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Cricket 2020 Predictions: How Do You Predict The Unpredictable?

Cricket 2020 Predictions – India Vs Australia. New Zealand Vs West Indies, England Vs South Africa.

These three series started almost simultaneously on November 27th and has finally come to an end on January 19th. From Dawid Malan and Hardik Pandya T20 special to the Williamson-Nicholls show, abandoned ODI series, and the culminating India Vs Australia Test Series, this past two months have been full of ebbs and flows.

Also lots of lack of sleep. Watching multiple matches of cricket across time zones. By the end one thing was for sure,

How does one predict the unpredictable?

Also Read: Life Lessons from India Vs Australia, Pre-IPL prediction, Post-IPL prediction results, USA Cricket

Cricket 2020 Predictions

This time we did a #SeriesPredictions with #IndvAus (3 ODI, 3 T20I, 4 Tests), #NZvWI (3 T20I, 2 Tests), & #EngvSA (3 T20I, 3 ODI – Abandoned) and asked our followers for the following categories:

  • #Scoreline
  • #MVP
  • #MostRuns
  • #MostWickets
  • #EmergingPlayer
  • #SurprisePackage

Read till the end for poll results, winners, and your prediction summaries!

Observations

Before we start with the results, here are some of the common pre-series prediction observations.

Common Incorrect Predictions

  • Quinton de Kock did not score as many runs as people expected in the EngvSA T20I series
  • Colin de Grandhomme got injured before the series
  • At least 1 win for the West Indies in T20I was expected, but they lost 3-0 in the T20I
  • Nobody picked Dawid Malan as the MVP for Eng-SA T20I series? Definitely the best T20I batsman in recent times

Common Correct Predictions

  • On the other hand, NZ-WI Test 2-0 was almost unanimous
  • Pat Cummins among the wickets
  • Green/Pucovski Emerging Player

Series Awards

New Zealand Vs West Indies

Here is the NZ vs WI Series Review with detailed analysis and stats.

Scoreline: 2-0 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)New ZealandWest Indies
MVP (Tests)Kyle Jamieson
Most Runs (Tests)Kane WilliamsonJermaine Blackwood
Most Wickets (Tests)Tim SoutheeShannon Gabriel
Emerging PlayerDevon ConwayJoshua De Silva
Surprise PackageKyle JamiesonJermaine Blackwood
Broken DreamRoss TaylorRoston Chase
Cricket 2020 Predictions Results: NZ Vs WI

England Vs South Africa

Eng vs SA Series Review

Scoreline: 3-0 (T20I), Abandoned(ODI)South AfricaEngland
MVPDawid Malan
Most Runs Russie Van der DussenDawid Malan
Most Wickets Tabraiz Shamsi, Lungi NgidiSam Curran, Chris Jordan
Emerging PlayerGeorge LindeDressing Room Coded Signals
Surprise PackageGeorge LindeJonny Bairstow (in the middle order)
Broken Dream3rd Seamer: B. Hendricks, Ngidi, Sipamla Jason Roy, Moeen Ali
Cricket 2020 Predictions Results: SA Vs Eng

India Vs Australia

Ind Vs Aus Limited Overs Review, Ind Vs Aus Test Review

Scoreline: 2-1 (ODI), 1-2 (T20I), 1-2 (Tests)AustraliaIndia
MVP (Tests)Pat CumminsTeam Effort
Most Runs (Tests)Marnus LabuschagneRishabh Pant
Most Wickets (Tests)Pat CumminsMohammad Siraj
Emerging PlayerCameron GreenShubman Gill
Surprise PackageIndia’s Resilience & Character
Sundar, Shardul, Siraj
Tim Paine, the Batsman
Broken DreamKuldeep Yadav (No Game)Lyon 399*
Cricket 2020 Predictions Results: Aus Vs Ind

*Note: Some of the subjective Emerging Players/Surprise Package came from Twitter Polls.

My Prediction Results

If I were to give myself an award for the India vs Australia series, it would be the 2nd best guess. For the limited overs, I had the 2-1 & 1-2 correct but in the reverse order for the ODI & T20I series respectively.

Similarly, I picked the second best players of the series. Hazlewood took 2nd most wickets, Rahane tapered off at the end, and although Vihari & Labuschagne played crucial roles for their teams, they were not the most valuable players. R Ashwin was definitely a surprise all-round package, but Siraj-Sundar-Shardul in the 4th Test was even more surprising.

For the Eng-SA, I had 3-0 for sure, but in favor of South Africa. Oh how hopeful and naive. 😅

*If Most runs/wickets/MVP of either side is stated, then points will be given. For Emerging Player, either Shubman Gill, Will Pucovski, Mohammad Siraj, or Cameron Green will get a point.

IndvAusNZvWIEngvSA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 1-2 (T20I), 1-1 (Tests)
0/3
1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests) ✅
1/2
0-3 (T20I) ❌, 2-1 (ODI)
0/1
#MVPHanuma Vihari (Ind), Labuschagne (Aus)Trent Boult (NZ), Roston Chase (WI)Moeen Ali (Eng), Van der Dussen (SA)
#MostRunsAjinkya RahaneRoss TaylorQuinton de Kock
#MostWicketsHazlewoodTrent Boult-Jason Holder (tied)Anrich Nortje
#EmergingPlayerWill Pucovski ✅Joshua De Silva ✅Liam Livingstone
#SurprisePackageAshwinKyle Jamieson ✅Sam Curran?
TOTAL POINTS: 4/211/83/70/6

The Actual Results

The Winners (Drumroll Please…)

And The winners are…. In-Depth Football & Cricket (9/21) 🥇, Ansh Sharma (7/14) 🥈, Pratyush (7/21) 🥉 & Crazy Anand (7/21) 🥉! Congratulations!!!!

