Last month, the batting star took a break from the game citing personal reasons. At that time, he had not disclosed the reason behind his decision and finally revealed it this week. According to reports, he and his wife are currently in London. In his post on social media, Virat Kohli not only revealed the name of his son but also disclosed that he was born on February 15.

“With abundant happiness and our hearts full of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay and Vamika’s little brother into this world! We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love and gratitude,” wrote Virat Kohli.

Astrologer’s prediction for Virat Kohli goes viral:

Soon after Virat Kohli announced the birth of his son, an astrologer’s prediction about the Indian cricket star went viral on social media. The astrologer had made the prediction way back in 2016. The viral post comes from a Facebook page called “Stars and Astrology”. The post was made in April 2016 when the astrologer made several predictions about Virat Kohli’s personal and professional life.

His sixth prediction read: “Additionally, Virat will have an opportunity for another child between 2021-2024.”

The same post had gone viral on social media after last year’s ODI World Cup as well after India’s heartbreaking defeat in the final. The post claimed that the right-handed batsman will struggle with his form for a period of about 18 months starting August 2025 all the way to February of 2027 before regaining his form ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

“Virat’s career will pick up in 2027 and he will retire on a very high note before March 2028,” the post stated.

Well, fans will be hoping that the prediction turns out to be true and Kohli goes on to win another ODI World Cup before bringing down curtains on his illustrious career.

The post Astrologer’s stunning prediction about Virat Kohli goes viral after he becomes father for the second time appeared first on CricketAddictor.

They had backed Azam Khan to keep the stumps and appear in the middle order from number 6. The batter who broke into the scene through his aggressive performances in the Pakistan Super League, could not make an impact whatsoever and was eventually dropped from the last two T20Is, having scored just 22 from the first three matches.

“Nowadays social media comes after you”, Hafeez claims Pakistan didn’t want to deteriorate Azam Khan’s confidence

While speaking to A Sports recently, Mohammad Hafeez stated that Azam Khan was dropped from the final two T20Is for his own good as he was anyways experiencing a lean run of form. Hafeez claimed that if Azam had failed to produce a turnaround in those remaining matches then it would have shattered his self-confidence and also highlighted that fans on social media would have trolled him severely which could have further damaged the youngster’s morale.

Hafeez also said that he was left with no option but to drop Azam even if he wanted to give him some more playing time. But since he couldn’t match the expected standards, it was best that he sat out for the final two matches.

“We’ve given clarity to him that he is not going anywhere. Personally, I wanted to give him more matches, but after 3 matches, we thought that he’s not performing well enough so that his confidence wouldn’t shatter to the extent that he couldn’t make a comeback, because you know nowadays social media comes after you immediately after one or two performances.” – Hafeez said via A Sports.

Such has been Azam Khan’s short international career in which he has been picked based on promise and potential rather than match-winning performances. Since making his T20I debut in 2021 in England, the 25-year-old has played 7 matches after his debut and has only disappointed his father Moin Khan, Pakistani fans, and of course the Pakistan Cricket Board. The power hitter has scored only 1 six from 7 innings and only has 29 runs to his name with a highest of 10. That pretty much sums up his case.

“He will get those 10 to 15 matches before the World Cup”, Hafeez on Azam’s T20 WC chances

Mohammad Hafeez did not make it obvious but he did indicate that Azam Khan could be in line to appear for Pakistan in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. Hafeez revealed that when he told Azam that he is being dropped, the 26-year-old was reassured that he would get his chances in the future and that there was no reason to worry.

The former team director stated that the management had thought of giving him a long rope until the World Cup and that Azam will get his chances when New Zealand arrive for a T20 series tour to Pakistan before they head over to England for another T20I series.

“The plan was that we’ll play him, give him a full run, till the World Cup he’s not going anywhere. The 3-4 matches he got here (New Zealand), New Zealand’s team is coming here in April and then we’re going to England so he will get those 10 to 15 matches before the World Cup.” – Hafeez concluded. 

The post Mohammad Hafeez defends himself after Azam Khan explodes over Pakistan Cricket’s dual faced approach appeared first on CricketAddictor.

While Lahore Qalandars have lost both opening games of PSL 2024, Multan Sultans won both matches. Lahore takes the 4th spot in the PSL 2024 points table with 0 points. Multan takes the top spot in the points table with 4 points.

Multan Sultans won both matches with a powerful batting show. They crushed Karachi Kings in the opening game by defending their 1st innings total of 185. In the next game, the Mohammad Rizwan-led side chased down a 145-run target against Islamabad United by 5 wickets.

Also Read: MUL vs LAH Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today PSL Match? Match 7, PSL 2024

After winning the titles in the last two editions, Lahore Qalandars have witnessed a miserable start in the Pakistan Super League 2024. They failed to defend a mountainous total of 195 in the first match against Islamabad United. Later, the Shaheen Afridi & boys failed to defend a 187-run total against Quetta Gladiators in the second game.

Notably, none of the five games of PSL have been affected by weather. However, since Pakistan stadiums are batting-friendly, batters executed a lot of action on the field. Below we glance at the weather and pitch reports for the MUL vs LAH PSL match.

Also Read: Match fixing in PSL 2024? PCB rattled with Indian individuals, advises players to stay away

PSL 2024 Match 7 Weather Report

PSL 2024 match 7 weather report, according to weather.com, suggests that the temperature of Multan City on Wednesday, February 21 will be 24° during the day and 9° Celcius at night. The sky will be clear during the day and partly cloudy at night. The chances of rain are 8% during the day and 4% at night. The humidity will be 33% during the day and 68% at night.

Pitch Analysis of Multan Cricket Stadium

Multan Sultan Cricket Stadium is a good-scoring ground. Although it is not as high-scoring as Gaddafi Stadium, it offers a flat wicket which enables batters to take the driver’s seat. In the last two games at the stadium, Multan Sultans won with the help of their batters. In the MUL vs. LAH encounter too, batters will enjoy a good time. Bowlers will need to pull their socks but they will benefit as the match progresses.

Also Read: Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi Weather Report Live Today And Pitch Report Of Gaddafi Stadium- PSL 2024, Match 6

Weather Impact

The MUL vs LAH encounter of PSL 2024 will take place on Friday, February 21. It will begin at 7:30 PM IST. At night, the chances of rain are just 4%. Hence, the clash will not be affected by rain. At night, the sky will be partly cloudy and the humidity will rise to 68%. The temperature will be 9° Celcius and hence, players will have to play under chilly weather.

Also Read: Shaheen Afridi addresses concerns about pace dip in his bowling

Conclusion

Since Pakistan observes the winter season from December to February, the next few games of PSL 2024 will not witness any rain. Therefore, the DLS rule will not impact the next match. The chilly weather might impact foreign players but domestic players are quite used to it. However, pitch conditions at Multan Cricket Stadium will help batters more than bowlers.

The post Multan Sultans vs Lahore Qalandars Weather Report Live Today And Pitch Report Of Multan Cricket Stadium- PSL 2024, Match 7 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

They became parents for the first time in 2021 when Anushka gave birth to a daughter Vamika. On Tuesday, February 20), Virat Kohli took to social media to announce the news and revealed that his son was born on February 15.

“With abundant happiness and our hearts full of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay and Vamika’s little brother into this world! We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love and gratitude – Virat and Anushka,” read the post from the former India skipper.

pic.twitter.com/BgpfycayI4

— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) February 20, 2024

Virat Kohli’s posts on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram have already garnered millions of reactions as not only the fans but cricketers have also made sure to wish him on the special occasion. And with the veteran batsman getting flooded with congratulatory messages, his former India Under-19 teammate Shreevats Goswami decided to take an indirect dig at some cricketers.

Taking to X, Shreevats Goswami wrote: “When your wishes do not reach a person, yet you are still obsessed in wishing them . What does this obsession mean? Asking for a friend ”

When your wishes do not reach a person, yet you are still obsessed in wishing them . What does this obsession mean ? Asking for a friend

— Shreevats goswami (@shreevats1) February 21, 2024

Virat Kohli and Shreevats Goswami were part of the Indian Under-19 team that won the Under-19 World Cup in 2008. Both of them also played together for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

When no one messaged Virat Kohli:

In the past, Kohli had revealed that he is not really on good terms with several cricketers as he said that no one except MS Dhoni messaged him when he stepped down as the Test captain. He revealed that Dhoni was his only former teammate who reached out to him while he was struggling mentally after the captaincy saga.

“When I left Test captaincy then one person messaged me was MS Dhoni. No one else even though they have my number. Neither he wants anything from me and nor I want anything from him. If there is a genuine connection, it is reflected this way.

“We were not insecure of each other. People give a lot of suggestions publicly. If I want to say something to someone, I would reach out individually. If one does want me to improve, he can talk to me one on one. But if you want to give me suggestions publicly, I do not hold value to it,” Kohli had said.

Meanwhile, Kohli has not played a competitive game since the T20I series against Afghanistan last month. He is likely to return to action next month when IPL 2024 gets underway.

The post “What does this obsession mean?” Virat Kohli’s ex-teammate takes dig at cricketers for wishing the India star after the birth of his son Akaay appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Jonny Bairstow has had a tour to forget until now as he has looked like a shadow of himself, not being able to score as many runs as McCullum and skipper Ben Stokes would have expected. Bairstow along with Joe Root have faced difficulties scoring runs so far and that has directly impacted England’s result in the last two Tests in Vizag and Rajkot where the visitors blew away the lead they took in the 1st Hyderabad Test.

“I’m taking him out”, Alastair Cook opines on Bairstow’s position in the 4th Test

Bairstow had scores of 37, 10, 25, 26, 0, and 4 across the six innings from the crucial number 5 position. It has intrigued Alastair Cook to claim that the right-hand batter should be excluded from the side in the next Test match starting from February 23rd onwards at the JSCA stadium, claiming that India is always a tough place to get going, especially when someone is going through a lean patch.

“I’m taking him out of the firing line to protect the player, as I think he’s had a tough tour so far and India is a tough place to keep going on the treadmill. I’m not saying he’ll never play Test cricket again, but it’s good to have someone who’s fresh of all the debris of this series so far.” – Cook told TNT Sports. 

It is not that England have an incapable batting order but it’s just that the middle order is severely out of form. Only Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Ben Stokes to some extent have showcased individual brilliance and it goes without saying that if Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root start to fire from the middle-order, the Three Lions will become an even more dangerous side for the Indian bowlers to handle.

They had a very good chance of displaying the aggressive Bazball in the Rajkot Test which had a rather batting-friendly track as compared to the previous venues where the ball spun quite a lot. With the pitch report in Ranchi claiming that Batters are expected to get assistance until day 3, it will be an important toss to win for Ben Stokes.

While Cook wants Dan Lawrence to come in, Michael Atherton wants England to keep backing Jonny Bairstow

When asked about the possible replacement for Jonny Bairstow at number 5, Alastair Cook brought forward the name of 26-year-old Dan Lawrence who is known for his exceptional wrist work. However, his senior from the national side, Michael Atherton has a different view, claiming that McCullum and Stokes should keep backing Bairstow as he has been a central part of their Bazball project.

“Bairstow has been so central to this project that I don’t see them leaving him out now, at a critical juncture.” – Atherton said via Sky Sports Cricket. 

The post Jonny Bairstow to be benched in the Ranchi Test? Alastair Cook shares interesting update appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Team Analysis

Multan Sultans

Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan is the captain of Multan Sultans in PSL 2024. They have a strong batting unit with the likes of Mohammad Rizwan, Dawid Malan, Reeza Hendricks, and Iftikhar Ahmed. Their premium bowlers are David Willey, Mohammad Ali, and Usama Mir.

Lahore Qalandars

Lahore Qalandars are defending champions of PSL 2024 and are led by pacer Shaheen Afridi. With Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen, Abdullah Shafique, and Lorcan Tucker, Lahore has an experienced set of batters. They have powerful pacers- Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf. David Wiese and Sikandar Raza are their two crucial all-rounders.

Also Read: Match fixing in PSL 2024? PCB rattled with Indian individuals, advices players to stay away

Key Factors

Pitch Conditions

Multan Cricket Stadium is a high-scoring ground. Although it has not hosted any international T20I matches, it has witnessed some ODI and Tests. In the last two games at the stadium, batting looked quite easy. Multan Sultans won both of their previous matches at the stadium with ease with a powerful batting show. The pitch is batting-friendly and batsmen will enjoy a good outing.

Form and fitness

There are no injury cases in both teams after the first few games of PSL 2024. If we talk about the form of the Multan Sultans team, Reeza Henricks, Mohammad Rizwan, Dawid Malan, Mohammad Ali, and Abbas Afridi have shown impressive shows across two games. For Lahore Qalandars, Rassie van der Dussen, Sahibzada Farhan, Zaman Khan, and Salman Fayyaz are the best performers after two games.

Also Read: Shaheen Afridi addresses concerns about pace dip in his bowling

Tactical Acumen

If we compare the batting unit of both teams, Multan Sultans have an edge with strong batters like Reeza Hendricks, Dawid Malan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan, and Johnson Charles.

Lahore Qalandars have more options for all-rounders. Multan Sultans have more wicket-keeper batters in their squad. Lahore has national pacers Shaheen Afridi, Zaman Khan, and Haris Rauf. Chris Jordan and Shahnawaz Dahani are the most crucial pacers for Multan Sultans.

MUL vs LAH Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today PSL Match? Match 7, PSL 2024

Score Prediction

Players to perform prediction

Multan Sultans-

Reeza Hendricks, Mohammad Rizwan, and Dawid Malan have executed a marvelous batting show in PSL 2024 so far. Mohammad Ali and Abbas Afridi are the leading wicket-takers after two games.

Lahore Qalandars-

Rassie van der Dussen, Sahibzada Farhan, and Abdullah Shafique have shown decent form in batting. Salman Fayyaz and Zaman Khan have picked the most 2 wickets each in 2 games.

Best Batsman

Who will score the most runs for Multan Sultans in the match: Mohammad Rizwan or Reeza Hendricks 

Who will score the most runs for Lahore Qalandars in the match: Fakhar Zaman or Abdullah Shafique 

Best Bowler

Who will pick the most wickets for Multan Sultans in the match: Mohammad Ali or Abbas Afridi 

Who will pick the most wickets for Lahore Qalandars in the match: Shaheen Afridi or Haris Rauf 

Who will win the Match?

Multan Sultans won their previous clash against Lahore Qalandars. They also enjoy the home advantage in the next match of PSL 2024. They have won two games in a row and take the top spot in the points table. Hence, the odds are in Multan Sultans’ favour in Match 7 of Pakistan Super League 2024.

Also Read: Mohammad Hafeez and Azhar Ali fire shots at Lahore Qalandars’ player development program after the team loses the opening games of PSL 2024

Conclusion

Multan Sultans vs Lahore Qalandars match will be a clash between skippers Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi. While Rizwan’s team has done a marvelous job in the last two games, Lahore have lost both of their games. Hence, Lahore will be on the back foot in the next match after recent defeats. Multan Sultans will be high on confidence as they also have a home advantage in the match.

The post MUL vs LAH Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today PSL Match? Match 7, PSL 2024 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Ravichandran Ashwin became the ninth bowler in international cricket to pick up 500 wickets in Test cricket. The 37-year-old became the second bowler, after the legendary Anil Kumble, to reach this milestone. He has taken 501 wickets in 98 Tests at an average of 23.94.

The Tamil Nadu-born cricketer achieved the milestone by dismissing England opener Zak Crawley in the first innings of the third Test in Rajkot. However, he returned to Chennai due to a family medical emergency. He rejoined the team on the fourth day’s play.

What A Tremendous Cricketer – Sunil Gavaskar

Sunil Gavaskar believes Ravichandran Ashwin deserved the captaincy for India a few years ago, praising his exceptional cricketing intellect and innovative approach. Gavaskar wished for Ashwin to continue his success in bowling.

“Congratulations to Ravichandran Ashwin on capturing his 500th Test wicket. What a tremendous cricketer he has been! One of the finest thinkers in the game and always willing to try something new and different, be it a run-up, delivery action, or, of course, deliveries to bamboozle the batter,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid-Day.

“He should have been honored with the India captaincy a couple of years back when there were two India teams playing around the same time. Well done, Ashwin, and I wish you many more wickets, newer deliveries, and different actions in the future,” he added.

Virat Kohli stepped down from the captaincy of the Test team following India’s 2-1 loss to South Africa in January 2022. Rohit Sharma, who was leading in the limited-overs formats, was appointed as the Test captain by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The Very Simple Answer Is No – Ravichandran Ashwin

In a post-match press conference following his 500th Test wicket, Ravichandran Ashwin dismissed the idea of targeting Anil Kumble’s record. Ashwin expressed satisfaction with his current approach, which has proven effective over the past few years.

“The very simple answer is ‘no’… 120 wickets away. Every day is what I want to live for, and, I’m 37 years old. I don’t know what’s in store next. What’s in store for the next two months?” Ashwin said.

