Like Pune, Ranchi is also making it's Test debut, so no team knows the nature of the pitch and are evenly placed after both sides are tied 1-1 at the start of third Test in four Test series.
India after three failures in successive innings spanning Pune and Bengaluru Test, regained their batting form in the 2nd innings. Though it is a positive sign, the team is still not out of the red. That gives Australia a little bit of marginal advantage.
Australia has done decently with the bat, their lower order came to rescue in first Test and batsmen are spending good time at the pitch, if they continue with same form, they can give India tough time.
But given the home conditions, Indian spinners can unsettle Australia. The major plus for Australia is their spinners, if they manage to bowl like they bowl in first three innings, India will find it difficult to defend.
Toss will be crucial as always, team winning the Toss will bat first to be able to bowl last on this wicket when the cracks have opened up. But there is a caveat if the Team collapses like in Bengaluru in first Test it will be difficult for hosts.
India have the upper edge as they have experience but Australia can Test India for any failures.
After DRS controversy both the team will be looking to go ahead and win the series. Injury to Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Marsh means new seamer in Pat Cummins and explosive batsman Glenn Maxwell will replace them.
Valleyz.Blog
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
Saturday, February 25, 2017
India should change the nature of pitches from turning trucks to the one's which assist medium pace
India should change the nature of pitches from turning trucks to the one's which assist medium pace, as it seems from the first Test match at MCA stadium in Pune the tourists have done their homework exceedingly well than the hosts themselves.
Hosts were beaten at their own game. Alarm bells should ring through Indian think tank overlooking the pitch and grounds, that prepares pitches, because Australian spinners particularly Steve O'Keefe proved that he is no fluke, and is enjoying the conditions better than Indian bowlers courtesy poor batting techniques of Indian batsmen on a turning pitch.
India should change the nature of the pitch to assist pace bowlers, rest Jayant Yadav and bring in Shami together with Ishant and Umesh. India think tank should think along these lines.
We all know Australia are a competitive side, they are thorough professionals, even if they don't have legends of the past in their team, the moment they sense an opportunity they execute their plan very very well.
Former player Warne argued before the start of the Test that Australia will give a good fight in this series, he proved more than right.
India need to revisit it's strategy to change the nature of pitches for remainder of the series, enough of experiment, failing twice is sufficient evidence, Australia will beat India if same pitches are prepared
eValleyz.Blog
Hosts were beaten at their own game. Alarm bells should ring through Indian think tank overlooking the pitch and grounds, that prepares pitches, because Australian spinners particularly Steve O'Keefe proved that he is no fluke, and is enjoying the conditions better than Indian bowlers courtesy poor batting techniques of Indian batsmen on a turning pitch.
India should change the nature of the pitch to assist pace bowlers, rest Jayant Yadav and bring in Shami together with Ishant and Umesh. India think tank should think along these lines.
We all know Australia are a competitive side, they are thorough professionals, even if they don't have legends of the past in their team, the moment they sense an opportunity they execute their plan very very well.
Former player Warne argued before the start of the Test that Australia will give a good fight in this series, he proved more than right.
India need to revisit it's strategy to change the nature of pitches for remainder of the series, enough of experiment, failing twice is sufficient evidence, Australia will beat India if same pitches are prepared
eValleyz.Blog
Tuesday, February 21, 2017
India start as clear favourites for the first Test against Australia at Pune
India starts as favourites against Australia for the first Test at Pune's MCA stadium.
Australia are touring India after winning their home series against Pakistan, but given the conditions and temperament of Australia batsman on low bounce, turning tracks, players will find it difficult to match the hosts.
England played well in all of the Tests, in fact after winning the Toss the tourists put on a handsome total in successive matches, yet their batsmen could not launch from the solid platform they found themselves on only due to sheer tenacity of Indian spin department.
Both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja are a potent bowling duo, and in Indian conditions they can beat any batsmen in the world.
Australia's last tour to Sri Lanka was a big loss, given the way their batsmen catapulted against SL spin attack, Australia players will have that loss back in their mind.
Though Aussie batsmen should forget it, but having lost the series so badly, it will be there in sub conscious.
Steve Smith is the vital cog Aussie team would be relying up on in addition to explosive batsmen in David Warner, but given the form Indian spinners are in, I don't think they will survive for long.
Captain Virat Kohli is an aggressive captain and has turned around for India for such a record breaking winning streak in India's cricketing history. Australia has struggled against India on previous tours, so that is an added advantage and it makes things easy for captain to plan the course of proceedings.
Not only Indian spinners are doing good, Indian pace attack is rejuvenated and will Test Aussie batsmen initially with swing and later on when the ball starts reversing.
Australia will depend heavily on their pace attack comprising Starc and Hazlewood, Lyon will be the key spinner for Australia. In these conditions India clearly have the upper hand, if visitors don't adapt to the situation fast, I think India will win comfortably.
eValleyz.Blog
Australia are touring India after winning their home series against Pakistan, but given the conditions and temperament of Australia batsman on low bounce, turning tracks, players will find it difficult to match the hosts.
England played well in all of the Tests, in fact after winning the Toss the tourists put on a handsome total in successive matches, yet their batsmen could not launch from the solid platform they found themselves on only due to sheer tenacity of Indian spin department.
Both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja are a potent bowling duo, and in Indian conditions they can beat any batsmen in the world.
Australia's last tour to Sri Lanka was a big loss, given the way their batsmen catapulted against SL spin attack, Australia players will have that loss back in their mind.