1. Jimmy Ciego (0/2)

  • #ENGvSA: 2-1 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
2. The Hundred Report (3/7)
  • #IndvAus: 1-2 (ODI) ✅. 2-1 (T20) ✅, 1-2 (Tests) SO CLOSE BUT REVERSED!
  • #NZvWI: 2-1 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests) ✅
  • #SAvEng: 2-1 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
  • “I love mighty Mo – I think this will be last chance saloon for him sadly so fingers crossed he makes an impact”

POOR MOEEN ALI…Did not get to play a game in the last 2 months…and now contracted COVID.

3. TheCricketMen (3/7)
  • #IndvAus: 1-2 (ODI) ✅, 2-1 (T20I) ✅, 1-3 (Tests)
  • #NZvWI: 2-1 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests) ✅
  • #SAvEng: 2-1 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
4. Rohan Gulavani (Ind-Aus) (2/9)
  • #Scoreline: 2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I) ✅, 0-3 (Tests)
  • #MVP: Mayank (India), Warner (Aus)
  • #MostRuns: Warner
  • #MostWickets: Lyon
  • #EmergingPlayer: Pucovski/Green ✅
  • #SurprisePackage: Green/Vihari
5. Ansh Sharma (7/14)
Ind-AusNZ-WI
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I) ✅, 2-1 (Tests) ✅2-1 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests) ✅
#MVPBumrah(Ind), Labuschagne (Aus)Trent Boult (NZ), Jason Holder (WI)
#MostRunsMarnus Labuschagne ✅Kane Williamson ✅
#MostWicketsPat Cummins ✅Trent Boult
#EmergingPlayerWill PucovskiTom Blundell
#SurprisePackageMayank AgarwalKyle Jamieson ✅
TOTAL POINTS: 7/144/83/6
6. Aayush Mahajan (3/14)
Ind-AusEng-SA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I) ✅, 1-3 (Tests)2-1(T20I), 1-2(ODI)
#MVPMayank Agarwal (Ind), Smith (Aus)Sam Curran (Eng), Faf du Plessis (SA)
#MostRunsSteven SmithQuinton de Kock
#MostWicketsCummins ✅Kagiso Rabadda
#EmergingPlayerWill Pucovski ✅Liam Livingstone
#SurprisePackageAshwinHeinrich Klassen
TOTAL POINTS: 3/143/80/6

Vandit, the winner from IPL Predictions, got 6/18! Close to the top, but not the winner.

7. Vandit – (6/21)
Ind-AusNZ-WIEngvSA
#Scoreline1-2 (ODI) ✅, 2-1 (T20I) ✅, 1-3 (Tests)2-1 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests) ✅3-0 (T20I) ✅, 2-1 (ODI)
#MVPMayank Agarwal (Ind), Josh Hazlewood(Aus)Trent Boult (NZ), Kemar Roach (WI)Jason Roy (Eng), Anrich Nortje (SA)
#MostRunsSteven SmithKane Williamson ✅Jason Roy
#MostWicketsJosh HazlewoodTrent BoultMark Wood
#EmergingPlayerWill Pucovski ✅Chemar HolderJanneman Malan
#SurprisePackageJoe BurnsShamarh BrooksSam Billings
TOTAL POINTS: 6/213/82/71/6
8. In-depth Football and Cricket (9/21)
Ind-AusNZ-WIEngvSA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I) ✅, 1-3 (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests) ✅2-1 (T20I), 2-1 (T20I)
#MVPPujara (Ind), Labuschagne (Aus) ✅Watling (NZ), Holder (WI)Morgan (Eng), Quinton de Kock (SA)
#MostRunsSmithKane Williamson ✅Quinton de Kock
#MostWicketsCummins ✅WagnerAdil Rashid
#EmergingPlayerCameron Green ✅Will YoungGeorge Linde ✅
#SurprisePackageSiraj ✅Jamieson ✅Sam Curran
TOTAL POINTS: 9/215/83/71/6

9. Mohd Shamir Ansari (3/21)

*OOh, how life has changed in 2 months. Rohit Sharma came back for the 3rd Test, while KL Rahul found himself injured. Did not get to play a Test match at all.

IndvAusNZvWIEngvSA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 1-2 (T20I), 2-1, 1 Draw (Tests) ✅1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests) ✅2-1 (T20I), 1-2 (ODI)
#MVPKL Rahul (Ind), Travis Head (Aus)Colin de Grandhomme (NZ) , Jason Holder (WI)Jason Roy (Eng), Andile Phehlukwayo (SA)
#MostRuns*KL RahulHenry NichollsFaf du Plessis
#MostWicketsJasprit BumrahNeil WagnerKagiso Rabada
#EmergingPlayerMohammed Siraj ✅Shimron HetmyerReece Topley
#SurprisePackageJoe BurnsTom LathamJJ Smuts
TOTAL POINTS: 3/212/81/70/6
*Rohit Sharma was the first choice but Sharma has been ruled out for the first 2 Tests

The predictions for the next two in India vs Australia were correct in number (4-5), the guesses were opposite of the team who won the respective series. Great guess work nevertheless Rahul and Just Cricket!

