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Strongest Team in the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup ? All 16 Complete Team Reviews

2021 T20 World Cup Team Review Time. Here is the complete dissection of every team. The best moments, analysis, stats, and what changes need to be made for each team to succeed in the upcoming 2022 T20 World Cup. Comment below on your favorite moment of this T20 World Cup and what you think about their prospects in the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia.

Table of Contents

1. Australia 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

Australia—a name so synonymous to Cricket World Cups it is not even a surprise they somehow managed to win this one. Unlike most times, though, they were not even in Top 5 Favorites this time around. Even Bangladesh & Afghanistan were fancied more since Australia has lost their last 4 T20I bilateral series and were hammered 4-1 in Bangladesh.

Lots of good stories for Justin Langer’s group. A group of lovely characters, marked by Stoinis, Zampa, Wade, Maxwell combined with their star power in Warner-Smith-Cummins-Hazlewood-Starc deliver unlikely victory. Hazlewood’s accuracy, Zampa’s wicket-taking abilities, Warner’s consistency, Mitchell Marsh’s coming of age, Steve Smith’s boundary catching, and Stoinis-Wade’s finishing combined to make this a dangerous T20 side.

Now Australia has won everything—Women’s ODI & T20I World Cups, U-19 World Cups, Men’s ODI & T20 World Cups & Champions Trophy. Looks like life is all good for Australia and free of Paine…

Australia’s World Cup In a Nutshell

ResultWinners (1st)
Wins/Losses6/1
Best MatchSemi-Finals Vs Pakistan
(Feat Wade’s 3 consecutive sixes to Shaheen Afridi)
Highest Run ScorersDavid Warner (289)
Highest Wicket TakersAdam Zampa (13), Josh Hazlewood (13)
X FactorsMitchell Marsh’s Dream Final, Matthew Wade-Marcus Stoinis Partnership, Cummins at the Death
Luck Factor
(Or the Lack of)
Aaron Finch Wins All the Tosses
Broken DreamsStarc 4-0-60-0 in the Final. Does he merit a place in the 2022 T20 World Cup Squad?

What Does Australia Need to Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

Home World Cup, expectations on them. No team has won two consecutive T20 World Cups or a T20 World Cup at home. Now, they have a good T20 core group from which they can challenge the rest of the world. The real question here is—Can Australia continue playing the same brand of cricket?

2. New Zealand 2021 T20 World Cup

New Zealand are the best all-format team to beat at the moment, aren’t they? 2 ODI World Cup finals in a row (2015, 2019), current World Test Championship holders, and now the runners up in a T20 World Cup. Just like Australia, not many expected them to get to semi-finals, let alone the finals. With an early loss to Pakistan, things did start positively for them. Credit to them, they strangled India, survived threat against Namibia, and continued on their marching way before the Neesham-Mitchell assault shocked England.

Positives? Mitchell’s inspirational promotion & Top 3’s solo performances (Mitchell’s 72*, Williamson’s 85, & Guptill’s 93, Southee’s economical World Cup, shining Boult & Sodhi (if we take out Sodhi’s final), roaring Milne in his comeback, and Neesham, who finally gets his revenge.

Negatives? Conway-Phillips-Seifert had been one of the reasons for NZ’s success in T20I’s over the past year, but none of them had a stellar performance. Conway played a crucial recovery innings in the semi-finals, Phillips (once a keeper) bowled some tight off spin and hit Zampa for a six in the final, but other than that, nothing much of note. Also Guptill’s 27 (35).…say no more.

New Zealand’s World Cup In a Nutshell

ResultRunners Up (2nd)
Wins/Losses5/2
Best MatchSemi Finals Vs England
Highest Run ScorersKane Williamson (216)
Martin Guptill (208)
Daryl Mitchell (208)
Highest Wicket TakersTrent Boult (13)
X FactorsDaryl Mitchell – the Opener, Neesham – the Finisher, Fielding Unit, Southee Reinvents Himself
Broken DreamsLockie Ferguson ruled out before the WC; Devon Conway injures himself by punching his bat after his semi-final dismissals; Misses the Final; New Zealand struggle early on and ends up on the runners up podium again.

What Does New Zealand Need to Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

New Zealand made it to the final on the back of good strategy and smart cricket. However, it is unlikely that this squad will succeed again in 2022 in Australian conditions. Do all three of Ish Sodhi-Todd Astle-Mitchell Santner fit in the 15? Does Martin Guptill continue or will Finn Allen be given a chance? Can both Adam Milne & Lockie Ferguson make the XI? Where does Tim Seifert fit in the equation? So many questions, less than 335 days, as Jimmy Neesham puts it.

3. Pakistan 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

Will Pakistan get a better chance? World Cup in the UAE, Babar Azam & Mohammad Rizwan in the form of their lives, bowling good as usual, fielding better than ever, Asif Ali finally coming into his own, and the 40 year youngsters Hafeez and Malik matching everybody else.

5 group matches, 5 different player of the match awards. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Asif Ali, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shoaib Malik. And the most runs of the tournament by their captain Babar Azam?

How did they get here? By completely dominating the match against India (via Shaheen’s opening spell including that ball to KL Rahul), completed a low scorer against NZ, crushed Afghanistan with Asif Ali’s 4 sixes, and brushed Scotland & Namibia by batting first.

Pakistan, who have been disappointed by NZ and England cricket boards, were writing a lovely beautiful story. However, just as in the 2010 T20 WC semi final against Australia, the story went off track. A left handed middle order batter finished it off with consecutive sixes against Pakistan’s best bowler. It was Mike Hussey Vs Saeed Ajmal 11 years ago. It was Matthew Wade Vs Shaheen Shah Afridi this year.

Pakistan’s World Cup In A Nutshell

ResultSemi-Finalists
Top of Group 2
Wins/Losses5/6
Best MatchBreak WC Jinx Vs India
Asif Ali’s 4 Sixes Crushes Afghan Spirits
Highest Run ScorersBabar Azam (303)
Mohammad Rizwan (281)
Highest Wicket TakersShadab Khan (9)
Haris Rauf (8)
Shaheen Shah Afridi (7)
X FactorsHaris Rauf’s death bowling, Shaheen Shah Afridi in the Powerplay, Imad Wasim-Shadab Khan’s miserly spells, Babar-Rizwan partnerhship, Malik-Asif Finishing
Broken DreamsHasan Ali’s Form
Lose a Close Semi-Final After Winning 5/5 Group Matches and dominating 35 overs of the semi=final

What Does Pakistan Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

Although Pakistan were possibly the best team throughout this year, they will have to make several changes next year due to conditions. A 150-160 score may not be defendable, the bowling combinations might need to be tweaked, and some young aggresive batters like Haider Ali will need to be placed in the XI.

4. England 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

I have two points of view on this England campaign. One can say that just like Pakistan, it was an underwhelming campaign since they dominated the group stages and failed to finish the semi-final like the Carlos Brathwaite final 5 years ago.

On the other hand, England were already missing Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer, and Sam Curran. During the tournament, they lost Tymal Mills, their best death bowler, and Jason Roy. The fact that they still dominated the tournament shows the marvelous depth in English cricket right now.

The positives? Moeen Ali’s all round package, Chris Woakes’ opening spells, Tymal Mills’ international comeback, Adil Rashid’s magic, Livingstone’s off-spin/leg-spin, and Jos Buttler’s century.

England’s World Cup In A Nutshell

ResultSemi-Finalists
Top of Group 1
Wins/Losses4/6
Best MatchDestroying the West Indies for 55
Semi-Finalist Vs NZ (Loss)
Highest Run ScorersJos Buttler (269)
Highest Wicket TakersAdil Rashid (9)
Moeen Ali, Tymal Mills, Chris Woakes (7)
Liam Livingstone, Chris Jordan (6)
X FactorsTymal Mills’ death bowling, Moeen Ali’s all-round show; The Beast that is Buttler
Broken DreamsFavorites fail to lift the T20 World Cup again; Tymal Mills & Jason Roy out injured mid-tournament; Morgan-Livingstone underwhelm with the bat

What Does England Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

Given Eoin Morgan’s batting form, he is almost nearing the end of his England journey although his captaincy was still top notch. Ashes is around the corner, and it is too soon to predict squads since injuries/retirements/mental health breaks are around the corner due to their grueling schedule. Malan & Moeen might stay, but Morgan might not make the XI if Stokes is back. If England can find depth & consistency in their death bowling (need to look past Jordan & Tom Curran), then this golden generation might have lift the T20 World Cup trophy.

5. South Africa 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

One of the two teams that would go back with positives. Despite the Quinton de Kock Controversy early on, South Africa held themselves up nicely under captain Temba Bavuma.

Anrich Nortje was devastating throughout the tournament, even a sub-par Kagiso Rabada got a hat-trick, Killer Miller came back to win a thriller against Sri Lanka, Rassie Van der Dussen-Aiden Markram made huge strides, and spinners Markram-Maharaj tied down the opposition. The peak of their journey was the final match where they defeated tournament favorites England, and dented their confidence going to the semi-finals.

The only two blips? The narrow loss against Australia in the opening game of the Super 12s and the slow chase against Bangladesh meant they finished they barely failed to qualify due to net run rate.

I had anticipated South Africa would miss ABD, Faf, Tahir, and Morris but evidently they made it work.