Though Aussie batsmen should forget it, but having lost the series so badly, it will be there in sub conscious.
Steve Smith is the vital cog Aussie team would be relying up on in addition to explosive batsmen in David Warner, but given the form Indian spinners are in, I don't think they will survive for long.
Captain Virat Kohli is an aggressive captain and has turned around for India for such a record breaking winning streak in India's cricketing history. Australia has struggled against India on previous tours, so that is an added advantage and it makes things easy for captain to plan the course of proceedings.
Not only Indian spinners are doing good, Indian pace attack is rejuvenated and will Test Aussie batsmen initially with swing and later on when the ball starts reversing.
Australia will depend heavily on their pace attack comprising Starc and Hazlewood, Lyon will be the key spinner for Australia. In these conditions India clearly have the upper hand, if visitors don't adapt to the situation fast, I think India will win comfortably.
eValleyz.Blog
Thursday, December 8, 2016
Pat Cummins could tweak his bowling action to suit Test grind
Australia has seen new pace bowlers in it's lineup since past two years, of them Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins are a very good prospect. John Hastings is also one of a bright prospect for Australia's attack.
Josh Hazlewood is already contributing to Aussie side. Read the latest about Cummins by legends of Australian Cricket, I think it is a very valuable advice for young paceman.
Pat Cummins according to me has lot of potential. Every bowler has his own style of run up and action.
I think I would suggest Cummins to take a look at Mitchell Johnson run up and delivery.
Though there is a stark contrast in the delivery of both the bowlers, but I feel Cummins could benefit from the action of former Australian champion paceman who English in the Ashes in the recet past just before retiring from the game.
Has gone through reports where Cummins fitness is under scanner following medical intervention due to sports injuries for back. I would suggest Cummins to take it easy rather than trying hard.
One thing I think could help Cummins is slightly tweaking his bowling action. And I would like the paceman have a close look at Mitch's action and try a little bit of side on action.
I think Mitch's action is a very good one for a paceman, very efficient, resilient and packs power to knock off opposition.
There is nothing like Test Cricket, I think Cummins should have a very easy run up without stressing the back, delivery of the ball should be worked on, considering his back problems.
With further help and advice of legends and health experts, I think he should be Test Cricket in near future.
All the best to him career and hope he gives best for many years to come for Australia,
Valleyz.Blog
Josh Hazlewood is already contributing to Aussie side. Read the latest about Cummins by legends of Australian Cricket, I think it is a very valuable advice for young paceman.
Pat Cummins according to me has lot of potential. Every bowler has his own style of run up and action.
I think I would suggest Cummins to take a look at Mitchell Johnson run up and delivery.
Though there is a stark contrast in the delivery of both the bowlers, but I feel Cummins could benefit from the action of former Australian champion paceman who English in the Ashes in the recet past just before retiring from the game.
Has gone through reports where Cummins fitness is under scanner following medical intervention due to sports injuries for back. I would suggest Cummins to take it easy rather than trying hard.
One thing I think could help Cummins is slightly tweaking his bowling action. And I would like the paceman have a close look at Mitch's action and try a little bit of side on action.
I think Mitch's action is a very good one for a paceman, very efficient, resilient and packs power to knock off opposition.
There is nothing like Test Cricket, I think Cummins should have a very easy run up without stressing the back, delivery of the ball should be worked on, considering his back problems.
With further help and advice of legends and health experts, I think he should be Test Cricket in near future.
All the best to him career and hope he gives best for many years to come for Australia,
Valleyz.Blog
Thursday, January 28, 2016
If India could repeat the performance at Adelaide, then no doubt it can surely win the series.
If India could repeat the performance at Adelaide, then no doubt it can surely win.
The factors that led to the Indian win were good solid knocks from top order Indian batsmen, particularly Virat Kohli, and good bowling by the team.
Though it will be too tough to say that India performed exceptionally well, there were many new faces in the Australia line up like Richardson, Boyce, Lynn and Head. India too tried new players like Bumrah and Hardik.
So it was like a league game so to speak both the teams trying to unravel the new talent for T20 World Cup in March.
So will there be further new changes in the team line up for the next two T20?
It depends on the overall team strategy of the respective teams. Most probably I think the team managements would go with giving more exposure to young talent.
The factors that led to the Indian win were good solid knocks from top order Indian batsmen, particularly Virat Kohli, and good bowling by the team.
Though it will be too tough to say that India performed exceptionally well, there were many new faces in the Australia line up like Richardson, Boyce, Lynn and Head. India too tried new players like Bumrah and Hardik.
So it was like a league game so to speak both the teams trying to unravel the new talent for T20 World Cup in March.
So will there be further new changes in the team line up for the next two T20?
It depends on the overall team strategy of the respective teams. Most probably I think the team managements would go with giving more exposure to young talent.
Monday, January 25, 2016
India plays Australia in the first T20 at Adelaide tomorrow.
India plays Australia in the first T20 international ahead of the upcoming World Cup T20 in march in India.
Team managements of both the teams are looking to give new comers the chance to see how they fare, based on the performances, they could be selected for the World Cup in India.
Adelaide pitch seems to be evenly balanced whether you bat first or second. So the team winning the Toss can opt according to their strengths like batting or bowling first and take that early advantage from the opposition.
Valleyz.Blog
Team managements of both the teams are looking to give new comers the chance to see how they fare, based on the performances, they could be selected for the World Cup in India.
Adelaide pitch seems to be evenly balanced whether you bat first or second. So the team winning the Toss can opt according to their strengths like batting or bowling first and take that early advantage from the opposition.