“You play this series and then what lies ahead, you really don’t know. I don’t want to really jump the gun. I’ve kept it this way for the last 4-5 years and it’s been very simple and it’s worked for me. Why change anything that’s working for you?” Ashwin added.

On February 20, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul would not participate in the fourth Test against England. Jasprit Bumrah has been rested, while KL Rahul has not fully recovered from his injury.

The fourth Test of the five-match series is scheduled to be played at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi starting on Friday, February 23.

Also read: “Longest 48 hours…” – Ravichandran Ashwin’s wife Prithi posts heartfelt message as spinner achieves 500 wickets milestone

The post Ravichandran Ashwin should’ve been India’s captain- Sunil Gavaskar sows seeds of division in team Inda appeared first on CricketAddictor.

The penultimate match of the five-Test series is scheduled to be played in Ranchi from February 23. India are set to make at least one change to their bowling lineup after resting Jasprit Bumrah for the forthcoming game. The India pace spearhead played in all three Tests so far before being rested as a part of the workload management.

And according to a report in The Indian Express, 27-year-old Akash Deep is in line to replace him in the playing eleven. While Mukesh Kumar has rejoined the squad for the game, the news outlet has reported that Akash Deep is likely to get the nod ahead of him.

Akash Deep to get the nod:

Mukesh Kumar played the second Test in Vishakhapatnam when Mohammed Siraj was rested. He did not manage to make an impact in that game, managing just a solitary wicket before being released from the squad just ahead of the third Test after Siraj returned. He joined the Bengal squad for their Ranji game against Bihar and picked up an impressive ten wickets.

While Mukesh was expected to replace Bumrah in the playing eleven, the team management has decided otherwise. The report claimed that the team management and the selectors were impressed with the way Akash Deep bowled in the matches between India A and England Lions.

In two unofficial Tests, the right-arm pacer picked up 11 wickets with the help of two four-wicket hauls. In first-class cricket, he has played 30 games so far and has picked up an impressive 104 wickets at an average of 23.58.

Meanwhile, India will be aiming to wrap up the series by winning the fourth Test in Ranchi. The hosts are leading the series 2-1 after their thumping 434-run win in the third Test. India lost the opening Test by 28 runs before bouncing back in style.

The post Mukesh Kumar to be snubbed, Akash Deep to debut in Ranchi Test: Report appeared first on CricketAddictor.

It is normal for every cricketer in the country to get shell-shocked by meeting someone of the stature of MSD himself and Dhruv Jurel is no exception. He remembers pinching himself after Dhoni came in front of him and going spellbound for a while before asking for a picture and getting valuable pieces of advice from Thala.

“I stood up and started thinking is this MS Dhoni”, Jurel on his maiden interaction with the 2011 WC-winning captain

In a recent video uploaded by the official X (formerly Twitter) account of the BCCI, Jurel explained that he was just sitting and watching him over before realizing that it was Dhoni himself.

“I was just watching him and I stood up and started thinking is this MS Dhoni standing in front of me. My first interaction with him was in IPL 2021 which was my first season. At that time, I was pinching myself to see whether it is a dream or not.” – Jurel said via BCCI. 

Dhruv Jurel would then disclose his ultimate dream to be fulfilled in the 4th Test which will take place in the hometown of MS Dhoni at Ranchi, Jharkhand. The 23-year-old claimed that his dream in the match will not be scoring a century or stumping a could of players but to meet Dhoni after the match.

“My dream is to meet Mahi bhai especially after the match after an international game. Whenever I have talked to him, I have always learnt something new from him so I hope that I get a chance to meet him during the fourth Test at Ranchi.” – Jurel added. 

“Just go out, watch the ball, and play”, Dhruv Jurel reveals chat with MSD

Then Dhruv Jurel would reveal the chat he had with the former India captain after a league stage match between Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2021. He recalls going straight towards MS Dhoni and stumbling upon thinking as to what should be asked.

Jurel then stated that he just asked for a picture before Dhoni told him to just watch the ball and play according to the merit of the ball.

“So I met him back in 2021 when it was my first IPL season. Then I went straight to him and I was like “Sir-Bhaiya, Sir-Bhaiya”, I couldn’t figure out what to say. And then I asked him ‘can I have one photo with you’. Then he gave me only one advice to just go out, watch the ball and play.” – Jurel concluded. 

Meanwhile, Dhruv Jurel on his debut Test match, missed out on what could have been a memorable half-century by just 4 runs but overall he had a decent outing. The youngster was good with the gloves too as he led to the run-out of England’s dangerous opening batter Ben Duckett who had scored a full century in the 2nd innings at Rajkot. Jurel is expected to retain his position in the team in place of KS Bharat.

The post Dhruv Jurel reveals what MS Dhoni told him during his first interaction in IPL 2021 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

According to a report in Cricket Pakistan, one of the four individuals is a former Pakistan regional cricket coach two are Indians and one is Bangladeshi. The individuals associated with the PSL franchises have been reportedly instructed to avoid any contact with the suspicious individuals. They have also been instructed to immediately approach the anti-corruption officials to report any suspicious activities.

The report further stated that the team hotel has not been fully booked by PCB. As a result, there is no restriction on the regular movement of people although the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken several measures to prevent bookies disguised as fans from meeting the players.

The players have been instructed to report to the officials if they receive any gift exceeding 25,000 rupees.  Players have also been barred from ordering food from outside the team hotel. In 2017, the PSL was rocked by a match-fixing scandal which eventually led to the suspension of Sharjeel Khan, Khalid Latif, Nasir Jamshed, Mohammad Irfan, and Shahzaib Hasan.

PSL 2024 so far:

PSL 2024 got underway on February 17 with the game between defending champions Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United. Four of the six teams have played two games so far while Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings have played one game each. Multan Sultans are currently at the top of the points table after winning both of their opening games.

Quetta Gladiators have also won both of their games but are in the second spot due to net run rate. Islamabad are at the third spot with 1 win from 2 games while the Qalandars, Zalmi, and Kings are yet to open their accounts.

The post Match fixing in PSL 2024? PCB rattled with Indian individuals, advices players to stay away appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Shan Masood leads Karachi Kings in PSL 2024. They lost their opening game of the tournament against Multan Sultans by 55 runs. Bowling first, KRK failed to enough wickets. Their opposition piled up 185-2 in 1st innings.

During the chase, Karachi Kings lost top-order batters cheaply as Shan Masood (30), James Vince (5), and Saad Baig (0) lost their wickets soon. Later, Shoaib Malik slammed 53 runs and Kieron Pollard added 28 runs. However, Karachi Kings could only add 130-8 on the board till the final over.

Also Read: Mohammad Hafeez and Azhar Ali fire shots at Lahore Qalandars’ player development program after the team loses the opening games of PSL 2024

Babar Azam leads Peshawar Zalmi in PSL 2024. They lost their opening match against Quetta Gladiators by 16 runs. Bowling first, Peshawar could not showcase a powerful bowling show. Quetta Gladiators piled up gigantic 206-5 with both openers slamming fifties.

Later, openers Saim Ayub (42) and Babar Azam (68) gave a quick start to the batting. However, other batsmen failed to follow up. Rovman Powell scored a quickfire 17 off 9 balls. Losing all key batters, Peshawar Zalmi could only reach 190-6 in 20 overs and lost by 16 runs.

PSL 2024 Match 6 Weather Report

According to weather reports from weather.com, the temperature of Lahore City on Wednesday, February 21 will be 20° Celcius during the day and 9° Celcius at night. The sky will be partly cloudy during the day and night. The humidity will be 54% during the day and 74% at night. The chance of rain is 10% during the day and 9% at night.

Also Read: Watch: Alex Hales and Jordan Cox complete a stunning relay catch in PSL 2024

Pitch Analysis of Gaddafi Stadium

Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is often considered a high-scoring ground in T20Is. The average 1st innings total is 162 while the average 2nd innings total is 144. The highest-ever team total in T20Is stands at 209/3. All the previous games of PSL 2024 were high-scoring ones. Batters will enjoy a massive advantage in the Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi clash.

Weather Impact

The Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi match will take place in the afternoon. During the day, the chance of rain is just 10%. Hence, the match will not be affected by rain. The sky will be partly cloudy and the temperature will be 20 degrees. Therefore, extreme heat and sunny weather will not trouble players.

Also Read: Babar Azam and Mickey Arthur stopped fitness Tests in Pakistan Cricket Team alleges Mohammad Hafeez

Conclusion

The PSL 2024 match between Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi will not witness rain and hence, weather will not have a significant effect on the encounter. However, the pitch conditions will support batters as it is flat and bouncy. Batters will be in the driver’s seat. As a result, bowlers will have a hard time on the field to get wickets.

The post Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi Weather Report Live Today And Pitch Report Of Gaddafi Stadium- PSL 2024, Match 6 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

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The live score and commentary of this game can be tracked on the CricketAddictor website by clicking on Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan Livescore. 

SL vs AFG 3rd T20I Preview:

The final T20I out of the three-match T20I series of the Afghanistan Tour of Sri Lanka will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Rangiri on 21st February at 7:00 PM IST. Sri Lanka has won the first two games against Afghanistan and is currently leading the series by 2-0. In the 3rd T20I, Sri Lanka set a formidable total of 187 runs for 6 wickets.

Angelo Mathews was the standout performer, scoring a quickfire 42 runs off 22 balls and taking 2 wickets for 9 runs in his 2 overs, earning him the Player of the Match award. The Sri Lankan bowlers then dismantled the Afghan batting lineup, bowling them out for just 115 runs in 17 overs to secure a 72-run victory. Sri Lanka looks poised to complete a clean sweep in the series, while Afghanistan will aim to salvage pride and avoid a whitewash in the final match.

SL vs AFG Head-to-Head Record:  

SL vs AFG 3rd T20I Weather & Pitch Report:

Record of chasing teams: 

SL vs AFG 3rd T20I Squads:

Sri Lanka Squad: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(wk), Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga©, Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando, Matheesha Pathirana

Afghanistan Squad: Rahmanullah Gurbaz(wk), Ibrahim Zadran©, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Karim Janat, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq

SL vs AFG Dream11 Team Today Fantasy Cricket Players Stats:

Hot Picks for SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips: 

Captaincy Picks for SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction: 

Top Picks for SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction:

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SL vs AFG 3rd T20I Captain and Vice-captain Choices:

SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team 1: 

• Keeper – Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Kusal Mendis
• Batsmen – Pathum Nissanka (c), Ibrahim Zadran
• All-rounders – Azmatullah Omarzai (vc), Mohammad Nabi, Angelo Mathews, Wanindu Hasaranga
• Bowlers – Dilshan Madushanka, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Maheesh Theekshana

SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team 2: 

• Keeper – Rahmanullah Gurbaz (vc), Kusal Mendis
• Batsmen – Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Ibrahim Zadran
• All-rounders – Azmatullah Omarzai, Angelo Mathews, Mohammad Nabi, Wanindu Hasaranga (c)
• Bowlers – Matheesha Pathirana, FazalHaq Farooqi

SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Today Match 3rd T20I Players to Avoid:

SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Today Match 3rd T20I Expert Advice: 

The post SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Today Match, Dream11 Team Today, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Injury Update- Afghanistan Tour of Sri Lanka 2024, 3rd T20I appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Kris Persaud, a Guyanese businessman, will be the owner of the Falcons, who will play their home games at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Antigua previously hosted the Antigua Hawksbills, but they were later replaced by the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in 2015.

The three-time CPL champions, the Jamaica Tallawahs, were disbanded last year due to financial challenges. Jamaica won’t host any CPL matches in 2024. Efforts to establish a new Jamaica-based franchise are underway, but it won’t happen until 2025 at the earliest.

The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons Will Bring A Unique Energy – Krishna Persaud

On Tuesday, February 20, the franchise owners, Worldwide Sports Management Group, unveiled the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons. Krishna Persaud, the founder and president of Worldwide Sports Management Group, expressed enthusiasm about the new franchise.

“We are brand new; we are here, we are ready… let’s get ready to play! The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons will bring a unique energy and vitality to the CPL. We are ready to fly high and conquer what is before us.

“We want to establish a winner’s culture within the team and also a culture of winning and success off the field – among every individual associated with this franchise and the amazing fans we will have at our special home base at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in lovely Antigua,” Persaud said in a statement.

“What you are witnessing today as we unveil the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons, is something truly special and I want to thank the Government of Antigua & Barbuda, who have worked closely with us to bring the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons to life. Antigua is our home… This country has a rich cricket history and the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons will create more great history on these shores. It is now time for the Falcons to fly high!” he added.

Further information regarding the organizational framework of the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons, including the coaching and management personnel, will be disclosed in the future.

CPL 2024 Set To Kick Off On August 28

The upcoming 2024 CPL season will feature six franchises: Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago. The T20 tournament is scheduled to be played from August 28 to October 6 in the Caribbean Islands.

Antigua will host CPL matches for the first time in a decade, with additional games scheduled in Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago. The final of the upcoming tournament will be held at the National Stadium in Providence, Guyana.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors will enter the tournament as the defending champions. The franchise secured their first CPL title by defeating the Trinbago Knight Riders with a nine-wicket victory in the previous season’s final.

Also read: “Had I not fought with Gautam Gambhir in 2013, maybe I would have played for another two-three years” – Manoj Tiwary

The post Caribbean Premier League unveil new franchise as Antigua & Barbuda Falcons replace Jamaica Tallawahs appeared first on CricketAddictor.

He revealed during the press conference after the 3rd Test that he is setting his sights on bowling in the next Test match, claiming that he feels a lot better and that his knee injury has also recovered faster than he thought.

Ben Stokes had not been bowling ever since he went through knee surgery which was operated by Dr. Andy Williams who has also performed operations for England players like Andrew Flintoff and Chris Woakes among others. Stokes underwent the surgery on November 2023, right after the Cricket World Cup in India concluded.

He had come out of retirement from the ODI format only to participate in the World Cup which England had entered as reigning champions before eventually finishing in the 7th position.

His doctor had asked him to not bowl any time soon as it can put further pressure on his knees but now it seems as if he is nearing making a return with the ball to help the side regain form in the ongoing series.

Do-or-Die situation awaits England in Ranchi

Ben Stokes’ England currently have their backs against the wall as they find themselves behind by 2-1 in the 5-match Test series in India. The visitors have looked like a shadow of themselves and the team that won the 1st Test in Hyderabad by 28 runs.

They were able to win that Test match on the back of an individual performance from Ollie Pope, something that England have lacked in the last two Tests.

It is also time for senior batters like Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow to fire from the middle order as their lack of runs has heavily affected England’s results.

Their underwhelming performance also has a lot to do with the individual brilliance shown by Indian batters, Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan, and Ravindra Jadeja.

Couple that batting unit with the bowling department which has seen Jasprit Bumrah lead from the front while Mohammed Siraj, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, and Jadeja have played the supporting roles pretty well.

It will all be down to the 4th Test at the Jharkhand State Cricket Association stadium from February 23 onwards when England will look to start staging a comeback.

Watch Ben Stokes putting extra effort in the nets

Ben Stokes bowling on one of the side pitches in Ranchi. Session lasted 20 minutes! pic.twitter.com/jjvuwTfbGY

— Pratyush Sinha (@prat1204) February 21, 2024

After confirming during the press conference in Rajkot about being able to bowl at 100% intensity during nets, Ben Stokes made a cryptic claim about bowling in the 4th Test. He sounded quite unsure about that during the statement he made but the latest video which came out about 9 AM, could be an indication that Ben Stokes will bowl in Ranchi.

“I had my first bowl (in the nets) at 100 percent. As a ­person, I like to jump the gun a ­little bit too much. I have to get my whole body to get used to bowling. So I am not saying no, but I am not ­saying yes, either.” – Stokes told reporters in Rajkot. 

The post Watch- Ben Stokes reaches Ranchi and does this straight in the nets to shock Indian fans appeared first on CricketAddictor.

For real-time Dream11 Tips and Fantasy Cricket Live Updates, follow us on the Cricketaddictor Telegram Channel.

The live score and commentary of this game can be tracked on the CricketAddictor website by clicking on Catalunya Dragons vs Sohal Hospitalet Livescore. 

CDG vs SOH ECS Spain T10 Match 85 and 86 Preview:

Catalunya Dragons and Sohal Hospitalet will clash in match 85 and 86 of the ECS Spain T10 at the Montjuïc Olympic Ground, Barcelona on 21st February at 2:15 PM IST and 4:30 PM IST.  Throughout the ongoing season, the Catalunya Dragons have engaged in a total of sixteen matches, out of which they have emerged victorious in six.

This commendable performance has earned them the seventh position on the points table. In contrast, Sohal Hospitalet has also participated in sixteen matches; however, they have managed to secure victory in only three encounters. Consequently, they find themselves in the ninth spot on the points table, reflecting their struggle in the season thus far.