South Africa’s World Cup In A Nutshell

Result3rd in Group 1
Wins/Losses4/5
Best MatchDefeat Tournament Favorites England
Highest Run ScorersRassie van der Dussen (177)
Aiden Markram (162)
Highest Wicket TakersAnrich Nortje, Dwaine Pretorius (9)
Tabraiz Shamsi, Kagiso Rabada (8)
X FactorsNortje-Shamsi brilliant with the ball, Markram-van der Dussen brilliant with the bat, The Return of Killer Miller, and Temba Bavuma’s captaincy
Broken DreamsQuinton de Kock & Cricket South Africa’s miscommunication and mini-scandal
Failing to Qualify for the Semi-Finals on NRR again

What Does South Africa Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

South Africa need more stability in their middle order. The bowlers can defend middling scores in all conditions, but inconsistency in batting and lack of death is holding them back. They have a good core, if they do not get the Group of Death again, they will definitely be semi-finalist contenders.

6. Sri Lanka 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

The most improved and watchable team of the T20 World Cup. Sri Lanka was the only team in the first week to look a class apart. In the Super 12s, they began positively with an improbable chase against Bangladesh and pushed England to the edge. However, they never really recovered from their last over loss against South Africa.

Asalanka & Rajapaska were the pick of the batters, opposition had no clue for their mystery spin, and Lahiru Kumara’s aggressive attitude and speed took opposition by surprise. Wanindu Hasaranga is having a dream year, and he was one of the standouts of this World Cups, both with the bat and the ball.

Sri Lanka’s World Cup In A Nutshell

Result4th in Group 1
1st in Group A
Wins/Losses5/3 (Overall)
2/3 (Super 12s)
Best MatchChase 172 Vs Bangladesh Against All Odds
Highest Run ScorersCharith Asalanka (231)
Pathum Nissanka (221)
Bhanuka Rajapaksa (155)
Highest Wicket TakersWanindu Hasaranga (16)
Mahesh Theekshana, Lahiru Kumara (8)
X FactorsWanindu Hasaranga’s All-Round Show, Lahiru Kumara’s aggression, Nissanka-Asalanka-Rajapaksa form core for the future
Broken DreamsLose Steam Towards The End After Winning 5 Overall

What Does Sri Lanka Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

From 2015, Sri Lanka had been in grave transition. They finally found a group of players they can persist with in the near future. Hasaranga, Asalanka, & Rajapaksa defined this team with their positive brand of cricket. Finally opener Pathum Nissanka and mystery spinner Theekshana are really good prospects for Sri Lanka. If the seniors—Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, captain Dasun Shanaka, (maybe Chandimal & Matthews as well?) and the pacers Chameera-Kumara can come together, they might be the dark horse for the next World Cup.

Unfortunately just failed the direct qualification to the Super 12s, so have to go through the double qualification once again.

7. India 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

A tough tournament for Indian fans.

A dismal loss against Pakistan, a week long break, no intent against their WC arch-nemesis, New Zealand, and three spirited efforts against Afghanistan, Scotland, and Namibia to boost their net run rate. However, NZ’s victory against Afghanistan ensured India was never really in the tournament apart from outside mathematical calculations. It was the vulnerability against left arm seamers and good fast bowling once again that left India on the backfoot against Pakistan & NZ respectively.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s control in the middle overs and the intent shown by KL Rahul & Rohit Sharma at the end were some positives for India.

India’s World Cup In A Nutshell

Result3rd in Group 2
Wins/Losses3/2
Best MatchChase 89 Vs Scotland In 7.3 Overs
Highest Run ScorersKL Rahul (194)
Rohit Sharma (174)
Highest Wicket TakersJasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja (7)
Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammad Shami (6)
X FactorsR Ashwin’s economical middle overs; Rahul-Sharma opening partnership (when they played with freedom)
Broken DreamsIndia loses against arch-nemesis NZ; First WC Loss to Pakistan; Favorites crash out without a fight; Shami suffers social media abuse; Kohli’ bows out captaincy career without a title

What Does India Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

Revamp their whole squad might be a rash decision, but something out of the ordinary is needed. Although some bold decisions were taken for this tournament, more game time is needed for a new-look T20I team. KL Rahul & Rohit Sharma should stay opening partners, Suryakumar, Pant, Bumrah, & Jadeja should remain in the fray, but the rest is up in the air, especially for Australian conditions.

Does Kohli fit in or do India do what England did to Root? Ashwin has been good, but Chahal definitely merits a place back. What about the Hardik Pandya problem? Can India find batters that in the top 4 that can bowl? India have the players, but maybe it is a curse rather than a blessing in ICC tournaments for this immense depth.

8. Afghanistan 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

Afghanistan did not have the worst of tournaments and were in contention till the very last day of the Super 12s, but there is a feeling that they could have done better.

In these conditions, Rashid-Mujeeb-Nabi were devastating individually but could not all fire together. The openers gave them spark, but not consistently. Najibullah Zadran was in his peak for, Hamid Hassan was back, and captain Mohammad Nabi batted with responsibility. Muscular Gulbadin Naib had a decent outing, and so did Naveen-ul-Haq. The only team to bat first with confidence and defend scores, their change of strategies in the crunch game against India did not work out for them.

Post the Pakistan game, it all just fell apart. 4 sixes in a row prompted freak retirement announcement by senior batter Asghar Afghan in the middle of the tournament. They could not manage to upset India or NZ, which is all that was needed.

Afghanistan’s World Cup In A Nutshell

Result4th In Group 2
Wins/Losses2/3
Best MatchCrush Scotland By 130 Runs
Highest Run ScorersNajibullah Zadran (172)
Mohammad Nabi (127)
Highest Wicket TakersRashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman (8)
X FactorsMystery Spinners; Nabi-Najibullah late order hitting; Zazai-Shahzad provide some good starts
Broken DreamsDid not upset any of the big 3 in the group—NZ, Pakistan, & India
Tough close loss against Pakistan and subsequent retirement of Asghar Afghan in the middle of the tournament derailed their campaign

What Does Afghanistan Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

First they need to ensure no administrative turmoil. For the last two World Cups now, they have had captaincy changes right before the tournament. Afghanistan might be upbeat for next year since many of their players have BBL experience in Australia. All they need ais a couple of fast bowlers and Qais Ahmed back, and this team can outdo any other on a given day.

9. Namibia 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

The story of the tournament by far.

First time qualifying for a cricket world cup since 2003 and guess what? Not only winning one game but THREE GAMES! Defeated the European trio of Ireland (full member), Netherlands, and Scotland and got a direct entry to the 2022 T20 World Cup.

The middle order, led by David Wiese, was their saving grace but their disciplined bowling, led by Trumpelmann & Wiese, kept them in the game, even against the likes of Pakistan and New Zealand. Trumpelmann’s 3-wicket opening over & JJ Smit’s finishing heroics over Scotland was the highlight of their tournament. Kudos to captain Erasmus for playing the tournament with a broken finger.

Namibia’s World Cup In A Nutshell

Result5th in Group 2
2nd in Group A
Wins/Losses3/5 (Overall)
1/4 (Super 12s)
Best MatchDefeat Full Member Ireland
Win First Super 12 Match (Vs Scotland)
Highest Run ScorersDavid Wiese (227)
Gerhard Erasmus (151)
Highest Wicket TakersJan Frylinck (9)
David Wiese (6)
Ruben Trumpelmann (6)
X FactorsLower Middle Order
Trumpelmann’s Opening Spells
Broken DreamsNone Really. Except for their opening game against Sri Lanka, they competed well throughout the tournament even against Full Members

What Does Namibia’s Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

If Namibia need to improve and go one step further, they need to add a bit of spice to their bowling attack. For their first 10 overs, they are good but need to keep opposition down at the death. Can they make it to the Super 12s again?

10. Scotland 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

Scotland experienced high highs and suffered low lows.

From 53-6 in their opening game against Bangladesh, a Chris Greaves inspired victory gave them victory over Bangladesh. They dominated the early groups with 3 wins in 3 matches. They nosedived with a 130-run loss against Afghanistan’s spin in the first match of the Super 12s and never recovered. Their only hope was against Namibia which they made a game out of, but still lost.

The bowlers came to the party, especially Mark Watt (1/19, 1/23, 1/23, 1/23, 1/22, 1/13, 1/20, 0/41) but their famed batters let them down.

Scotland’s World Cup In A Nutshell

Result6th in Group 2
1st in Group A
Wins/Losses3/5 (Overall)
0/5 (Super 12s)
Best MatchStun Bangladesh (Feat Chris Greaves)
Highest Run ScorersRichie Berrington (177)
George Munsey (152)
Matthew Cross (135)
Michael Leask (130)
Highest Wicket TakersJosh Davey (9)
Safyaan Sharif, Brad Wheal (8)
Mark Watt (7)
Chris Greaves (6)
X FactorsWatt’s Economical (6.13) Consistency, Berrington’s Fifties, Fast Bowlers Accurate, Leask’s Power Hitting, The Rise of Chris Greaves, Matt Cross’s Commetnary Behind the Stumps
Broken DreamsKyle Coetzer & Heralded Top Order Suffer Collective Failure

What Does Scotland Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

Are Scotland’s golden era ageing or was it just the conditions? The good thing is they have qualified for the 2022 T20 World Cup by the virtue of qualifying for the Super 12s. They need batting depth and power hitters to complement their bowlers. Should still make it past the early group into the Super 12s next year.

11. West Indies 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

Well the Last Dance was not meant to be. Only one win overall, and that too by 3 runs.