10. Rahul Kumar (2/21)
Ind-AusNZ-WIEng-SA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 1-2 (T20I), 1-2 (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests) ✅0-3 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
#MVPBumrah(Ind), Labuschagne (Aus)Williamson (NZ), Holder (WI)Morgan(Eng), Rabada (SA)
#MostRunsWarner/RahaneRoss TaylorFaf/Jos
#MostWicketsHazlewoodTrent BoultArcher
#EmergingPlayerWill Pucovski ✅Jamieson J Malan
#SurprisePackageMayank/RahulChemar HolderNortje
TOTAL POINTS: 2/211/81/70/6
11. JustCricket (3/21)
Ind-AusNZ-WIEng-SA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 1-2 (T20I), 1-2 (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests) ✅2-1 (T20I), 1-2 (ODI)
#MVPBumrah(Ind), Cummins(Aus) ✅HolderRashid (Eng), QDK (SA)
#MostRunsSteve SmithWilliamsonQDK
#MostWicketsLyonBoultRabada
#EmergingPlayerCam Green ✅JamiesonJanneman Malan
#SurprisePackageCam Green BrooksJanneman Malan
TOTAL POINTS: 3/212/81/70/6
12. Pratyush (8/21)
Ind-AusNZ-WIEng-SA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I) ✅, 1-2 (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests) ✅3-0 (T20I) ✅, 2-1 (ODI)
#MVPVihari (Ind), Labuschagne (Aus) Wagner (NZ), Chase (WI)Morgan (Eng), Van der Dussen (SA)
#MostRunsPujaraWilliamson ✅Quinton de Kock
#MostWicketsCummins ✅WagnerArcher
#EmergingPlayerWill Pucovski ✅Joshua De Silva ✅Verreynne
#SurprisePackageGill ✅Will YoungSam Curran
TOTAL POINTS: 8/214/83/71/6
13. Crazy Anand (8/21)
Ind-AusNZ-WIEng-SA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I) ✅, 1-1 (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests) ✅2-1 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
#MVPMayank Agarwal (Ind), Marnus Labuschagne (Aus)CDG (NZ) Roston Chase (WI)Chris Woakes (Eng), Rassie Van der Dussen (SA)
#MostRunsMarnus Labuschagne ✅Ross TaylorQDK
#MostWicketsPat Cummins ✅Neil WagnerRabada
#EmergingPlayerPucovski ✅Joshua De Silva ✅Liam Livingstone
#SurprisePackageRahul, Gill ✅Kyle Jamieson ✅Sam Curran
TOTAL POINTS: 8/215/83/70/6

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The Opinions

Here is how some of the Tweets aged for the Cricket 2020 Predictions. Some of these comments are amazingly close!

Highlights: Comments that Came True, Predictions That Were Off, My Comments/Opinions

1. Arnab Bhattacharyya

Everyone has been dismissing India’s chance in the BG Trophy – Test series . I have a feeling we will do well there , provided all of them stay injury free. We are a better team in the white ball format , so winning them wont be a surprise .

2. Rohan Gulavani

I feel first Test in Adelaide may be over in less than 4 days..

  1. Both sides playing a test after long time..rustiness..
  2. India has not played DN test except Kolkata one
  3. Both side have quality bowlers. Evening sessions could be very productive for bowlers..

3. Johnny

For #SAvEng I just hope they get on the pitch. If they do, England probably win both 2-1. They don’t seem to be taking ODIs that seriously right now which could give SA a chance but most of them have had either a decent IPL or a good rest so will be ready to go…

4. Scripurient (2/3)

In terms of #IndvAus, it will be very, very competitive as is the case usually with the two sides. In terms of the scoreline, I reckon its:-

  • T20s:- 2-1 (Ind) ✅ ODIs:- 1-2 (Aus) ✅ Tests:- 1-2 ❌ (1 drawn ✅) – Aus

Tough to predict though, very tough!

For #EngvSA, well, first they need to get over natural obstacles (rain)

If all matches do commence as plan, my predictions are:- T20s:- 2-1 (could potentially be 3-0 if Eng plays a full-strength team) ODIs:- 2-1 Both in favor of England.

5. TheRedCherry: (1/4)

ODIs: India to win 2-1 T20I’s: Aussies to win 2-1 Tests: 2-1 for Aussies…

ENG vs SA: T20I’S – 2-1 ODIs – 3-0 (both in favour of England) ✅

6. Sabeeha Majid responds:

3-0?? Give us a shot at least. We did beat the aussies 3-0

Interesting conversation this….

Well…England swept the T20I 3-0 unfortunately for South Africa.

7. Sehrish

Some interesting predictions but I believe ENGvSA will be the closest one. 3-0 seems way too off, 2-1, quite possible.

8. Aayush Mahajan

NZvWI tough to predict due to unpredictable nature of the Windies

Conclusion

I hope this was a fun game for you! Everyone did way better than the IPL Predictions!

Next Stop: IPL 2021 Predictions after the new teams are selected.

If you enjoyed the Cricket 2020 Predictions, Comment below, join us for free updates below, and share with your friends!

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Image Courtesy: Steve Smith – NAPARAZZI, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Cricket Predictions: Can You Do Better?

We are back at it – Cricket Predictions!

The IPL hangover is finally over. The T20 season is coming to a close with the IPL, PSL, and now the WBBL approaching its end. The IPL had a predictable ending with Mumbai Indians winning again, introduced us to some new faces, and most importantly, taught us beautiful life lessons.

It was great fun while it lasted, but the last week has been slow and agonizing without any international cricket.

BUT the wait is finally over! Now, we will have proper cricket. Tests, ODI, T20 Internationals. Six countries will be playing on the same day.

India vs Australia, New Zealand vs West Indies, England vs South Africa.

November 27, Remember the Date.

The Rules

With the IPL, we did a pre-IPL prediction and post-IPL prediction results. It was a really fun exercise, and so we are doing it again!

Here are the upcoming series:

  • #IndvAus: 3 ODI, 3 T20I, 4 Tests
  • #NZvWI: 3 T20I, 2 Tests
  • #EngvSA: 3 T20I, 3 ODI

We asked the Twitter crowd these questions with #SeriesPredictions:

  • #Scoreline
  • #MVP
  • #MostRuns
  • #MostWickets  
  • #EmergingPlayer 
  • #SurprisePackage

Note, we will focus on the Test series for the IndvAus and NZvWI series, but look at limited overs combined for the EngvSA series.

And guess was, there are no rules! You can do the predictions as you wish – for 1 series or all 3! Just have fun!

