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Tag: T20

  • SL vs AFG 2024, 1st ODI: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan 2024

    SL vs AFG 2024, 1st ODI: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan 2024

    Following the one-off test match, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are set to engage in a three-game ODI series, commencing this Friday at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.

    Kusal Mendis will take charge as the captain of the Sri Lankan side, while Hashmatullah Shahidi will lead the Afghan side. Riding the momentum from their triumph in the solitary Test match, Sri Lanka will aim to kick off the 50-over series with a victory. Meanwhile, Afghanistan, returning to the ODI format for the first time since the World Cup 2023 , will be eager to put up a strong fight against the hosts.

    Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka 2024, 1st ODI:

    • Date and Time: February 9, 2024, 02:30 pm local time/ 10:00 am GMT/ 02:30 pm IST
    • Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

    Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch report:

    The Pallekele Cricket Stadium is home to a batting-friendly pitch, well-known for its favorable conditions for batters. This surface doesn’t offer significant support to fast bowlers, creating an enticing setting for batters to showcase their skills and enjoy fruitful innings. Once batters find their groove and get accustomed to the conditions, they can take advantage of numerous opportunities to accumulate substantial runs. As the game progresses, the pitch tends to evolve, developing additional grip that plays into the hands of spin bowlers. Consequently, winning the toss often prompts captains to choose batting first, aiming to exploit the favorable conditions that the Pallekele pitch offers throughout the fixture.

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Picks:

    • Wicketkeepers: Kusal Mendis, Rahmanullah Gurbaz
    • Batters: Hashmatullah Shahidi, Ibrahim Zadran, Pathum Nissanka
    • All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Wanindu Hasaranga, Azmatullah Omarzai, Dunith Wellalage
    • Bowlers: Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Maheesh Theekshana

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

    • Choice 1: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Azmatullah Omarzai (vc)
    • Choice 2: Kusal Mendis (c), Mohammad Nabi (vc)

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Backups:

    Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Gulbadin Naib, Qais Ahmad

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Team for today’s match (Feb 9, 9:00 am GMT)

    SL vs AFG, Dream11 Team (Image Source: Screenshot Dream11)

    Squads:

    Sri Lanka: Kusal Mendis (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Pramod Madushan, Sahan Arachchige, Akila Dananjaya, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Shevon Daniel

    Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ikram Alikhil (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Riaz Hassan, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran, Farid Ahmad

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Sri Lanka’s best XI for ODI series against Afghanistan

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  • AUS vs WI, 1st T20I: Bellerive Oval Pitch Report, Hobart Weather Forecast, T20I Stats & Records | Australia vs West Indies 2024

    AUS vs WI, 1st T20I: Bellerive Oval Pitch Report, Hobart Weather Forecast, T20I Stats & Records | Australia vs West Indies 2024

    After an exhilarating One Day International (ODI) series, cricket fans are eagerly awaiting the upcoming T20 International (T20I) series between Australia and West Indies. The showdown is scheduled to kick off on February 9 at the iconic Bellerive Oval in Hobart, promising another thrilling display of cricketing prowess.

    In this shorter format of the game, Mitchell Marsh is set to lead the Australian squad, bringing his experience and formidable skills to the forefront. On the opposing side, Rovman Powell will take charge as the captain of the West Indies team. With his dynamic style of play and strategic acumen, Powell aims to rally his teammates.

    T20I Stats and Records at the Bellerive Oval:

    • Total matches: 18
    • Matches won batting first: 8
    • Matches won bowling first: 9
    • Average 1st Inns scores: 145
    • Average 2nd Inns scores: 135
    • Highest total recorded: 213/4 (20 Ov) by Australia vs England
    • Lowest total recorded: 118/10 (18.3 Ov) by West Indies vs Scotland
    • Highest score chased: 180/4 (19 Ov) by Ireland vs Scotland
    • Lowest score defended: 117/7 (20 Ov) by New Zealand Women vs Australia Women

    Bellerive Oval pitch report:

    Matches held at this venue provide a balanced and unbiased environment for both batters and bowlers. Extensive modifications to the playing surface have promoted a fairer competition, catering to the needs of both batting and bowling.

    Hobart Weather Forecast:

    Despite the cloudy weather forecast, there’s a comforting anticipation that the highly anticipated match will proceed smoothly, ensuring an uninterrupted and captivating sporting event. The temperature is expected to be approximately 22 degrees Celsius, accompanied by a gentle breeze of 18 km/hr. Additionally, atmospheric humidity is forecasted to remain moderate at 48%.

    Also READ: Aaron Finch predicts his Australia XI for T20 World Cup 2024; leaves out Steve Smith

    AUS vs WI, Probable Playing XIs:

    Australia: David Warner, Mitchell Marsh (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, Sean Abbott, Josh Hazlewood, Spencer Johnson, Adam Zampa

    West Indies: Johnson Charles, Brandon King, Shai Hope, Kyle Mayers, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Rovman Powell (c), Andre Russell, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie, Alzarri Joseph

    Also READ: Australia vs West Indies 2024, T20I Series – Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, USA, UK & other countries

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  • Kevin Pietersen picks the batter who could be India’s standout performer in T20 World Cup 2024

    Kevin Pietersen picks the batter who could be India’s standout performer in T20 World Cup 2024

    As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the T20 World Cup 2024, former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has added to the anticipation by predicting India‘s potential standout performer for the tournament. Scheduled to take place in the West Indies and the USA from June 1, the event holds immense excitement, especially for Indian fans who have high hopes for their team, which will enter the tournament following the conclusion of IPL 2024.

    Kevin Pietersen shares his insights on IPL’s impact on T20 World Cup 2024

    Pietersen, a key member of England’s victorious 2010 T20 World Cup squad, emphasized the advantage India might have due to the tournament being held in the Caribbean and the United States. He pointed out that the IPL 2024, scheduled in April and May, could be a pivotal factor in shaping India’s performance.

    In a recent conversation with the Times of India, Pietersen highlighted the similarity in conditions between the IPL and the T20 World Cup venues, suggesting that players who excel in the IPL are likely to carry their form into the global competition.

    “It’s all about people who will perform at the right time. And that’s going to happen in April and May during the IPL. We’ll see who’s performing the best. The players are good enough to replicate in the World Cup. The conditions are pretty similar to what is here in India actually. There will be very low bounce wickets. It takes some spin, but they are also beautiful wickets,” highlighted Pietersen.

    Also READ: South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj picks the two finalist of T20 World Cup 2024

    Pietersen names India’s potential standout performer

    Revealing his pick for India’s standout performer, Pietersen chose none other than the young and talented Shubman Gill. The former England skipper expressed confidence in Gill’s ability to set the World Cup on fire with his skills, tagging him as “the guy” to watch out for in the tournament.

    “It is Shubman Gill. He is the guy,” remarked the former English skipper.

    The impressive track record of the player picked by Pietersen

    Pietersen’s endorsement of Gill is not without merit. The young batter showcased exceptional form in the previous year’s IPL, finishing as the tournament’s leading run-scorer with a remarkable tally of 890 runs in 17 matches. Hailing from Punjab, Gill has now been entrusted with the captaincy of the Gujarat Titans franchise following Hardik Pandya’s move to the Mumbai Indians, further solidifying his status as a reliable cricketer.

    Also READ: Top 10 players who never won an Orange Cap in the Indian Premier League (IPL)

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  • Super Smash 2023-24 final, AA vs CTB: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Auckland Aces vs Canterbury Kings

    Super Smash 2023-24 final, AA vs CTB: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Auckland Aces vs Canterbury Kings

    As the Super Smash 2023-24 season nears its climax, cricket enthusiasts brace themselves for an exhilarating final showdown between the Auckland Aces and the Canterbury Kings. The highly anticipated final will take place at the iconic Eden Park in Auckland, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already electrifying event.

    Both teams have showcased exceptional cricketing prowess throughout the tournament, securing their spots in the final through a series of impressive performances. The Auckland Aces, under the leadership of Robert O’Donnell, have displayed remarkable skill and determination on their journey to the final, while the Canterbury Kings, captained by Cole McConchie, have consistently delivered stellar performances to earn their place in the ultimate showdown.

    Super Smash 2023-24, Final:

    • Date and time: January 28, 09:00 am IST/ 03:30 am GMT/ 03:30 pm local
    • Venue: Eden Park, Auckland

    Eden Park Pitch Report:

    Eden Park features a surface known for its historical support towards bowlers. At the start of the match, fast bowlers are anticipated to experience pronounced seam movement, especially with the new ball. Yet, as the game advances, spinners are poised to become increasingly impactful, capitalizing on the pitch’s diminishing pace.

    AA vs CTB Dream11 Prediction Picks:

    • Wicketkeepers: Tom Latham, Cam Fletcher
    • Batters: Henry Nicholls, Chad Bowes, Robert Roux O Donnell
    • All-rounders: Cole McConchie, Sean Solia
    • Bowlers: Danru Ferns, Ben Lister, Louis Delport, Matt Henry

    AA vs CTB Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

    Choice 1: Cole McConchie (c), Danru Ferns (vc)
    Choice 2: Tom Latham (c), Cam Fletcher (vc)

    Also WATCH: Mitchell Van Buuren takes a sensational catch at the boundary to dismiss JJ Smuts in SA20 2024

    AA vs CTB Dream11 Prediction Backups:

    Ryan Harrison, Jock McKenzie, Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi

    AA vs CTB Dream11 Team for today’s match (January 28, 03:30 am GMT):

    Squads:

    Auckland Aces: Sean Solia, Robert Odonnell (c), Cam Fletcher (wk), William O Donnell, Ryan Harrison, Jock McKenzie, Danru Ferns, Louis Delport, Ben Lister, Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson, Finn Allen

    Canterbury Kings: Chad Bowes, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Cole McConchie (c), Mitchell Hay (wk), Bevon Jacobs, Zakary Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi, William ORourke, Angus McKenzie, Michael Rippon

    Also WATCH: Mitchell Starc’s lethal yorker breaks Shamar Joseph’s toe, youngster in tears

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  • Twitter reactions: Iftikhar Ahmed’s sizzling bowling helps Pakistan beat New Zealand in 5th T20I to avoid series whitewash

    Twitter reactions: Iftikhar Ahmed’s sizzling bowling helps Pakistan beat New Zealand in 5th T20I to avoid series whitewash

    Despite enduring four consecutive defeats, Pakistan found reason to celebrate at the conclusion of a challenging New Zealand tour. They successfully defended a modest total in the final T20I, securing a 42-run victory and preventing a whitewash. This win brought a positive end to a tough series for the Pakistani team.

    New Zealand restrict Pakistan at a below-par total

    Facing a challenging New Zealand bowling attack, Pakistan managed to post a total of 134/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Mohammad Rizwan contributed steadily with 38 off 38 balls. Fakhar Zaman showcased aggressive batting, scoring 33 off 16 deliveries, including four sixes.

    The Black Caps bowlers, led by Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson, claimed crucial wickets during Pakistan’s innings. Southee bagged 2 for 19 while Ferguson picked up a couple for 24. Ish Sodhi (2/22) and Matt Henry (2/30) also chipped in with 2 scalps each.

    Iftikhar Ahmed traps hosts in his web of spin

    Chasing the target, New Zealand struggled and were eventually bowled out for 92 runs in 17.2 overs. Iftikhar Ahmed played a crucial role in Pakistan’s bowling attack. The all-rounder delivered a notable bowling performance, securing three wickets for just 24 runs in his allotted four overs. Iftikhar’s ability to pick up key wickets, including important breakthroughs during the crucial middle overs, significantly impacted the course of the match.

    Iftikhar’s disciplined and effective bowling restricted the New Zealand batting lineup, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s 42-run victory. His bowling performance was rightfully acknowledged, earning him the well-deserved title of the Player of the Match.

    Also READ: U19 World Cup 2024 – India, England and Pakistan start their campaigns with comprehensive wins

    Here is how Twitter reacted:

    Also SEE: In pics – Meet Sana Javed: The beautiful wife of Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik



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  • AH-W vs NB-W, Women’s Super Smash 2023-24: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Auckland Hearts vs Northern Brave

    AH-W vs NB-W, Women’s Super Smash 2023-24: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Auckland Hearts vs Northern Brave

    Auckland Hearts will cross swords with Northern Brave in Match 28 of the Women’s Super Smash League 2023-24. The encounter will take place at the Eden Park in Auckland.

    The Auckland side lost their previous game against Central Hinds by 18 runs, while the Brave defeated Canterbury Magicians by a solitary run (DLS method) in the rain-affected game.

    Women’s Super Smash 2023-24, AH-W vs NB-W:

    • Date and time: January 20; 05:00 am IST/ 12:30 pm local/ 11:30 pm GMT (Jan 19)
    • Venue: Eden Park, Auckland

    Eden Park Pitch Report

    Eden Park is famous for its unique drop-in pitch, widely recognized for providing an advantage to batters and posing a formidable challenge for bowlers. Despite the inherent challenges posed by such surfaces, bowlers can find success through skilful and strategic placement of deliveries in specific areas. This underscores the importance of adaptability and precision in navigating through the distinctive conditions presented by this iconic cricket ground.

    AH-W vs NB-W Dream11 Prediction Picks:

    • Wicket-keepers: Holly Topp
    • Batters: Maddy Green, Caitlin Gurrey
    • All-rounders: Chamari Athapaththu, Jess Watkin, Nensi Patel, Josie Penfold, Anna Browning, Marama Downes
    • Bowlers: Fran Jonas, Molly Penfold

    AH-W vs NB-W Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

    • Choice 1: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Jess Watkin (vc)
    • Choice 2: Maddy Green (c), Josie Penfold (vc)

    Also READ: Twitter reactions – Gaby Lewis’ remarkable knock guides Ireland Women to a comfortable victory over Zimbabwe Women in 1st ODI

    AH-W vs NB-W Dream11 Prediction Backups:

    Isabella Gaze, Eimear Richardson, Bree Illing, Prue Catton

    AH-W vs NB-W Dream11 Team for today’s match (January 19, 11:30 pm GMT):

    AH-W vs NB-W Dream11 Team for today’s match (Screengrab: Dream11)

    Also READ: South Africa name 15-member Women’s squad for the white-ball series against Australia

    Squads:

    Auckland Hearts: Bella Armstrong, Brooke Halliday, Cate Pedersen, Kate Irwin, Prue Catton, Saachi Shahri, Skye Bowden, Amberly Parr, Amie Hucker, Anna Browning, Josie Penfold, Elizabeth Buchanan (wk), Isabella Gaze, Maddy Green (c & wk), Bree Illing, Fran Jonas, Makayla Templeton, Molly Penfold, Olivia Anderson, Rishika Jaswal

    Northern Brave: Bernadine Bezuidenhout, Carol Agafili, Eve Wolland, Sam Curtis, Eimear Richardson (c), Jess Watkin, Marama Downes, Tash Wakelin, Yasmeen Kareem, Caitlin Gurrey (wk), Holly Topp (wk), Jesse Prasad, Kayley Knight, Lucy Boucher, Nensi Patel, Shriya Naidu, Chamari Athapaththu.

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  • SL vs ZIM, 3rd T20I: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2024

    SL vs ZIM, 3rd T20I: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2024

    Cricket enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the climax as Sri Lanka will face face Zimbabwe in the much-awaited third and final T20 International (T20I) at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium on Thursday, January 18.

    The ongoing three-match T20I series stands level at 1-1, with each team having emerged victorious in the preceding matches. With the series outcome uncertain, the upcoming game is a decisive encounter for both Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, as the triumphant side will seize the coveted T20I series title.

    Zimbabwe tour of Sri Lanka 2024, 3rd T20I:

    Date and Time: January 18; 07:00 pm IST/ 01:30 pm GMT/ 07:00 pm local
    Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

    R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report:

    The spin-friendly pitch at R. Premadasa Stadium is renowned for providing an edge to bowlers with expertise in that domain. Furthermore, the brisk outfield and comparatively shorter boundaries create favorable conditions for batters. Pursuing a target on this pitch could pose difficulties. Nevertheless, considering the present weather conditions, there is a chance that the captain winning the toss may opt to bowl first.

    SL vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Picks:

    • Wicketkeeper: Kusal Mendis
    • Batters: Craig Ervine, Ryan Burl, Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka
    • All-rounders: Angelo Mathews, Sikandar Raza, Wanindu Hasaranga
    • Bowlers: Richard Ngarava, Dilshan Madushanka, Blessing Muzarabani

    SL vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

    Choice 1: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Sikandar Raza (vc)
    Choice 2: Angelo Mathews (c), Richard Ngarava (vc)

    Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2024, T20I Series – Broadcast, Live Streaming details: When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, UK & other countries

    SL vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Backups:

    Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dhananjaya de Silva, Wellington Masakadza, Milton Shumba

    SL vs ZIM Dream11 Team for today’s match (Jan 18, 01:30 pm GMT):

    (Screengrab: Dream11)

    Squads:

    Sri Lanka: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kusal Janith Perera, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka. Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, Pathum Nissanka – subject to fitness, Maheesh Theekshana. Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Akila Dananjaya

    Zimbabwe: Joylord Gumbie (wk), Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Milton Shumba, Craig Ervine, Sikandar Raza (c), Clive Madande, Luke Jongwe, Wellington Masakadza, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Tony Munyonga, Ryan Burl, Brian Bennett, Carl Mumba, Ainsley Ndlovu

    Also READ: Twitter reactions – Craig Ervine’s blazing knock propel Zimbabwe to a series-levelling victory over Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I

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  • IND vs AFG: Fans come up with mixed reactions after Virat Kohli and Sanju Samson depart for golden ducks in M. Chinnaswamy

    IND vs AFG: Fans come up with mixed reactions after Virat Kohli and Sanju Samson depart for golden ducks in M. Chinnaswamy

    The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru witnessed an unexpected turn of events during the third and final T20I of the three-match series between India and Afghanistan on Wednesday. The match saw India win the toss and opt to bat first, but the decision seemed to backfire when their top order crumbled like a house of cards, leaving fans with mixed emotions.

    The rapid fall of wickets for India

    The fall of wickets came swiftly, leaving the home team reeling at 22-4. The early departure of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shivam Dube, Virat Kohli, and Sanju Samson sent shockwaves through the stadium, and the virtual world erupted with a cacophony of reactions. Jaiswal, who had shown promise in the series, managed only four runs off six balls.

    Virat Kohli’s rare golden duck

    The real jolt, however, came with the departure of Kohli, who faced just one ball before falling victim to Fareed Ahmad Malik. It marked Kohli’s first golden duck in T20Is, a rare sight that left fans in disbelief.

    Sanju Samson’s golden duck

    Samson, who had replaced Jitesh Sharma in the lineup, also faced a golden duck courtesy of Malik’s exceptional bowling. The dismissal was a result of a mistimed pull shot that ended up in the safe hands of the mid-off fielder. The short ball strategy seemed to be paying off for Afghanistan, with India’s top-order crumbling faster than anyone could have anticipated.

    Fareed Ahmad Malik emerges as the nemesis

    Fareed emerged as the nemesis for India, claiming three crucial wickets, including those of Kohli and Samson. The dismissals were a result of intelligent bowling, exploiting the weaknesses of the Indian batters.

    Also READ: Mohammed Shami reveals what should be the criteria for selection in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad

    Memes and melancholy: Fans come up with mixed reactions

    As the news of Kohli and Samson’s golden ducks spread, fans flooded social media with a myriad of reactions. While some expressed genuine sadness at witnessing their cricketing heroes fail, others chose a lighter approach, sparking a meme fest that took the internet by storm.

    As the match continued, the mixed reactions from fans continued to pour in. Memes circulated, humour providing a coping mechanism for some, while others anxiously awaited the team’s recovery. One thing was for certain – cricket, with its unpredictability, never fails to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: England’s Rob Key clears air on participation of Jofra Archer in T20 World Cup 2024



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  • Parthiv Patel picks who between Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel should be India’s first choice for T20 World Cup 2024

    Parthiv Patel picks who between Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel should be India’s first choice for T20 World Cup 2024

    As the T20 World Cup 2024 approaches, the cricketing world is buzzing with anticipation and excitement. For Team India, the challenge lies not just in preparing for the mega event but also in making crucial decisions about the squad composition. One of the key dilemmas that the BCCI faces is choosing between two talented spinners – Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel.

    Recently, former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel weighed in on the debate of who between Jadeja and Axar should get the first nod by BCCI and also shed light on the reason behind his choice.

    Axar Patel’s recent form

    Axar has been making waves in the T20 format with his stellar performances in recent times. His proficient bowling and handy contributions with the bat have caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts and experts alike.