CDG vs SOH Head-to-Head Record: 

CDG vs SOH ECS Spain T10 Match 85 and 86 Weather & Pitch Report:

Record of chasing teams:  

CDG vs SOH ECS Spain T10 Match 85 and 86 Squads:

Catalunya Dragons Squad: Prince Dhiman, Raja Waqar(wk), Bilawal Khan, Sufyan Ilahi, Adil Shah©, Muneeb Ur Rehman, Jabbar Hameed, Faizan Amjad, Waqas Younis, Uneeb Shah, Aqtadar Khan

Sohal Hospitalet Squad: Asjad Butt©, Aamir Javid, Asim Latif(wk), Asad Ali, Raja Shahzad, Faisal Sarfraz, Moeen Safdar, Muhammad Haleem, Waqar Hassan, Waqas Zia, Umair Muhammad

CDG vs SOH Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Players Stats:

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Budget Picks for CDG vs SOH Dream11 Prediction:

CDG vs SOH ECS Spain T10 Match 85 and 86 Captain and Vice-captain Choices:

CDG vs SOH Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team 1:

• Keeper – Raja Waqar 
• Batsmen – Faisal Sarfraz, Bilal Aslam, Dawood Masood 
• All-rounders – Prince Dhiman (c), Asjad Butt (vc), Syed Raza
• Bowlers – Aqtadar Khan, Muhammad Haleem, Muhammad Nazim, Azhar Iqbal

CDG vs SOH Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team 2: 

• Keeper – Raja Waqar 
• Batsmen – Faisal Sarfraz (c), Bilal Aslam, Dawood Masood 
• All-rounders – Prince Dhiman, Asjad Butt, Adil Shah-I (vc)
• Bowlers – Aqtadar Khan, Muhammad Haleem, Muhammad Nazim, Umair Muhammed

CDG vs SOH Dream11 Prediction Today Match ECS Spain T10 Match 85 and 86 Players to Avoid:

CDG vs SOH Dream11 Prediction Today Match ECS Spain T10 Match 85 and 86 Expert Advice: 

The post CDG vs SOH Dream11 Prediction Today Match, Dream11 Team Today, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Injury Update- ECS Spain T10 2024, Match 85 and 86 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Since the ODI World Cup 2023, Shaheen Shah Afridi has experienced a dip in form. The left-arm pacer faced criticism during the Test series in Australia, where Pakistan suffered a 3-0 whitewash. Afridi blamed speed guns for displaying lower speeds in Australia.

I’m Still Fit And Young – Shaheen Afridi

In a recent conversation, Shaheen Afridi emphasized that consistently bowling above 145 kph is not required in T20 cricket, highlighting the importance of timing and bowling variety. Afridi mentioned that he can still achieve speeds of 140 or 145 kph.

“I know I can still bowl 140 or 145, but you have to do everything when the time is right. In T20 cricket, no bowler bowls 140-plus as their average ball. In T20 cricket, you only need to bowl three or four balls at express pace. There are a lot of slower balls, variations, and the like. I have never felt my pace has dipped. I know I can bowl 140 or 145. I’m still fit and young, just 23,” Afridi said, as quoted by ESPNCricinfo.

Defending champions Lahore Qalandars have started their Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 campaign disastrously, losing their first two matches. The Lahore-based franchise felt the absence of Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan, who is sidelined with a back injury.

The Shaheen Afridi-led side will take on the Multan Sultans in their next match of the tournament at the Multan Cricket Stadium in Multan on Wednesday, February 21.

I Don’t Know A Lot Of Things – Shaheen Afridi

Reflecting on his journey as captain, Shaheen Afridi stressed the significance of inclusive leadership and fostering positive relationships within the team. He admitted to learning fundamental leadership aspects since assuming the captaincy role.

“When I wasn’t captain, I didn’t know a lot of things. Some so them are so basic I don’t even want to tell you about them. When you’re a bowler you only focus on yourself and your bowling,” Afridi added.

“When you’re captain, the 11 who play and the five sitting on the bench are all your players. You have to treat them as individuals, talk to them all, and keep a friendly atmosphere. You even have a responsibility to conduct yourself in a particular way with the coaching staff, because you’re all pursuing the same goals.”

Shaheen Afridi assumed leadership of the Lahore Qalandars in the PSL, guiding them to consecutive titles in the league. Following his success in the league, he was appointed as Pakistan’s T20I captain after Babar Azam stepped down from the T20I captaincy.

However, Pakistan suffered a series of defeats in his captaincy debut, losing 4-1 to New Zealand. Shaheen Afridi will lead Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2024, scheduled for June. The Men in Green are placed in the same group alongside India in the marquee event.

Also read: “Rashid Khan was our main bowler…” – Shaheen Afridi opens up on Lahore Qalandars’ poor start in PSL 2024

The post Shaheen Afridi addresses concerns about pace dip in his bowling appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Shan Masood is the captain of Karachi Kings in PSL 2024. Babar Azam is the skipper of Peshawar Zalmi in the tournament. Both teams have played only 1 match in PSL 2024. Karachi Kings lost their opening match against Multan Sultans. Peshawar Zalmi lost their opening match against Quetta Gladiators.

Team Analysis

Karachi Kings

Karachi Kings need to pull up their socks in batting and bowling in the next match. In their opening PSL 2024 game against Multan Sultans, they failed to chase down 186 runs. Notably, other teams chased even massive targets. Moreover, only two Karachi Kings bowlers managed to pick 1 wicket in the match.

Also Read:Watch: Alex Hales and Jordan Cox complete a stunning relay catch in PSL 2024

Peshawar Zalmi

Peshawar Zalmi showcased a stunning batting form in their previous match while chasing a gigantic 207 against Quetta Gladiators. However, they remained short of 16 runs in the end. Their bowlers managed to get 5 wickets in the match but leaked a lot of runs. Hence, Zalmi needs to tighten their bowling show in the next game.

Key Factors

Pitch Conditions

Since the match takes place at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, it is expected to be a high-scoring one. Gaddafi Stadium is known for big totals. Due to the flat and bouncy wicket, it offers a lot of support to batters. In the previous three games of PSL 2024 at Gadaafi Stadium, teams posted 200-plus totals twice and 180-plus totals once.

Also Read: Babar Azam and Mickey Arthur stopped fitness Tests in Pakistan Cricket Team alleges Mohammad Hafeez

Form and fitness

There are no injury concerns in both teams so far. No players have sustained injuries after the opening match. For Karachi Kings, Shoaib Malik and Kieron Pollard showed good form in the opening match. No bowlers could impress with his attack. For Peshawar Zalmi, Babar Azam and Saim Ayub showed good batting form in the previous match. Salman Irshad was quite impressive in bowling.

Tactical Acumen

Karachi Kings are short of hard-hitting top-order batters. However, they have powerful middle-order batsmen like Shoaib Malik and Kieron Pollard. Hasan Ali and Tabraiz Shamsi are the only experienced members in the bowling department. Hence, Karachi Kings have a strong batting unit but lack depth in bowling.

Peshawar Zalmi has prominent batters like Babar Azam, Rovman Powell, and Mohammad Haris. There lack of experienced all-rounders in their squad. Naveen Ul Haq is a well-known pacer in their squad. Hence, Peshawar Zalmi needs strength in batting.

Also Read: “Rashid Khan was our main bowler…” – Shaheen Afridi opens up on Lahore Qalandars’ poor start in PSL 2024

KAR vs PES Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today PSL Match? Match 6, PSL 2024

Score Prediction

Players to perform prediction

Karachi Kings-

Shoaib Malik, Shan Massod, James Vince, and Kieron Pollard can impress with the bat. Mir Hamza, Daniel Sams, and Hasan Ali can come up with a good show in bowling.

Peshawar Zalmi-

Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, Rovman Powell, and Mohammad Haris look strong in the batting department. Salman Irshad, Mohammad Zeeshan, and Luke Wood can impress with the bowl.

Best Batsman

Who will score the most runs for Karachi Kings in the match: Shoaib Malik or Kieron Pollard 

Who will score the most runs for Peshawar Zalmi in the match: Babar Azam or Rovman Powell 

Best Bowler

Who will pick the most wickets for Karachi Kings in the match: Hasan Ali or Mir Hamza

Who will pick the most wickets for Peshawar Zalmi in the match: Luke Wood or Salman Irshad

Who will win the Match?

Karachi Kings failed with both bat and ball in the last match. On the other hand, Peshawar Zalmi showcased a marvelous batting effort but could not impress with bowling. Peshawar Zalmi might outplay Karachi Kings as they have a better bowling unit. The team will a better batting show will win the match.

Conclusion

The Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi encounter of PSL 2024 will observe both teams struggling for their first victory in the tournament. Both teams lost their last match and will be desperate to win the next game. However, one of them will taste defeat once again. The losing team will also drop to the bottom of the PSL 2024 points table.

The post KAR vs PES Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today PSL Match? Match 6, PSL 2024 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

He was sidelined after suffering a quadricep strain in the first Test in Hyderabad. Apart from him, Ravindra Jadeja was also sidelined after suffering a hamstring injury in the series-opener. Both the players were included in the squad for the last three Tests although the BCCI announced that their participation will depend on their fitness.

Jadeja recovered in time for the third Test but KL Rahul did not. After the third Test in Rajkot, India captain Rohit Sharma delivered a promising update on the batter, saying that ‘he should be okay’ for the fourth Test in Ranchi. Almost a week before Rohit’s update, the BCCI had stated that the Karnataka star ‘has reached 90 percent of match fitness’.

Unsurprisingly, he was expected to be fit for the upcoming fourth Test, scheduled to start from February 23. However, the BCCI, on Tuesday (February 20), announced that the batsman is out of the Test and his participation in the fifth Test is not confirmed as well.

“KL Rahul is ruled out of the 4th Test. His participation in the final Test match in Dharamsala is subject to fitness,” the BCCI stated.

Why is KL Rahul not playing?

According to a report in CricketNext, injury is not the sole reason behind KL Rahul’s absence. The report stated that the star batsman did recover fully before the third Test in Rajkot but was not ‘confident enough to return to the field’ for that crucial game.

There was a gap of more than a week between the second and third Test and KL Rahul had enough time to recover. Although he was progressing well and was close to returning to action, he eventually decided against it.  Talking about the series, India thrashed England by a record 434 runs to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.

The post KL Rahul refused to play Rajkot Test after being declared fit by NCA appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Mohammad Hafeez and Azhar Ali had sat together along with a few more panelists on a local Pakistani channel called A Sports. They usually discuss various aspects of cricket, from players’ analysis to putting forward blunt and honest opinions. One of the best things about the show is that they do not spare the country’s cricketing system at all and are known for voicing their opinions.

Currently, they have been discussing the ongoing 9th edition of the Pakistan Super League which went underway from February 17th onwards. Among the topics of discussion were the reigning champions Lahore Qalandars and their youth system which was initiated with the thought of creating a pipeline of young cricketers to represent the national side.

What is the Qalandars Players development program?

Back in 2016, when the first edition of the Pakistan Super League was played, the Lahore-based outfit launched its youth system which they named the Lahore Qalandars Players Development Programme (PDP). The scheme aims at scouting untouched nationwide talents, giving them thorough exposure by organizing camps.

The scouts would then spot several talents and put them in city-based teams with the best performers getting a chance to practice and further nourish their skills at the Qalandars High-Performance Center (QHPC) in Lahore. Until now, the plan has only unearthed a single talent and that is right-arm pacer Haris Rauf who used to play a lot of Tape ball cricket but has now been declined from the central contract list.

“We haven’t seen a product of the PDP”, Mohammad Hafeez criticizes Lahore Qalandars’ plan to promote talent

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez who was recently sacked by the Pakistan Cricket Board from the role of senior team’s director, bashed the Qalandars PDP for not doing enough to identify talents that have been as impressive as their first found – Haris Rauf.

Mohammad Hafeez openly claimed that he hadn’t seen a single product from that scheme that has caught the eye. He claimed the plan is a good one as it will help the franchise boost its popularity and give the Pakistani team some new names.

However, Hafeez also feels that the reality on the ground is something else even if they have remained very active in their scouting but the outcomes of it are yet to be determined.

“So far, whatever progress Lahore Qalandars have made within the PDP, there is no doubt that they are very active. But so far, apart from just Haris Rauf, we haven’t seen a product of the PDP that has caught our eye at the international level.” – Hafeez told A Sports.

“And that product of the PDP, which you have found, is performing. When they started to think outside, they started picking the right players. The PDP program is good for cricket promotion, it enhances the franchise’s hype, but it is not performing on the ground.” – Mohammad Hafeez concluded. 

The post Mohammad Hafeez and Azhar Ali fire shots at Lahore Qalandars’ player development program after the team loses the opening games of PSL 2024 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Rishabh Pant began rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy after his hospitalization. The wicketkeeper-batter has shown remarkable recovery and played in a practice match in Alur. Pant is anticipated to rejoin the Delhi Capitals for the forthcoming IPL edition.

Cricket Is A Very Small Part Of Life – Aakash Chopra

In a YouTube video, Aakash Chopra expressed his surprise at the possibility of Rishabh Pant participating in the IPL. Chopra described Pant’s potential comeback as remarkable, considering his past challenges and current achievements.

“There are filtered reports that Rishabh Pant will be seen playing this year in the IPL, which is absolutely phenomenal. It is miraculous, considering where he came from and where he has reached,” Chopra said.

“Cricket is a very small part of life. It’s very important but cricket is there only if there is life. The sort of accident it was, I was just happy that he was alive. I am pretty sure he would have had to work very hard during the journey from there to here because it’s difficult and extremely lonely as well,” he added.

The Delhi Capitals are yet to confirm if Pant can manage the dual roles of wicketkeeper-batter and captain in IPL 2024. However, he could feature solely as a batter, utilizing the Impact Player rule. DC remains optimistic about Pant securing clearance for the IPL 2024.

Rishabh Pant Solves Extremely Important Problem – Aakash Chopra

Aakash Chopra noted that Rishabh Pant’s inclusion would resolve a significant issue for the Delhi Capitals. Chopra stated that Pant’s ability to bat in the middle order would benefit the team, particularly given the strong top-order lineup.

“He will bat and captain. With batting, he solves an extremely important problem for the Delhi Capitals because he can bat slightly down the order as, unfortunately, all their good players are top-order batters,” Chopra further stated.

The 26-year-old has scored 2838 runs in 98 IPL matches with an average of 34.61 and a strike rate of 147.97. However, his performance in IPL 2022 was not remarkable, as the southpaw scored 340 runs at an average of 30.91 and a strike rate of 151.79 across 14 games.

It’s A Very Good Thing – Aakash Chopra

Aakash Chopra said that Rishabh Pant’s captaincy would benefit the Delhi Capitals. Chopra highlighted that David Warner faced scrutiny over his captaincy in the IPL last year.

“It’s a very good thing if he (Pant) captains because David Warner, as much as he is a good player, there were serious questions over his captaincy last year. Although Ricky Ponting said Warner would manage, Axar Patel might be saying that he can bat and bowl,” Chopra added.

In the previous IPL season, the Delhi Capitals, led by David Warner, finished second-last, winning only five out of 14 matches and securing 10 points. If Rishabh Pant misses any matches in the upcoming season, the veteran Australian opening batter might lead the team.

Also read: Watch: Rishabh Pant comes up with big surprise, does wicket-keeping in full throttle

The post “There were questions on David Warner’s captaincy last year..”- Aakash Chopra reacts to Rishabh Pant’s comeback in IPL 2024 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

The southpaw is set to ply his trade for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2024 and his preparations could take a hit due to the legal issue. According to a report, the cricketer has landed in the controversy about the suicide case of Surat-based model Tania Singh. She was working in the field of fashion and modeling and had a good following on social media.

The Ahmedabad Mirror has reported that the 28-year-old model hailed from Rajasthan and resided at the Happy Elegance in the Vesu area. She was studying fashion design before ending her life by hanging herself from the ceiling of her apartment.

The local police suspected a love affair behind the suicide and checked out the call details which eventually led to Abhishek Sharma’s name getting involved in the matter.

According to the report, the cricketer was the last person she contacted with her phone. While there is reportedly no real contact between the deceased and the cricketer, the police have decided to call him for questioning since he had been the model’s friend for a long time.

Abhishek Sharma fails to impress:

Abhishek Sharma is currently plying his trade for Punjab in the Ranji Trophy and has not managed to make an impact with the bat. In four first-class games this season, he has registered just one half-century. His scores in the ongoing Ranji season read – 26, 91, 29, 4, 6, 7 and 36. He has picked up three wickets with his spin bowling.

The southpaw will be hoping to get out of the controversy and focus on the upcoming IPL 2024. He has scored more than 600 runs in the last two seasons of the IPL and will be eyeing a successful campaign in the upcoming edition. So far, he has played 47 matches in the IPL and has scored 893 runs with a top score of 75.

The post Abhishek Sharma lands in trouble after Surat-based model commits suicide appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Taking to social media, the batting superstar announced the arrival of his son Akaay while also revealing that the child was born on February 15. Virat Kohli as well as Anushka Sharma had managed to keep their location under wraps although few reports claimed that they were outside India and Virat Kohli’s latest photo very much proves that.