So who do you think we will emerge as the winner? Who will be the surprise package? Reece Topley, Kyle Jamieson? Pucovski and Green? Who will win the battle of the off-spinners, R Ashwin vs Nathan Lyon?

So many questions, so little time.

So without further ado, here are mine:

My Predictions

IndvAusNZvWIEngvSA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 1-2 (T20I), 1-1 (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)0-3 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
#MVPHanuma Vihari (Ind), Labuschagne (Aus)Trent Boult (NZ), Roston Chase (WI)Moeen Ali (Eng), Van der Dussen (SA)
#MostRunsAjinkya RahaneRoss TaylorQuinton de Kock
#MostWicketsHazlewoodTrent Boult-Jason Holder (tied)Anrich Nortje
#EmergingPlayerWill PucovskiJoshua De SilvaLiam Livingstone
#SurprisePackageAshwinKyle JamiesonSam Curran?

The Prediction

Here are the responses we received from my Twitter post. Enjoy!

1. Jimmy Ciego
  • #ENGvSA: 2-1 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
2. The Hundred Report
  • #IndvAus: 1-2 (ODI). 2-1 (T20), 1-2 (Tests)
  • #NZvWI: 2-1 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)
  • #SAvEng: 2-1 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
  • “I love mighty Mo – I think this will be last chance saloon for him sadly so fingers crossed he makes an impact”
3. TheCricketMen
  • #IndvAus: 1-2 (ODI). 2-1 (T20I), 1-3 (Tests)
  • #NZvWI: 2-1 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)
  • #SAvEng: 2-1 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
4. Rohan Gulavani (Ind-Aus)
  • #Scoreline: 2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I), 0-3 (Tests)
  • #MVP: Mayank (India), Warner (Aus)
  • #MostRuns: Warner
  • #MostWickets: Lyon
  • #EmergingPlayer: Pucovski/Green
  • #SurprisePackage: Green/Vihari
5. Ansh Sharma
Ind-AusNZ-WI
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I), 2-1 (Tests)2-1 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)
#MVPBumrah(Ind), Labuschagne (Aus)Trent Boult (NZ), Jason Holder (WI)
#MostRunsMarnus LabuschagneKane Williamson
#MostWicketsPat CumminsTrent Boult
#EmergingPlayerWill PucovskiTom Blundell
#SurprisePackageMayank AgarwalKyle Jamieson
6. Aayush Mahajan
Ind-AusEng-SA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I), 1-3 (Tests)2-1(T20I), 1-2(ODI)
#MVPMayank Agarwal (Ind), Smith (Aus)Sam Curran (Eng), Faf du Plessis (SA)
#MostRunsSteven SmithQuinton de Kock
#MostWicketsCumminsKagiso Rabadda
#EmergingPlayerWill PucovskiLiam Livingstone
#SurprisePackageAshwinHeinrich Klassen

Here is the winner from last time, Vandit! Can lightning strike twice? I guess we will find out…

7. Vandit (IndvAus)
Ind-AusNZ-WIEngvSA
#Scoreline1-2 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I), 1-3 (Tests)2-1 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)3-0 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
#MVPMayank Agarwal (Ind), Josh Hazlewood(Aus)Trent Boult (NZ), Kemar Roach (WI)Jason Roy (Eng), Anrich Nortje (SA)
#MostRunsSteven SmithKane WilliamsonJason Roy
#MostWicketsJosh HazlewoodTrent BoultMark Wood
#EmergingPlayerWill PucovskiChemar HolderJanneman Malan
#SurprisePackageJoe BurnsShamarh BrooksSam Billings
8. In-depth Football and Cricket
Ind-AusNZ-WIEngvSA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I), 1-3 (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)2-1 (T20I), 2-1 (T20I)
#MVPPujara (Ind), Labuschagne (Aus)Watling (NZ), Holder (WI)Morgan (Eng), Quinton de Kock (SA)
#MostRunsSmithKane WilliamsonQuinton de Kock
#MostWicketsCumminsWagnerAdil Rashid
#EmergingPlayerCameron GreenWill YoungGeorge Linde
#SurprisePackageSirajJamiesonSam Curran

9. Mohd Shamir Ansari

IndvAusNZvWIEngvSA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 1-2 (T20I), 2-1, 1 Draw (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)2-1 (T20I), 1-2 (ODI)
#MVPKL Rahul (Ind), Travis Head (Aus)Colin de Grandhomme (NZ) , Jason Holder (WI)Jason Roy (Eng), Andile Phehlukwayo (SA)
#MostRuns*KL RahulHenry NichollsFaf du Plessis
#MostWicketsJasprit BumrahNeil WagnerKagiso Rabada
#EmergingPlayerMohammed SirajShimron HetmyerReece Topley
#SurprisePackageJoe BurnsTom LathamJJ Smuts
*Rohit Sharma was the first choice but Sharma has been ruled out for the first 2 Tests
10. Rahul Kumar
Ind-AusNZ-WIEng-SA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 1-2 (T20I), 1-2 (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)0-3 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
#MVPBumrah(Ind), Labuschagne (Aus)Williamson (NZ), Holder (WI)Morgan(Eng), Rabada (SA)
#MostRunsWarner/RahaneRoss TaylorFaf/Jos
#MostWicketsHazlewoodTrent BoultArcher
#EmergingPlayerWill PucovskiJamiesonJ Malan
#SurprisePackageMayank/RahulChemar HolderNortje
11. JustCricket
Ind-AusNZ-WIEng-SA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 1-2 (T20I), 1-2 (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)2-1 (T20I), 1-2 (ODI)
#MVPBumrah(Ind), Cummins(Aus)HolderRashid (Eng), QDK (SA)
#MostRunsSteve SmithWilliamsonQDK
#MostWicketsLyonBoultRabada
#EmergingPlayerCam GreenJamiesonJanneman Malan
#SurprisePackageCam GreenBrooksJanneman Malan
12. Pratyush
Ind-AusNZ-WIEng-SA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I), 1-2 (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)3-0 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
#MVPVihari (Ind), Labuschagne (Aus)Wagner (NZ), Chase (WI)Morgan (Eng), Van der Dussen (SA)
#MostRunsPujaraWilliamsonQuinton de Kock
#MostWicketsCumminsWagnerArcher
#EmergingPlayerWill PucovskiJoshua De SilvaVerreynne
#SurprisePackageGillWill YoungSam Curran
13. Crazy Anand
Ind-AusNZ-WIEng-SA
#Scoreline2-1 (ODI), 2-1 (T20I), 1-1 (Tests)1-2 (T20I), 2-0 (Tests)2-1 (T20I), 2-1 (ODI)
#MVPMayank Agarwal (Ind), Marnus Labuschagne (Aus)CDG (NZ) Roston Chase (WI)Chris Woakes (Eng), Rassie Van der Dussen (SA)
#MostRunsMarnus LabuschagneRoss TaylorQDK
#MostWicketsPat CumminsNeil WagnerRabada
#EmergingPlayerPucovskiJoshua De SilvaLiam Livingstone
#SurprisePackageRahul, GillKyle JamiesonSam Curran