Valleyz.Blog
Friday, January 22, 2016
India wins the final ODI at SCG, Manish Pandey leads the team for the first victory.
Another huge total looks a big possibility the way Australia is batting presently on the back of Dave Warner's 5th ODI century at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
India won the toss and chose to field, Ajinkya Rahane was replaced by Manish Pandey, Jasprit Bumrah makes his debut for India.
Australia lost some quick wickets early in the innings but Warner's contribution kept the run rate ticking for Australia. Australia are 225/4 after 37 Overs Mitchell Marsh is not out on 50.
Dave Warner is out for 122 Australia 235/5.
Debutant Jaspreet Bumrah has so far bowled a tight spell, giving away only 28 runs in 8 Overs so far.
Mathew Wade is the new man in for Australia. James Faulkner follows after.
Runs continue for Australia 302/5 Mitchel Marsh continues with free scoring with the bat. He is 88 of 70.
Australia set India 331 to chase in the final ODI of the VB series on the back of Warner and M Marsh centuries.
India finally won the match after some solid overall performance from the India batsmen. After Rohit Sharma's 99, it was left for the lower middle order to perform.
There was this opportunity for Manish Pandey and he grabbed with both the hands, scoring at a brisk pace, notching a ton, and giving India a much needed victory on the tough tour.
India reached the target in 49.4 Overs with Manish Pandey scoring 104 of just 81 balls that included 8 fours and a six.
Valleyz.Blog
India won the toss and chose to field, Ajinkya Rahane was replaced by Manish Pandey, Jasprit Bumrah makes his debut for India.
Australia lost some quick wickets early in the innings but Warner's contribution kept the run rate ticking for Australia. Australia are 225/4 after 37 Overs Mitchell Marsh is not out on 50.
Dave Warner is out for 122 Australia 235/5.
Debutant Jaspreet Bumrah has so far bowled a tight spell, giving away only 28 runs in 8 Overs so far.
Mathew Wade is the new man in for Australia. James Faulkner follows after.
Runs continue for Australia 302/5 Mitchel Marsh continues with free scoring with the bat. He is 88 of 70.
Australia set India 331 to chase in the final ODI of the VB series on the back of Warner and M Marsh centuries.
India finally won the match after some solid overall performance from the India batsmen. After Rohit Sharma's 99, it was left for the lower middle order to perform.
There was this opportunity for Manish Pandey and he grabbed with both the hands, scoring at a brisk pace, notching a ton, and giving India a much needed victory on the tough tour.
India reached the target in 49.4 Overs with Manish Pandey scoring 104 of just 81 balls that included 8 fours and a six.
Valleyz.Blog
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
IndvsAus2016: India did better, but Australia played exceptionally well to win the VB series 2016.
India has lost the series to an in form Australian side despite good showing with the bat.
As always Indian bowling remains a concern on every Australian tour. But this time around the team should have prepared itself for any eventuality like the injury to paceman Shami.
But I don't think any drastic changes are required for the team.
Also Australia's bowling is also good I should say, keeping in check any letting off of Indian batsmen to score freely.
In a way the inexperienced Aussie attack of Hastings, Paris, Richardson, Boland, Hazlewood and Faulkner managed to restrict Indian scores at around 300 run mark, thus making it easier for Australia batsmen to chase down the total with comfort.
Had India added those crucial 20-25 odd runs more, then surely Australia batsmen would have come under serious pressure.
Overall I think India played well, and lost out only in some quarters, like Skipper Dhoni lost out on one or two occasions to capitalise the solid platform India top order provided.
I think India should continue to play as it was, but I think it will be interesting to see the motivation of the players after losing the series after putting up such good huge totals on the board for the team.
Rohit Sharma did exceptionally well, scoring back to back centuries. Virat Kohli played gem of a knock when India needed it the most at MCG. Rahane was always there with the bat keeping the rate up for the team.
It is only on a day all the bowling, batting and fielding clicks for India, that India could win against a thoroughly professional side like Australia.
Talent wise India I think India is far superior than Australia, but to win the game you should need to perform as a team.
Valleyz.Blog
As always Indian bowling remains a concern on every Australian tour. But this time around the team should have prepared itself for any eventuality like the injury to paceman Shami.
But I don't think any drastic changes are required for the team.
Also Australia's bowling is also good I should say, keeping in check any letting off of Indian batsmen to score freely.
In a way the inexperienced Aussie attack of Hastings, Paris, Richardson, Boland, Hazlewood and Faulkner managed to restrict Indian scores at around 300 run mark, thus making it easier for Australia batsmen to chase down the total with comfort.
Had India added those crucial 20-25 odd runs more, then surely Australia batsmen would have come under serious pressure.
Overall I think India played well, and lost out only in some quarters, like Skipper Dhoni lost out on one or two occasions to capitalise the solid platform India top order provided.
I think India should continue to play as it was, but I think it will be interesting to see the motivation of the players after losing the series after putting up such good huge totals on the board for the team.
Rohit Sharma did exceptionally well, scoring back to back centuries. Virat Kohli played gem of a knock when India needed it the most at MCG. Rahane was always there with the bat keeping the rate up for the team.
It is only on a day all the bowling, batting and fielding clicks for India, that India could win against a thoroughly professional side like Australia.
Talent wise India I think India is far superior than Australia, but to win the game you should need to perform as a team.
Valleyz.Blog
Saturday, January 16, 2016
India bats again at Melbourne in a crucial match in the series against Australia
India batting first after Australia elected to field after winning the Toss. Rohit Sharma was out early for 6.
