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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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0

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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Why the Cricket World Cup Qualifiers is a sad time for cricket

Charbel Coorey
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Why the Cricket World Cup Qualifiers is a sad time for cricket

You might be thinking “sad time? What do you mean?”

I’ll explain, without referring to the obvious disappointment of most matches not even being televised.

10 hopefuls (the number of teams in the World Cup) are competing for two spots in the 2019 Cricket World Cup in England, and the competitiveness of the cricket has been heartening to see. Some of the performances, including Scotland’s amazing run, PNG’s challenge v West Indies and Zimbabwe’s incredible comeback win v Afghanistan, has been superb.

However, the feeling I have around these matches is significant disappointment. How can these teams, who obviously have talent, be expected to grow? How can cricket become a truly global sport with the pathetic mindset the ICC has, limiting the World Cup to 10 teams? What these World Cup Qualifiers tell us is that the ICC has no interest in truly globalising our great game.

An argument I hear: “But these teams are not competitive in World Cups, and makes for too many one-sided games”.

Rubbish.

For years, fans have been crying for more opportunities for these teams to gain greater exposure against higher ranked sides in the four year window between World Cups. Yes, this might mean an opportunity or two for associate nations instead of an India v Australia ODI series, for example, which we see plenty of. How on earth could one expect teams to compete against big teams, when the only time they play them is in World Cups? What is the solution? Enabling them to do better, or eliminating them altogether? The ICC has chosen the latter, and it’s a real shame.

You tell me what is better for cricket – an India v Australia ODI series that fans are desensitized to because we see it so damn often, or seeing these associate nations play against their heroes? Isn’t it better if the likes of Nepal, Hong Kong and Scotland play some ODIs against top ranked nations, at the expense of more meaningless, frequent ODI series? What about the rise of Afghanistan? There is a great chance we won’t even see Afghanistan at the World Cup, as they have suffered as a result of key absentees (Shahzad and Stanikzai) in this tournament, which is a huge shame. Could you imagine kids watching their national team in a big series for them? More kids will want to achieve what their heroes are, and that’s how you grow the game globally. Encourage participation, and give an opportunity for these nations to develop!

Sure, the “financial” argument always comes in, based on the amount of revenue a series brings in. However, this is short term thinking. This is not thinking that will help expand our game. Sometimes, revenue needs to be put to the side for a second to think about the future of our sport. Cricket is not thinking long term enough, and as a result, our associate nations are not growing. They are not getting the exposure and experience they need to improve, and they are being punished for somehow not competing with the established nations in a World Cup setting. “You guys are giving us no value, so only two spots available for you”, say the ICC. “And hey, you’ll have to compete with full member nations such as the West Indies to even try get a spot in the showpiece event.”

What I hope to see from the 2019 World Cup is the ICC coming to its senses, realising that a 10 team World Cup is NOT GOOD for cricket. Please, expand our game, and give a chance to the lesser experienced nations, who are crying out for more exposure. Let’s truly globalise our great game, and the way to do that is by supporting, enabling and encouraging the lesser nations thanks to long term decision making.

Spread the message, cricket fans.

Nidahas Trophy: 3rd T20I Preview – Easy win for Sri Lanka v Bangladesh?

Charbel Coorey
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0

– A team (Sri Lanka) that won their first game convincingly, against a team (Bangladesh) the lost their first game convincingly.

– A team (Sri Lanka) that recently smashed the other (Bangladesh) 2-0 in a recent T20I series.

– A team (Sri Lanka) that poached the other team’s (Bangladesh) coach, and is enjoying some success straight away.

Sri Lanka should beat Bangladesh easily, right?

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However, the beauty of T20 cricket is that anything can happen on the day. Bangladesh,, without Shakib Al Hasan, look to be really struggling at the moment, and their struggles were on show in a very poor performance against India. The concerning aspect for the Tigers is that India didn’t even get out of second gear throughout the game, and still won easily. They now come up against a Sri Lanka side that was impressive against India, so the key questions are – do Bangladesh stand any chance? What is their best route to victory?

A win for Sri Lanka would give them one foot in the final. The Lions had a wretched 2017, but have started 2018 promisingly, even though they haven’t played any top opposition yet. However, India still possessed some very good players in their side, and Sri Lanka put in a professional performance to nail their chase of 175. Chandika Hathurusinga knows Bangladesh inside and out, and if Sri Lanka put in a performance like they did versus India, it would surely be enough vs Bangladesh.