The Opinions

We also had some interesting discussions, opinions, and even some warnings.

1. Arnab Bhattacharyya

Everyone has been dismissing India’s chance in the BG Trophy – Test series . I have a feeling we will do well there , provided all of them stay injury free. We are a better team in the white ball format , so winning them wont be a surprise .

2. Rohan Gulavani

I feel first Test in Adelaide may be over in less than 4 days..

  1. Both sides playing a test after long time..rustiness..
  2. India has not played DN test except Kolkata one
  3. Both side have quality bowlers. Evening sessions could be very productive for bowlers..

3. Johnny

For #SAvEng I just hope they get on the pitch. If they do, England probably win both 2-1. They don’t seem to be taking ODIs that seriously right now which could give SA a chance but most of them have had either a decent IPL or a good rest so will be ready to go…

4. Scripurient

In terms of #IndvAus, t will be very,very competitive as is the case usually with the two sides. In terms of the scoreline, I reckon its:-

  • T20s:- 2-1 (Ind) ODIs:- 1-2 (Aus) Tests:- 1-2 (1 drawn) – Aus

Tough to predict though, very tough!

For #EngvSA, well, first they need to get over natural obstacles (rain)

If all matches do commence as plan, my predictions are:- T20s:- 2-1 (could potentially be 3-0 if Eng plays a full-strength team) ODIs:- 2-1 Both in favor of England.

5. TheRedCherry:

ODIs: India to win 2-1 T20I’s: Aussies to win 2-1 Tests: 2-1 for Aussies…

ENG vs SA: T20I’S – 2-1 ODIs – 3-0 (both in favour of England)

6. Sabeeha Majid responds:

3-0?? Give us a shot at least. We did beat the aussies 3-0

Interesting conversation this….

7. Sehrish

Some interesting predictions but I believe ENGvSA will be the closest one. 3-0 seems way too off, 2-1, quite possible.

8. Aayush Mahajan

NZvWI tough to predict due to unpredictable nature of the Windies

Conclusion

In any case, I hope this prediction game is just as fun for you, as it is for me!

Let us hope for competitive and enthralling matches, uninterrupted and safe few months, and most of all, sportsmanship displays and moments to cherish.

Enjoy, and keep on coming with the predictions if you have not already. I will be keeping track.

Comment below, join us for free updates below, and share with your friends!

Image Courtesy: Steve Smith – NAPARAZZI, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The IPL 2020 Chapter Closes

The IPL 2020 chapter has finally closed. Memories were abundant in this year’s Indian Premier League and Women’s T20 Challenge.

From the diving efforts of Trinidad’s Nicholas Pooran and Thai’s Natthakan Chantam  to Tewatia’s incredulous display and Mandhana’s stylish gameplay, we have had it all. To spice it up, there was also an incredible weekend of Super Overs and close finishes.

This IPL was full of ebbs and flows, highs and lows. It even taught us numerous life lessons.

But, how did it all end? An anti-climax, I would say.

Recap

Last time we checked in, the points table had turned upside down. Over the last weekend, every team except for CSK were still in the running.

Ultimately, net run rate came into play with SRH and RCB edging out KKR and KXIP to make it in the Top 4. The Playoffs ended up being one sided and once again, Mumbai Indians lifted the trophy, who were a class apart.

The Women’s T20 Challenge showcased women’s talent but once again, still no women’s IPL?

Also Read: Week 1-2 IPL Diary, Week 3 Recap, Moments that Turned the Table, CSK’s Struggles

How Did We Get Here?

If you missed any day in the last couple of weeks, do not worry. We will fill you in.

Using our Twitter Diary, we recorded the most unfortunate or interesting events of the day through #BCDoftheDay or #BrokenCricketDreamoftheDay.

Some additional features were #ClassActoftheDay, #UniverseBossoftheDay, #SamCurranoftheDay, #FieldingEffortoftheDay, and #RedemptionoftheDay.

Anyway, sit back and enjoy relieving the final stages of IPL 2020.

Videos are linked in the tweets and the headlines, so feel free to watch the highlights of the moments if you missed out!

What were your favorite moments of the past two weeks or the IPL in general? COMMENT below with your favorite moments of this IPL!

Highlights – The Final Stage

Day 38 — KKR and Team Management: A Mystery
Day 39 — Rashid Khan ❤ — That’s All
Day 40 — Suryakumar Yadav Responds In Style
Day 41 — Gaikwad Keeps the Spark Going
Day 42 — The Universe Boss Is Still The Best
Day 43 Game 1 — Delhi Daredevils, Delhi Capitals, Delhi Bye-Bye?
Day 43 Game 2 — Cool Holder Resurrects SRH
Day 44 Game 1 — KXIP’s Dreams Go Down the Drain

Moment of the day – Dhoni’s “Definitely Not.” Thala is going to be back next year.