Thereafter Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli built the innings together with a 119 run partnership for the second wicket, and then Shikhar Dhawan was out for a patient knock of 68.
As the last reports came in Kohli 71 Rahane 19 India 170/2 was the scoreline.
It is bowling which is of a concern for the team as was seen on two batsman friendly wickets at Perth and Gabba.
Melbourne is altogether a different wicket, you need to toil hard to get runs it is not that easy for the visitors.
But when the hosts will come out to bat it will be an altogether different story. They will surely come bang bang as they have nothing to loose and they are already two nil up in the series. Home conditions is an added advantage.
Rishi Dhawan has been included in the place of R Ashwin in the playing eleven.
320 should be scored for defending against a strong inform batting lineup. I would be happy if the team wins with even a 280 too, but that isn't the case as has been observed in the earlier two matches. Australia easily managed to chased down two 300 plus totals.
Rishi Dhawan is too a late a change, he should have been in the team from the first match, but one or two players inclusion or exclusion doesn't matter, it is a team game. The team should collectively have to perform out of the ordinary to win. And Australia looks in ominous form as usual at home.
Valleyz.Blog
Thereafter Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli built the innings together with a 119 run partnership for the second wicket, and then Shikhar Dhawan was out for a patient knock of 68.
As the last reports came in Kohli 71 Rahane 19 India 170/2 was the scoreline.
It is bowling which is of a concern for the team as was seen on two batsman friendly wickets at Perth and Gabba.
Melbourne is altogether a different wicket, you need to toil hard to get runs it is not that easy for the visitors.
But when the hosts will come out to bat it will be an altogether different story. They will surely come bang bang as they have nothing to loose and they are already two nil up in the series. Home conditions is an added advantage.
Rishi Dhawan has been included in the place of R Ashwin in the playing eleven.
320 should be scored for defending against a strong inform batting lineup. I would be happy if the team wins with even a 280 too, but that isn't the case as has been observed in the earlier two matches. Australia easily managed to chased down two 300 plus totals.
Rishi Dhawan is too a late a change, he should have been in the team from the first match, but one or two players inclusion or exclusion doesn't matter, it is a team game. The team should collectively have to perform out of the ordinary to win. And Australia looks in ominous form as usual at home.
Valleyz.Blog
Friday, January 15, 2016
Australia batting strongly in the second ODI at Brisbane against India
India second time in the series has posted another big total 0f 308/8 for Australia to chase in the second ODI at Brisbane.
Rohit Sharma continues his form with another stroke filled century in the second ODI after the huge Perth knock.
But Australia in reply is going strong at the moment at 143/0 24.3 Overs.
Finch and Marsh are presently batting at 69 and 61 respectively.
India bowling has again failed to put any pressure on Australia batsman. Looks like Australia is on it's way to win the second ODI also in a more convincing fashion.
Update:
148/1 Finch is bowled out by Jadeja for 71. Skipper Steve Smith is the new batsman for Australia.
eValleyz.Blog
Rohit Sharma continues his form with another stroke filled century in the second ODI after the huge Perth knock.
But Australia in reply is going strong at the moment at 143/0 24.3 Overs.
Finch and Marsh are presently batting at 69 and 61 respectively.
India bowling has again failed to put any pressure on Australia batsman. Looks like Australia is on it's way to win the second ODI also in a more convincing fashion.
Update:
148/1 Finch is bowled out by Jadeja for 71. Skipper Steve Smith is the new batsman for Australia.
eValleyz.Blog
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
Ravindra Jadeja could be send up the order to do the Pinch hitting
Spinners can't do much on surfaces like Perth, which are very flat and the ball doesn't grip on the surface of the pitch.
Bowlers from all the teams have gone for runs in the recent past at Perth.
In such circumstances one is forced to think, was India short of another 50 runs.
Indian batters did well but more could have been scored from the pitch if someone do the pinch hitting up the order to boost the Overall team total.
Brisbane is too similar where bowlers if hit the deck hard can take wickets. Though it may not be such a huge scoring game as Perth.
Valleyz.Blog
Bowlers from all the teams have gone for runs in the recent past at Perth.
In such circumstances one is forced to think, was India short of another 50 runs.
Indian batters did well but more could have been scored from the pitch if someone do the pinch hitting up the order to boost the Overall team total.
Brisbane is too similar where bowlers if hit the deck hard can take wickets. Though it may not be such a huge scoring game as Perth.
Valleyz.Blog
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
Smith and Bailey partnership wins the game for Australia against India at Perth.
On the back of 207 run partnership for the 2nd wicket between Rohit Sharma 171 and Virat Kohli 91 India scored a 300 plus total against Australia at Perth in the first ODI.
Rohit Sharma was at his best and played strokes all around the ground and that gave India a good total of 309 to defend.
Australia in reply lost it's both the openers quickly to Barinder Sran in his debut match. After that Skipper Steve Smith and George Bailey built the Aussie innings with nice batting display.
Thus taking away the match from India. 242 run partnership was broken when Bailey got out at 112. Australia team total was 263.
Skipper Smith was in tremendous touch once again as he notched one more hundred against India. Maxwell followed Bailey but was out for only 6 runs.
B Kumar was economical giving away 42 runs in 9 Overs. Sran 3 and Ashwin took 2 wickets each.
Perth has seen some big centuries too in the recent Test match played between Australia and NewZealand. So it was expected that this could be high scoring game.
How many runs were India short that is for team management to look into the matter. Altogether it was a good match for India, as it is a tour opener and India playing a new player in the team after Md Shami's withdrawal from the tour due to injury.
Though spinners went for runs, but pitch may have played for the turners.
Australia wins easily 310/5 in 50th Over. Skipper Smith 149 made a crucial contribution in the win.
eValleyz.Blog
Rohit Sharma was at his best and played strokes all around the ground and that gave India a good total of 309 to defend.
Australia in reply lost it's both the openers quickly to Barinder Sran in his debut match. After that Skipper Steve Smith and George Bailey built the Aussie innings with nice batting display.
Thus taking away the match from India. 242 run partnership was broken when Bailey got out at 112. Australia team total was 263.
Skipper Smith was in tremendous touch once again as he notched one more hundred against India. Maxwell followed Bailey but was out for only 6 runs.
B Kumar was economical giving away 42 runs in 9 Overs. Sran 3 and Ashwin took 2 wickets each.
Perth has seen some big centuries too in the recent Test match played between Australia and NewZealand. So it was expected that this could be high scoring game.
How many runs were India short that is for team management to look into the matter. Altogether it was a good match for India, as it is a tour opener and India playing a new player in the team after Md Shami's withdrawal from the tour due to injury.
Though spinners went for runs, but pitch may have played for the turners.
Australia wins easily 310/5 in 50th Over. Skipper Smith 149 made a crucial contribution in the win.
eValleyz.Blog
Friday, January 8, 2016
Perth game should include new talent regardless of the warm up results
India team has elected to bat first at the first tour game against Western Australia at Perth.
Looking at the team composition the new selections Barinder Sran, Manish Pandey, Rishi Dhawan and Gurkeerat Mann all are in the playing eleven. That is the right kind of exposure the new talent needs.
Though the first ODI is four days away I would still like to declare my selection for the first ODI.
I would definitely like to see all the new selections in the first match at Perth, so that there is no pressure on them to play to their natural abilities.
Though some of them have good experience with the IPL like Manish Pandey and Rishi Dhawan. Playing away from home and in Australian conditions like WACA is going to be a test.
I would like to see them play early games and hope for the best.
Rishi Dhawan in place of Shikhar Dhawan, Manish Pandey in place of Rohit Sharma, Gurkeerat Singh in place of Ajinkya Rahane and Barinder Sran should be there in the first match itself I think.
Murali Vijay had a good stint Down Under last summer, would've liked to see him in the ODI format too.
One or two or all is my selection for first game at Perth. My opinion is for new players in the starting games.
Team management is perfectly placed to make the final call. Final call is theirs. All the best team India.
Valleyz.Blog
Looking at the team composition the new selections Barinder Sran, Manish Pandey, Rishi Dhawan and Gurkeerat Mann all are in the playing eleven. That is the right kind of exposure the new talent needs.
Though the first ODI is four days away I would still like to declare my selection for the first ODI.
I would definitely like to see all the new selections in the first match at Perth, so that there is no pressure on them to play to their natural abilities.
Though some of them have good experience with the IPL like Manish Pandey and Rishi Dhawan. Playing away from home and in Australian conditions like WACA is going to be a test.
I would like to see them play early games and hope for the best.
Rishi Dhawan in place of Shikhar Dhawan, Manish Pandey in place of Rohit Sharma, Gurkeerat Singh in place of Ajinkya Rahane and Barinder Sran should be there in the first match itself I think.
Murali Vijay had a good stint Down Under last summer, would've liked to see him in the ODI format too.
One or two or all is my selection for first game at Perth. My opinion is for new players in the starting games.
Team management is perfectly placed to make the final call. Final call is theirs. All the best team India.
Valleyz.Blog
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
After England's stellar show South Africa replies with a gritty performance
South Africa not only managed to stem the rot, but it matched the England's first innings huge total of 629/6 declared with 627/7 declared.
South Africa after the England onslaught in the first innings on the back of Stokes-Bairstow record 399 run partnership did manage to hold on to the match by a gritty performance by Skipper Amla notching a double hundred and Bavuma's maiden Test hundred.
De Villiers 88 and Du Plessis 86, too had a good outing in the match another positive from the match for the hosts.
The knocks by Amla and Bavuma for South Africa has infused new energy in the team. This will surely help South Africa in the remainder of the series with two more Tests to go.
There was every possibility of an England win in the match. Overcoming the deficit on the back of some lucky dropped chances by England, South Africa clawed it's way back in to the series and does have a hope to match the visitors strong showing in the series.
England 87/5 at Lunch on Day 5, could have secured a win and go 2-0 up. It may rue that possibility, but credit must also be given to South Africa for the temperament it showed in the match.
South Africa down by 1-0 in the series does have a chance to stop England from taking away the series after dominating performances in both the Tests.
Valleyz.Blog
South Africa after the England onslaught in the first innings on the back of Stokes-Bairstow record 399 run partnership did manage to hold on to the match by a gritty performance by Skipper Amla notching a double hundred and Bavuma's maiden Test hundred.
De Villiers 88 and Du Plessis 86, too had a good outing in the match another positive from the match for the hosts.
The knocks by Amla and Bavuma for South Africa has infused new energy in the team. This will surely help South Africa in the remainder of the series with two more Tests to go.
There was every possibility of an England win in the match. Overcoming the deficit on the back of some lucky dropped chances by England, South Africa clawed it's way back in to the series and does have a hope to match the visitors strong showing in the series.
England 87/5 at Lunch on Day 5, could have secured a win and go 2-0 up. It may rue that possibility, but credit must also be given to South Africa for the temperament it showed in the match.
South Africa down by 1-0 in the series does have a chance to stop England from taking away the series after dominating performances in both the Tests.
Valleyz.Blog
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
South Africa should pull it's overall game together after the Durban Test
England won the Durban Test in a convincing manner, it outplayed South Africa in all the departments.
I still think that there is not much difference between the two sides, but South Africa's overall game is under scrutiny.
There is not much South Africa can do except stick to the basics and complement each other on and off the field, they are still the no.1 team in the world.
Steyn's injury should be a cause of concern but not to an extent that overall team's performance is affected.
One or two players performance or failure never should bother a team.
Before the start of the first Test, James Anderson's non availability due to calf strain was big news as everyone knows his contribution to the England side.
Steven Finn, Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Ben Stokes combined well to keep the pressure on South Africa in crucial stages. Moeen Ali already among the wickets repeated the performance at Durban.
It was a mixed bag of luck for South Africa as van Zyl was out 2nd ball of the innings, thus exposing an out of form Amla very soon in the first innings.
Amla could only defend some but not all from Broad's usual probing line with a hard new ball. The way South Africa lost seven wickets in the first innings on the third day too proved an advantage for the England team, securing a vital 89 runs.
England team looks solid both with the bat and the ball and everything seems to be going there way at the moment, which is a very positive sign for the remainder of the series.
South Africa on the other hand should pull it's overall game together and tighten up the loose ends.
Valleyz.Blog
I still think that there is not much difference between the two sides, but South Africa's overall game is under scrutiny.
There is not much South Africa can do except stick to the basics and complement each other on and off the field, they are still the no.1 team in the world.
Steyn's injury should be a cause of concern but not to an extent that overall team's performance is affected.
One or two players performance or failure never should bother a team.
Before the start of the first Test, James Anderson's non availability due to calf strain was big news as everyone knows his contribution to the England side.
Steven Finn, Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Ben Stokes combined well to keep the pressure on South Africa in crucial stages. Moeen Ali already among the wickets repeated the performance at Durban.
It was a mixed bag of luck for South Africa as van Zyl was out 2nd ball of the innings, thus exposing an out of form Amla very soon in the first innings.
Amla could only defend some but not all from Broad's usual probing line with a hard new ball. The way South Africa lost seven wickets in the first innings on the third day too proved an advantage for the England team, securing a vital 89 runs.
England team looks solid both with the bat and the ball and everything seems to be going there way at the moment, which is a very positive sign for the remainder of the series.
South Africa on the other hand should pull it's overall game together and tighten up the loose ends.
Valleyz.Blog
Monday, December 28, 2015
Despite Dean Elgar's ton England on top on the third day at stumps at the Durban Test 2015
South Africa were bowled out for 214 handing over a handsome lead of 89 runs to England in the first innings at Kingsmead, Durban. Dean Elgar notched a well battled hundred and carried the bat through the innings remaining not out on 118.
South Africa lost it's last six wickets for just 70 odd runs,
Questions has been raised about the way South Africa batted. Are they too much dependent on some of the players? Are they not playing spin that well?
I think England bowled really well, even in the absence of James Anderson due to a calf strain.
Dale Steyn went for a scan that made South Africa a bowler short and there were a number of dropped chances behind the stumps while Morkel bowled.
Though England is on top of the game, but South Africa didn't play that bad as it looked. England lead by 261 runs with seven wickets in hand.
I think 400 would be a total England would be looking to set for South Africa to chase in the second innings.
If South Africa can bat for long hours it can still salvage a draw, but England has got more balanced bowling unit, only a determined effort can save South Africa now.
Valleyz.Blog
South Africa lost it's last six wickets for just 70 odd runs,
SA 137/4, ENG 303 Elgar 67* Bavuma10* Stuart Broad took 3/16 and Moeen Ali 1 wicket at stumps on Day 2 at Durban. #Cricket #SAvENG #SAvsENG
— CricketCorner (@PlayingCricket_) December 27, 2015
Moeen Ali added three wickets to his overnight tally of 1 wicket and Steven Finn finished off the tail.Questions has been raised about the way South Africa batted. Are they too much dependent on some of the players? Are they not playing spin that well?
I think England bowled really well, even in the absence of James Anderson due to a calf strain.
James Anderson doubtful for Boxing Day Test against South Africa after calf scan #Cricket
— CricketCorner (@PlayingCricket_) December 23, 2015
Stuart Broad making early inroads in the South African top order with consistently probing line. Made batting difficult for South Africa batsmen taking the wickets of Van Zyl, Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers.Dale Steyn went for a scan that made South Africa a bowler short and there were a number of dropped chances behind the stumps while Morkel bowled.
Though England is on top of the game, but South Africa didn't play that bad as it looked. England lead by 261 runs with seven wickets in hand.
I think 400 would be a total England would be looking to set for South Africa to chase in the second innings.
If South Africa can bat for long hours it can still salvage a draw, but England has got more balanced bowling unit, only a determined effort can save South Africa now.
Valleyz.Blog
Sunday, December 27, 2015
It is totally a different ball game Down Under
India need to play to it's strength in the upcoming series against Australia in January 2016 where it is scheduled to play three T20's and Five ODI series before the WorldT20 Finals in India in March.
The last match it played down under was the semi-final of the World Cup 2016, which India lost to Australia by a huge margin.
233 was India's reply to Australia's 328/7. Though India managed to pick early wickets in that match but could not stop Steve Smith from scoring a hundred that helped Australia score a huge total.
If we take a look at Australia's batsmen playing in Australia's grounds you can observe their fluency of strokes.
It comes from sheer reading of the pitch conditions in Australia, which are quite similar in places like Hobart and Melbourne. If you hit the deck hard at these grounds you are in position of extracting that little element of surprise which can get you a wicket.
Bowling in Indian conditions and on Indian wickets is a different proposition, here our conditions early in the morning are different than in the afternoon and also the pitch plays differently during the day. Spin friendly tracks don't offer much bargain.
But in Australia the bowlers can extract something out of the placid tracks if you hit the deck hard and maintain line and length.Melbourne is such an example, the ball after hitting the deck plays differently than in the subcontinental conditions.
Indian batsmen expect the ball come to them fast but the bounce is different to that of the Indian pitches, that offsets the technique of many an Indian batsmen except a few like Kohli and Vijay who adjusted well against the likes of Mitchell Johnson.
Many Indian batsmen performed very well in Australian conditions worth mentioning Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman.
Laxman had that ability to play it on the rise, negate the bounce of the ball with wristy strokes, that very few can play. When wrists come into play it becomes a headache for the bowler to set the field for the batsmen.
Indian batting and bowling should be according to the conditions in Australia when playing in Australia.
India need the bowlers who can hit the deck hard while maintaining the line and length. Ashok Dinda comes to my mind, his bowling actions is quiet distinct and he could derive bargain out of pacy wickets like the ones in Australian conditions, I think.
Umesh Yadav and Aaron they both are qutie similar, bowling fast, they are not going to bother the Australian batsmen much who would like the ball to come on to the bat. Especiall with players like Smith who would want to smack the ball out of the ground, the bowlers could do little to stop the stroke play from such batsmen.
Instead the team needs bowlers who can bend the back hit the deck hard like James Pattinson is doing in against the West Indies. Mitchell Johnson was clever enough to use the conditions to his liking, he even used to hit the deck hard, even though he bowled to a sling shot action.
In Australia if the bowlers are just going to run in and bowl fast, it is probably the batters gonna hit each delivery as powerfully as possible for maximum runs.
eValleyz.Blog
The last match it played down under was the semi-final of the World Cup 2016, which India lost to Australia by a huge margin.
233 was India's reply to Australia's 328/7. Though India managed to pick early wickets in that match but could not stop Steve Smith from scoring a hundred that helped Australia score a huge total.
If we take a look at Australia's batsmen playing in Australia's grounds you can observe their fluency of strokes.
It comes from sheer reading of the pitch conditions in Australia, which are quite similar in places like Hobart and Melbourne. If you hit the deck hard at these grounds you are in position of extracting that little element of surprise which can get you a wicket.
Bowling in Indian conditions and on Indian wickets is a different proposition, here our conditions early in the morning are different than in the afternoon and also the pitch plays differently during the day. Spin friendly tracks don't offer much bargain.
But in Australia the bowlers can extract something out of the placid tracks if you hit the deck hard and maintain line and length.Melbourne is such an example, the ball after hitting the deck plays differently than in the subcontinental conditions.
Indian batsmen expect the ball come to them fast but the bounce is different to that of the Indian pitches, that offsets the technique of many an Indian batsmen except a few like Kohli and Vijay who adjusted well against the likes of Mitchell Johnson.
Many Indian batsmen performed very well in Australian conditions worth mentioning Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman.
Laxman had that ability to play it on the rise, negate the bounce of the ball with wristy strokes, that very few can play. When wrists come into play it becomes a headache for the bowler to set the field for the batsmen.
Indian batting and bowling should be according to the conditions in Australia when playing in Australia.
India need the bowlers who can hit the deck hard while maintaining the line and length. Ashok Dinda comes to my mind, his bowling actions is quiet distinct and he could derive bargain out of pacy wickets like the ones in Australian conditions, I think.
Umesh Yadav and Aaron they both are qutie similar, bowling fast, they are not going to bother the Australian batsmen much who would like the ball to come on to the bat. Especiall with players like Smith who would want to smack the ball out of the ground, the bowlers could do little to stop the stroke play from such batsmen.
Instead the team needs bowlers who can bend the back hit the deck hard like James Pattinson is doing in against the West Indies. Mitchell Johnson was clever enough to use the conditions to his liking, he even used to hit the deck hard, even though he bowled to a sling shot action.
In Australia if the bowlers are just going to run in and bowl fast, it is probably the batters gonna hit each delivery as powerfully as possible for maximum runs.
eValleyz.Blog
Saturday, December 26, 2015
West Indies bowling strategy similar to that of Hobart Test.
Australia dominates the Boxing Day Test and at stumps - Day 1: Australia were 345/3 (90.0 ov, Usman Khawaja 144, Joe Burns 128, Jerome Taylor 2/83) .
It was good attendance at the MCG on the boxing day with 53 thousand people watching the match.
Earlier West Indies having won the Toss elected to field first sending in inform Australia to bat. The batsmen made most out of a placid track after David Warner was out early for 23
At the close of play captain Steve Smith* 32(49) and Adam Voges 10(24) were at the crease.
Jason Holder gave only 33 runs from 17 overs with economy of just under 2 runs per over. Jerome Taylor two wickets for West Indies.
It was hard toil for West Indies pace bowlers, after having won the Toss elected to field first.
Many people criticized that decision, but I think West Indies didn't wanted to expose it's inexperienced batting line up to a new ball on the first day.
If there was a batting collapse then it would be difficult for West Indies to come back in the match and could demoralize the team batting prospects.
It happened at Hobart with only exception of Darren Bravo who made a hundred in that Test to bring some confidence back in to the team.
Australia is set for a big total at the MCG, what West Indies could do is to use as many spinners to halt the Australian scoring rate.
The team need to take a fresh look at it's bowling strategy, Hobart and MCG look very similar, where the West Indies team bowlers in particular couldn't extract much bargain.
Valleyz.Blog
It was good attendance at the MCG on the boxing day with 53 thousand people watching the match.
Earlier West Indies having won the Toss elected to field first sending in inform Australia to bat. The batsmen made most out of a placid track after David Warner was out early for 23
At the close of play captain Steve Smith* 32(49) and Adam Voges 10(24) were at the crease.
Jason Holder gave only 33 runs from 17 overs with economy of just under 2 runs per over. Jerome Taylor two wickets for West Indies.
It was hard toil for West Indies pace bowlers, after having won the Toss elected to field first.
Many people criticized that decision, but I think West Indies didn't wanted to expose it's inexperienced batting line up to a new ball on the first day.
If there was a batting collapse then it would be difficult for West Indies to come back in the match and could demoralize the team batting prospects.
It happened at Hobart with only exception of Darren Bravo who made a hundred in that Test to bring some confidence back in to the team.
Australia is set for a big total at the MCG, what West Indies could do is to use as many spinners to halt the Australian scoring rate.
The team need to take a fresh look at it's bowling strategy, Hobart and MCG look very similar, where the West Indies team bowlers in particular couldn't extract much bargain.
Valleyz.Blog
Thursday, December 24, 2015
South Africa vs England 2015 first Test at Durban - Overview
According to reports England's James Anderson is confirmed injured due to a calf strain ahead of the first Test between England and South Africa at Durban on Boxing Day.
That is pretty bad news for the visitors as James Anderson is the spearhead of the English attack, in his absence Steven Finn is likely to play for England.
Meanwhile the hosts are confident of a solid performance with the return of Dale Steyn in the attack supported by Morkel, Rabada, Abbot and others.
Pitch is likely to suit pacers, and South Africa are likely to have the home advantage.
Many of the English players are touring South Africa for the first time. The players include, Ben Stokes, Moeen Ali and others.
South Africa recently lost the series to India in spinner friendly conditions.
The team will be looking forward leaving behind the loss to take on the visitors on home ground conditions.
On the paper both the teams look evenly balanced with Proteas having the home advantage.
Valleyz.Blog
That is pretty bad news for the visitors as James Anderson is the spearhead of the English attack, in his absence Steven Finn is likely to play for England.
Meanwhile the hosts are confident of a solid performance with the return of Dale Steyn in the attack supported by Morkel, Rabada, Abbot and others.
Pitch is likely to suit pacers, and South Africa are likely to have the home advantage.
Many of the English players are touring South Africa for the first time. The players include, Ben Stokes, Moeen Ali and others.
South Africa recently lost the series to India in spinner friendly conditions.
The team will be looking forward leaving behind the loss to take on the visitors on home ground conditions.
On the paper both the teams look evenly balanced with Proteas having the home advantage.
Valleyz.Blog
Sunday, December 20, 2015
West Indies can fight back in the Boxing day Test at the MCG
Things not looking rosy for the West Indies Cricket, as there are widespread media reports about the game being in danger in the Caribbean Islands.
West Indies abandoned the Tour of India mid-way when it last toured India. Recently several commentators of the game including Michael Holding have voiced their concerns.
I think there should be a way out of the present scenario. The acrimony between the players and the board should be sorted out at the earliest.
Holding blasts WICB as dysfunctional , untrustworthy - The Hindu
The team is touring Australia now, and has lost the first Test inside three days at Hobart.
Does the state of affairs reflect on the players, too tough to say, but would be happy to believe that isn't the case and the team come back strongly in the Boxing day Test at the beautiful and picturesque Melbourne Cricket Ground.
In the meantime Australia broadcaster Nine seem to have prepared for all the contingencies if the visitors loose again badly in the Boxing Day Test and the New Year Test as both dominate the Australian Cricket scene in Australia.
Cricket: What will happen to Nine if the West Indies can't perform? - Sydney Morning Herald
West Indies seem to have been little out of touch in the Hobart game, but MCG is also a tough venue will be much similar to the Hobart pitch, bowlers especially need to look for early breakthroughs and should not allow Australia score easily.
Valleyz.Blog
West Indies abandoned the Tour of India mid-way when it last toured India. Recently several commentators of the game including Michael Holding have voiced their concerns.
I think there should be a way out of the present scenario. The acrimony between the players and the board should be sorted out at the earliest.
Holding blasts WICB as dysfunctional , untrustworthy - The Hindu
The team is touring Australia now, and has lost the first Test inside three days at Hobart.
Does the state of affairs reflect on the players, too tough to say, but would be happy to believe that isn't the case and the team come back strongly in the Boxing day Test at the beautiful and picturesque Melbourne Cricket Ground.
In the meantime Australia broadcaster Nine seem to have prepared for all the contingencies if the visitors loose again badly in the Boxing Day Test and the New Year Test as both dominate the Australian Cricket scene in Australia.
Cricket: What will happen to Nine if the West Indies can't perform? - Sydney Morning Herald
West Indies seem to have been little out of touch in the Hobart game, but MCG is also a tough venue will be much similar to the Hobart pitch, bowlers especially need to look for early breakthroughs and should not allow Australia score easily.
Valleyz.Blog
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