Soon after the India star announced the birth of his son, several fans took to X to share the ‘latest picture’ of him walking on the streets of London. Many are now convinced that the couple indeed welcomed their second child in England.

Latest Picture Virat Kohli in London pic.twitter.com/JOQoq13EQQ

— Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) February 20, 2024

“With abundant happiness and our hearts full of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay and Vamika’s little brother into this world! We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love and gratitude – Virat and Anushka,” read the post from Kohli and Anushka.

Virat Kohli to return in IPL 2024:

Virat Kohli is likely to return to action next month when IPL 2024 gets underway. The veteran batsman has not played a competitive game since the third T20I against Afghanistan last month. While he was named in the squad for the first two Tests against England, he decided to pull out at the last moment.

It was expected that he would be available for the last three Tests but Virat Kohli decided otherwise. The BCCI announced that the former captain would miss the final three games of the series as well. Talking about the ongoing five-match series, India are leading it 2-1.

They lost the first Test in Hyderabad before winning the second and third games to take the lead for the first time in the series. The fourth Test is scheduled to be played on February 23 in Ranchi.

The post Virat Kohli spotted in London, likely to return to action in IPL 2024 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Wasim Akram made these comments during an interview with Star Sports which also had the likes of Dale Steyn, Tom Moody, and Matthew Hayden as fellow panelists.

The official Television broadcasters of the IPL brought all of them together virtually to pick an all-time best-playing XI of the richest cricketing which will turn 17 years old this March.

The tournament throughout its history since 2008, has provided countless breathtaking moments but most importantly, it has garnered and given young uncapped-untouched players a platform to go on and represent the Indian national team India isn’t the only to benefit as other nations have also been benefitted from the league.

Panelists agree for David Warner and Rohit Sharma as the Greatest IPL openers

The entire panel agreed upon the names of David Warner and Rohit Sharma as the openers for the combined IPL playing XI concerning those who have performed consistently in the last 16 years.

While Warner received the maximum, 3 votes, Rohit was tied with Chris Gayle with 2 votes to their names. Among the options were Warner, Rohit, Virat Kohli and Gayle.

Former Sunrisers Hyderabad head coach Tom Moody was the only one to pick Kohli as the opening batsman of the combined XI, otherwise, Dale Steyn and Wasim Akram among others were unanimous in their choice of Rohit And Warner as the openers.

It was shocking why everyone was so reluctant to choose Virat Kohli as the opening batsman even after the batting stalwart is the all-time highest run getter of the tournament.

The 35-year-old has 7263 runs from 237 matches at an average of 37.24 including 7 centuries and 59 half-centuries, all for the Royal Challengers Bangalore since the inception of IPL.

Virat Kohli is the epitome of loyalty in this league and can be named alongside MS Dhoni as a one-club man. Another shocker was that Star Sports did not even include Shikhar Dhawan in the shortlist of greatest openers.

The left-hand batter who has represented franchises like Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings, has scored 6617 runs from 217 matches and is the 2nd highest IPL run-getter.

Virat Kohli welcomes baby Boy! Can he now finally win the elusive IPL title?

Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma announced last night that they have welcomed a baby boy whom they have named Akaay. Since they revealed the news, social media has been buzzing with positive reactions, and cricketers as well as cricket outlets have showered their love and support for Kohli since then.

The birth of his second child was the reason why he opted out of the entire 5-match Test series against England but now the question is, can his baby Boy Akaay prove to be a lucky charm and maybe help Virat Kohli win the elusive IPL title with RCB this season?

The post Wasim Akram snubs Virat Kohli and picks Rohit Sharma appeared first on CricketAddictor.

The two teams have been playing continuous cricket since the World Cup. Australia first played a Test series against Pakistan and then a T20I series against West Indies. 

They won both of them. New Zealand played a T20I series against Pakistan that they won. Next, they played a Test series against a second-string South African side which they won 2-0 as well.

Leading into this series, they will be led by Mitchell Marsh who led them in the series against West Indies. Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc who rested from the Windies series return to the side.

Nathan Ellis who missed out of the West Indies series with a rib injury was retained in the T20I squad for the series against New Zealand. Australia are placed fourth in the T20I rankings leading into this series. 

New Zealand also have a handful of changes and some key players missing due to injury. First and foremost Kane Williamson is absent from this series as he is on parental leave.

Tim Southee will only play the first T20I and will then manage his workload by resting in the next two games. Mitchell Santner will lead the Kiwis in the remaining two games. 

Also Read: Multan Sultans vs Karachi Kings Weather Report Live Today And Pitch Report Of Multan Cricket Stadium in Multan – PSL 2024, Match 3

Josh Clarkson, an uncapped all-rounder is part of New Zealand’s 14-man squad for the AUS vs NZ T20I series. Tim Southee is also back in the T20I squad with a vision to play in the next T20 World Cup. He did not play the Test series against South Africa. Boult will replace Southee for the last two games.

Among injury concerns are Daryl Mitchell (foot injury) and Michael Bracewell (finger injury) who are unavailable in the series. Mitchell will return for the two-match Test series. Meanwhile, Jimmy Neesham is unavailable as he is playing in the Bangladesh Premier League. 

Thus despite injury concerns in both camps, both teams have been able to name strong squads that will make the AUS vs NZ T20I series worth watching.

AUS vs NZ 2024 Broadcasting Rights in India

The AUS vs NZ T20I series will not be broadcast in India. However, the series will be broadcast live on respectively in the two countries. Fox Cricket will broadcast the series in Australia while TVNZ 1 & TVNZ+ will broadcast it live in New Zealand. Indian fans sadly cannot watch it live on television. 

AUS vs NZ 2024 Live Streaming Platform in India

The Indian fans can watch the live streaming of the AUS vs NZ series on the Amazon Prime video app and website. The viewers need to buy a subscription to watch matches on the Prime Video app.

Subscription Plan in India

To enjoy Prime benefits, you can currently purchase Prime membership at an offer price by paying 1499 per year, 299 per month,599 for 3 months (basis eligibility), or purchase Prime Lite plan by paying ₹799 per year (basis eligibility).

Amazon Prime Video has also expanded its sports programming with the launch of FanCode on Prime Video Channels. Indian fans can watch more than 15 sports including cricket, football, rugby, kabaddi, and basketball amongst others. Prime members will have to buy an annual add-on subscription to FanCode for 249.

Official Broadcaster in India

As said earlier, Indian fans cannot watch the AUS vs NZ series live broadcast in India. However, the fans of the two respective countries respective countries can watch it on Fox Cricket and TVNZ channels.

AUS vs NZ Live Streaming In India– 1st T20I, 2024: When and Where To Watch Australia vs New Zealand Live In India?

When will the AUS vs NZ 1st T20I match begin? 

The match begins at 11.40 am IST on February 21, Wednesday. 

Where will the AUS vs NZ 1st T20I match take place?

The match will be played at Sky Stadium in Wellington. 

How to Live Telecast the AUS vs NZ 1st T20I match on television?

The New Zealand vs Australia live telecast on TV in India will not be available.

How to Livestream the AUS vs NZ 1st T20I match on mobile Online?

The AUS vs NZ Live Streaming in India will be available on the Amazon Prime Video app and website. 

Conclusion

Cricketing action continues for non-India matches for Indian fans on Amazon Prime Video with Australia and New Zealand playing out a three-match T20I series. Indian fans can also watch leagues like the Pakistan Super League and the Bangladesh Premier League simultaneously on the Fancode app.

Also Read: MUS vs KRK Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today’s PSL 2024 Match? Match 3

The post AUS vs NZ Live Streaming In India– 1st T20I, 2024: When and Where To Watch Australia vs New Zealand Live In India? appeared first on CricketAddictor.

For real-time Dream11 Tips and Fantasy Cricket Live Updates, follow us on Cricketaddictor’s Telegram Channel.

The live score and commentary of this game can be tracked on the CricketAddictor website by clicking on Peshawar vs Karachi Livescore. 

PES vs KAR PSL 2024 Match 6 Preview:

Peshawar and Karachi will clash in the 6th match of PSL 2024 at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore on 21st February at 2:30 PM IST.

Peshawar faced a defeat by 16 runs against Quetta, which positioned them at the fifth spot on the points table. Conversely, Karachi secured a victory over Multan by a substantial margin of 55 runs, yet they find themselves at the bottom rank on the table.

PES vs KAR Head-to-Head Record:  

PES vs KAR PSL 2024 Match 6 Weather & Pitch Report:

Record of chasing teams: 

PES vs KAR PSL 2024 Match 6 Squads:

Peshawar Squad: Saim Ayub, Babar Azam©, Mohammad Haris(wk), Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Rovman Powell, Asif Ali, Dan Mousley, Aamer Jamal, Luke Wood, Mohammad Zeeshan, Salman Irshad

Karachi Squad: James Vince, Shan Masood©, Saad Baig(wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Shoaib Malik, Kieron Pollard, Daniel Sams, Hasan Ali, Tabraiz Shamsi, Mir Hamza, Amir Khan

PES vs KAR Dream11 Team Today and Fantasy Cricket Players Stats:

Hot Picks for PES vs KAR Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips: 

Captaincy Picks for PES vs KAR Dream11 Prediction: 

Top Picks for PES vs KAR Dream11 Prediction:

Budget Picks for PES vs KAR Dream11 Prediction:

PES vs KAR PSL 2024 Match 6 Captain and Vice-captain Choices:

PES vs KAR Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team 1:

• Keeper – Mohammad Haris
• Batsmen – James Vince, Babar Azam (c), Shan Masood, Saim Ayub
• All-rounders – Shoaib Malik, Mohammad Nawaz, Rovman Powell, Daniel Sams (vc)
• Bowlers – Luke Wood, Salman Irshad

PES vs KAR Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team 2: 

• Keeper – Mohammad Haris
• Batsmen – James Vince, Babar Azam, Shan Masood
• All-rounders – Shoaib Malik (c), Mohammad Nawaz, Rovman Powell (vc), Daniel Sams
• Bowlers – Luke Wood, Salman Irshad, Mir Hamza

PES vs KAR Dream11 Prediction Today Match PSL 2024 Match 6 Players to Avoid:

PES vs KAR Dream11 Prediction Today Match PSL 2024 Match 6 Expert Advice: 

The post PES vs KAR Dream11 Prediction Today Match, Dream11 Team Today, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Injury Update- PSL 2024, Match 6 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

For real-time Dream11 Tips and Fantasy Cricket Live Updates, follow us on the Cricketaddictor Telegram Channel.

The live score and commentary of this game can be tracked on the CricketAddictor website by clicking on Western Province vs Dolphins Livescore. 

WEP vs DOL South Africa Domestic Test Div1 Match 26 Preview:

The twenty-sixth game of the South Africa Domestic Test Div1 tournament will see the clash between Western Province and Dolphins at the Newlands, Cape Town on 21st February at 1:30 PM IST.

In the grand theater of competition, the Western Province emerged triumphant in half of their six contests, claiming the fourth seat at the table of ranks. Meanwhile, the Dolphins, with a duo of victories from the same number of games, ascended to the pinnacle, reigning supreme at the table’s zenith.

WEP vs DOL Head-to-Head Record:  

WEP vs DOL South Africa Domestic Test Div1 Match 26 Weather & Pitch Report:

Record of chasing teams: 

WEP vs DOL South Africa Domestic Test Div1 Match 26 Squads:

Western Province Squad: Edward Moore, Jonathan Bird, Yaseen Vallie, Valentine Kitime, Daniel Smith(wk), George Linde, Mihlali Mpongwana, Kyle Simmonds, Beuran Hendricks©, Dane Paterson, Mthiwekhaya Nabe

Dolphins Squad: Marques Ackerman, Bryce Parsons, Daryn Dupavillon, Sarel Erwee©, Tshepang Dithole(wk), Andile Simelane, Eathan Bosch, Khaya Zondo, Jason Smith, Prenelan Subrayen, Okuhle Cele

WEP vs DOL Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Players Stats:

Hot Picks for WEP vs DOL Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips: 

Captaincy Picks for WEP vs DOL Dream11 Prediction: 

Top Picks for WEP vs DOL Dream11 Prediction:

Budget Picks for WEP vs DOL Dream11 Prediction:

WEP vs DOL South Africa Domestic Test Div1 Match 26 Captain and Vice-captain Choices:

Suggested Playing XI No. 1 (Small Leagues and Head-to-Head) for WEP vs DOL Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team:

• Keeper – Kyle Verreynne (vc)
• Batsmen – Saral Erwee, Edward Moore, Marques Ackerman, Jason Smith
• All-rounders – JJ Smuts (c), George Linde, Kyle Simmonds, Bryce Parsons
• Bowlers – Beuran Hendricks, Daryn Dupavillon

Suggested Playing XI No. 2 (Grand Leagues) for WEP vs DOL Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team: 

• Keeper – Kyle Verreynne
• Batsmen – Saral Erwee, Edward Moore (c), Marques Ackerman
• All-rounders – JJ Smuts, George Linde, Kyle Simmonds (vc), Bryce Parsons
• Bowlers – Beuran Hendricks, Daryn Dupavillon, Nandre Burger

WEP vs DOL Dream11 Prediction Today Match South Africa Domestic Test Div1 Match 26 Players to Avoid:

WEP vs DOL Dream11 Prediction Today Match South Africa Domestic Test Div1 Match 26 Expert Advice: 

The post WEP vs DOL Dream11 Prediction Today Match, Dream11 Team Today, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Injury Update- South Africa Domestic Test Div1 2024, Match 26 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Afghanistan are winless in the series so far. They lost the one-off Test by 10 wickets, were humbled in the ODI series, and have lost the first two T20Is too. The Afghans lost the first T20I by four runs and the second by 72 runs.

They are ranked tenth in the ICC T20I rankings heading into this series. The visitors had a chance to make a turnaround in the T20I series with a power-packed side at their disposal. However, they lost the two games and were outplayed in the process.

The side is led by the young Ibrahim Zadran who is the stand-in skipper for the series. Rashid Khan is not a part of this series as he is recovering from his lower back injury. His absence has been richly felt by the side.

Heading into the final T20I, the batters need to step up, especially the top-order. The likes of Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz who have not scored too many runs in the series need to be back amongst the runs and give the team a substantial total.

Also Read: MUL vs ISL Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today PSL Match? Match 5, PSL 2024

Afghanistan Playing 11 vs Sri Lanka, 3rd T20I, 2024

Hazratullah Zazai

Afghanistan decided to open with Zazai and Ibrahk zadran. The southpaw scored just one in the previous game and should look to score a big one in the final T20I. He scored just one in the previous game.

Ibrahim Zadran (C)

Zadran will open the batting with Zazai. He scored an unbeaten 67 in the first T20I and just 10 in the second game. The skipper needs a big knock in the decider.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK)

Gurbaz was moved down to three in the last game and scored just 13. He scored 13 in the first T20I as well. The keeper-batter needs to be back to his belligerent batting form.

Gulbadin Naib

Naib the big-hitter will bat at four. He batted at number three in the first game and scored 16. In the second T20I, he scored just four. He is inching closer to 1000 T20I runs.

Azmatullah Omarzai

Omarzai was out for a first-ball-duck in the last game. The all-rounder has looked like the best batter for his side since the ODI World Cup. He also scored a century in the previous ODI series against Sri Lanka.

Mohammad Nabi

Nabi is the most experienced player in this T20I side. He scored nine in the first T20I and 27 in the second. He is 19 short of 2000 T20I runs and 10 short of 100 T20I wickets. He scored 9 in the first T20i and 27 in the second.

Karim Janat

Janat scored 28 in the last game with the bat and bowled two overs with the ball for 20 runs. He is another experienced all-rounder in the lineup.

Fazalhaq Farooqi

Farooqi will lead the pace attack. He has been playing white-ball cricket continuously for the visitors. He picked up three wickets in the first T20I and one in the second. He is 15 shy of 50 T20I wickets.

Naveen-ul-Haq

Naveen will share the new ball with Farooqi. He retired from ODI cricket after the ODI World Cup and does not play Test cricket. He picked up two wickets in the first T20I and one in the second. He is seven shy of 50 T20I wickets.

Noor Ahmad

Noor will be one of the two spinners to conclude the XI. He picked one wicket in the first T20I and went wicketless in the second. He was recently charged with by the ILT20 on disciplinary grounds.

Qais Ahmad

Qais concludes the Afghanistan T20I playing XI for the final T20I against Sri Lanka. He played the first T20I and picked up a wicket but did not play the second. In Rashid and Mujeeb’s absence, he should play in the XI.

The post Afghanistan Playing 11 vs Sri Lanka, 3rd T20I, 2024 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Sri Lanka won the first T20I by four runs and the second by 72 runs. Batting first they piled up 187/6 with Sadeera Samarawickrama (51) and Angelo Mathews (42* off 22) scoring runs in the lower order after a good start from the top order.