Day 44 Game 2 — KKR Finally Comes To the Party…In the Last Game
Day 45 — The Most Boring Match of the IPL?

The Playoffs

Playoffs Game 1 — Indian Top Order Zero
Playoffs 2 — Another Year, Another Broken Dream for RCB
Women’s T20 Challenge — Close Game But Still NO Women’s IPL??
Women’s T20 Challenge Game 2 — We Need To Talk About the Women’s Game
  • If you have not heard Lisa Sthalekar talk about this, watch it NOW: Proper pitches and scheduling is needed for the women’s game to prosper
Women’s T20 Challenge Game 3 — So Close Yet So Far For the Trailblazers
Qualifier 2 — Kane Williamson Can Do Anything…Almost
Finals — Rohit and Mandhana Stand Up On the Big Stage

Conclusion

I hereby declare IPL 2020 close….Well, that is a wrap of our IPL 2020!

See you on the other side. The PSL and Women’s Big Bash League are currently going on, but the T20s are on the way down for the rest of the year.

Test Match season coming soon – India vs. Australia, New Zealand vs. Pakistan, and England vs. South Africa – November 27th.

We will be right back. Will you?

Sign up for free below to get notified for new articles:

Also Read: IPL All Time XI’s: RR & KKR, KXIP & DC, RCB, SRH, CSK, MI

Source: Cricinfo (Moments), IPLT20.com

Image Courtesy: Suryakumar Yadav GIF, IPL Trophy – Daljit8 via CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain

IPL 2020: The Dream Teams

With the end of IPL 2020, fans and experts chipped in with their choices of the Dream Teams. Recently, social media went ablaze with Virender Sehwag’s highly debated IPL XI. Virat Kohli and David Warner at 4 and 5—it is easy to see why that was the case.

So I decided to join the party!

Here is my IPL XIs, with a couple of twists, of course.

Today’s Twist:

I will build two IPL Dreams today—the Obvious XI and the Non-Obvious XI. The goal is to see if my team could beat the Obvious Team of the Tournament. Here are the rules:

  • Have at least one uncapped player in each team
  • The IPL rules apply – 4 foreign players maximum
  • A wicketkeeper and 5 bowling options are necessary
  • The Obvious XI will contain the winners of the Orange Cap, Purple Cap, and MVP awards
  • The two teams should not have any overlap.

The Catch:

In IPL 2020, the foreign fast bowlers were on fire—Jofra Archer, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, but how many can you fit in? Additionally, the Indian squad have prolific wicketkeeper batsmen, but will all of them make it?

Tough choices to make…

IPL XI – The Dream Teams

The Non-Obvious XI

Here is my choice — the not-so-obvious Dream Team.

*Note: Bolded players represent the foreign players

  1. Mayank Agarwal
  2. Wriddhiman Saha (WK)
  3. David Warner (C)
  4. Suryakumar Yadav (U)
  5. Kane Williamson
  6. Sam Curran
  7. Rahul Tewatia (U)
  8. Anrich Nortje
  9. Thangarasu Natarajan (U)
  10. Varun Chakravarthy (U)
  11. Mohammad Shami

*WK – Wicketkeeper, C – Captain, U – Uncapped

In the batting front, this team has sparkling openers, the experience of Warner and Williamson, Suryakumar Yadav’s flamboyance, and Sam Curran/Tewatia as floaters.

With Sam Curran and Shami as the opening swing bowlers, Nortje as the pace spearhead, Natarajan as the designated death bowler, the mystery of Varun, and the leg-spin of Tewatia, the bowling line-up is balanced. If necessary, even cool Kane Williamson can role over his arm.

The Obvious XI

  1. Shikhar Dhawan
  2. KL Rahul (WK)
  3. Devdutt Padikkal (U)
  4. AB De Villiers (C)
  5. Ishan Kishan
  6. Hardik Pandya
  7. Rashid Khan
  8. Jofra Archer
  9. Kagiso Rabada
  10. Jasprit Bumrah
  11. Yuzvendra Chahal

*Orange Cap (Most Runs), Purple Caps (Most Wickets), Most Valuable Player (MVP)

With left-right hand combination (overrated but still) till No. 6 and bowling line-up of the decade, this is a pretty strong team. So, you decide, can my team defeat the Obvious XI?

Jofra Archer vs. David Warner, anybody? COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW! Let us know of your IPL XI as well!

Honorable Mentions:
  • Quinton De Kock, Trent Boult, Jason Holder, Ben Stokes, Marcus Stoinis, Faf du Plessis, Kieron Pollard, Chris Gayle, Abdul Samad, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi

I had a tough time leaving QDK and Boult out. Both were magnificent, but the 4-foreign player quota came into the equation.

Notice something? None of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, or Shreyas Iyer (captains of 3 of the top 4 teams) make it into either of my XIs or the honorable mentions.

Would love to hear your thoughts on this…COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW! Also share ahead and subscribe to our email list below:

Embed from Getty Images

Conclusion

This was a peculiar tournament in terms of player performance. While the foreign players and the Indian uncapped players impressed, the current and former Indian players disappointed.

Although Dhawan, Kohli, and Iyer were among the runs, none of them looked consistently convincing. Similarly, former IPL stars like Robin Uthappa and 2019 World Cup squad members — Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni, Vijay Shankar, Kedar Jadhav, and Kuldeep Yadav — all had a sub-par season.