Key to a Sri Lanka win


Fast start by the top order.

This was key to Sri Lanka’s success on their Bangladesh tour, as well as their first game against India. A good start from the top order gives the middle order freedom to express themselves, and for Sri Lanka fans, they would have taken heart by how well the batting line up performed in a tricky chase first up.

Kusal Perera was dynamic with his 66, and Thisara Perera built on his good showing against Bangladesh with a strong 22 off 10 balls to see the Lions home against India. I’m really looking forward to see how Kusal Mendis goes against a team he has enjoyed playing against in recent times. A fast start by Dinushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Mendis and Kusal Perera might be too much for Bangladesh to come back from.

Kusal Perera was excellent against India

Key to a Bangladesh win

In my preview of the India v Bangladesh game, I spoke about the onus being on the bowlers to perform. However, their batting was so awful that it was nearly impossible to watch, especially with the game kicking off at 12:30am here in Sydney. 
After all these years, Bangladesh still seem to struggle with the notion that T20 cricket is NOT ONLY about boundaries. For Bangladesh to improve in T20 cricket, their strike rotation has to be top of the agenda, as this was a major concern against India. In their innings of 139/8, they chewed up 68 dot balls, meaning they only scored off 52 balls. So basically, Bangladesh gave themselves 8.4 overs to put up some sort of score. Horrible stuff.
Against Sri Lanka, this has to change if they are to have a chance of winning. They need to cut out the dot balls, and keep Dinesh Chandimal guessing as to what field placings he should employ. It’s easy to say that Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah are key to Bangladesh’s chances, but in reality, all batsmen have to contribute in some way or another, and that starts with effectively rotating the strike.
Tamim Iqbal needs to perform for Bangladesh at the top

Predicted teams

For Sri Lanka, why change? They are playing with more confidence at the moment, and should stick with the same team. There is talk, however, of Suranga Lakmal being left out for Nuwan Pradeep. I think Lakmal will play, though.
Sri Lanka XI: 1. Danushka Gunathilaka, 2. Kusal Mendis, 3. Kusal Perera, 4. Dinesh Chandimal (c & wk), 5. Upul Tharanga, 6. Dasun Shanaka, 7. Thisara Perera, 8. Jeevan Mendis, 9. Akila Dananjaya, 10. Dushmantha Chameera, 11. Nuwan Pradeep
Bangladesh’s bowling held up pretty well against India, but just didn’t have enough runs to defend. The onus will be on the batsmen to put up some sort of fight in this match, to pretty much keep their hopes alive of reaching the final. I would not be surprised if a bowler is left out to cater for an extra batsman, even though their attack did OK against India.
Bangladesh XI: 1. Tamim Iqbal, 2. Soumya Sarkar, 3. Liton Das, 4. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5. Mahmudullah, 6. Sabbir Rahman, 7. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 8. Mustafizur Rahman, 9. Rubel Hossain, 10. Taskin Ahmed, 11. Nazmul Islam

Stats & Facts:

  • Since January 23, Bangladesh have lost two ODIs, a Test, and three T20Is. They have recorded no wins in this time. 
  • Soumya Sarkar, Bangladesh’s leading T20I run scorer in 2017, has scored 40+ three times in his last five innings.
  • Sri Lanka will be looking to take advantage of Bangladesh’s inability to rotate the strike. Reminder: Bangladesh played out 11.2 overs of dot balls v India.
  • Sri Lanka have won their last three T20Is, after losing their previous eight.
  • Kusal Mendis’ 66 v India was his eighth fifty in T20Is, and equaled Kumar Sangakkara’s record of most fifties for Sri Lanka in T20Is without a hundred (eight).

Prediction:

Not much is expected of Bangladesh at the moment, which is often when they can be at their most dangerous, However, with the pitches getting lower and slower as the tournament progresses, I again expect Bangladesh to struggle to make an impact with the bat, especially without Shakib Al Hasan. The variety in Sri Lanka’s attack, as well as knowledge of the Bangladesh team thanks to Chandika Hathurusinga, means that Sri Lanka are likely to be too strong.
Kusal Mendis was superb against Bangladesh in their recent series, and I expect him to be man of the match in a comfortable Sri Lankan victory.
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