The bowlers then came together to dismiss Afghanistan for a paltry 115. All six Sri Lankan bowlers got wickets with skipper Wanindu Hasaranga picking up 2/19. Mathews picked up 2/9 in two overs to win the Man of the Match award.

Sri Lanka have been thoroughly dominant in this series against Afghanistan and have remained unbeaten. They have extended their winning streak in T20Is to five out of seven games. Heading into the last T20I, Sri Lanka can either play with the same squad or ring in a few changes to give changes to a few players as well.

Also Read: Unbelievable player! Andre Russell picked in greatest IPL XI by Wasim Akram, Dale Steyn

Sri Lanka Playing 11 vs Afghanistan, 3rd T20I, 2024

Pathum Nissanka

Nissanka will open the batting. He has scored 6 and 25 in the first two games and will look to finish on a high. The batter became the first Sri Lankan to score a double-century in ODIs in the ODI series.

Kusal Mendis (WK)

Mendis the ODI skipper was chosen as the specialist keper batter over Kusal Perera. He scored 10 and 23 in the first two games. It will be interesting to see if the ODI skipper is rested for the final game.

Dhananjaya de Silva

Test skipper Dhahnanyaja de Silva will slot in at three. He scored 24 and 14 in the first two games and will look to finish on a high in the third T20I. Previously he led his side to a Test win against Afghanistan in the series.

Sadeera Samarawickrama

The batter is fresh off his 51 off 42 balls in the second T20I. He plays spin well and is becoming a dependable player with the bat for his side. He notched up his first fifty-plus score in the format.

Charith Asalanka

Asalanka will bat at five. He has managed to single-digit scores in the first two games and will look to finish strongly. The southpaw is 85 short of 1000 T20I runs and can target it in the final T20I.

Angelo Mathews

Mathews scored an unbeaten 42 batting at seven in the second T20I. Number six or seven is an ideal batting position for him in the format since he is a finisher for the side. He also took two wickets.

Dasun Shanaka

Shanaka can bat at seven. As the Sri Lankan T20I skipper, he batted at seven mostly and finished games for the side. He scored just six in the first T20I and did not bat in the second game.

Wanindu Hasaranga

Hasaranga can bat at eight. He scored an unbeaten 22 off just nine balls in the second T20I and took 2/19 with the ball. He is now the second Lankan bowler with more than 100 T20I wickets after Lasith Malinga.

Maheesh Theekshana

Theekshana can bat at nine. He can hit the long balls in the lower order and pair up with Hasaranga as the spin twin for the Lankans. He has picked up two wickets in two games.

Dilshan Madushanka

Madushanka can replace Binura Fernando in the last game. He was not picked for the first two games while Fernando picked up wickets in both the game. The management might look to give the other left-arm pacer a chance.

Matheesha Pathirana

Pathirana concludes the likely Sri Lankan XI. He picked up four wickets in the first game and two in the second. He has now picked six wickets from just three T20Is.

Also Read: Irfan Pathan dissects Punjab Kings’ bowling attack for IPL 2024; predicts top-4 finish for the team

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India secured their biggest-ever Test victory in terms of runs (434) in the recent match. Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased dominance against the English bowlers, scoring an unbeaten 214 runs during India’s second innings. He hit three consecutive sixes off James Anderson.

Sarfaraz Khan patiently awaited his chance with the national team, excelling in domestic cricket. The right-handed batter made his international debut during the Rajkot Test. He made the most of the opportunity by smashing two half-centuries in his first match.

Yashasvi Jaiswal Is Capable Of Playing All Formats – Sourav Ganguly

In a conversation with Mid Day, Sourav Ganguly stated that Yashasvi Jaiswal is capable of playing well across all cricket formats. Ganguly acknowledged Sarfaraz Khan’s promising start but stated that he has to deliver in overseas conditions.

“Jaiswal is not only a good player, he’s capable of playing all in formats of the game. Sarfaraz has started well. He now has to score in foreign countries. Sarfaraz is a good example for budding cricketers, who must keep in mind that if they score consistently, they will get their chances,” Ganguly told Mid-Day.

Team India faced a challenge when Ravichandran Ashwin withdrew from the Test on Day 2 due to his mother’s illness. However, the 37-year-old spinner returned to the field during the post-Tea session on Day 4. He picked up one wicket in England’s second innings.

India Are So Confident – Sourav Ganguly

Sourav Ganguly highlighted Indian team management’s decision to allow Ravichandran Ashwin to leave mid-Test, indicating their confidence in the team’s capabilities.

“India are so confident that they allowed R Ashwin to go back home in the middle of a Test. India look much more motivated in this series,” Ganguly added.

It’s Difficult For England To Be Successful – Sourav Ganguly

The former Indian skipper expressed skepticism about England’s success in Indian conditions. Ganguly highlighted India’s strength despite the absence of key players like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul.

“Bazball is good, but it’s difficult for England to be successful in Indian conditions. I will be surprised if India lose the series. Please remember that India are playing without Virat [Kohli], KL [Rahul]. It’s a young team with many new faces, and yet, England are struggling,” Ganguly further stated.

The England team started the series with a 28-run victory during the series opener in Hyderabad. However, the Ben Stokes-led team failed to maintain winning momentum and suffered losses in the next two matches, conceding a 2-1 lead to the opposition team.

England’s last Test series win in India was under Sir Alastair Cook’s captaincy in 2012 with a 2-1 victory. Ben Stokes requires a significant turnaround to secure wins in Ranchi and Dharamshala. The hosts have remained unbeaten in home Test series over the last decade.

Also read: Sourav Ganguly passes defining verdict on Rohit Sharma taking over as India’s captain for T20 World Cup 2024

The post “India are playing without Virat Kohli, KL Rahul” – Sourav Ganguly lauds Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan after 3rd Test appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Date and Venue

The SL vs AFG third T20I will be played in Dambulla on February 21. The match starts at 7 pm IST. The series was expected to be closely contested but the hosts have outplayed the visitors in the first two games by registering victories. 

Team Analysis- SL vs AFG Match Preview- 3rd T20I, 2024

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka into this series after beating Afghanistan handsomely in the Test and ODI series. They won the one-off Test by 10 wickets and earned biog victories in the three ODIs. Sri Lanka won the first ODI by 42 runs, second by 155 runs, and third by seven wickets. 

They have swept them away in the T20I series as well. They held their nerves to snatch up a win in the first match which was a close finish. In the second T20I, they bowled out the opposition for just 115, after putting up 187 on the board. 

Everything has fallen into place so far for the Islanders, Their batters have scored runs, and their bowlers have taken wickets. Wanindu Hasaranga has had a good start to stint as Sri Lanka’s T20I captain. A clean sweep will be the ideal way to finish the series on a high. The team has ticked many of the boxes correctly ahead of the T20 World Cup. 

Sri Lanka Squad 

Wanindu Hasaranga (C), Charith Asalanka (VC), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Dhananjaya De Silva, Kusal Perera, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Akila Dananjaya, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka, Nuwan Thushara, Binura Fernando

Also Read: IPL 2024 likely to start on March 22 – Arun Dhumal

Afghanistan 

Nothing has gone right for the Ibrahim Zadran-led Afghanistan team in this tour so far. They lost the one-off Test and the ODI series. They were expected to bounce back in the T20I series, a format where they have achieved a lot of success in the last few months. However, the gulf between the two teams only widened. Now Sri Lanka have won five out of the seven T20Is played against Afghanistan. 

The batters have let the team down in the series so far especially Rahmanullah Gurbaz. He earned a reputation of being a hard-hitting opener but has not taken the responsibility at the top. He scored 13 each in the first two games putting too much pressure on the middle and the lower-order. 

The absence of Rashid Khan has weakened the bowling attack a lot more. He is out of the team since he underwent the surgery after the World Cup but the other spinners could not make the most of his absence. 

Afghanistan Squad 

 Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran (c), Najibullah Zadran, Hazratullah Zazai, Karim Janat, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Wafadar Momand, Mohammad Ishaq

Key Battles

Rahmanullah Gurbaz vs Wanindu Hasaranga 

The Gurbaz vs Hasaranga is one of the most important battles in the SL vs AFG T20I. So far the leggie has dismissed the Afghan keeper-batter once each in ODIs and T20Is. He has dismissed Gurbaz one each in ODIs and T20Is as well. Given that Gurbaz needs to score quick runs for his team, the hosts will look to dismiss him early and Hasaranga will be the ideal match-up against him. 

Angelo Mathews vs Mohammad Nabi 

This should be a nice battle between the two experienced customers. Mathews played a lovely cameo in the last game while Nabi being the most experienced of the Afghanistan bowlers should look to gun down his wicket in the final overs. 

Key Players 

For Afghanistan, Gurbaz and Ibrahim are the key players with the bat. The Afghan batters have let themselves down in the ODI series and the first two games hence need to up their game in the T20I series.

They will need to give enough runs to their bowlers to win the contest. With the ball, the spin twins, Noor Ahmad, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman are the key bowlers. Both teams will employ the spin to win formulae to win the game and the Afghans have their key weapons ready. 

For Sri Lanka, after the last game, Mathews becomes a crucial player in the final overs. Charith Asalanka is the other as he can score quick runs in the final overs. Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana are the two key bowlers from Sri Lanka for this game. 

Weather and Pitch

The weather prediction for the SL vs AFG third T20I is pretty clear on Wednesday. The temperature will be around 31 degrees during the day while it will drop to 22 degrees and the sky will be fairly clear in the evening. 

The venue has hosted just five T20I games with two three matches won by the team batting first and two chasing. The average first innings score is close to 150. With the batting firepower on both sides, we can expect a high-scoring contest. 

Conclusion

Sri Lanka will look to rise the T20I rankings if they manage to clean sweep Afghanistan. Afghanistan, on the other hand, will look to salvage a victory, avoid a clean sweep, and finish the series on a positive note.

Also Read: Hardik Pandya included in Matthew Hayden’s all-time best IPL XI

The post SL vs AFG Match Preview- 3rd T20I, 2024 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Sri Lanka won the first T20I by four runs and then thumped Afghanistan in the second T20I by 72 runs. They scored 187/6 batting first and bowled out the Afghans for a paltry 115. 

Afghanistan who were expected to make a comeback in the T20I series after their ODI series drubbing have played even worse and let themselves down. The head-to-head count now in SL vs AFG T20Is sits 5-2 in favor of Sri Lanka. 

Sri Lanka will be led by Wanindu Hasaranga in the series. He was named the new T20I skipper for Sri Lanka after the ODI World Cup. The SLC decided to change the leadership responsibilities choosing three different captains for different formats.

Hasaranga was chosen as the T20I skipper. He won his first series as captain against Zimbabwe. Kusal Mendis was named the new ODI skipper and Dhananjaya de Silva the new T20I skipper.

Also Read: Nepal to visit India in March for T20 tri-series ahead of ICC T20 World Cup 2024

Ibrahim Zadran will continue to lead Afghanistan as the stand-in skipper. Regular T20I skipper Rashid Khan is still recovering from his lower back surgery. Zadran and his fellow opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz will be the key batters for the Afghans with Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Noor Ahmead the key bowlers in the series. The players have let themselves down in the series. 

SL vs AFG Weather Report Live Today And Pitch Report Of Dambulla Stadium – 1st T20I, 2024

Weather Report Of Dambulla

The weather conditions will be mostly cloudy throughout the day with temperatures up to 31 degrees. There is a 3-5 percent chance of rain during the day.

The weather conditions will be partly cloudy during the evening with a negligible chance of rain. There has been no rain interruption in the first two games. Hopefully, the rain will stay away in the final game as well.

Pitch Analysis

So far the Dambulla pitch has remained a good one for batting. Sri Lanka scored 160 in the first T20I. Afghanistan scored 156 in response. Sri Lanka scored 180 plus in the second T20I and Afghanistan were bowled out for just 115.

That performance does not reflect the truth as the wicket was still good enough for batting. As is expected the pitch will turn spin and dew is expected to play a role as well if it does not rain.

Weather Impact on SL vs AFG 3rd T20I

There is a 3-5 percent chance of rain in Dambulla on February 21. Thus rain might not affect the SL vs AFG third T0I. Rain has stayed away from the first two games and we have seen a full 40 overs of play which is expected to be the same way in the third T20I as well. The temperature in the evening will be around 22 degrees which will be pleasant conditions for cricket.

Conclusion

The match might not be hugely impacted by rain which gives Sri Lanka the chance to complete a clean sweep. Afghanistan will all their might expect to win the third T20I and avoid a clean sweep.

Also Read: AUS vs NZ Today Match Prediction- 1st T20I, Who Will Win Today’s T20I Match? 2024

The post SL vs AFG Weather Report Live Today And Pitch Report Of Dambulla Stadium – 3rd T20I, 2024 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Afghanistan are yet to win a single match in this tour so far. They came the closest in the first T20I when they lost the match by just four runs. They lost the second T20I by 72 runs and are now staring at a clean sweep. 

The hosts have been dominant throughout. They won the ODI series by big margins and have also managed to keep the winning run by winning the first two games. Hasaranga as the skipper has made all the right moves and has achieved success. 

Team Analysis

Sri Lanka 

Sri Lanka are led by Wanindu Hasaranga. He won his maiden T20I series as captain against Zimbabwe and has done pretty well to lead his team in the first two games. Sri Lanka seems to be well prepared for the T20 World Cup with their players slowly getting back to form. 

Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Angelo Mathews, Pathum Nissanka, and Kusal Mendis are the core of the side right now and their T20 World Cup squad should be prepared around them. 

Afghanistan 

Afghanistan are yet to win a single match in this series so far. They lost the one-off Test and were whitewashed in the ODI series. They lost the first two T20Is too are and staring at a clean sweep.

The batting looks the stronger suit of the visitors in the absence of Rashid Khan. There will be added pressure on the likes of Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Noor Ahmad to deliver in the absence of Rashid Khan. Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Mohammad Nabi are the likely key batters for Afghanistan in the first SL vs AFG T20I. 

Key Factors 

Pitch Conditions 

The pitch at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla has been a very good one for batting so far. The first T20I saw Sri Lanka post 160 batting first. The second T20I saw them post 187. There is a spin on the track and the Lankan spinners have used the conditions better than the Afghan spinners. It will be interesting to see how the pitch plays in the third T20I. The pitch has no demons and Afghanistan’s batting in this series has been below par.

Form and Fitness 

Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s form throughout the series has been a big concern for the team. He failed to score runs in the ODI series and has not scored too many in the T20I series as well. The keeper-batter scored 13 each in the first two games. Fitness-wise, Afghanistan are missing Rashid Khan who is out and rehabilitating after undergoing a lower-back surgery. 

For Sri Lanka, there have been different players standing up for them in different matches. It was Pathum Nissanka in the ODI series. In the T20I series, it was skipper Wanindu Hasaranga who scored an unbeaten 67. In the second T20I, it was Angelo Mathews who played an important came. The bowlers have shared the wickers between themselves in the series. The team has no injury concerns. 

Also Read: BCCI fines Manoj Tiwary 20% of his match fees for asking to scrap the lifeless Ranji Trophy

Tactical Acumen

Sri Lanka are banking on their home advantage to win the T20I series against Afghanistan. They beat them in the one-off Test and the ODI series banking on their spinners. Afghanistan has a young captain Ibrahim Zadran and he needs support from senior players.

SL vs AFG Scores Prediction

Recent Venue Records (Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla)

STATS – T20

Total matches 5

Matches won batting first 3

Matches won bowling first 2

Average 1st Inns scores 149

Average 2nd Inns scores 128

Highest total recorded 187/6 (20 Ov) by SL vs AFG

Lowest total recorded 115/10 (17 Ov) by AFG vs SL

Highest score chased 141/3 (17 Ov) by SLW vs INDW

Lowest score defended 160/10 (19 Ov) by SL vs AFG

Who Will Score Most Runs For Sri Lanka: Angelo Mathews / Pathum Nissanka

Who Will Take Most Wickets For Sri Lanka: Wanindu Hasaranga / Maheesh Theekshana

Who Will Score Most Runs For Afghanistan: Rahmaullah Gurbaz / Ibrahim Zadran 

Who Will Take Most Wickets For Afghanistan: Noor Ahmad / Mujeeb Ur Rahman 

SL vs AFG Today Match Prediction- 3rd T20I, Who Will Win Today’s T20I Match? 2024

Sri Lanka have won the first two T20Is convincingly against Afghanistan and is poised for a clean sweep. The Lankans are likely to win the match and complete clean sweep.

Also Read: Nepal to visit India in March for T20 tri-series ahead of ICC T20 World Cup 2024

The post SL vs AFG Today Match Prediction- 3rd T20I, Who Will Win Today’s T20I Match? 2024 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

After the close encounter in the first T20I, Sri Lanka humbled Afghanistan in the second T20I. They scored 187/6 with the bat and bowled out Afghanistan for just 115. All the Sri Lanka bowlers got wickets with Wanindu Hasaranga the skipper taking 2/19. In the process, he went past 100 T20I wickets. 

Afghanistan needs their openers Rahmaullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran to score runs. Mohammad Nabi becomes a key figure in the middle-order and Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Noor Ahmad are the key bowlers for Afghanistan. The visitors have dearly felt the absence of Rashid Khan. 

Also Read: Khawaja Nafay creates PSL history with an iconic knock for Quetta Gladiators

Speaking about SL vs AFG head to head, in seven T20Is now, Sri Lanka have won five and Afghanistan two. Sri Lanka won the one-off Test previously and clean-swept them in the ODI series as well. The series which was seen as a dress rehearsal for both teams has been dominated by Sri Lanka barring the closely fought first T20I. Afghanistan are staring down the barrel ahead of the third T20I.

SL vs AFG Head To Head Records (Overall Stats)

SL vs AFG: Key Statistics

The two teams have played one Test match that was won by Sri Lanka by 10 wickets. In 15 ODI matches between the two sides, Sri Lanka have won 10 games and Afghanistan five. In seven T20Is, The Lankans have won five and Afghanistan just two. The visitors are yet to win a game in this series.

SL vs AFG: Recent 5 Encounters

The two teams have played seven SL vs AFG T20Is with Sri Lanka winning five games and Afghanistan two. If we talk about the last five games between the two sides, Sri Lanka have won four games and lost just one. On the other hand, Afghanistan has lost four games, including the first two T20Is. Sri Lanka lost to Afghanistan in the Asian Games 2023 last year. The other defeat was in an Asia Cup 2022 match. 

Key Moments and Stand-out Performances (Players)

One key moment in this SL vs AFG T20I series was in the first game when Afghanistan came very close to beating Sri Lanka for the third time in T20Is. Chasing 161 to win, Afghanistan finished 156/9 and lost the match by just four runs. The hosts then humbled the visitors in the second T20I. 

Speaking of stand-out performances, Ibrahim Zadran’s unbeaten 67 was one of the stand-out performances of this T20I series. Unfortunately, the knock came in a losing cause. Wanindu Hasaranga’s two-wicket spell helped him go past 100 T20I wickets. He has picked up three wickets in two games.

Trends and Patterns

Afghanistan lost to Sri Lanka easily in the first few games in ODIs and T20Is. However, since the Asia Cup 2022 win for Afghanistan, matches have been closely fought. Afghanistan defeated Sri Lanka in the ODI World Cup as well last year. However, since then they have not won a single game against the Lankans. 

SL vs AFG Head-to-Head Records in T20Is- 3rd T20I, 2024

Matches Played: 7

Afghanistan Won-2

Sri Lanka Won- 5

Most Runs For Sri Lanka- Dhananjaya de Silva- 90

Most Wickets For Sri Lanka- Wanindu Hasaranga- 5

Most Runs For Afghanistan- Rahmanullah Gurbaz-165

Most Wickets For Afghanistan- Mujeeb Ur Rahman-6

Conclusion

Sri Lanka have now won five out of the seven T20Is against Afghanistan. Two of those wins came in this series and they are looking for a clean sweep to boost their performance ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024.

Also Read: Shubman Gill announced as Punjab’s ‘state icon’ for 2024 Lok Sabha elections

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The third and final SL vs AFG T20I starts from 7 pm IST which is 7 pm local time as we.ll. Sri Lanka hammered Afghanistan by 72 runs in the second T20I. Sri Lanka posted 187/6 in their 20 overs with all their batters getting starts. Sadeera Samarawickrama scored 51 while skipper Wanindu Hasaranga scored 22. Angelo Mathews played an important cameo of 42 off 22 balls. 

Afghanistan were bowled out for just a paltry 115 in the chase. Mohammad Nabi (27) and Karim Janat (28) were the two top scorers in the innings. Sri Lanka used six bowlers to defend the target all of who got wickets. Hasaranga the skipper picked up 2/19 and in the process went past 100 T20I wickets. 

Sri Lanka now have won five out of the seven T20Is played against Afghanistan and in this series, there was a huge difference in how the two teams played. The Afghans were no match for the dominant Lankan side at home. 

Also Read: LAH vs QG Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today PSL 2024 Match? Match 4

SL vs AFG Broadcasting Rights in India

Sony Sports Network has the official broadcasting right for the SL vs AFG T20I series in India. Hence, Sony Sports channels and their app will present the match to viewers in India.

SL vs AFG Live Streaming Platform in India

The live streaming of SL vs AFG 2nd T20I will be available on the SonyLiv app and website in India. It is the official OTT platform of Sony Sports in India. However, viewers will need a premium package to watch the match live.

Subscription Plan in India

The subscription for SonyLiv app starts at Rs. 599 for a year. For six months, the cost is Rs. 699. The cost of 1 month is Rs. 299. Sony Network’s sports channels are priced between Rs. 17 to Rs. 23 per month.

Official Broadcaster in India

Star Sports channels will broadcast SL vs AFG 3rd T20I live on television in India. Indian fans can watch the live telecast of the match on the Sony Sports Ten 5 channel.

SL vs AFG 3rd T20I Live Streaming In India– When and Where To Watch Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan Live In India? 2024

When will the SL vs AFG 3rd T20I match begin?

The match starts at 7 pm IST on February 21, Wednesday. 

Where will the SL vs AFG 3rd T20I match take place?

The match will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla. 

How to Live Telecast the SL vs AFG 3rd T20I match on television?

SL vs AFG live streaming will be available on the Sony Sports Network.

How to Livestream the SL vs AFG 3rd T20I match on mobile Online?

SL vs AFG Live Streaming will be available on the Sony LIV App. Users will need to have a premium or monthly subscription play to enjoy the live-streaming of the series.

Conclusion 

The SL vs AFG first T20I was a close game with Sri Lanka managing to win by just four runs. Afghanistan were rolled over by Sri Lanka in the second T20I who will now aim for a clean sweep in the third T20I. If that happens, Afghanistan will remain winless in the series. 

Also Read: PSL 2024 Live Streaming In India– Match 4, When and Where To Watch Pakistan Super League Live In India? LAH vs QG

The post SL vs AFG 3rd T20I Live Streaming In India– When and Where To Watch Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan Live In India? 2024 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

But even by those lofty standards, the relay catch completed by Jordan Cox and Alex Hales on Tuesday (February 20) is simply outstanding. The duo took the catch during the match between Islamabad United and Multan Sultans in the ongoing Pakistan Super League 2024 (PSL 2024).

In the 14th over of the Multan Sultans innings, Yasir Khan was facing left-arm spinner Imad Wasim. The right-handed batsman was batting on 8 off 10 balls and decided to play the big shot. On the second ball of the over, he went for a slog sweep. While Khan could not make good contact with the ball and ended up top-edging, the ball still looked set to sail over the boundary.

However, Jordan Cox was not ready to give up yet. He ran across to his left from deep mid-wicket and caught the ball with both hands while running. As the momentum was taking him over the boundary ropes, he smartly threw the ball inside the field of play where Alex Hales came running in from long-on and caught the ball.

Watch the catch from Cox and Hales in PSL 2024:

Kya catch hai yaar! #HBLPSL9 | #KhulKeKhel | #MSvIU pic.twitter.com/87c3LUJkAd

— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) February 20, 2024

Multan Sultans beat Islamabad United:

Talking about the game, Multan Sultans beat Islamabad United by five wickets to register their second win in as many games as PSL 2024. On the other hand, Islamabad now have one win and one loss in the tournament.

Asked to bat first, Islamabad were bowled out for a modest 144. Openers Colin Munro (8) and Alex Hales (2) failed to get going before Agha Salman (52) and Cox (41) steadied the ship. However, the Islamabad-based outfit failed to finish their innings strongly and ended up on 144. For Sultans, Mohammad Ali and Abbas Afridi picked up three wickets each.

With the bat, the Sultans chased down the total with just one ball remaining. Reeza Hendricks led the charge with the bat for his team, scoring 58 while captain Mohammad Rizwan also played a crucial knock of 43 runs.

The post Watch: Alex Hales and Jordan Cox complete a stunning relay catch in PSL 2024 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Jaiswal will look to break the records of most runs in a single bilateral series as well as most runs against their English counterparts in a red-ball series.

No other batter than Yashasvi Jaiswal has been in better form as he has already smacked 2 back-to-back double centuries across the last two Test matches in Vishakhapatnam and Rajkot.

He is turning out to be the most prolific batter from both the teams which have some experienced names, mostly in England’s camp like Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, and Ben Stokes among others.

As for India, the most experienced batter in the team is of course Rohit Sharma, and after him in the batting front is Ravindra Jadeja and Shubman Gill.

After the exclusion of Shreyas Iyer from the last 3 Tests and KL Rahul’s absence due to injury in the 3rd, the batting order got a bit more in-experienced but regardless, the home team has done very well without them, gaining a 2-1 lead already.

Jaiswal eyeing to break Gavaskar’s 700+ run tally in a single series

Former Indian batting legend and 1983 World Cup winner, Sunil Gavaskar before he won the 1983 Cricket World Cup under Kapil Dev’s captaincy at Lord’s, had become the first Indian batter to amass over 700 runs in a single bilateral series against the West Indies twice in 1970/71 and 1978/79 series. No Indian batter after him be it Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid among others have been able to break it to this day.

At the moment, given his form as well as rhythm, Yashasvi Jaiswal looks like the one to break it after these many decades. Gavaskar had scored 774 and 732 in 1970/71 and 1978/79 respectively and Jaiswal will need to add another 229 runs to his tally of 545 runs that he has scored across the 3 Tests.

The UP-born batter has scores of 80, 15, 209, 17, 10, and 224 across 6 innings. Whenever Jaiswal has scored over 100 runs in an innings, the hosts haven’t lost and the Indian team management will be expecting him to do something similar in the 4th Test as well.

Yashasvi Jaiswal has been nothing short of a sensation already in his short Test career which began in July 2023 at West Indies where he had amassed 171 in only his debut international red-ball outing.

After Gavaskar, Yashasvi Jaiswal eyeing to hunt down Virat Kohli’s 2016/17 tally

On his way to Sunil Gavaskar’s record, Yashasvi Jaiswal will first have to make sure he crosses Virat Kohli’s run tally of 655 runs he scored against England in the 2016/17 Test series, which is also the most by an Indian against them in a red-ball series.

That’s not it, Jaiswal will become the highest Indian run-scorer in a 21st Century Test series, which is also held by Kohli with 692 runs.

Lastly, Yashasvi will have the chance to become the joint-fastest Indian batsman to amass 1000 Test runs, which is currently held by Vinod Kambli who did so in 14 innings. Jaiswal is at 861 runs from 13 innings and to overtake Kambli, the left-hand batter will need to score a 150 at least. Can he achieve these records in Ranchi? Time will tell.

The post Yashasvi Jaiswal on the verge of breaking Virat Kohli’s long-standing record in the Ranchi Test appeared first on CricketAddictor.

The former allrounder was appointed as the team director by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in November in the aftermath of the team’s poor show at the ODI World Cup. Pakistan failed to progress ahead of the league stage after managing just 4 wins in 9 games.

Soon after the campaign ended, Babar Azam stepped down as the captain in all three formats while the likes of Grant Bradburn, Arthur, and Morne Morkel were sacked from the backroom staff too. Mohammad Hafeez replaced Arthur as the team director and also served as the interim head coach during the tour of Australia and New Zealand.

Mohammad Hafeez exposes Babar and Arthur:

Mohammad Hafeez’s first assignment as the team director was the tour of Australia where Pakistan played three Tests. The former cricketer revealed that he told the players straightaway to work on their fitness. He further revealed how the fitness trainer was told by Babar and Arthur to stop checking the fitness of the players and let them play freely.

“When we went to Australia, I told the players to take care of their fitness levels. I also asked the trainer about the fitness of the players. He told me a shocking thing that six months ago captain (Babar Azam) and Director of Cricket (Mickey Arthur) told me to stop checking the players on the fitness parameters and let them play the way they want.

“When the fat levels of the players were checked, the skin fold of all of them was high. They were unfit and some of them couldn’t complete a 2 KM trial. The decision taken 6 months back overruled the set criteria for fitness. You will suffer defeats if the fitness is like that,” Mohammad Hafeez said on A Sports.

Mohammad Hafeez reveals a shocking fact, how 6 months ago captain Babar Azam along with coaching panel had told team fitness trainer, fitness isn't the priority at the moment just let the boys play how they want to pic.twitter.com/yaq2iE7vto

— Ghumman (@emclub77) February 20, 2024

Pakistan struggled on both tours and ended up suffering a crushing loss. In Australia, they lost all three Tests before losing the T20I series in New Zealand 1-4. Meanwhile, Hafeez recently announced that he would step down as the team director of the Pakistan team. The PCB is yet to announce his replacement.

The post Babar Azam and Mickey Arthur stopped fitness Tests in Pakistan Cricket Team alleges Mohammad Hafeez appeared first on CricketAddictor.

He has been plying his trade for the franchise since 2008 and has also been their captain since then. He briefly gave up captaincy in 2022 but took charge of the team once again after Ravindra Jadeja failed to deliver as a captain.

Under MS Dhoni’s captaincy, CSK have been one of the most dominant and consistent teams in the IPL. They have won a record five IPL titles in addition to finishing runners-up five times. They have failed to make it to the playoffs just twice so far. Apart from the success on the field, MS Dhoni has also developed a strong bond with the Chennai crowd and is one of the most popular cricketers in that part of the country.

One heart and it belongs to you! #16YearsOfThala pic.twitter.com/1mllUqXUFL

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) February 20, 2024

MS Dhoni on signing for CSK:

While MS Dhoni has enjoyed a very successful journey with CSK so far, things could have been very different had he not backed his intuitions. In a recent interview with Star Sports, the former India captain revealed how he ended up signing up for the Chennai-based franchise.

The wicketkeeper-batsman revealed that he was receiving an offer of $1 million from a franchise to sign as a marquee player. However, he decided against it and registered his name for the auction at a base price of USD 400,000. CSK went all out for him in the auction and eventually bought him for $1.5 million.

“Initially when five marquee players were announced, I was also approached to become a marquee player of a certain franchise. I had to make a quick decision. I thought that I was the captain of the 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team, I would easily go for 1 million dollars.

“So let’s take a risk. Let’s enter the auction. If two out of three teams that don’t have marquee players get interested in me, along with the other franchises, this will increase the chances of your price going up,” MS Dhoni told Star Sports.

“If you become a marquee player, the franchise owner thinks that if I am buying a player for a certain amount, then I will have to pay 10 or 15 percent more to the marquee player.

“So I thought that for me, at this point in time, it’s better to enter the auction – if any franchise without a marquee player buys me, then I have more chances of getting more money. And when the auction happened, when CSK bought me, I went for 1.5 million dollars (6 crore approx). So the thinking worked at that point of time,” he added.

He could've made $1 million as a marquee player!

He entered the auction instead… and made #1.5 million! #JustThalaThings

Relive the story of how #MSDhoni ended up at #Chennai by making a shrewd move.

The rest is history!#IPLOnStar #Cricket pic.twitter.com/5quBLXUhZA

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 20, 2024

MS Dhoni would be aiming for another successful season with CSK in IPL 2024. CSK are the defending champions and would be looking to become the first-ever team to win the IPL six times.

The post MS Dhoni finally reveals why he didn’t sign up as a marquee player ahead of IPL 2008 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Manoj Tiwary recently retired from all formats of the game after Bengal’s final league match in the Ranji Trophy against Bihar at the Eden Gardens. It’s worth mentioning that the former batter initially retired in 2023 after a loss to Saurashtra but returned to red-ball cricket.

Would Have Played For Another Two-Three Years – Manoj Tiwary

Speaking to Anandabazar Patrika, Manoj Tiwary revealed how the conflict with Gautam Gambhir in the KKR dressing room shortened his tenure, impacting potential future seasons and financial gains.

“During my time at KKR, I had a big fight with Gambhir in the dressing room. That never came to light. KKR became the champion in 2012. At that time, I managed to hit four, so the team won. I got a chance to play for KKR one more year.

“Had I not fought with Gambhir in 2013, maybe I would have played for another two-three years. That means the amount I was supposed to get as per the contract would have gone up. Bank balance would be strengthened. But I never thought about that,” Tiwary said.

Tiwary played a pivotal role for Kolkata Knight Riders from 2010 to 2013, notably scoring the winning boundary in the 2012 IPL final against Chennai Super Kings. However, his tenure with the Kolkata franchise was short-lived, spanning just one more season in the IPL.

Never Thought Of My Loss – Manoj Tiwary

Manoj Tiwary expressed disappointment with the selection process of Delhi Daredevils, citing the mismanagement of the playing XI. Manoj Tiwary claimed that he requested his release from the team, which eventually led to the termination of his contract.

“Gary Kirsten was the coach when I played for Delhi Capitals. I was seeing in front of my eyes in one match after another that the first eleven was not going well. The combination is not correct. Eligible cricketers were not getting a chance to play.

“Many were out due to injuries. The results of the team were not good. I went straight and said, leave me if you can’t put me in the XI. My contract then was ₹2.8 crore. I never thought that if I said this, they would misunderstand me and leave me. Never thought of my loss,” Tiwary added.

Tiwari was part of the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) franchise from 2008 to 2009. he later joined the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2010. He scored 1686 runs in 96 IPL matches, including seven half-centuries. He last played in the IPL during the 2018 season.

In February 2021, Tiwary joined Mamata Banerjee’s All India Trinamool Congress party. The 38-year-old now serves as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in West Bengal and was appointed as a Minister of State for Affairs of Sports and Youth.

Also read: “I would like to ask MS Dhoni..” Manoj Tiwary alleges the former Indian skipper for dropping him from international cricket

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For real-time Dream11 Tips and Fantasy Cricket Live Updates, follow us on the Cricketaddictor Telegram Channel.

The live score and commentary of this game can be tracked on the CricketAddictor website by clicking on Bousher Busters vs Ruwi Rangers Livescore. 

BOB vs RUR Oman D50 Match 8 Preview:

The Oman D50 tournament match 8 will be played between Bousher Busters and Ruwi Rangers at 11:30 AM IST at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground Oman Cricket (Ministry Turf 1), Oman on 19th February.

In a challenging season, the Bousher Busters secured a single victory out of three contests, landing them in the third slot on the leaderboard. Meanwhile, the Ruwi Rangers clinched the top position by triumphing in both matches they played this season.

BOB vs RUR Head-to-Head Record:  

BOB vs RUR Oman D50 Match 8 Weather & Pitch Report:

Record of chasing teams: 

BOB vs RUR Oman D50 Match 8 Squads:

Bousher Busters Squad: Imran Ali, Aqib Ilyas©, Asif Khan, Fawad Ali, Hammad Ifraq, Hammad Mirza(wk), Adeeb Usmani, Syed Muzamil, Wasim Ali, Pruthvi Machhi, Shubo Pal

Ruwi Rangers Squad: Abdul Khaliq, Abhishek Batra, Karan Sonavale, Khalid Kail, Naseem Khushi(wk), Saad Baggad, Santhosh Kumar D, Umair Shakeel, Vighnesh Yadav, Mohammad Nadeem©, Sanju Sanjeev

BOB vs RUR Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Players Stats:

Hot Picks for BOB vs RUR Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips: 

Captaincy Picks for BOB vs RUR Dream11 Prediction: 

Top Picks for BOB vs RUR Dream11 Prediction:

Budget Picks for BOB vs RUR Dream11 Prediction:

BOB vs RUR Oman D50 Match 8 Captain and Vice-captain Choices:

Suggested Playing XI No. 1 (Small Leagues and Head-to-Head) for BOB vs RUR Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team:

• Keeper – Adeeb Usmani 
• Batsmen – Aaqib Ilyas Sulehri, Asif Khan-III, Khalid Kail
• All-rounders – Wasim Ali (c), Fawad Ali-I, Muhammad Nadeem (vc)
• Bowlers – Sanju Sanjeev, Mohamed Rasfas, Syed Muzamil Hussain, Saad Baggad

Suggested Playing XI No. 2 (Grand Leagues) for BOB vs RUR Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team: 

• Keeper – Adeeb Usmani 
• Batsmen – Aaqib Ilyas Sulehri (c), Asif Khan-III, Khalid Kail (vc)
• All-rounders – Wasim Ali, Fawad Ali-I, Abhishek Batra
• Bowlers – Sanju Sanjeev, Aflal Kariapper, Syed Muzamil Hussain, Saad Baggad

BOB vs RUR Dream11 Prediction Today Match Oman D50 Match 8 Players to Avoid:

BOB vs RUR Dream11 Prediction Today Match Oman D50 Match 8 Expert Advice: 

The post BOB vs RUR Dream11 Prediction Today Match, Dream11 Team Today, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Injury Update- Oman D50 2024, Match 8 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

For real-time Dream11 Tips and Fantasy Cricket Live Updates, follow us on the Cricketaddictor Telegram Channel. 

The live score and commentary of this game can be tracked on the CricketAddictor website by clicking on Ambernath Avengers vs Thane Tigers Livescore.  

AMA vs THT Navi Mumbai Premier League T20 Match 19 Preview: 

Ambernath Avengers and Thane Tigers will collide at the Mazgaon Cricket Club Ground, Kalamboli, Navi Mumbai in match 19 of the Navi Mumbai Premier League T20 on 21st February at 10:00 AM IST.

Following the completion of four matches, the Ambernath Avengers have secured two victories, positioning themselves in fifth place on the points table. Concurrently, the Thane Tigers have also achieved two wins, which has resulted in them being placed seventh in the rankings.

AMA vs THT Head-to-Head Record: 

AMA vs THT Navi Mumbai Premier League T20 Match 19 Weather & Pitch Report: 

Record of chasing teams: 

AMA vs THT Navi Mumbai Premier League T20 Match 19 Squads:

Ambernath Avengers Squad: Vishwajit Jagdale©, Bhavin Darji, Yash Singh, Parag Jadhav, Srujan Athawale, Nikhil Patil, Akash Anand(wk), Jayesh Patil, Sarvesh Patil, Nandan Kamath, Sanket Gowari, Saksham Jha

Thane Tigers Squad: Shreeraj Anant Gharat, Aniket Khadpe, Akash Malbari, Shourya Desai(wk), Aarush Patankar, Parikshit Valsangkar©, Soham Zute, Bhuvan Patil, Meet Jain, Parag Patil, Gaurav Singh, Akash Parkar

AMA vs THT Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Players Stats:

Hot Picks for AMA vs THT Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips: 

Captaincy Picks for AMA vs THT Dream11 Prediction: 

Top Picks for AMA vs THT Dream11 Prediction:

Budget Picks for AMA vs THT Dream11 Prediction:

AMA vs THT Navi Mumbai Premier League T20 Match 19 Captain and Vice-captain Choices:

Suggested Playing XI No. 1 (Small Leagues and Head-to-Head) for AMA vs THT Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team:

• Keeper – Shourya Nilesh Desai 
• Batsmen – Parag Jadhav, Shreeraj Anant Gharat, Nikhil Patil 
• All-rounders – Akash Parkar (c), Yash-Singh (vc), Vishwajit Jagdale 
• Bowlers – Aniket Khadpe, Bhavin Darji, Saksham Jha, Nandan Kamath

Suggested Playing XI No. 2 (Grand Leagues) for AMA vs THT Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team: 

• Keeper – Shourya Nilesh Desai 
• Batsmen – Parag Jadhav (vc), Shreeraj Anant Gharat, Nikhil Patil (c)
• All-rounders – Akash Parkar, Yash-Singh, Parag Patil
• Bowlers – Aniket Khadpe, Bhavin Darji, Saksham Jha, Parikshit Valsangkar

AMA vs THT Dream11 Prediction Today Match Navi Mumbai Premier League T20 Match 19 Players to Avoid:

AMA vs THT Dream11 Prediction Today Match Navi Mumbai Premier League T20 Match 19 Expert Advice: 

The post AMA vs THT Dream11 Prediction Today Match, Dream11 Team Today, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Injury Update- Navi Mumbai Premier League T20 2024, Match 19 appeared first on CricketAddictor.

Glenn Maxwell scored his fifth T20I ton in the series against the Windies and now stands as the only batter with five T20I centuries in the format.

Heading into this series, they are ranked fourth in the ICC T20I rankings. They will be led by Mitchell Marsh and have a few injury concerns. The squad misses the likes of Marcus Stoinis, and Aaron Hardie due to injury concerns.

Spencer Johnson was named as Harie’s replacement who was named the replace for Marcus Stoinis. However, the Aussie all-rounder injured himself in a Sheffield Shield game.

Aussie selectors have picked a full-strength side for the series ahead of the T20 World Cup in June. When the squad for New Zealand was announced before the three T20s against West Indies, National Selection Panel chair George Bailey said the games would play a part in their selection for the World Cup.

Also Read: New Zealand squad for Australia Tests announced, Daryl Mitchell returns

The squad sees the return of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and also Nathan Ellis who missed the series against West Indies due to a rib injury. The players will take this series as an opportunity to show their potential for the T20 World Cup. In this article, we predict Australia’s playing XI for the first T20I.

Australia Playing 11 vs New Zealand, 1st T20I, 2024

David Warner

Travis Head

Head has returned to the T20I side for this series and should open the batting with Warner. He has not played too many games since Australia’s victorious World Cup campaign and rested in the series against West Indies too.

Mitchell Marsh (C)

Marsh opened the batting with Warner against West Indies but can slot in at three for this series. He is still very fresh as an international captain and is expected to be tested against the Kiwis.

Steve Smith

Smith is a part of this series as well. He was rested from the West Indies series. The senior batter can bat at four show his might with the bat and make a case for his T20 World Cup selection. He has played a fair bit of T20 cricket since the ODI World Cup.

Glenn Maxwell

Glenn Maxwell can slot in at five. He scored his fifth T20I ton in the second T20I against West Indies and ended with 142 runs in the series at a strike rate of 184.42. Maxwell is also 10 short of 50 T20I wickets which he can get to in this series.

Tim David

David the big-hitter can slot in at six. After playing the series against West Indies he flew back to the UAE to play in the ILT20 for the MI Emirates and is back again to play the series against New Zealand.

Matthew Wade (WK)

Wade will be the specialist wicketkeeper. He has been the favored keeper in the T20I format. Alex Carey has been favored in Test and ODI cricket. He has played 83 matches and closing in on 1500 runs.

Pat Cummins

Cummins will bat at eight and lengthen the batting order. He was rested from the series against West Indies but is back for this series as the selectors are looking to fine-tune their squads. He has picked up 55 wickets from 50 matches.

Mitchell Starc

Starc too has returned for this series after being rested from the series against West Indies. He has picked up 73 wickets from 58 T20Is and does not play the format regularly.

Nathan Ellis

Ellis should play the first match ahead of Jos Hazlewood after the bowler was ruled out from the T20I series against West Indies. He was ruled out due to a rib injury but has now returned fit.

Adam Zampa

Zampa concludes Australia’s likely playing XI. The Aussie spinner is 13 short of 100 T20I wickets and can get to that if he has a good series with the ball. He has picked up 87 wickets from 77 T20Is.

Also Read: Aaron Hardie ruled out of T20I series against New Zealand, replacement announced

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Date and Venue

The AUS vs NZ first T20I will be played in Wellington on February 21. The match starts at 11.40 am IST which is 7.10 pm local time. Auckland hosts the next two T20Is on February 23 and 25. In 10 T20I games in New Zealand, the Kiwis have won four while the Aussies six

Team Analysis- AUS vs NZ Match Preview- 1st T20I, 2024

New Zealand 

New Zealand will be led by Mitchell Santner. Trent Boult has returned to the New Zealand T20I series for this series. He did not play the Test series against South Africa. The Kiwis previously played a T20I series against Pakitan that they won. 

Boult will play the final two games with Tim Southee to be rested. The squad is without the likes of Daryl Mitchell (foot injury), Michael Bracewell (finger injury), and Jimmy Neesham (playing in BPL 2024).

They have added an uncapped all-rounder in Josh Clarkson who has the reputation of being a big-hitter. Ahead of the T20 World Cup, this will be a nice Test for the Kiwis at home. It is an opportunity for the players selected to make an impression and stay in contention for T20 World Cup selection.

New Zealand Squad 

Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Trent Boult (games 2 & 3), Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway (wk), Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Adam Milne, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee (game 1)

Australia

Australia have a few injury concerns heading into this series. They will be without the likes of Marcus Stoinis and Aaron Harie in this series. Both are ruled out with injury concerns. The Aussies will be led by Mitchell Marsh. He will have plenty of leadership experience to fall back on with Pat Cummins returning to the squad for the series.

Also back is Mitchell Starc who was rested from the West Indies T20I series. Glenn Maxwell, Azam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Ellis make up the bowling attack. Cricket Australia has named Spencer Johnson as the replacement for Stoinis. 

Australia Squad

Mitchell Marsh (c), Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa

Also Read: “That’s their character” – David Warner calls out New Zealand fans for vulgar behavior, ready for hostile reception

Key Battles

David Warner vs Tim Southee

This matchup will be an enticing contest between the two senior players. Warner had had the wood over Southee in T20I cricket. He has scored 67 from the 33 balls he faced against the Kiwi pacer. Southee has managed to dismiss him just once. The Kiwi pacer will play only the first T20I and should eye his wicket. 

Glenn Maxwell vs Mitchell Santner

Another key battle is expected to be between Maxwell and Santner. The Australian all-rounder seems to be in the form of his life. He recently scored his fifth T20I century that came in the series against West Indies. The Kiwi left-arm spinner has just dismissed Maxwell once in T20Is.

Key Players 

In the absence of Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell, Devon Conway becomes the key player with the bat for the Kiwis. The likes of Rachin Ravindra, Finn Allen, and Glenn Phillips will need to bat around him. With the ball, Southee and Santner hold the key. 

For Australia, David Warner’s batting at the top always holds the key. Glenn Maxwell with the kind of form he is in becomes a key player in the middle-order. Azam Zampa is gunning down 100 T20I wickets and Starc with his pace and swing is always a lethal option with the ball. 

Weather and Pitch

As per reports, there are drop-in pitches used in Wellington since there is a lot of rain at the venue. There is a forecast of rain during the day for the AUS vs NZ first T20I.

The weather is expected to clear out by the time the match starts in the evening. However, the rain might mean a delayed start in case of a wet outfield.  The pitch as said earlier becomes a batting-friendly one in T20Is with scores over 200 posted and chased down regularly. 

Conclusion

The AUS vs NZ T20I series is expected to be exciting. New Zealand who have just won five out of the 16 T20Is against the Aussies have a chance to add to that tally by pushing the Aussies for a potential clean sweep. The Aussies are in form after beating West Indies 2-1 in their previous T20I series. 

Also Read: Australia, New Zealand to play T20I series too for Chappell-Hadlee Trophy

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Mitchell Santner will lead New Zealand with Kane Wliimaosn out of the series on parental leave. Along with him, Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell are also not a part of the squad due to injury concerns. Meanwhile, Jimmy Neesham is playing in the BPL and thus unavailable for the series.

New Zealand last played a Test series against South Africa that they won. Before that, they won a T20I series against Pakistan at home. Trent Boult is back in the side and will play the last two games. he will replace Tim Southee in the XI for the final two games.

In 16 T20Is, overall, New Zealand have won five and Australia 10. The Kiwis have won four games at home and the Aussies six. In terms of form guide for the last five T20Is for both teams, Australia have won two and New Zealand four. In this article, we take a look at New Zealand’s predicted XI for the first T20I against Australia.

Also Read: Aaron Hardie ruled out of T20I series against New Zealand, replacement announced

New Zealand Playing 11 vs Australia, 1st T20I, 2024

Devon Conway (WK)

Conway will open the batting. In the absence of Williamson, he is the most experienced batter in the side and will need to anchor the side with the bat. He is approaching 1500 runs in the format.

Finn Allen

Allen might open the batting with Conway. The young Kiwi opener has not been able to maximise his chances in the format. However, he scored a hundred in the last T20I series against Pakistan.

Rachin Ravindra

The southpaw will slot in at three. He has shown a lot of maturity with the bat since the ODI World Cup and also provides a bowling option in the top five. He is an all-format cricketer. He has played 19 T20Is scoring just 146 runs.

Mark Chapman

Chapman will bat at four. He made a switch from Canada to New Zealand to prolong his international career and has done a good job so far with the bat. He is approaching 1400 runs in the format.

Glenn Phillips

Phillips can bat at five and play the finisher’s role. In the absence of Daryl Mitchell, he might be promoted to number five which will give him more overs to bat. He also provides a right-arm spin bowling option.

Mitchell Santner (C)

Santner will slot in at six. He will also lead the side in the three games. He has led this Kiwi side in T20Is more than once. The Kiwis have won 12 off the 19 matches under him as captain. He has taken 17 wickets in these games.

Tim Southee

Southee will slot in at seven. He has also led New Zealand across formats. He will play only the first T20I after which Trent Boult will replace him in the last two games. He has picked up 157 wickets from 121 T20I games.

Lockie Ferguson

Ferguson will pair up with Southee as the second pacer in the lineup. His pace will be a factor in the series against Australia with the Aussies good players of fast bowling. He is one shy of 50 T20I wickets.

Matt Henry

Henry will be the third seamer in the XI. He has been injury-prone in the last few months playing games for New Zealand on and off. He last played in the 5th T20I against Pakistan in Christchurch where he took two wickets.

Adam Milne

Adam Milne will be the fourth seamer in this XI. This is a good chance for the Kiwis to unsettle the Australians with raw pace and push them on the back foot. Milne has picked up 57 wickets in 50 T20Is.

Ish Sodhi

Sodhi concludes the paying XI for New Zealand for the first T20I against Australia. he last played in the fifth T20I against Pakistan. He has picked up 132 wickets in 109 T20Is.

Also Read: Australia, New Zealand to play T20I series too for Chappell-Hadlee Trophy

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The series continues preparations for both teams in the upcoming T20 World Cup. The tournament will be played in June 2024 hosted jointly by USA and West Indies.

The first T20I will be played on February 21, the second on Fen 23, and the third on Feb 25. The two teams then play a two-match Test series. Wellington hosts the first Test from Feb-29-March 4 and Christchurch the second from March 8-12. 

Team Analysis

Australia 

Australia will be led by Mitchell Marsh. He will continue to lead the side with Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc returning to the side. Australia will miss a few key players Aaron Hardie and Marcus Stoinsi who played the last T20I series against West Indies.

The squad will also be without Spencer Johnson who replaced the injured Nathan Ellis who is back in this side. David Warner will continue to play T20I cricket after retiring from Test and ODI. 

New Zealand

New Zealand will be led by Mitchell Santner. Trent Boult is back in New Zealand colors for the T20I series. He is aiming to play in the T20 World Cup and hence looking to play all T20Is for the side. The squad misses a few key players.

Kane Williamson is on parental leave. Meanwhile, Daryl Mitchell is out with a foot injury along with Michael Bracewell who is recovering from a finger injury. Jimmy Neesham is playing in the Bangladesh Premier League and hence missing the series. The squad has an uncapped all-rounder in Josh Clarkson. 

Also Read: Kyle Jamieson ruled out of cricketing action for another year due to stress fracture

Key Factors

Pitch Conditions 

Generally conditions in New Zealand aid seam and swing bowling in Test and ODI cricket. However, the pitch conditions aid the batters in the T20I format as it does in any part of the world while playing this format. The venue has hosted 21 T20Is with 10 matches won by the team batting first and 11 by teams chasing.

Thus the pitch remains intact throughout the 40 overs of play. Meanwhile, due to the rain threat in New Zealand, the venue uses drop-in pitches like most other pitches in New Zealand for T20Is that aid batting.

Form and fitness

While the form of batters and bowlers from both teams is good there are injury concerns in both camps. New Zealand is missing Daryl Mitchell (foot injury) and Michael Bracewell (finger injury) due to injury concerns.

The Aussies on the other hand, are missing Marcus Stoinis (back injury). Aaron Hardie who was named as Stoinis’s replacement is also ruled out with a calf injury. Cricket Australia confirmed that Spencer Johnson has been called into the squad immediately to replace Aaron Hardie in the squad.

Tactical Acumen 

The Kiwis will be led by Mitchell Santner while the Aussies by Mitchell Marsh. While Santner has been leading the Kiwis for a few years now, especially in the T20I format, Marsh’s tactics as captain will be an interesting observation. He has plenty of leadership experience to fall back on. 

Recent Venue Records (Sky Stadium, Wellington)

STATS – T20

Total matches 21

Matches won batting first 10

Matches won bowling first 11

Average 1st Inns scores 150

Average 2nd Inns scores 125

Highest total recorded 219/6 (20 Ov) by NZ vs IND

Lowest total recorded 73/10 (15.3 Ov) by AUSW vs NZW

Highest score chased 163/6 (19 Ov) by NZ vs WI

Lowest score defended 128/9 (20 Ov) by ENGW vs NZW

Who Will Score Most Runs For New Zealand: Glenn Phillips / Rachin Ravindra

Who Will Take Most Wickets For New Zealand: Tim Southee / Mitchell Santner

Who Will Score Most Runs For Australia: David Warner / Tim David

 Who Will Take Most Wickets For Australia: Mitchell Starc / Azam Zampa

AUS vs NZ Today Match Prediction- 1st T20I, Who Will Win Today’s T20I Match? 2024

Given the team combinations and the kind of players in both the first T20I can be won by either of the two teams. Australia and New Zealand can both win the match. Hard to predict an outright winner.

Also Read: Marcus Stoinis ruled out of the T20I series against New Zealand, replacement announced

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Australia will be led by Mitchell Marsh. He led the team in the recent T20I series against West Indies as well. He will have plenty of leadership experience to fall back on with senior players returning. Mitchell Marsh and Pat Cummins are back in the side for this series. They also have the likes of David Warner and Glenn Maxwell. 

The Aussies have been hit by a few injury concerns. They will be missing Marcus Stoinis who is ruled out with a back injury. His replacement Aaron Hardie is out with a calf injury that he picked up while playing in Western Australia’s Sheffield Shield game against Tasmania in Hobart.

Cricket Australia confirmed that Spencer Johnson has been called into the squad immediately to replace Aaron Hardie in the squad. Spencer Johnson was also a member of the three-match T20I series against West Indies. 

New Zealand will be led by Mitchell Santner with Kane Williamson out on parental leave, There are injury concerns with Daryl Mitchell (foot injury), and Michael Bracewell (finger injury) while James Neesham is playing in the BPL.

Kiwi pacer Kyle Jamieson is ruled out of the entire 2024 with a stress fracture. Trent Boult has returned to the side and will be playing the last two games with Tim Southee likely to be rested. 

Also Read: “That’s their character” – David Warner calls out New Zealand fans for vulgar behavior, ready for hostile reception

New Zealand and Australia have played 16 T20Is with the Kiwis winning just five games and the Aussies 10. In the last five games, the Kiwis have lost thrice. In the last two T20I matches between the two teams, both have won one game each.

AUS vs NZ Weather Report Live Today And Pitch Report Of Wellington Stadium – 1st T20I, 2024

AUS vs NZ 1st T20I Weather Report

The AUS vs NZ first T20I starts from 11.40 am IST which is 7.10 pm local time. The weather conditions will remain mostly cloudy with a breezy spell in the afternoon. The temperature will be around 20 degrees in the daytime.

The weather conditions will be mainly clear in the evening with the temperature around 14 degrees. However, there is a likely chance of rain in the daytime which might mean a delayed start if the outfield is too wet. The venue uses a drop-in pitch due to heavy rain in Wellington as per reports. 

Pitch Analysis

As said earlier, the pitch at the Sky Stadium in Wellington uses drop-in pitches due to heavy rain at the venue. Thus the pitch remains a batting-friendly one and we can expect a high-scoring match. So far 21 matches have been played at this venue. 10 games have been won by the team batting first and 11 games chasing. 

Weather Impact On The Game

As per reports rain is always a threat in New Zealand in evening matches. The country and the city experience a lot of rainfall throughout the year. There is a slight forecast of rain during the daytime on Wednesday.

However, the weather will mainly remain clear in the evening. If it rains, it might result in a delayed start. If it rains too heavily it is also a possibility the match might even get rained out.

Conclusion 

The AUS vs NZ series starts with the first T20I in Wellington on February 21. The next two T20I matches will be played in Auckland on February 23 and 25. The two teams then play a two-match Test series with the first Test in Wellington and the second in Christchurch. 

Also Read: Neil Wagner angry on team New Zealand? Tim Southee breaks silence on pacer’s inappropriate gestures

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Australia will be led by Mitchell Marsh while New Zealand will be led by Mitchell Santner. Both teams have been in continuous cricket since the ODI World Cup.

New Zealand first played a T20I series against Pakistan that they won. They next played a Test series against South Africa and they won 2-0 as well. Heading into this series, the team has a few changes.

Trent Boult returns to the squad looking to get some match practice leading into the next T20 World Cup. They are without the likes of Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell who are struggling with injury concerns. Kane Williamson is on parental leave while Jimmy Neesham is playing in BPL 2024.

Australia on the other hand, sees the return of Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc who were rested in the T20I series against West Indies. Closing in the T20 World Cup, Australia are looking to play with their full-strength squad.

They played against Pakistan in a Test series where they swept the Men in Green. Against West Indies, they drew the Test series and won the T20I series.

Also Read: Aaron Hardie ruled out of T20I series against New Zealand, replacement announced

AUS vs NZ Head To Head Records (Overall Stats)

AUS vs NZ Head To Head Records In Tests

AUS vs NZ Head To Head Records In ODIs

AUS vs NZ Head To Head Records In T20Is

AUS vs NZ Head-to-Head Records in T20Is- 1st T20I, 2024

Matches Played: 16

Australia Won- 10

New Zealand Won- 5

Most Runs For Australia- Aaron Finch-269

Most Wickets For Australia- Ashton Agar-13

Most Runs For New Zealand- Martin Guptill-463

Most Wickets For Afghanistan- Ish Sodhi-17

AUS vs NZ Key Statistics

Australia and New Zealand have a rich heritage and rivalry across formats. Over the years, the two teams have played 60 Test matches with the Aussies winning 34 games and the Kiwis just 8. In 142 ODIs, Australia have won 96 games and New Zealand 39. In 16 T20Is, the Aussies have won 10 games and the Kiwis six. In 10 T20Is at home against the Aussies, the Kiwis have just won three.

Recent 5 or 10 Encounters

In the last five AUS vs WI T20Is, New Zealand have lost three games and won just two. While Australia have won three games and lost just two.

Key Moments and Stand-out Performances (Players)

Two of the last five T20I matches between the two sides have been in T20 World Cups. The Aussies beat the Kiwis to win their maiden T20 World Cup title in Dubai in 2021. The Kiwis returned the favor by beating them in the league match of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Sydney.

Standout players in this AUS vs NZ series for Australia are likely to be David Warner, Mitchell Starc, Azam Zampa, Glenn Maxwell, and skipper Mitchell Marsh. On the other hand, for New Zealand, Trent Boult, Mitchell Santner, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra are expected to be the key players.

Trends and Patterns

The matches have been very closely fought by both teams. Very often the two teams have won one game each in a bilateral series.  However, in the last five games, the Kiwis have lost three games. In the last two, the two teams have won one each.

Also Read: Australia, New Zealand to play T20I series too for Chappell-Hadlee Trophy

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For real-time Dream11 Tips and Fantasy Cricket Live Updates, follow us on Cricketaddictor’s Telegram Channel.

The live score and commentary of this game can be tracked on the CricketAddictor website by clicking on New Zealand vs Australia Livescore. 

NZ vs AUS 1st T20I Preview:

The first game of the Australia Tour of New Zealand tournament will see the clash between New Zealand and Australia at the Sky Stadium, Wellington on 21st February at 11:40 AM IST.

The Australia tour of New Zealand is set to commence with a thrilling 1st T20I match on the 21st of February, 2024. The series will include three T20Is, followed by a two-match Test series, with the first game taking place at the Sky Stadium in Wellington.

New Zealand, led by Mitchell Santner. The team will rely on the prowess of Devon Conway, Finn Allen, and Lockie Ferguson to make a strong impact.

Australia comes into the series with their own set of challenges, notably the absence of Marcus Stoinis and Aaron Hardie due to injuries, and Matthew Wade missing the opening match. The team will be captained by Mitchell Marsh, with key players like David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, and Adam Zampa expected to play pivotal roles.

The two teams have a competitive history in T20I cricket, with Australia holding a 10-6 win-loss record against New Zealand. 

NZ vs AUS Head-to-Head Record:  

NZ vs AUS 1st T20I Weather & Pitch Report:

Record of chasing teams: 

NZ vs AUS 1st T20I Squads:

New Zealand Squad: Finn Allen, Devon Conway (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Josh Clarkson, Mitchell Santner ©, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson

Australia Squad: David Warner, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh ©, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis (wk), Tim David, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood

NZ vs AUS Dream11 Team Today and Fantasy Cricket Players Stats:

Hot Picks for NZ vs AUS Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips: 

Captaincy Picks for NZ vs AUS Dream11 Prediction: 

Top Picks for NZ vs AUS Dream11 Prediction:

Budget Picks for NZ vs AUS Dream11 Prediction:

NZ vs AUS 1st T20I Captain and Vice-captain Choices:

NZ vs AUS Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team 1:

• Keeper – Devon Conway, Josh Inglis
• Batsmen – David Warner (c), Mitchell Marsh, Finn Allen, Glenn Phillips
• All-rounders – Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra (vc)
• Bowlers – Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa

NZ vs AUS Dream11 Prediction Today Match and Dream11 Team 2: 

• Keeper – Devon Conway
• Batsmen – David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Finn Allen (vc), Glenn Phillips
• All-rounders – Glenn Maxwell (c), Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra
• Bowlers – Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Tim Southee

NZ vs AUS Dream11 Prediction Today Match 1st T20I Players to Avoid:

NZ vs AUS Dream11 Prediction Today Match 1st T20I Expert Advice: 

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Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle and David Warner were the contenders. The experts needed to pick two openers for the best IPL team. Matthew Hayden didn’t back the Indian duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli and instead picked Chris Gayle and David Warner as two openers in the team. 

Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been the best batters in the league. They have been two powerhouses in the league and are amongst the leading run-getters in the tournament. They are one of the prime reasons behind the success of Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore respectively in the league. 

Former Australian cricketer Tom Moody voted for Chris Gayle along with Virat Kohli. The West Indies batter set the stage on fire for whatever time he played in the league. He was known for his explosive best and played some magical knocks on the league, helping his team win games in the tournament. 

Wasim Akram opted for Rohit Sharma and David Warner as two openers for the best IPL team. It came as a surprise after he didn’t pick Virat Kohli. The Australia opener on the other hand is the best overseas batters in the league and is the leading run-getter in the league among the foreign batters. 

Dale Steyn rooted for David Warner and Rohit Sharma as two openers for the best IPL team. The Australia opener overall got 3 votes, making him the best choice whereas Rohit and Chris Gayle were tied at 2 votes each while Virat Kohli bagged just one vote. 

Virat Kohli’s best in the league came as an opener. The batter is the leading run-getter in the league with over 7000 runs to his name. He has been an absolute beast as an opener for Royal Challengers Bangalore. He will be crucial for the team in the upcoming 7th edition of the league.

#IPL G.O.A.T. @imVkohli does not feature as opener in the Star Jury's #AllTimeIncredibleXI!

Today on the 16th anniversary of the first ever #IPLAuction, find out which players and coach make it to the Jury's 'Incredible 16' – at 7 PM and 10:30 PM on Star Sports Network & 8 PM… pic.twitter.com/AK4WCXPWs9

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 20, 2024

Virat Kohli becomes father for the second time; gets blessed with baby boy 

India batter Virat Kohli’s wife Anushka Sharma gave birth to a baby boy, whom they have named Akaay. The couple were blessed with the baby boy on 15th February. He informed about the development with a special post on social media. 

He stated: “With abundant happiness and our hearts full of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay & Vamika’s little brother into this world! We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love & Gratitude. Virat & Anushka.” 

Virat Kohli pulled out of the Test series against England. He is now expected to make a comeback in the IPL. The league reportedly will begin on 22nd March.

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As per the reports in Anandabazar Patrika, it is learned that as many as three franchises are interested in acquiring the services of Sarfaraz Khan. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) expressed the desire to get the batter as mentor Gautam Gambhir told the team management to rope in the batter to strengthen the batting line-up. 

The reports also claimed that Chennai Super Kings are also keen to sign Sarfaraz Khan for the IPL 2024. It is learned that MS Dhoni has given the green signal to the authorities to bid for him. Apart from defending champions, Royal Challengers Bangalore also wants the batter in their team. 

Sarfaraz Khan was part of Royal Challengers Bangalore for three IPL seasons between 2015 and 2018. He played decent knocks for the team but after that parted ways with the franchise. He represented Delhi Capitals in 2023 but went unsold in the IPL 2023 auction. 

Sarfaraz Khan has played 50 games in IPL between 2015 and 2023. The batter has scored 585 runs with a solitary fifty. He played for Punjab Kings as well between 2019 and 2021 before joining Delhi Capitals in the league. With all the reports around CSK, KKR, and RCB wanting him, it remains to be seen what will be his future in the league. 

Sarfaraz Khan was impressive on his debut for India in Test cricket. He scored 68 runs in the first innings as he got run out. He made sure that he made the most of the opportunity in the second innings. The batter slammed another half-century and ended with 62 not out in the second essay. 

He looks like the perfect No.6 – Michael Vaughan on Sarfaraz Khan 

Impressed with Sarfaraz Khan’s heroics, Michael Vaughan lauded the batter for his staggering debut. He pointed out that the batter is aggressive, plays spin brilliantly, and rotates the strike well, which makes him the perfect No.6 for India. Speaking to Cricbuzz, he explained: 

“I said after the first day, he looks like the perfect No.6. He is aggressive, plays spin brilliantly, rotates the strike. So even the good balls are going for ones and twos. And he’s hungry for runs. He has got huge amount of runs in first-class cricket. 

When you have done that throughout your career, and you get that opportunity to play for India in Test match-level. He has taken that chance well.” 

Sarfaraz Khan will be next seen in action when India will play the fourth Test against England in Ranchi. The match will be played on 23rd February. India is currently leading the series 2-1. The batter would be hoping to go one step ahead in the next match and seal his spot in the team in the longest format of the game.

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