On the other hand, a 15-member squad could be created out of the impressive uncapped youngsters themselves:

  • Padikkal, Gaikwad, Kishan, Suryakumar, Garg, Samad, Sharma, Nagarkoti, Mavi, Bishnoi, Varun, Natarajan, Arshdeep, Tyagi, Prasidh Krishna

IPL 2020 was the beginning of the end of the 2007 T20 World Cup and IPL 2008 era. The early stars are slowly fading away in the background, while the newer generation are storming to the forefront.

Embed from Getty Images

Image Courtesy: Getty, Suryakumar Yadav – Sirshak9927, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

IPL 2020: Prediction Results

All good things come to an end.

Well, well, well – the IPL 2020 festivities have finally come to a close and yet again, the Mumbai Indians emerged as the winner—wait for it—for the 5th time!

Their ability to win consistently is remarkable. The way they were playing, Mumbai Indians winning might be the only predictable event that has occurred in 2020.

The Predictions

Speaking of predictions, we asked our Twitter followers to predict the IPL result and award winners with #IPLPredictions at the start of IPL 2020. Here were the categories:

  • #Champions
  • #OrangeCap
  • #PurpleCap
  • #FairPlay
  • #EmergingPlayer
  • #SurprisePackage

We will reveal who was the closest in their IPL Predictions. Read till the end for poll results conducted at the end of the tournament and surprises.

The Actual Results

The way it turned out, Mumbai Indians swept the awards, even winning the Fairplay Award! Interestingly, they won without winning the Orange Cap, Purple Cap, and the MVP.

Although other teams like RR, KXIP, RCB, and DC had match winners who won awards here, only MI could find consistent performances from most of their members throughout the competition.

In any case, here are the results:

ChampionsMumbai Indians
Most Valuable PlayerJofra Archer (RR)
Orange CapKL Rahul (KXIP)
Purple CapKagiso Rabada (DC)
Emerging PlayerDevdutt Padikkal (RCB)
Fairplay AwardMumbai Indians
Super StrikerKieron Pollard (MI)
Let’s Crack It (Most Sixes)Ishan Kishan (MI)
Power PlayerTrent Boult (MI)
IPL 2020 Awards

And The Winner Is…

The time has come to announce the winners. (*Drumroll*)

*Note: Sam Curran was the deemed to the winner from the Surprise Package guesses

AwardsChampionsOrange CapPurple CapFair PlayEmerging PlayerSurprise Package
My Predictions
(0/6)
KKRMayank AgarwalRashid KhanDCRavi BishnoiAnrich Nortje
Aviral Rai
(2/6)
CSKKL Rahul✅Yuzi
Chahal
SRHDevdutt Padikkal✅Balwant Rai/Shahbaz Ahmad (RCB)
Pratyush
(0/6)
SRHWarnerRashid KhanCSKAbdul SamadIsuru
Udana
JustCricket
(2/6)
DCVirat
Kohli
Kagiso Rabada✅CSKDevdutt Padikkal✅Josh Philippe
Ansh Sharma
(1/6)
DCKL Rahul✅Ravi
Ashwin
CSK Yashashwi JaiswalDaniel
Sams
Rahul Kumar
(1/6)
KXIPKL Rahul✅Rashid KhanCSKRavi BishnoiDan
Sams
Sourabh Sanyal
(2/6)
MI✅KOHLI/
KL ✅
Chahal/
Narine/
Rashid
SRH/CSKYashasviNagarkoti
Crazy Anand
(2/6)
SRHKL Rahul✅Rashid KhanDCAbdul SamadSam
Curran ✅
Ganesh giri srt
(0/6)
SRHWarnerRashidSRHYashasviRutherford
CricIndeed 
(1/6)
KXIPKL Rahul✅Imran
Tahir
DCShubman GillHardus Viljoen
Mohd Shamir Ansari 
(0/6)
DCVirat KohliRashid KhanRRYashasvi JaiswalAlex
Carey
The Hundred Report
(0/6)
SRHKane WilliamsonAdam ZampaKXIPRiyan ParagMoeen
(I believe!)
Sourav 
(0/6)
KKRKL Rahul✅Y ChahalSRHShubman GillKamlesh Nagarkoti
Vandit
(4/6)
MI✅KL Rahul✅Mohammad ShamiCSKDevdutt Padikkal✅Sam
Curran ✅
IPL 2020 Predictions

And the winner was Vandit with 4/6 guesses correct! From Twitter, Sourabh Sanyal, JustCricket, Crazy Anand, and Aviral Rai – all got 2/6. Congratulations!

There were some close guesses with CSK ending #2 in the FairPlay and DC/SRH coming 2nd/3rd in the overall competition respectively.

Great work everybody!

*The Cricket Scholar was right – RCB did not make it while Dan Cricket‘s “Delhi Daredevils” also almost made it. Only if they had changed their name back…

Twitter Polls

We decided to spice things up with some polls at the end of the tournament. Some interesting questions and responses! Let us know what you think in the comments below and wait till you get to #5.

1. Emerging Players and Surprise Package

Although Padikkal was by far the most consistent, the likes of Ravi Bishnoi and Riyan Parag, the trios of Abdul Samad-Priyam Garg-Abhishek Sharma from SRH, and Kamlesh Nagarkoti-Shivam Mavi-Prasidh Krishna from KKR caught the eye.

In terms of surprise packages, Tewatia, Anrich Nortje, and Natarajan unexpectedly came to the party apart from Sam Curran.

2. The one that Bamboozled and the Wow Factor

There were some things that completely bamboozled us. The reality finally caught up with CSK’s Dad Army, while the fielding ranged from mind boggling acrobatics to utterly poor drops.

The most discussed topic that perplexed everybody?

Why has Suryakumar Yadav (SKY) not made the Indian squad yet?

In addition, there were some WOW moments as well—Tewatia’s cracker of an innings, Saha turning around SRH’s campaign, Stokes with that century as an opener, and Stoinis finally coming to the IPL party. What was your moment of the IPL?