Not only did West Indies not qualify for the semi-finals, they had a horrible time. Bundled out for 55 against England, they never really figured out what their approach will be. Go all guns blazing like Lewis tried or hang in there like Lendl Simmons? Gayle-Pollard-Russell were almost no shows, and Jason Holder as replacement (who should have been in the squad in the first place) was the only spark.

Akeal Hosein was the find for West Indies, filling Fabian Allen’s left arm spin shoe perfectly as were Pooran-Hetmyer briefly. It was good to see Bravo & Gayle having fun in what may be their last T20I.

West Indies’ World Cup In A Nutshell

Result5th In Group 1
Wins/Losses1/4
Best MatchWins a Low Scoring Thriller Vs Bangladesh
Highest Run ScorersShimron Hetmyer (127)
Highest Wicket TakersAkeal Hosein (5)
X FactorsAkeal Hosein’s Opening spells & fielding; Pooran-Hetmyer
Holder’s comeback
Broken Dreams55 All Out
Obed McCoy Injury
Lendl Simmons’ Slow Show
Dwayne Bravo Retires
Chris Gayle (almost) retires
Horror show for T20 stars Gayle, Pollard, Russell
Hat-trick Dream Unfulfilled

What Does West Indies Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

A completely rejig of the squad is needed. Hetmyer, Pooran, Lewis, Holder, Fabian Allen, Akeal Hosein, and even Kieron Pollard might stay but it is the end of the road for Gayle, Bravo, Russell? and Rampaul. It would be interesting to see if Roston Chase stays and if ‘rotating the strike’ will come into their T20 philosophy. West Indies of the 2010s changed T20 cricket with their boundary hitting but they need to move on with the times.

12. Bangladesh 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

Where do I even start?

I was a fan of the rising Bangladesh ODI team and had them as a semi-finalist possibility, but this team was a complete no-show. Expected to do well in spinning UAE conditions and after dominating Australia & New Zealand at home in dust bowls, this was a huge let down.

For the first time in recent WCs, the seniors did not stand up (Shakib in the first few games apart) which exposed the gaps in the rest of the team. The likes of Liton Das, Soumy Sarkar, and Afif Hossain have not really become consistent cricketers that Bangladesh needed.

The worst part was the last couple of games. Losing a WC happens, but giving up without a fight was truly disappointing as they were skittled for 73 and 84 respectively against Australia & South Africa.

Taskin Ahmed’s comeback spirit and Mahedi Hasan were the only positive.

Bangladesh’s World Cup In A Nutshell

Result6th in Group 1
2nd in Group B
Wins/Losses2/6 (Overall)
0/5 (Super 12s)
Best MatchBangladesh Survive Oman Scare
Highest Run ScorersMohammad Naim (174)
Mahmudullah (169)
Highest Wicket TakersShakib Al Hasan (11)
Mahedi Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman (8)
X FactorsTaskin Ahmed’s Energy
Mahedi Hasan
Shakib Al Hasan in the early stages
Broken DreamsMahmudullah’s captaincy decisions
Mushfiqur Rahim’s lack of form
Liton Das’s Horror Show
Youngsters Fail To Rise to the Occasion
Mustafizur Expensive
Shakib Al Hasan’s Injury

What Does Bangladesh Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

The next generation of Bangladesh cricket need to come in. Already the likes of Saif Hasasn, Najmul Hossain Shanto, leg spinner Aminul Islam, U-19 winning captain Akbar Ali among others have been selected for the Pakistan T20I series while Mushfiqur Rahim is dropped. I expect the Fab 4 to be in the squad in Australia, but maybe not a regular XI spot. This is the step in the right direction, but one year is too less for a T20I team to develop. It may take a few years to bounce back.

13. Oman 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

Oman will have mixed feelings from this World Cup.

First of all, they were wonderful hosts and made sure the tournament started off the right foot (beautiful background as well). After winning the first game against PNG comfortably, they would have felt they are almost into the Super 12s, but they let the tense game against Bangladesh slip.

Captain Zeeshan Maqsood’s 3 wicket over, Jainder Singh-Aqib Ilyas’ opening partnership, Singh’s celebrations, and Bilal Khan’s pinpoint yorkers marked Oman’s tournament.

Oman’s World Cup In A Nutshell

Result3rd in Group B
Wins/Losses1/2
Best MatchZeeshan Maqsood, Oman’s openers crush rusty PNG
Highest Run ScorersJatinder Singh (113)
Aqib Ilyas (93)
Highest Wicket TakersBilal Khan, Zeeshan Mazsood (5)
Kaleemullah, Fayyab Butt (4)
X FactorsJatinder Singh-Aqib Ilyas Opening Partnership
Broken DreamsHad a foot in the door early on, but could not maintain momentum; This was a good chance to qualify to the next round since all matches were at home

What Does Oman Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

They need to go back and qualify for the 2022 T20 World Cup. They need to make sure their middle order batters can endure pressure moments. Qualification cycles can be difficult, so we do not know if we will see them again. With Zimbabwe back in the qualifiers, it will just be harder.

14. Ireland 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

All was well and good with the world when Curtis Campher took 4 wickets in 4 balls and Ireland hammered the Netherlands. However, Sri Lanka’s big defeat rocked their NRR and a rising Namibia overthrew them as the ‘Associate giant.’

It was just destiny. Ireland upset the big teams 15 years ago to gain respect for the Associate nations, and now when they are a Full Member, a stronger set of Associate nations are beginning to upset them.

Josh Little the only positive for them apart from Campher.

Ireland’s World Cup In A Nutshell

Result3rd in Group A
Wins/Losses1/2
Best MatchCurtis Campher, Mark Adair Destroy Netherlands
Highest Run ScorersPaul Stirling (75)
Highest Wicket TakersCurtis Campher (6)
Josh Little, Mark Adair (5)
X FactorsCurtis Campher, The Double Hat-trick Man (or 4-in-4?)
Broken DreamsFull Member Ireland seem to be regressing in T20Is despite strides in ODI cricket

What Does Ireland Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

Ireland’s golden generation has ended, and it will take a while for the young guns to pick up but T20 cricket is just not suited to their styles. Probably the end of the road for Kevin O’Brien. Honestly, I do not see Ireland see improving much unless T20 franchise leagues start acquring talent like Paul Stirling and Josh Little.

15. Papua New Guinea 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

Papua New Guinea brought the world to the Cricket World Cup. Although they did not win any games, their family-like spirit took the fans by delight.

The partnership between Assad Vala and Charles Amini against Oman displayed that these bunch of players possess a lot of talent if they are given the environment to flourish. Some good hitting at the end by Doriga as well against Scotland to keep the game interesting.

Papua New Guinea’s World Cup In A Nutshell

Result4th in Group B
Wins/Losses0/3
Best MatchScotland Vs Papua New Guinea
Highest Run ScorersAssad Vala (80)
Kiplin Doriga (64)
Highest Wicket TakersKabua Morea (6)
X FactorsCharles Amini-Assad Vala show the flair in their side
Brilliant diving catches and disciplined fielding throughout
Broken DreamsGo Home With No Wins

What Does Papua New Guinea Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

They have to go through qualification again. The next World Cup is near their home in Oceania, but is their World Cup qualification dream too far?

16. Netherlands 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review

Netherlands were a rising team over the last couple of years, but questionable selections and lack of preparation due to COVID-19 meant they could not carry their form in the tournament.

106/10, 44/10 and losing to Namibia after scoring 164/4. Not much of note apart from Max O’Dowd’s form. They came in with good form and called upon RTD & RVDM, but performances did not add up.

Netherlands’ World Cup In A Nutshell

Result4th in Group A
Wins/Losses0/3
Best MatchNone
Highest Run ScorersMax O’Dowd (123)
Highest Wicket TakersPieter Seelar, Fred Klaassen, Brandon Glover (2)
X FactorsMax O’Dowd continues his good form
Broken DreamsThe great Ryan Ten Doeschate retires without a proper sendoff (does not get selected for the last match)

What Does Netherlands Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?

They just need to play more between World Cups. They have a South Africa tour coming up. Hopefully they can gain good experience and build confidence. Will need to qualify again however.

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Sri Lanka Vs West Indies – T20 World Cup 2021 Match #35 Quick Review!

Sri Lanka Vs West Indies Quick Review – Sharp Sri Lanka ends West Indian T20 legacy.

Sri Lanka are leaving with their heads held high, 5 wins out 8 & a positive brand of cricket. WI depart as an era ends.

Match Details, Scorecard, & Video Highlights

Scorecard: Sri Lanka Vs West Indies Video Highlights

Toss: West Indies won the toss and chose to field first.

Venue: Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Umpires: Aleem Dar & Langton Rusere

What Actually Happened

  • Winner: Sri Lanka won by 20 runs
  • Scores: Sri Lanka 189/3 West Indies 169/8
  • Player of the Match: Charith Asalanka 68 (41)
  • Best Figures
    • Andre Russell (4-0-33-2)
    • Wanindu Hasaranga (4-0-19-2)
  • Most Runs
    • Charith Asalanka 68 (44)
    • Shimron Hetmyer 81* (54)

Moments of The Day: Sri Lanka Batted Better, Fielded Better, Bowled Better

  • Everyone from Sri Lanka contributed today. Kusal Perera 29 (21) & Pathum Nissanka 51 (41) gave them yet another bright start, but it was Asalanka’a clinical timing and Shanaka’s finishing 25* (14) that gave SL an above-par sore.
  • In every one of these quick summaries, we have mentioned Hasaranga. Sometimes he has contributed with the bat, sometimes with the ball, and sometimes both. Oh and the fielding is pretty good as well. Here is how he fared in the tournament, definitely a player of the tournament contender:
    • 2/24
    • 71 & 1/12
    • 3/9
    • 6 & 0/29
    • 4 & 2/22
    • 4 & 3/20
    • 34 & 3/21
    • 2/19
  • In a must win crunch game, 8 out of the 10 West Indian batters, most of them legends, scored in the single digits. Only the young guns, Nicholas Pooran (age 26) scored 46 (34) and Shimron Hetmyer (age 24) made sure West Indies at least competed. Hetmyer did not give up till the very end, bringing the target down to 35 in 6 balls.