    The three-dimensional Ravindra Jadeja

    At the same time, Jadeja, often hailed as a three-dimensional player due to his proficiency in batting, bowling, and fielding, has also been a vital part of the Indian cricket setup. However, the southpaw has been grappling to rediscover his rhythm, especially in the T20 format.

    Also READ: Shri Ram Mandir ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony – Here are the cricketers invited for the divine and historic event

    Parthiv Patel gives his verdict on the “Jadeja or Axar?” debate

    Parthiv recently shared his perspective on the Axar-Jadeja conundrum in an interaction with Jio Cinema. The Gujarat-born cricketer acknowledged Axar’s prowess, highlighting the variety he brings to the table and ultimately went to pick him over Jadeja as India’s primary spinner in the T20 World Cup 2024.

    Parthiv further emphasized Axar’s stability in the T20 format and stated that his capability to bowl in the powerplays adds another dimension to his game, making him a more effective and versatile cricketer in the T20 setup.

    “In this format, yes. I think Axar brings in more variety. He doesn’t bowl in a one-dimensional way. He bats at any number. If you look at this Indian team, you need a power hitter, and Axar brings that. And in this format, Axar is ahead of Jadeja, as far as I am concerned,” said Parthiv.

    “He is someone who can perform everywhere. In this T20 format, yes, we talk about Ravindra Jadeja, but I think Axar gives you that stability. He bowls in powerplays, and it makes him an even better cricketer,” he added.

    Also READ: Virat Kohli vs Joe Root: A statistical comparison and technique analysis ahead of England tour to India 2024

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  • Twitter reactions: Craig Ervine’s blazing knock propel Zimbabwe to a series-levelling victory over Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I

    Twitter reactions: Craig Ervine’s blazing knock propel Zimbabwe to a series-levelling victory over Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I

    Zimbabwe defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in the second T20I of the ongoing Zimbabwe tour to Sri Lanka at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. With this victory, the guests levelled the three-match series (1-1).

    Charith Asalanka and Angelo Mathews guide Sri Lanka with the willow

    Sri Lanka faced early setbacks in their batting, losing two wickets in the second over and Kusal Mendis in the fourth, leaving them struggling at 31/4 by the end of the powerplay. Charith Asalanka, coming in at number 5, displayed resilience alongside Angelo Mathews. Asalanka reached his 5th T20I half-century in 31 balls, amassing 69 runs with five fours and three sixes.

    Despite Mathews’ initial struggle, the pair showcased a remarkable 118-run partnership for the 5th wicket. Asalanka’s departure at 69 marked a turning point. With 20 runs off 32 balls at that point, Mathews accelerated in the latter half, reaching his half-century in 45 balls.

    Dasun Shanaka joined Mathews, contributing to an aggressive finish in the last two overs. Although Shanaka fell for nine off four balls, Mathews remained unbeaten, accumulating 66 runs in 51 balls, featuring six fours and two sixes. Their efforts propelled the Islanders to a respectable total of 173/6 in their allotted 20 overs.

    Zimbabwe’s stellar run-chase

    In pursuit of 174 runs, Zimbabwe faced an early setback, with Tinashe Kamunhukamwe departing for 12 runs. Craig Ervine and Brian Bennett then steadied the innings, adding over 70 runs for the second wicket. Ervine reached his half-century, but Bennett fell for 25 runs to Theekshana.

    The team lost quick wickets, with Sikandar Raza (8) and Sean Williams (1) departing. Despite Ervine’s impressive 70 runs off 54 balls, he fell to Wanindu Hasaranga at a crucial moment. Ryan Burl‘s brief cameo of 13 runs ended with Chameera’s dismissal.

    Needing 30 runs off the last two overs, Luke Jongwe and Clive Madande added ten runs in the penultimate over, setting up a requirement of 20 runs off the final over. Jongwe’s impactful innings, including 16 runs off the first three balls, reduced the equation to 3 runs off four balls. Madande secured the victory with a final-ball maximum, guiding Zimbabwe to a hard-fought win.

    Also READ: Angelo Mathews slams Sri Lanka Cricket following his long awaited return to T20I format

    Here is how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: Rassie van der Dussen names Quinton de Kock’s successor in white-ball format for South Africa



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