3. The Benchwarmers and Saddest sight of IPL 2020

Now to the broken cricket dreams of IPL 2020. Although the likes of Rahane, Gayle, Tahir, and Ferguson got to showcase their skills at the end of the tournament, some never got a chance to play. David Miller (run out without facing a ball) and Chris Lynn startled me the most.

On the other hand, there were some sad sights as well. Once feared, a smiling Dale Steyn without venom was very hard to watch this time. It might be the end of his career, Maxwell’s IPL journey—and the end of CSK as we know it.

4. Sam Curran

And we are back to Sam Curran. He could do everything. Opened the batting, finished the innings, opened the bowling, bowled at the death, and even took some great catches.

Which Sam Curran did you like the best?

The day is not too far when Sam Curran takes the wicketkeeping gloves as well.

5. The Real Surprise Package

Here is the real winner of IPL 2020 – Pashchim Pathak!

Conclusion

Cricket is unpredictable, and predicting the unpredictable even more so. So do not be disheartened if your predictions did not match the final outcome. IPL 2021 is around the corner, so you always have another chance!

The beauty in cricket is the uncertainty. You never know when a struggling Tewatia can hit it out the park for five sixes, or if you miss a World Cup trophy by the barest of margins.

What is in our control though is to sit back, relax, and appreciate the fickle nature of this game.

Cricket is unpredictable. 2020 might have been unpredictable. Life is definitely unpredictable. Let us be grateful and enjoy each moment.

COVID has turned the world upside down. This pandemic has impacted almost everybody and has given us nothing but grief, despair, and uncertainty. The fact that IPL 2020 was completed without much external noise and disruptions is a tremendous effort from the organizers, the UAE, and the BCCI. Kudos to all the players, commentators, support staff, and everybody else that made this happen.

The 4 hours of joy and entertainment provided every day is exactly what the fans around the world needed in midst of a pandemic.

When life gives you 50 reasons to cry, it also provides 64 matches to smile about.

*56 league, 4 playoffs, and 4 Women T20 Challenge games

Coming up Soon!

Stay tuned for my IPL 2020 XIs, Broken Cricket Diary, and What I Learned from the IPL coming up in the next couple of days!

Comment below your favorite memories from this IPL, share with your friends, and subscribe below to receive email alerts when new articles come out!

Image Courtesy: Tata Altroz – Matti Blume, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Moments That Turned The Tables

The small moments in life provide the biggest joy.

This common saying applies to the IPL and cricket in general as well.

The small moments, running the twos and threes, the catches, diving saves, and the direct hits, these narrow margins tilt the games.

Also Read: Best Fielders of All-Time, Favorite Players From Each Country, Best Commentators of All-Time

Recap

In the first week of IPL 2020, we witnessed several close games, Tewatia’s magic, and the Indian youngsters on the show. Some said this is the closest IPL ever?

What followed in the next couple of weeks was a thoroughly one-sided tournament.

It seemed that Delhi Capitals were running away with from the rest of the table, and Mumbai Indians were back at their best. RCB were playing….consistently well and even an underperforming KKR were snatching victories out of jaws of defeat.

Where are we now? Two days to go in the league stague, and the points table look something like this. Mumbai Indians are the only team to seal qualification, while CSK are the only team officially out…barely.

On the other hand, RCB at #2 can still fail to make it and KKR at #7 are still alive.

Also Read: All-Time XIs – RCB, CSK, SRH, MI, RR and KKR, KXIP and RR

How Did We Get Here?

Did you miss the major moments of the day? Do not worry! Here are the moments of the day from our perspective on Twitter – funny run-outs, unusual hit-wickets, Super Over chaos, and much more.

Here are the hashtags we used for each day.

  • #BCDoftheDay: Broken Cricket Dream of the Day
  • #RedemptionoftheDay: Comebacks and Redemptions
  • #SamCurranoftheDay: All-Rounder or the Game Changer of the Day
  • #UniverseBossoftheDay: Chris Gayle is back, so a new # was needed just for him

We have several videos linked in the tweets and the headlines, so feel free to watch the highlights of the moments if you missed out!

What were your favorite moments of the past two weeks or the IPL in general? Comment below, subscribe below for more such articles, and follow us on our Twitter and Facebook pages!

Defining Moments

Day 25 – Rashid’s Hit Wicket for the Win!
Day 27 – RCB Batting Order or KKR? ABD at 6?
Day 28 – Dinesh Karthik finishes….his captaincy career at KKR
Day 29 Game 1 – Superhuman ABD Crushes Everybody’s Dreams
Day 29 Game 2 – Gabbar is Back Part I and Axar Finishes it Off in Style

Faf-Rabada Collision was scary but the hug was beautiful.

Day 30 Game I – Super Sunday Super Over Part I Feat Lockie Ferguson
Day 30 Game II – Super Sunday Double Super Over Part II Feat Shami
Day 31 – Buttler’s Day Out
Day 32 – Gabbar is Back Part II….But Delhi Capitals Are Not
Day 33 – KKR’s 84 Survives RCB’s 49 Record but Siraj’s Dream Day

(Broken Dreams for KKR fans…cough, cough – me).

Day 34 – Pandey and Shankar Revive SRH

Uthappa was always going to lose the battle against Holder there….

Day 35 – CSK Not Qualifying? Say What? 2020….
Day 36 – Courageous Narine and Architect Varun Bamboozle Declining Delhi
Day 37 – Comeback Weekend Part I Via SRH Collapse
Day 37 Game 1 – Gaikwad Shows the “Spark”
Day 37 Game 2 – The All – Round Show. Stokes Trumps Pandya’s Brilliance
Sources: Twitter, IPLT20.com – Magic Moments (Videos)

Image Courtesy: Eoin Morgan – NAPARAZZI, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons