yadav (16) have taken a combined 30 wickets. The next highest wicket taker is Jasprit Bumrah with six!

Prediction:

South Africa have had it tough in this series, and their biggest hope here is that they can play with nothing to lose.
However, India are just too strong in all facets of the game at the moment, and I expect to see them take out the series 5-1. Virat Kohli will have a great outing, and go past Kevin Pietersen’s tally of 454 runs, the highest by any visiting batsman in a bilateral ODI series in South Africa.
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5th T20I Preview: New Zealand v Australia – Preview of the Final?

Charbel Coorey
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Home advantage has already worked wonders for New Zealand, with the opportunity now to achieve two big things:

  • With a win today, New Zealand will confirm their passage through to the final v Australia.
  • Victory over Australia can create a psychological advantage ahead of what will be a New Zealand v Australia final next week. This is chance for the Black Caps to get one over their rivals, and unlike the 2015 ODI World Cup, the Final of this competition will be played on the same ground as today’s game.
Against England, Martin Guptill’s and Kane Williamson’s performances were especially pleasing, setting New Zealand up for a large score. Debutants Mark Chapman and Tim Seifert hit the ball long, and New Zealand’s bowling (NOT fielding) effort was impressive, led by Tim Southee and Mitchell Santner, and then finished by Trent Boult.
For Australia, their fate has been known for a good while now, but the change of setting presents a unique challenge for them. On one hand, a win will mean their oldest foe England still has a chance of progressing, but a defeat, especially a big one, can give New Zealand a real psychological edge heading into the final.

Key to a New Zealand win

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New Zealand’s batting set things up for them in Wellington, but if they field and catch as poorly as they did against England, Australia can make them pay big time.
The key for New Zealand on a small Auckland ground is to contain Australia’s batsmen as best they can. This starts at the top in the powerplay – early wickets can push Australia back, and a quiet few overs in a T20I on a small ground can be huge in the context of the game. 
Mitchell Santner, Trent Boult and Tim Southee will again have key roles to play, and the Black Caps will also be wanting more from Ish Sodhi. Certainly, the battle between New Zealand’s bowlers and Australia’s powerful batting line up will shape the game.

Key to an Australia win

Similarly, how will Australia’s bowlers adjust to the small Auckland field? This represents a big challenge for the visitors. Their last game was at the MCG, and now they move to Auckland, which is about half the ground size, so how well will they go in adjusting?
Bowling tactics may need to be adjusted – i.e. force New Zealand to hit the ball square, with the straight boundaries really short. New Zealand enjoy playing on short boundaries at home, so Australia winning this Tri-Nation tournament is certainly not a given, but a good, polished performance with the ball today can go a long way to putting New Zealand in a sudden death encounter against England in a few days.
The early removal of Martin Guptill, Colin Munro and Kane Williamson will be huge, allowing Australia to get right into New Zealand’s relatively inexperienced middle order. Also, David Warner desperately needs runs, and Australia will be hoping he hits form in New Zealand
Can Warner hit form?

Predicted teams

For New Zealand, expect no changes from the team that got the all important win against England a few days ago. I did mention that Kane Williamson should open so New Zealand could get the absolute best out of him, but his Man-of-the-Match innings of 72 (46) at number three was absolutely superb. He, Guptill and Munro, and also the hitting of Colin de Grandhomme, will be key.
New Zealand XI: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Colin Munro, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Mark Chapman, 5. Ross Taylor, 6. Colin de Grandhomme, 7. Tim Seifert (wk), 8. Mitchell Santner, 9. Tim Southee, 10. Ish Sodhi, 11. Trent Boult
For Australia, they can’t rest on their laurels. Three convincing wins out of three games has been excellent, but this is a different environment. The team they intend to play in the final must play here to give each player the chance to get used to the different conditions. Australia will want David Warner to hit some form and Glenn Maxwell and co. to continue their good form. Marcus Stoinis will have good memories of Auckland, with that magnificent 146* nearly seeing Australia home from an impossible position in last year’s ODI.
Australia XI: 1. David Warner (c), 2. D’Arcy Short, 3. Chris Lynn, 4. Glenn Maxwell, 5. Aaron Finch, 6. Marcus Stoinis, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Ashton Agar, 9. Andrew Tye, 10. Kane Richardson, 11. Billy Stanlake

Stats & Facts:

  • David Warner’s scores this series: 4, 6, 2. However, I think David Warner will enjoy the smaller ground, and believe he will get a score of 35+ today.
  • Australia have won their last four T20Is (excluding the no result vs India last year).
  • New Zealand have beaten Australia in the last three meetings at Auckland (3 ODIs).
  • Only six members of Australia’s squad have played at Eden Park.
  • New Zealand’s record at Auckland in T20Is: five wins, seven losses.

Prediction:

Really difficult to pick this one, with two sides that are capable of beating the other on their day.
I think New Zealand at home are a tough proposition and Australia might need some more time to adjust to these conditions. I will predict a New Zealand win, but it won’t be without a fight.
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The numbers behind India’s series win in South Africa

Charbel Coorey
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Heading into this series, the battle between number one and two in the ODI world promised to be fascinating. However, India have pretty much swept the floor with South Africa, and with one game to play, India have confirmed themselves as the no.1 ODI team in the world.

Rohit Sharma found form which is a relief to himself and India, and wristspinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal continued their domination of South Africa. Despite India’s middle order still a cause for concern, team India were excellent as a whole, and here are six big stats from their series win:

Most wickets for an overseas spinner in South Africa…

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Most wickets by one spinner in a bilateral series in South Africa? No! Two!
Both Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav broke the previous record of 12 wickets, held by West Indies allrounder Keith Arthurton across seven ODIs in 1998/99. Between them, they have taken 30 wickets, with Kuldeep taking 16 and Yuzvendra 14.
Incredibly, the next best wicket taker in the series is Jasprit Bumrah with six. The two wristspinners will fight it out for leading wicket taker in the series in the final ODI.

India’s ninth straight series win…

India are one step closer to West Indies’ all-time record of most consecutive bilateral ODI series wins (14).
Since their 4-1 defeat in Australia in 2016, India have beaten Zimbabwe, New Zealand (twice), Australia, South Africa, Sri Lanka (twice) and West Indies. 

India’s maiden win in South Africa and South Africa’s third loss at home in an ODI series of 5+ matches.

Did you know?
India are the only team other than Australia to win an ODI series comprising of 5+ matches in South Africa. In 1996/97, Australia won 4-3, and then 5-1 in 2001-02. India have the chance to inflict South Africa’s equal worst home series loss in 5+ matches with a win in the 6th ODI. This is all part of India’s first ever ODI series win in South Africa – a fine effort by Virat Kohli’s men.

South Africa’s worst ever batting and bowling averages in a home bilateral ODI series…

South Africa have been absolutely dominated with bat and ball in this series.
With the bat, they have managed a measly 22.65 per wicket, and with the ball, they have given up 50.20 runs per wicket. These two statistics are their worst in their history when it comes to bilateral series at home.

Most wickets by spinners in any bilateral ODI series for India

Think the achievements for Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are over?
Think again!
Combining for 30 wickets, the pair achieved the record number of wickets for Indian spinners in a bilateral ODI series. The previous best was 27 against England at home way back in 2005/06. 
What’s even more impressive is that this was achieved in away conditions. The next best haul for Indian spinners away from Asia (excl. Zimbabwe and West Indies) is 20 v Pakistan in Canada in 1996.

Virat Kohli – equal most bilateral ODI centuries in South Africa

Virat Kohli joined an exclusive list of players with three bilateral series hundreds in South Africa. David Warner, Kevin Pietersen and Joe Root are the other players. 
Also, in the last ODI, Virat Kohli has the chance to go past Kevin Pietersen’s tally of 454 runs, which is currently the highest total by a visiting batsman in a bilateral ODI series in South Africa. He needs 36 runs.
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5th ODI Preview: Series still alive!

Charbel Coorey
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STOP THE PRESS!

Not only were South Africa able to avoid being steamrolled in the 4th ODI, but they won the game, keeping the series alive. Even more significantly, the hosts chased down 202 at over eight an over, taking it to the India wristspinners, which can be a huge turning point in the series. Despite taking three wickets between them, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal went for exactly eight an over in 11 overs – can South Africa’s nothing to lose attitude help keep this series alive?

India, despite a strong series so far, aren’t without concerns of their own. Rohit Sharma’s poor form in South Africa continues, and has raised more questions about his ability away from home. India’s middle order was a let down in Johannesburg, failing to even reach 300 when 330 looked a possibility with Dhawan and Kohli at the crease. The middle order’s struggle was highlighted in the fact that from number four down, no player struck at over 100, and all these players batted in the last 20 overs.

Food for thought.

Key to a South Africa win

For South Africa, getting into India’s middle order as early as possible will be huge. The wickets of Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli will be especially important, and with the India middle order a little untested in this series, early wickets with the series on the line can create huge momentum for the
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hosts. The wicket of the great Virat Kohli especially early can cause issues for India…
All of South Africa’s bowlers went for at least five an over in the Pink ODI, but only Andile Phehlukwayo went for over 6 (6.33). A team effort with the ball, and continuing the attack against India’s wristspinners is key to keeping this series alive heading into the final game.
Also, runs for David Miller is huge relief for he and South Africa, and the efforts of Heinrich Klaasen and Andile Phehlukwayo with the bat was excellent. If the top order can set things up, South Africa can put India under real pressure.

Key to an India win

Top order runs, middle over finishing.
Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli set things up beautifully for India in Johannesburg, getting to 178/1 in 31 overs. However, the last 19 overs yielded just 111 runs, and while the rain break didn’t help India’s momentum, they need better finishing if they are to put South Africa away.
With the loss of momentum in the final stages, South Africa went into their batting innings with confidence, and with AB de Villiers back in their side and South Africa finding some form, India will need to ensure they get every run they can.

Predicted teams:

In Port Elizabeth, expect South Africa to have a spinner. Imran Tahir had an issue with spectators in Johannesburg, which is currently being investigated on terms of racial abuse. It will be interesting to see if he is considered in the right mindset to play.
South Africa XI: 1. Hashim Amla, 2. Aiden Markram (c), 3. JP Duminy, 4. AB de Villiers, 5. David Miller, 6. Heinrich Klaasen (wk), 7. Chris Morris, 8. Andile Phehlukwayo, 9. Kagiso Rabada, 10. Morne Morkel, 11. Imran Tahir
 
For India, they would want Rohit Sharma and the middle order to show better form. Also, Shreyas Iyer should play with Keshar Yadav still nursing a hamstring niggle.
India XI: 1. Rohit Sharma, 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Virat Kohli (c), 4. Ajinkya Rahane, 5. Shreyas Iyer, 6. MS Dhoni (wk), 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 9. Kuldeep Yadav, 10. Jasprit Bumrah, 11 Yuzvendra Chahal

Stats & Facts:

  • Rohit Sharma this series: 40 runs, average of 10. Rohit has struggled, however, I pick him to do well in this game due to the lower and slower nature of the Port Elizabeth pitch. This pitch might best suit his game at the moment.
  • MS Dhoni is just 46 runs away from reaching 10,000 ODI runs.
  • 17 out of 32 ODIs played at St George’s Park have been won by the team bowling first.
  • Virat Kohli needs just 62 runs to go past Kevin Pietersen’s tally of 454 runs – the most by a visiting batsman in an ODI series in South Africa.

Prediction:

With rain predicted in the afternoon, this game could take similar shape to the 4th ODI, which makes the prediction really difficult.
If India’s spinners have to deal with a damp ball, this gives South Africa a big advantage in a potential rain-affected game, which South Africa enjoyed at the Wanderers. Despite this, I still feel India are the more rounded side, and will take out the series in a close game, which should be very interesting indeed…
 

4th T20I Preview: Will England or New Zealand finally stand up?

Charbel Coorey
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The battle of the battered.

Even before the second half of the Trans-Tasman Tri-Series begins in New Zealand, Australia have already steamrolled their way into the final, with three comfortable victories. New Zealand and England, both strong limited overs sides, are currently struggling in the format, and will be hoping that a change of setting can bring about a strong change of fortune.

Supposedly an excellent T20I side, New Zealand have lost three T20Is in a row, and worse for them, skipper Kane Williamson is in doubt with a back injury. Had this series been only in Australia, I would have given them absolutely no chance, as they seem as though they are on another planet on grounds with boundaries longer than 60m in length. They will be comfortable with home conditions, and start favourites as a result in this one.

A nice change for New Zealand after a game in Australia…

England have been down, then up, then down again on their Australia tour. Walloped 4-0 in the Tests,
England then walloped Australia in the ODIs, and have then been comprehensively beaten twice by Australia so far in this T20I series. Will the relief of finally leaving Australia see an upturn in England’s T20I performance, after three straight defeats dating back to the England summer v West Indies?

Key to a New Zealand win

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New Zealand’s batting was a big let down in their loss to Australia.
One problem for them is the role of Kane Williamson. Simon Doull recently spoke about Kane Williamson’s role in the side – unless he opens, he shouldn’t play. There is certainly merit to this statement looking at Williamson’s recent form, as well as the fact that he is not a power hitter, but rather a player that can help set up the innings.
A swap between he and Colin Munro would make sense, despite Munro’s excellent T20 form over the last 13 months. The key for New Zealand would be to get through the first six overs without too many wickets lost – ideally 50 or so for none or one down, and give a platform for the likes of Ross Taylor and Colin de Grandhomme to launch.

Key to an England win

England’s batting has also been a let down in this series so far.
Only mustering 137/7 v Australia in Melbourne, England’s batsmen gave their bowlers little chance against Australia’s powerful batting line up. Eoin Morgan was a loss for them in that game, and it looks like he will be out again. On paper, England’s top six is powerful, and it’s time they show it.
This game will be decided on which batting line up steps up more.

Predicted teams:

For the betterment of New Zealand’s performance, Kane Williamson, if fit, should open the batting. Mark Chapman, who has played 23 T20Is and 2 ODIs for Hong Kong, is in line for a debut, so is Tim Seifert. New Zealand’s bowling attack looks good on paper, and will be hoping for the batsmen to have a good outing.
New Zealand XI: 1. Martin Guptill, 2. Kane Williamson (c), 3. Colin Munro, 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Mark Chapman, 6. Colin de Grandhomme, 7. Tim Seifert (wk), 8. Mitchell Santner, 9. Tim Southee, 10. Ish Sodhi, 11. Trent Boult
It is unlikely Liam Dawson will play after going for 23 in two overs on a big ground that is the MCG. In New Zealand, grounds are smaller so England could opt for an all-seam attack. Liam Plunkett is in line to play after missing the start of the series with a hamstring issue, and could replace Tom Curran.
England XI: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Alex Hales, 3. Dawid Malan, 4. James Vince, 5. Jos Buttler (c/wk), 6. Sam Billings, 7. David Willey, 8. Adil Rashid, 9. Liam Plunkett, 10. Chris Jordan, 11. Mark Wood

Stats & Facts:

  • New Zealand and England have both lost their last three T20Is.
  • Kane Williamson’s last 8 innings at no.3: 28, 12, 8, 17*, 19, 0, 9 and 8.
  • England’s highest T20I opening partnership came at the Westpac Stadium in Wellington, where Alex Hales and Michael Lumb put on 143 to in a ten-wicket win v New Zealand in 2013.
  • Tim Southee needs just one wicket to pass Nathan McCullum as New Zealand’s all-time leading wicket taker in T20Is.

Prediction:

This game will be decided by which team can bat better.  
New Zealand will win this one as they are back at home, with a good bowling attack against an England batting line up a little out of form. Both batting sides will enjoy the shorter boundaries, but New Zealand, with more experience in these conditions, might fare better. 
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4th ODI Preview: Dominant India look to wrap up series in pink ODI

Charbel Coorey
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AB de Villiers is back. He has a superb record in pink ODIs at Johannesburg. South Africa are 3-0 down and have been beaten soundly in each game. Will AB’s return rejuvenate South Africa?

With the World Cup less than 18 months away, South Africa look uncertain and down on confidence, and have struggled significantly in the absence of AB and Faf Du Plessis. The Indian wrist spinners have dominated South Africa as if it is men vs boys, and if South Africa are to keep their hopes of levelling the series, they simply have to better at picking Chahal and Kuldeep out of the hand, rather than playing the ball off the pitch.

For India, everything seems nicely into place at the moment. In addition to their two wrist spinners, Virat Kohli has been simply superb, flattening South Africa with a brilliant 160* in the previous game. It was good to see Shikhar Dhawan hit form, and now, India would want Rohit Sharma to show greater form away from home.

Key to a South Africa win

After Faf Du Plessis’ series ended prematurely at Durban in the 1st ODI, the rest of the South African batting line up needed to step up in his absence. That has simply not been the case, and we’ve witnessed two very one sided games since.

The return of AB de Villiers is news sure to be welcomed across South Africa, and if he can fire in 
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another pink ODI which he loves so much, South Africa can be a lot more competitive. 

Key to an India win

India have smelt blood in the water all series. They know that South Africa are on the canvas, and with Virat Kohli as captain, there is no way India will let their foot of the opposition’s throat.
India have been simply superb with the ball in this series. After Faf Du Plessis’ 120 took South Africa to 269/8 in Durban, India have embarrassed South Africa in both games since, and it has been Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav who have been the chief destroyers. 
Will they have the same impact against a team with AB de Villiers in it? It will be interesting to see.

Predicted teams:

AB de Villiers returns, which means skipper Aiden Markram will open once again. With JP Duminy’s encouraging half century in Cape Town, South Africa will have a top four in this game that can challenge India. The worry though is Amla’s form, as well as the form of the middle order, which has seen David Miller’s position in doubt. I expect him to play, and so too Morne Morkel for extra experience.
South Africa XI: 1. Hashim Amla, 2. Aiden Markram (c), 3. JP Duminy, 4. AB de Villiers, 5. Farhaan Behardein, 6. David Miller, 7. Chris Morris, 8. Andile Phehlukwayo, 9. Kagiso Rabada, 10. Morne Morkel, 11. Imran Tahir
India haven’t made a change yet to their lineup this series, and until they have the series won, it is unlikely they’ll make any changes.
India XI: 1. Rohit Sharma, 2. Shikhar Dhawan, 3. Virat Kohli, 4. Ajinkya Rahane, 5. MS Dhoni, 6. Kedar Yadav, 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 9. Jasprit Bumrah, 10. Kuldeep Yadav, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal

Stats and Facts:

  • South Africa in pink ODIs: 5 matches, 5 wins
  • Faf Du Plessis, having played just one game this series, remains South Africa’s leading run scorer. Next best is JP Duminy with 88.
  • Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal have taken a combined 21 wickets in 52.2 overs at an extraordinary average of 9.05 and economy of 3.64
  • AB de Villiers’ scores in pink ODIs: 128 (108), 77 (47), 149 (44), 36 (27), 60* (61)
  • Highest percentage of hundreds per innings in ODI history (min. 15 hundreds): – VIRAT KOHLI: 17.26%, Hashim Amla: 16.46%, AB de Villiers: 11.63%, Sachin Tendulkar: 10.84%

Prediction:

The return of AB will make the life of captain Aiden Markram much easier, and will result in an improved South Africa.
However, India look a different beast at the moment, and AB can’t beat them on his own. I expect India to become the first team to win a pink ODI. In the process, they will take out the series.
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3rd T20I Preview: Australia look to seal passage into Tri Series Final

Charbel Coorey
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Thankfully for Australia, their awful ODI form has not transferred over into the T20I Tri Series so far. Fresh off convincing wins over New Zealand and England, Australia now have the chance to seal their passage into the Tri Series Final in Auckland next week.

From the beginning of this series, you just felt Australia’s batting had real quality about it, and it has been Glenn Maxwell who has stepped up the most. Despite having some luck in Hobart, Maxi was superb in leading Australia home, and should put all doubts about his limited overs place to bed. D’Arcy Short showed some excellent power in the last game in Hobart, after the bowlers did an excellent job to restrict England to 155.

For England, their collapse of 6/28 effectively cost them the game in Hobart, as they were set for a total of 175+ which would have challenged an Australian side that eventually had one player score over 64% of the team’s runs. In Melbourne, they would surely believe a few minor changes in their batting strategy as well as their fielding can help them get over the line.
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Key to an Australia win

David Warner, Chris Lynn, Marcus Stoinis and Travis Head scored a combined 16 runs, which was just over half of D’Arcy Short’s 30, which was the second highest score. For Australia to seal their passage into the final, less reliance on Glenn Maxwell is important.
In addition, Australia’s bowling impressed, with spinners Ashton Agar and Glenn Maxwell combining for five wickets at just five per over. In Melbourne, conditions may favour some spin bowling, and will have a key role to play in conjunction with the seam attack.

Key to an England win

England really let things slip in Hobart. Sitting pretty at 109/3 after 12.1 overs, England would have been looking at 175+. Indeed, those 20 extra runs, as well as the catch taken off Glenn Maxwell when he was on 40, could have certainly seen them get over the line.
Nevertheless, England have the quality to unsettle Australia, and should have hope in the fact that if they can get into Australia’s top order again, and get Maxwell early, it could go a long way to securing victory.

Predicted teams:

Expect Australia to go in with the same lineup to seal their place in the final, and then maybe experiment in their game before the final in New Zealand.
Australia XI: 1. David Warner (c), 2. D’Arcy Short, 3. Chris Lynn, 4. Glenn Maxwell, 5. Marcus Stoinis, 6. Travis Head, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Ashton Agar, 9. AJ Tye, 10. Kane Richardson, 11. Billy Stanlake
I also expect England to go in with the same lineup, as they weren’t too far away from delivering a win in Hobart.
England XI: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Alex Hales, 3. Dawid Malan, 4. Eoin Morgan (c), 5. Jos Buttler (wk), 6. Sam Billings, 7. David Willey, 8. Chris Jordan, 9. Adil Rashid, 10. Tom Curran, 11. Mark Wood

Stats & Facts:

  • In this series, Glenn Maxwell has scored 143 not out from 82 balls.
  • With a win, Australia will seal their place in the Tri Series Final with a game to spare. England and New Zealand would then fight it out in two games in New Zealand for a spot in the final.
  • 161 is the lowest score in T20I history where a player has scored a century. Previous lowest: 162 by Scotland – century scorer: Richie Berrington
  • Australia have won four of their last five T20Is against England.

Prediction:

It might seem that all things point to an Australia win, but that is not the case. Had England taken their chances against Glenn Maxwell, it could have been a different result. The rest of Australia’s batting hasn’t quite clicked, and I expect England to be better.
England to win.
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Why India are favourites for the 2019 World Cup

Charbel Coorey
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Amid the farce in Centurion, where lunch was called with India needing two to win with 186 balls remaining, India proved once again how strong they are as an ODI side. Yes, South Africa were missing AB De Villiers and Faf Du Plessis, but South Africa still possess a strong ODI side on paper, and India have swept them aside in the first two ODIs.

A question you need to ask yourself is – would all sides thrash South Africa right now like India are? I’d say no, so you have to give credit to the Indians. India have made the hosts look ordinary, and if India win the series as they should, it will be their ninth straight bilateral ODI series win.

Seeing how impressive India are in ODI cricket should fill their fans with hope about their 2019 World Cup chances. South Africa look uncertain; so do Australia, and England can be a let-down in big tournaments. Not to mention Pakistan’s inconsistency, New Zealand’s inability to truly go to that extra level, and Sri Lanka and Bangladesh’s lack of resources to win in foreign conditions.

 Here are three main reasons why India should be favourites for the 2019 World Cup:

The rise of the wristspinners

Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav have been huge for India in limited overs cricket. In the current series in South Africa, these two have combined for 13/121 in 34.2 overs, completely ripping apart and embarrassing proven ODI cricketers. Yes, they will face better players of spin in the lead up to the World Cup, but the conditions in England for the tournament, which are likely to be slow and flat, could see these two give India a huge edge in the tournament. Middle over wickets are very important in the format, and these two can deliver. 
Also, add the excellent partnership of Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and India have an strong, well-rounded attack.

Learning from the Champions Trophy experience

India were humbled by a rampant Pakistan, but if those two sides played again in a final right now, India would win because they are far more consistent. The Champions Trophy Final defeat could very well be a blessing for India, which they can use as a learning curve to see what they can improve on for the World Cup in the same country.
Also, neither of India’s wristspinners were playing, and I felt that India had the mindset that “oh, whatever Pakistan get, we have the best batting line up to chase it.” India made plenty of mistakes that day, but with a winner in Virat Kohli at the helm, the learnings could serve them well for the World Cup.

Virat Kohli

India have a strong ODI batting line up, filled with experience, runs and double hundreds. The likes of Rohit, Shikhar, Rahane and MS Dhoni are all magnificent players in this format. However, if India don’t have Virat Kohli in their team, that would seriously ruin their chances of lifting the World Cup. I personally don’t give them a chance to lift the trophy without him in the team. This is no disrespect to the other players, but rather exemplary of how influential Kohli is – the best ODI batsman in the world.
Kohli has struck 33 centuries in 204 ODIs, which are ridiculous numbers, and has guided India in countless chases over the years (20 of his 33 ODI centuries have come when chasing). Kohli the batsman is a huge factor, but he also has a passionate and competitive mindset, and this man can certainly help India get over the line.
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If the World Cup was to start tomorrow, India have the ingredients to win it.
    

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