Honorable Mention: Rajapaksa’s diving catch to dismiss Roston Chase & Karunatne’s running catch to dismiss Holder were outstanding

Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: The Sun Sets For the Legends

Darren Sammy had repeatedly set on air that these group of West Indian players were aware that this tournament would define their legacies, especially Chris Gayle & Dwayne Bravo. However, Gayle went out for 1 & Bravo for 2 (and only one wicket at an economy rate of 10.50). Bravo is officially retiring from international duty after this World Cup and one can only assume the same with Chris Gayle.

Pollard is still staying although his captaincy status depends on the board. With Pooran, Hetmyer, & Holder (only 29 years old), the leadership group for the next generation is there but rebuilding needs to start now.

In any case, thank you Legends. We love you for all you have given this sport. They have defined the T20 format and made it their own.

Also Read: 200th Article Special: 5 Things I have Learned From My Journey of Cricket Writing

T20 World Cup Points Table, Most Runs, Wickets, Catches, Dismissals

No need to go elsewhere for the Points Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!

  • Charith Asalanka – 231 runs (Sri Lanka, 6 Matches)
  • Wanindu Hasaranga – 16 wickets (Sri Lanka, 8 Matches)
  • Calum MacLeod 7 catches (Scotland, 6 Matches)
  • Matthew Wade – 7 dismissals (Australia, 4 Matches)

Group 1 Table

TeamsPlayedWonLostTied
No-Result
PointsNet Run Rate
1. England44008+ 3.183
2. Australia43106+ 1.031
3. South Africa43106+ 0.742
4. Sri Lanka52304– 0.269
5. West Indies41302– 1.558
6. Bangladesh50500– 2.383
T20 World Cup 2021 Group 1 Points Table

Group 2 Table

TeamsPlayedWonLostTied
No-Result
PointsNet Run Rate
1. Pakistan44008+ 1.065
2. Afghanistan42204+ 1.481
3. New Zealand32104+ 0.816
4. India31102+ 0.073
5. Namibia31202– 1.600
6. Scotland30300– 2.645
T20 World Cup 2021 Group 2 Points Table

Also, if you have not yet read our T20 World Cup Previews, here is a list of all of them! Check them out and share ahead:

  1. A Review – Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, Sri Lanka
  2. B Review – Group B 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Bangladesh, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Scotland
  3. 1 Review – Group 1 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Australia, England, South Africa, West Indies
  4. 2 Review – Group 2 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, New Zealand

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, 2021. Originally published on 11/04/2021. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Home » Sri Lanka

Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images

South Africa Vs Sri Lanka- T20 World Cup 2021 Match #25 Quick Review! Finally a Thriller As Killer Miller Returns

South Africa Vs Sri Lanka Quick Review – South Africa inch up in tough group to solidify their dark horse status.

Match Details, Scorecard, & Video Highlights

Scorecard: South Africa Vs Sri Lanka Video Highlights

Toss: South Africa won the toss and chose to field first.

Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, UAE

Umpires: Joel Wilson & Paul Wilson

What Actually Happened

  • Winner: South Africa won by 4 wickets
  • Scores: Sri Lanka 142/10South Africa 146/6
  • Player of the Match: Tabraiz Shamsi 3/17
  • Best Figures
    • Tabraiz Shamsi (4-0-17-3), Dwaine Pretorius (3-0-17-3)
    • Wanindu Hasaranga (4-0-20-3)
  • Most Runs
    • Pathum Nissanka 72 (58)
    • Temba Bavuma 46 (46)

Moments of The Day: Hasaranga’s Hat-Trick, Miller-Rabada’s Finishing Defines Close Game

  • Pathum Nissanka has been one of the most promising names in Sri Lanka’s domestic circuit, boasting a first class average of 64.45 & scoring his first ton within 4 Tests. With this 72, I am glad he has transferred his talent in T20Is.
  • Temba Bavuma has been under scrutiny ever since his Test debut and more so, since captaincy. His 46 (46) might not look inspiring, but in this World T20, each team needs a middle order batter that can grind it out. Also his leadership with the QDK saga has been brilliant. Supporting his teammate all the way, while standing up for the movement at the same time.
  • Let us talk about David Miller. In 2018 & 2020, he averaged 20.16 with 113.08 SR and 25.00 average at 120.48 SR respectively. He had a good 2019, which kept him in the team but he is flourishing this year – 46.50 at 148.80. This match with the World Cup on the line, he struck two of the cleanest sixes of the World Cup, with Rabada hitting the last 4 to give South Africa a close victory. Miller’s career phases- Killer Miller, Accumulator Miller, Gone Miller….and the Old Miller is back!

Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Can SL Keep Playing the Same Brand of Cricket?

  • SL are one of the only countries playing a positive brand of Cricket regardless of the situation. The attitude helped them win 4 in 4, but with 2 consecutive losses including a close one here might dent their confidence. Can they continue in a similar fashion?

Also Read:

T20 World Cup Points Table, Stat Alert

No need to go elsewhere for the Points Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!

  • Jos Buttler – 214 runs (England, 4 Matches)
  • Wanindu Hasaranga – 14 wickets (Sri Lanka, 7 Matches)
  • Calum MacLeod – 6 catches (Scotland, 5 Matches)
  • Matthew Wade – 5 dismissals (Australia, 3 Matches)

Group 1 Table

TeamsPlayedWonLostTied
No-Result
PointsNet Run Rate
1. England44008+ 3.183
2. South Africa32104+ 0.210
3. Australia32104– 0.627
4. Sri Lanka41302– 0.590
5. West Indies31202– 1.598
6. Bangladesh30300– 1.069
T20 World Cup 2021 Group 1 Points Table

Group 2 Table

TeamsPlayedWonLostTied
No-Result
PointsNet Run Rate
1. Pakistan33006+ 0.638
2. Afghanistan32104+ 3.097
3. New Zealand21102+ 0.765
4. Namibia21102– 1.287
5. India20200– 1.609
6. Scotland20200– 3.562
T20 World Cup 2021 Group 2 Points Table

Also, if you have not yet read our T20 World Cup Previews, here is a list of all of them! Check them out and share ahead:

  1. A Review – Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, Sri Lanka
  2. B Review – Group B 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Bangladesh, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Scotland
  3. 1 Review – Group 1 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Australia, England, South Africa, West Indies
  4. 2 Review – Group 2 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, New Zealand

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, 2021. Originally published on 11/01/2021. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Home » Sri Lanka

Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images

Australia Vs Sri Lanka- T20 World Cup 2021 Match #22 Quick Review! Is Australia Peaking At the Right Time?

Australia Vs Sri Lanka Quick Review – Rising Sri Lanka come up against Zampa & Starc as Finch-Warner regain form.

Match Details, Scorecard, & Video Highlights

Scorecard: Australia vs Sri Lanka Video Highlights

Toss: Australia won the toss and chose to field first.

Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, UAE

Umpires: Aleem Dar & Richard Illingworth

What Actually Happened

  • Winner: Australia won by 7 wickets
  • Scores: Sri Lanka 154/6Australia 155/3
  • Player of the Match: Adam Zampa 2/12
  • Best Figures
    • Adam Zampa (4-0-12-2)
    • Wanindu Hasaranga (4-0-22-2)
  • Most Runs
    • Charith Asaslanka 35 (27), Kusal Perera 35 (25)
    • David Warner 65 (42)

Moments of The Day: Australia Has Woken Up

  • When Kusal Perera & Charith Asalanaka were batting, Sri Lanka could do no wrong. The pulls and straight sixes were a delight to watch. Sri Lanka’s promise was coming back.SL 78/1 in 9.3 overs.
  • Then came the duo of Mitchell Starc and Adam Zampa. Within three overs, Sri Lanka collapsed to 94/5, including a beautiful yorker by Starc to Perera. Another good innings by Rajapaksa (33*) and support from captain Dasun Shanaka got SL to a decent 154/6.
  • However this was no challenge for Australia as the old horse returned. 70 run opening partnership (Finch 37) and Warner’s 65 silenced the critics. Also, who said Steve Smith cannot bat in T20s? He has been crucial in these low scoring chases recently.

Warner, Finch, Smith, Starc, Cummins, Hazlewood, Zampa all found form. Australia are smelling a World Cup semi-final spot. Beware of this team.

Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Sri Lanka Finally Lose

  • Sri Lanka’s journey in this World Cup has been pitch perfect. For the first hour, it seemed that the new style of their cricket would take them to a fifth victory. That was not to be, and now couple of crucial games follow due to this loss.

The Broken Dream of the Day – Kusal Perera’s dropped catch – Has to rank among the worst dropped catches of all time and let Warner back into the game.

Also Read: Alternative World Test Championship Points Table: Australia Should Be In the World Test Championship Final & I Have The Data To Prove It

T20 World Cup Points Table, Stat Alert

No need to go elsewhere for the Points Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!

  • Mahmudullah – 150 runs (Bangladesh, 6 Matches)
  • Shakib Al Hasan – 11 wickets (Bangladesh, 4 Matches)
  • Calum MacLeod – 6 catches (Scotland, 5 Matches)
  • Nurul Hasan, Matthew Cross (Bangladesh/Scotland) – 5 dismissals

Group 1 Table

TeamsPlayedWonLostTied
No-Result
PointsNet Run Rate
1. England22004+ 3.614
2. Australia22004+ 0.727
3. South Africa21102+ 0.179
4. Sri Lanka21102– 0.416
5. West Indies31202– 1.598
6. Bangladesh30300– 1.069
T20 World Cup 2021 Group 1 Points Table

Group 2 Table

TeamsPlayedWonLostTied
No-Result
PointsNet Run Rate
1. Pakistan33006+ 0.638
2. Afghanistan21102+ 3.092
3. Namibia10102+ 0.550
4. New Zealand10100– 0.532
5. India10100– 0.973
6. Scotland20002– 3.562
T20 World Cup 2021 Group 2 Points Table

Also, if you have not yet read our T20 World Cup Previews, here is a list of all of them! Check them out and share ahead:

  1. A Review – Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, Sri Lanka
  2. B Review – Group B 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Bangladesh, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Scotland
  3. 1 Review – Group 1 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Australia, England, South Africa, West Indies
  4. 2 Review – Group 2 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, New Zealand

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, 2021. Originally published on 10/29/2021. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Home » Sri Lanka

Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images

Bangladesh Vs Sri Lanka – T20 World Cup 2021 Match #15 Quick Review! Asalanka, Bangladesh’s Poor Decisions Push the Game Lanka’s Way In a High Scoring Thriller

Bangladesh Vs Sri Lanka Quick Review – Finally a high scoring run chase! Sri Lanka win 4 in 4 as Bangladesh need to reflect on certain bowling decisions.

Inspiring effort from Sri Lanka.

Match Details, Scorecard, & Video Highlights

Scorecard: Bangladesh Vs Sri Lanka Video Highlights

Toss: Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to field first.

Venue: Sharjah International Stadium, Sharjah, UAE

Umpires: Adrian Holdstock & Joel Wilson

What Actually Happened

  • Winner: England won by 5 wickets
  • Scores: Bangladesh 171/4England 172/5
  • Player of the Match: Charith Asalanka 80* (49)
  • Best Figures
    • Chamika Karunaratne (3-0-12-1)
    • Shakib Al Hasan (3-0-17-2)
  • Most Runs
    • Mohammad Naim – 62 (52), Mushfiqur Rahim – 57* (37)
    • Charith Asalanka 80* (49), Bhanuka Rajapaksa – 53 (31)

Moments of The Day: Batting Performances Mark High Scoring Day

  • Mohammad Naim continued his good form as he anchored the innings till the 16th over. It was Mushfiqur Rahim’s spectacular 57* that ensured Bangladesh went up to 171. The way he swept Hasaranga meant he only got 3 overs to bowl. After a poor run of form, good signs for Bangladesh that Rahim is back.
  • Sri Lanka had a similar story. Just like Rahim, birthday boy Rajapaksa kept the required rate in check during the middle overs, but the story of day was of Charith Asalanka—not only did he anchor the innings, he stayed till the end to see Sri Lanka get home.
  • Decision to hold Shakib & Fizz back contributed to Bangladesh’s loss. For the first 8 overs, it was anybody’s game. Then came in Shakib Al Hasan. Nissanka & Fernando both bowled throughout the gate. Bangladesh felt comfortable. Shakib still had 2 overs left. Instead of going for the jugular, two overs of Mahmudullah and one over from Afif Hossain brought Sri Lanka back into the game due to the presence of left handers. Finally, a 22-over from Saifuddin killed the chase. By the time Fizz and Shakib returned, SL only needed 24 of 24.

Lanka won by an over to spare and Shakib, higest wicket taker of the tournament so far, ended with only 3 overs…

Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Liton Das

Liton Das had a poor day altogether.

16 (16), exchanged words with Lahiru Kumara after his dismissal, and dropped catches of both Asalanka and Rajapaksa, which were crucial moments in a close game.

Also Read: Nicholas Pooran, A Story of Pain, Hope, & Inspiration: The Next Big Thing of West Indies & World Cricket

T20 World Cup Points Table, Stat Alert

No need to go elsewhere for the Points Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!

  • Mohommad Naim – 126 runs (Bangladesh, 3 Matches)
  • Shakib Al Hasan – 11 wickets (Bangladesh, 4 Matches)
  • Calum MacLeod, Jatinder Singh (Scotland/Oman, 3 Matches) – 5 catches
  • Nurul Hasan (Bangladesh) – 5 dismissals

Group 1 Table

TeamsPlayedWonLostTied
No-Result
PointsNet Run Rate
1. England11002+ 3.970
2. Sri Lanka11002+ 0.583
3. Australia11002+ 0.253
4. South Africa10100– 0.253
5. Bangladesh10100– 0.583
6. West Indies10100– 3.970
T20 World Cup 2021 Group 1 Points Table

Group 2 Table

TeamsPlayedWonLostTied
No-Result
PointsNet Run Rate
1. Afghanistan11002+ 6.500
2. Pakistan11002+ 0.973
3. India10100– 0.973
4. Scotland10100– 6.500
5. Namibia
6. New Zealand
T20 World Cup 2021 Group 2 Points Table

Also, if you have not yet read our T20 World Cup Previews, here is a list of all of them! Check them out and share ahead:

  1. A Review – Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, Sri Lanka
  2. B Review – Group B 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Bangladesh, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Scotland
  3. 1 Review – Group 1 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Australia, England, South Africa, West Indies
  4. 2 Review – Group 2 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, New Zealand

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, 2021. Originally published on 10/26/2021. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Home » Sri Lanka

Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images

Sri Lanka Vs Netherlands – T20 World Cup 2021 Match #12 Quick Review! The Dutch Fold for 44, That is All

Sri Lanka Vs Netherlands Quick Review – There is not much to say for this one, is there? Just a shambolic performance by Netherlands as the Sri Lankan attack targeted the stumps.

Match Details, Scorecard, & Video Highlights

Scorecard: Sri Lanka Vs Netherlands Video Highlights

Toss: Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to field first.

Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Umpires: Joel Wilson & Richard Illingworth

What Actually Happened

  • Winner: Sri Lanka won by 8 wickets
  • Scores: Netherlands 44/10Sri Lanka 45/2
  • Player of the Match: Lahiru Kumara
  • Best Figures
    • Lahiru Kumara (3-1-7-3) & Wanindu Hasaranga (3-0-9-3)
    • Brandon Glover (3-0-12-1)
  • Most Runs
    • Colin Ackerman – 11 (9)
    • Kusal Perera – 33* (24)

Moments of The Day: Lahiru Kumara Emerges

  • By this time, it has been observed that Sri Lanka can be deadly on these pitches, especially Sharjah (where they play 3 matches in the Super 12s by the way). We knew the spinners and mystery from Sri Lanka would bamboozle the world, but Lahiru Kumara’s spell caught my eye. There was a perfect bouncer in the middle of his spell that captured his accuracy.
  • Kusal Perera hit 6 fours in his 33 to ensure that Sri Lanka stamp their authority on this game and end Round 1 of the T20 World Cup in style.

Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Doeschate Retires Without a Farewell

  • Ryan Ten Doeschate has been such a legend for the Netherlands, the original T20 globetrotter. Average of 67.00 (87.7 SR) in ODI cricket and 41.00 (132.91 SR) in T20I. Debuted in first class cricket way back in 2003. It was sad to see him leave the cricketing stage without a game. Final match, Dutch already out, but we did not see him again. Only 0 (1) in Campher’s 4 in 4. #BrokenCricketDream

Also Read: My Favorite Player from Each Country: Unity In Diversity XI – #5 Will Shock You

T20 World Cup Points Table, Stat Alert

No need to go elsewhere for the Points Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!

  • Max O’Dowd – 123 runs (Netherlands, 3 Matches)
  • Shakib Al Hasan – 9 wickets (Bangladesh, 3 Matches)
  • Calum MacLeod, Jatinder Singh (Scotland/Oman, 3 Matches) – 5 catches
  • Nurul Hasan (Bangladesh) – 5 dismissals

Group A Table

TeamsPlayedWonLostTied
No-Result
PointsNet Run Rate
1. Sri Lanka33006+ 3.754
2. Namibia32104– 0.523
3. Ireland31202– 0.853
4. Netherlands30300– 2.460
T20 World Cup 2021 Group A Points Table

Also, if you have not yet read our T20 World Cup Previews, here is a list of all of them! Check them out and share ahead:

  1. A Review – Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, Sri Lanka
  2. B Review – Group B 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Bangladesh, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Scotland
  3. 1 Review – Group 1 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Australia, England, South Africa, West Indies
  4. 2 Review – Group 2 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, New Zealand

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, 2021. Originally published on 10/23/2021. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Home » Sri Lanka

Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images

Sri Lanka Vs Ireland – T20 World Cup 2021 Match #8 Quick Review! Hasaranga’s All-Round Show Destroys Ireland

Sri Lanka Vs Ireland Quick Review – Sri Lanka recovered from early jolts courtesy Hasaranga.

Change in the tale for Ireland?

Match Details, Scorecard, & Video Highlights

Scorecard: Sri Lanka Vs Ireland Video Highlights

Toss: Ireland won the toss and chose to field first.

Venue: Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Umpires: Nitin Menon & Paul Wilson

What Actually Happened

  • Winner: Sri Lanka won by 70 runs
  • Scores: Sri Lanka 171/7Ireland 101/10
  • Player of the Match: Wanindu Hasaranga
  • Best Figures
    • Josh Little (4-0-23-4)
    • Mahesh Theekshana (4-0-17-3)
  • Most Runs
    • Wanindu Hasaranga – 71 (47) & Pathum Nissanka – 61 (47).
    • Andy Balbirnie – 41 (39)

Moments of The Day: Hasaranga Here, Hasaranga There, Hasaranga Everywhere

  • Josh Little comes to the party – Little has been one of the positives from the Irish campaign. He gave Ireland the early boost with wickets of consecutive deliveries. What is the batter is the manner of dismissals – wonderful bowleds!
  • The Hasaranga-Nissanka partnership – Then came the game changing partnership – 123 (82). It was well paced. Not only did they provide recovery, they accelerated towards the end to get Sri Lanka to a winning total of 171.
  • Karunaratne (2/27)-Chameera (1/16)-Theekshana (3/17)-Hasaranga (1/12)-Kumara (2/22) near unplayable – With Stirling-O’Brien out early, Ireland never really built momentum. Each bowler contributed nicely. Although the mystery spinners are in focus, do not discount this fast bowling unit. Watch out for this Sri Lankan team in UAE conditions.

Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Ireland Fail to Assert Pressure

  • Sri Lanka were reeling at 8/3 in 1.4 overs with star batters Perera-Chandimal-Fernando out. However, Ireland failed to appoly pressure and saved the brilliant Josh Little for later. Why not go for the jugular right at the front?

Also Read: England Vs Sri Lanka 2021 Series Review: Woakes-Willey-Currans Impress As Sri Lanka Hit Rock Bottom

T20 World Cup Points Table, Stat Alert

No need to go elsewhere for the Points Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!

  • Max O’Dowd – 123 runs (Netherlands, 3 Matches)
  • Shakib Al Hasan – 9 wickets (Bangladesh, 3 Matches)
  • Calum MacLeod, Jatinder Singh (Scotland/Oman, 3 Matches) – 5 catches
  • Nurul Hasan (Bangladesh) – 5 dismissals

Group A Table

TeamsPlayedWonLostTied
No-Result
PointsNet Run Rate
1. Sri Lanka33006+ 3.754
2. Namibia32104– 0.523
3. Ireland31202– 0.853
4. Netherlands30300– 2.460
T20 World Cup 2021 Group A Points Table

Also, if you have not yet read our T20 World Cup Previews, here is a list of all of them! Check them out and share ahead:

  1. A Review – Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, Sri Lanka
  2. B Review – Group B 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Bangladesh, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Scotland
  3. 1 Review – Group 1 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Australia, England, South Africa, West Indies
  4. 2 Review – Group 2 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, New Zealand

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, 2021. Originally published on 10/23/2021. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Home » Sri Lanka

Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images

T20 World Cup Predictions: Winner, Top 4, Best Associates, MVP, Most Runs & Wickets, Surprises,…Can You Guess It All?

Welcome to T20 World Cup Predictions 😊

IPL is done, international cricket is back, and so is #BCDPredictions! Let us see how good the predictions of our fellow cricket fans on social media is.

We asked our viewers to respond with

  • #Winner
  • #Top4
  • #BestAssociates
  • #PlayerofWC
  • #MostRuns
  • #MostWickets
  • #BestCatch
  • #Surprise
  • #BrokenDream

So what do you say? Will we see any surprises? Are South Africa, Bangladesh, Afghanistan the dark horses for the tournament? How about rising Scotland? Any emerging players? Will we miss Faf, Tahir, Morris, Chahal, Narine, and more?

If you do not have enough information yet to do the predictions, check out these previews below.

Groups:

My IPL Predictions

Here are my predictions. Old World Cups photos and everyone’s predictions & analysis are stated below for comparison.

T20 World Cup 2021 Predictions

Chapter I: India Hold The Edge?

  1. Veer 🏏 (@CricCrazyVeer)
  • #Winner: India
  • #Top4: WI, Eng, NZ, Ind
  • #BestAssociates: Ire/Neth
  • #PlayerofWC: Jadeja
  • #MostRuns: Rizwan
  • #MostWickets: Shamsi
  • #BestCatch: Fabian Allen
  • #Surprise: Scotland, Afghanistan
  • #BrokenDream: Hafeez retires

2. Mohd Shamir Ansari (@ShamirMohd)

  • #Winner: India
  • #Top4: Ind, WI, Eng, NZ
  • #BestAssociates: Oman
  • #PlayerofWC: Jadeja
  • #MostRuns: Rohit Sharma
  • #MostWickets: Ish Sodhi
  • #BestCatch: Glenn Maxwell
  • #Surprise: Afghanistan
  • #BrokenDream: Gayle and Bravo retire.

3. Sourabh Sanyal -Mask & Vaccination (💉x😷) is must (@sourabhsanyal)

  • #Winner: India
  • #Top4: WI, Eng, Pak, Ind
  • #BestAssociates: Scotland
  • #PlayerofWC: Boom (Bumrah)
  • #MostRuns: KL Rahul
  • #MostWickets: Starc
  • #BestCatch: Jaddu/Kohhli
  • #Surprise: Afghanistan
  • #BrokenDream: Bangladesh
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Chapter 2: Is This World Cup Too Close To Call?

4. Anand Abhirup // 🤩⚔️ ︎ (@AnandHR_Odia)

  • #Winner: West Indies
  • #Top4: Ind, WI, Aus, NZ
  • #BestAssociates: Afghanistan
  • #PlayerofWC: KL Rahul
  • #MostRuns: KL Rahul
  • #MostWickets: Varun Chakravarthy
  • #BestCatch: Jadeja
  • #Surprise: Afghanistan

5.Sourabh Negi (@im_sourabh_Negi)

  • #Winner: India
  • #Top4: Ind, WI, Aus, NZ
  • #BestAssociates: Afghanistan
  • #PlayerofWC: KL Rahul
  • #MostRuns: KL Rahul
  • #MostWickets: S Thakur/ Rashid Khan
  • #BestCatch: Fabian Allen/Jadeja
  • #Surprise: Afghanistan

6. Paras (@ParasGirdhar22)

  • #Winner: Hard to Say
  • #Top4: Ind, Pak/NZ, Aus/Eng, WI
  • #MostRuns: Rohit
  • #MostWickets: Starc
  • #BestCatch: Jadeja
  • #Surprise: Same (as mine)
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Chapter 3: Can England Or WI Extend Their Limited Overs Dominance?

7. Deepak Kumar Panda (@Deepsdkp)

  • #Winner: India
  • #Top4: WI, Eng, Pak, Ind
  • #BestAssociates: Netherlands
  • #PlayerofWC: Rahul/jadeja
  • #MostRuns: Rahul
  • #MostWickets: Tymal Mills
  • #BestCatch: Jadeja
  • #Surprise: Afghanistan
  • #BrokenDream: Bravo and Gayle retire

8.Kickit Wicket (@KickitWicket)

  • #Winner: India
  • #Top4: NZ, WI, Aus, Ind
  • #BestAssociates: Netherlands
  • #PlayerofWC: Jadeja
  • #MostRuns: Maxwell
  • #MostWickets: Shamsi
  • #BestCatch: Williamson
  • #Surprise: NZ
  • #BrokenDream: Morgan duck in final innings

9.𝙋𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙮𝙪𝙨𝙝 (@ps26_11)

  • #Winner: England
  • #Top4: WI, Eng, NZ, Ind
  • #BestAssociates: Netherlands
  • #PlayerofWC: Maxwell
  • #MostRuns: KL Rahul
  • #MostWickets: Nortje
  • #BestCatch: Jadeja
  • #Surprise: Afghanistan/Scotland
  • #BrokenDream: Malik/Morgan retire
Embed from Getty Images

Chapter 4: Virat Kohli Vs Babar Azam Vs Kane Williamson Vs KL Rahul For Most Runs?

10. Wisdom

  • #Winner: Pakistan
  • #Top4: Aus, Eng, Pak, NZ
  • #BestAssociates: Scotland, Ireland
  • #PlayerofWC: Babar Azam
  • #MostRuns: Babar Azam
  • #MostWickets: Southee
  • #BestCatch: Fabian Allen
  • #Surprise: Fabian Allen
  • #BrokenDream: Virat Kohli

11. Chalupa

  • #Winner: India
  • #Top4: Aus, NZ, WI, Ind
  • #BestAssociates: Scotland
  • #PlayerofWC: Kane Williamson
  • #MostRuns: Virat Kohli
  • #MostWickets: Bumrah
  • #BestCatch: Jadeja
  • #Surprise: Scotland
  • #BrokenDream: Pakistan

12. Wow

  • #Winner: NZ
  • #Top4: NZ, WI, Ban, Afg
  • #BestAssociates: Scotland
  • #PlayerofWC: Rashid Khan
  • #MostRuns: KL Rahul
  • #MostWickets: Shardul Thakur
  • #BestCatch: Glenn Maxwell
  • #Surprise: India win
  • #BrokenDream: NZ out

13. Vandit

  • #Winner: India
  • #Top4: Ind, Pak, Eng, WI
  • #BestAssociates: Netherlands
  • #PlayerofWC: KL Rahul
  • #MostRuns: KL Rahul
  • #MostWickets: Adil Rashid
  • #BestCatch: Shimron Hetmyer
  • #Surprise: R Ashwin
  • #BrokenDream: Sri Lanka or Bangladesh might not make it to the Super 12s

14. Short Leg Cricket

  • #Winner: Pakistan
  • #Top4: WI, Eng, Pak, Ind
  • #BestAssociates: Scotland
  • #PlayerofWC: Maxi
  • #MostRuns: Babar
  • #MostWickets: Rabada
  • #BestCatch: Jordan
  • #Surprise: NZ
  • #BrokenDream: Virat Kohli

15. Harrison

  • #Winner: India
  • #Top4: Ind, Eng, Pak, WI
  • #BestAssociates: Ireland
  • #PlayerofWC: KL Rahul
  • #MostRuns: Glenn Maxwell
  • #MostWickets: Adil Rashid
  • #BestCatch: Fabian Allen
  • #Surprise: Bangladesh
  • #BrokenDream: England & being double white ball champions
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Discussions I

16. CRICKET 2021 (@INDIA21653180)

  • #Top4: Ind,WI, Eng, NZ (without a doubt)
  • #MostRuns: Buttler (may not be an Indian, cannot rule QDK too)

Discussion:

  • “…With Neesham, Boult, Lockie, Phillips, Kane, Jamieson all playing IPL advantage for them and not Pak…Guptill, Seifert, Kane, Conway, Phillips, Neesham, Santner, Sodhi/Southee, Boult, Ferguson, Kyle.”
  • “Babar, Rizwan out for less then 20 runs, then Pak may lose 99% if against NZ and India if chasing 170…For India, even after Rahul, Kohli, Pant Surya, Hardik, Jadeja, Shardul are there.”
  • “I feel having times like SA, Aus, WI, Eng in same group made Group B easy to qualify.”
    1. Rohit-Rahul/Babar-Rizwan most settled opening pair
    2. Moeen Ali/Kohli best at 3
    3. Conway/Phillips best at 4/5
    4. Pant/Hardik/Jadeja for late order hitting.”
    5. Rashid Khan/Nabi/Mujeeb/Varun/Chahar/Jadeja – Spinners
    6. Nortje/Boult/Shaheen/Bhuvi – Powerplay Bowler
    7. Bumrah – Death Bowler
    8. Mawell/Surya/Inglis – 360 or unorthodox
    9. Pooran/Hetmyer/Pollard/Russel/Allen/DJ Bravo – Power hitters
Embed from Getty Images

T20 World Cup Prediction Quotes

“If India want to win India’s top three form is very crucial.”

Sourabh

“Yes surely looking at great spin condition in UAE. [Sodhi] is definitely going to have a good impact in this WC for NZ…”

Mohd Shamir Ansari

“Seeing how the pitches played out in most games in IPL, expect Tymal’s variations to come in handy.”

Deepak Kumar Panda

“The problem with NZ might be the UAE conditions. Guptill couldn’t bat UAE conditions in the second leg of PSL.”

Asad Ali

“Namibia or PNG may qualify for the main draw. Afghanistan may eliminate one of the Asian teams and reach semis. It can be an #IndvNZ final.”

The Falling Sweep

“With Faf, Morris, & Tahir not in team, it is a huge task for SA.”

Bhagyesh Joshi

Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads Dissected: Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, Sri Lanka—Can Sri Lanka Spin Their Way Out of Trouble?

Time for Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads analysis.

In the mini-qualifier group, there are two groups (Group A & B) of 4 teams each, top 2 of which will go in the main round (Group 1 and 2). Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, and Sri Lanka form ‘qualifying group of death,’ Group A. Group B has teams Bangladesh, Oman, Papua New Guinea, and Scotland.

In the main draw, 4 qualifier teams will join either Group 1 (Australia, England, South Africa, West Indies) or Group 2, (India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and New Zealand).

Here is the detailed squad analysis—Most Balanced, Surprise Exclusions, In-Form Inclusions and Predictions!

Also Read:

Ireland T20 World Cup Squad

Batters Spin Bowling All-RoundersMedium Pace All-RoundersWicket-KeepersSpin BowlersFast Bowlers
Andy BalbirnieSimi SinghKevin O’BrienNeil RockJosh Little
Harry TectorPaul StirlingCurtis CampherAndy McBrine
George DockrellMark AdairBarry McCarthy
Gareth DelanyShane Getkate
Graham KennedyLoran TuckerBen WhiteCraig Young
Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads: Ireland

Ireland Probable XI

  1. Paul Stirling, 2. Kevin O’Brien, 3. Andy Balbirnie (C), 4. Harry Tector, 5. Shane Getkate, 6. George Dockrell, 7. Neil Rock (WK), 8. Simi Singh, 9. Curtis Campher, 10. Mark Adair, 11. Josh Little/ Andy McBrine
  • Average Age: 27
  • Unlucky to Miss Out: William McClintock, Craig Young (reserves)
  • Surprise Inclusions: Graham Kennedy
  • Watch Out For: Paul Stirling, the best ODI player of 2020, and Curtis Campher, a potential world class allrounder for the future
  • Current T20I Ranking: 12th

  • Recent Results: Won 3-2 Vs Zimbabwe
  • Prediction: Rank 4th in Group A. I just do not see this Ireland side going too far.

Does Ireland Have It In Them to Qualify for the Next Round?

Ireland just won a T20I series but T20 cricket is not their strength. If Ireland are to do well, their all rounders and power hitters have to come to the fore to support the steadiness that Balbirnie-Tector provide in the middle.

Namibia T20 World Cup Squad

Batters Spin Bowling All-RoundersMedium Pace All-RoundersWicket-KeepersSpin BowlersFast Bowlers
Stephan BaardGerhard ErasmusDavid WieseZane GreenBen Shikongo
Karl BirkenstockBernard ScholtzJJ SmitMichael van Lingen
Michau du PreezJan Frylinck
Jan Nicol Loftie-EatonRuben Trumpelmann
Craig Williams
Pikky Ya FranceMauritius Ngupita
Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads: Namibia

Australia Probable XI

  1. Stephan Baad, 2. Craig Williams, 3. JJ Smit, 4. Gerhard Erasmus (C), 5. Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, 6. David Wiese, 7. Zane Green (WK), 8. Michau du Preez, 9. Jan Frylinck, 10. Bernard Scholtz, 11. Ben Shikongo
  • Average Age: 27
  • Watch Out For: Gerhard Erasmus, player of the 2019 T20 World Cup Qualifier. He has a T20I average of 40.33 at a 141.10 SR with 5 fifties. That is a great record, even if it is against Associate nations.
  • Unlucky to Miss Out: JP Kotze, Zhivago Groeneweld (retired)
  • Current T20I Ranking: 19th
  • Recent Results: Won Vs Uganda 3-0
  • Prediction: Rank 3rd in Group A. At least one upset around the corner?

Does Namibia Have It In Them to Qualify for the Next Round?

The dark horse of the qualifying group. Qualifying for the first time in a World Cup since 2003, this has been one of the feel-good stories of recent times. The big story is that David Wiese, a star in the CPL and PSL, who has represented South Africa at the international level (even 2016 T20 Worl Cup) will now represent Namibia due to his paternal heritage.

Netherlands T20 World Cup Squad

Batters Spin Bowling All-RoundersMedium Pace All-RoundersWicket-KeepersSpin BowlersFast Bowlers
Stephan MyburgPieter SeelarRyan Ten DoeschateScott EdwardsPhilippe BoissevainTimm van der Gugten
Max O’DowdColin AckermanFred Klassen
Ben CooperRoelof van der MerweLogan van Beek
Bas de LeedeBrandon Glover
Paul van Meekeren
Tobias ViseeShane Snater
Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads: Netherlands

Netherlands Probable XI

  1. Max O’Dowd, 2. Stephan Myburg, 3. Ben Cooper, 4. Bas de Leede, 5. Ryan Ten Doeschate, 6. Pieter Seelar (C), 7. Scott Edwards (WK), 8. Roelof van der Merwe, 9. Timm van der Gugten, 10. Philippe Boissevain, 11. Paul van Meekeren
  • Average Age: 30
  • Surprise Inclusions: Ryan Ten Doeschate, Roelof van der Merwe
  • Watch Out For: Max O’Dowd, has been in a bit of form earlier this year
  • Current T20I Ranking: 17th

  • Recent Results: Won 2, Lost 2, Tied 1 in the Nepal Tri-Nation T20I series (lost finals) alongside Nepal & Malaysia
  • Prediction: Rank 1st in Group A. Gut feeling that they will win against Sri Lanka and might upset another major team in the main draw if they qualify.

Does Netherlands Have It In Them to Qualify for the Next Round?

They definitely have the ingredients. Max O’Dowd-Myburg form a potent opening partnership on which Doeschate-Seelar-der Merwe can build upon. Paul van Meekeren became the first Dutch player to play in the CPL and that experience will help out. Expect van der Gugten-van Meekeren to shoulder the pace bowling responsibilities.

Sri Lanka T20 World Cup Squad

Batters Spin Bowling All-RoundersMedium Pace All-RoundersWicket-KeepersSpin BowlersFast Bowlers
Avishka FernandoWanindu Hasaranaga de SilvaDasun ShanakaDinesh ChandimalMahesh TheekshanaDushmantha Chameera
Bhanuka RajapaksaDhananjaya de SilvaLahiru MadushankaKusal PereraPraveen JayawickramaNuwan Pradeep
Charith AsalankaChamika Karunaratne
Kamindu MendisBinura Fernando
Pulina TharangaAkila DhananjayaLahiru Kumara
Group A 2021 T20 World Cup Squads: Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Probable XI

  1. Kusal Perera (WK), 2. Bhanuka Rajapaksa, 3. Avishka Fernando, 4. Dinesh Chandimal, 5. Dhananjaya de Silva, 6. Wanindu Hasaranga, 7. Dasun Shanaka (C), 8. Nuwan Pradeep, 9. Dushmantha Chameera, 10. Mahesh Theekshana, 11. Praveen Jayawickrama
  • Average Age: 27
  • Unlucky to Miss Out: Angelo Mathews (contract issue), Minod Bhanuka (not picked), Kusal Mendis, Niroshan Dickwella, Danushka Gunathilika (suspension)
  • Surprise Inclusions: Mahesh Theekshana
  • Watch Out For: Theekshana, Jayawickrama, and Hasaranga—the spin trio
  • Current T20I Ranking: 10th

Does Sri Lanka Have It In Them to Qualify for the Next Round?

Sri Lanka are currently on a losing streak and have been in transition for half a decade, but 2021 might be where the tide turns. With the bat, de Silva and Avishka Fernando are chipping in with consistent performances to support Perera, Chandimal, and Shanaka.

Hasaranga has been a revelation (#2 ICC ranked bowler), can bat at the top and finish games off and can bowl anywhere in the lineup. Sri Lanka have also found mystery spinner Theekshana and left arm spinner Jayawickrama (apart from Test spinner Embuldeniya and reserve Dhananjaya). Pacers Chameera-Pradeep cap off a balanced bowling attack.

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England Vs Sri Lanka 2021 Series Review: Woakes-Willey-Currans Impress As Sri Lanka Hit Rock Bottom

England Vs Sri Lanka 2021 Series Review. The #1 ranked team in the ODI Super League against the #11 team—a lopsided predictable series.

As we speak, England’s second string team is dominating Pakistan in an ODI series, but England found young guns in the Sri Lanka series as well. Liam Livingstone & Sam Billings progressed their case in the middle order, Dawid Malan & Eoin Morgan silenced their critics, and Joe Root & Jos Buttler did what they usually do. On the bowling front, Sam Curran, David Willey, Chris Woakes, and Tom Curran came to the party.

For Sri Lanka, the story goes from bad to worse. Apart from Dushmantha Chameera, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dhananjaya de Silva, and Dasun Shanaka, there was nothing much of note. Scores of 129, 111, and 91 in the T20Is along with 185, 241, & 166 in the ODIs shows how much ground the Lankans have lost in the last decade.

Add to that, the bio-bubble suspension of Kusal Mendis, Danushka Gunathilika, and Niroshan Dickwella, contract struggles, Thisara Perera’s retirement at 32, Angelo Mathews’ retirement consideration, numerous captaincy changes, and COVID induced India-Sri Lanka series, Sri Lanka have hit absolute rock-bottom.

Also Read: Top 50 England Cricket Team Players, West Indies Vs Sri Lanka 2021 Series Review

Results, Scorecards, & Video Highlights

T20I Series – England Won 3-0

  1. England won by 8 wickets (17 balls remaining) *Jos Buttler
    • SL 129/7 – Dasun Shanaka 50 (51), Adil Rashid (4-0-17-2)
    • Eng 130/2 – Jos Buttler 68* (55), Dushmantha Chameera (3.1-0-24-1)
    • Video Highlights
  2. England won by 5 wickets (11 balls remaining)*Liam Livingstone
    • SL 111/7 (18 overs) – Kusal Mendis 39 (39), Mark Wood (4-0-8-2)
    • Eng 108/5 (Target 103) – Liam Livingstone 29 (26), Wanindu Hasaranga (4-0-20-2)
    • Video Highlights
  3. England won by 89 runs*Dawid Malan
    • Eng 180/6 – Dawid Malan 76 (48), Dushmantha Chameera (4-0-17-4)
    • SL 91/10 – Binura Fernando 29 (14), David Willey (4-0-27-3)
    • Video Highlights

*Player of the Match

Player of the SeriesEngland
Sam Curran
Sri Lanka
Most RunsDawid Malan – 87 Runs
(Best of 76, 29.00 average, 129.85 SR)
Dasun Shanaka – 65 Runs
(Best of 50, 21.66 average, 89.04 SR)
Most WicketsSam Curran – 5 wickets
(Best – 2/14, 9.40 average, 5.22 Economy)
Dushmantha Chameera – 6 wickets
(Best – 4/17, 11.66 average, 6.26 Economy)
England Vs Sri Lanka 2021 T20I Series Stats

ODI Series – England Won 2-0

  1. England won by 5 wickets (with 91 balls remaining)*Chris Woakes
    • SL 185/10 Kusal Perera 73 (81), Chris Woakes (10-5-18-4)
    • Eng 189/5 Joe Root 79* (87), Dushmantha Chameera (8-0-50-3)
    • Video Highlights
  2. England won by 8 wickets (with 42 balls remaining)*Sam Curran
    • SL 241/9 Dhananjaya de Silva 91 (91), Sam Curran (10-1-48-5)
    • Eng 244/2 Eoin Morgan 75*(83), Chamika Karunaratne (6-0-34-1)
    • Video Highlights
  3. No Result
    • SL 166/100 (41.1 overs) Dasun Shanaka 48* (65), Tom Curran (10-0-35-4)
    • Video Highlights

Series Stats

Player of the SeriesEngland
David Willey
Sri Lanka
Most RunsJoe Root – 147 Runs
(Best of 79*, 84.48 SR, 50s-2, Not dismissed)
Wanindu Hasaranga – 100 Runs
(Best of 54, 33.33 average, 68.02 SR)
Most WicketsDavid Willey – 9 Wickets
(Best – 4/64, 16.00 average, 5.33 Economy)
Dushmantha Chameera – 3 Wickets
(Best – 3/50, 32.00 average, 5.64 Economy)
England Vs Sri Lanka 2021 ODI Series Stats

Highlights

England

  • Chris Woakes: 3-0-14-1 (1st T20I), Rested, 4-0-9-1 (3rd T20I), 10-5-18-4 (1st ODI), Rested, 10-3-28-2. Dream figures. Playing his first T20I since 2015/16 season, you would expect him to get a consistent run. Yet he has only played 3 T20Is, 6 Tests, and 7 ODIs over the last two years. Yes, England do play lots of cricket and have tough competition for spots, but Woakes at 32, is in his prime and is bowling beautifully. Resting him after 3 over spells just does not make sense (unless the England team management are hiding something).
  • David Willey & Sam Curran were the pick of the bowlers in the ODI series. In the 2nd ODI, they combined for 9 wickets together. Curran’s opening spell – reducing SL to 21/4 within 7 overs was especially spectacular. Willey has had a stop-start career and has always taken his opportunity. It is time he gets a consistent run. Was unlucky to miss out on the 2019 WC spot due to the Jofra Archer’s emergence.
  • Silencing the critics feat Dawid Malan, Eoin Morgan, and Tom Curran.
    • Tom Curran produced a 10-0-35-4 in the final ODI after a couple of expensive years.
    • One criticism is that since his record-breaking innings against Afghanistan, he hasn’t had much of note. Performance with KKR in the IPL? Not that great either. Meanwhile, Alex Hales is making runs for fun in the various T20 leagues. Dropping Morgan and picking Hales gained some traction in social media recently. Hence match-winning partnership with Joe Root in the 2nd ODI was timely.
    • Malan, the #1 ranked T20I batter, was under the hammer for below-par performances in slow subcontinent tracks. An exhilarating 76 in the 3rd T20I should solidify his case for the T20I World Cup.

Also Read: Why The World Needs Sam Curran: Calm, Charismatic, Courageous

Sri Lanka

  • Dushmantha Chameera has been the only positive for Sri Lanka fast bowling over the last year. He was the best bowler for Sri Lanka this tour in 3 out of 5 matches. Bowls with good pace, hits the deck—he has all the elements to be a Sri Lankan great.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga has been the find for Sri Lanka since the West Indies tour earlier this year. He is currently averaging 15.76 at 6.75 economy and is now unleashing his all-round potential. In this England series, he batted in the middle order with handy knocks of 54, 26, & 20.
  • Dhananjaya de Silva played a gem of a counterattacking knock in the 2nd ODI, scoring 91 runs. Pure timing and a great catch as well. Unfortunate to miss that century.

Also Read: Lasith Malinga: The Slinga, Slayer, and SuperStar

AwardsEnglandSri Lanka
Emerging PlayerLiam LivingstoneDushmantha Chameera
Comeback KidEoin MorganSL’s Administrative Struggles
Surprise Package Rotation of Chris WoakesDhananjaya de Silva
Broken Cricket DreamInternational Career Over For Alex Hales?Bio Bubble Breach
England Vs Sri Lanka 2021 Series Awards

T20I World Cup Squad Predictions

We look forward to early T20 World Cup 23-player squad prediction as of this series. Who knows how many changes we will get to see with Sri Lanka.

  1. Jason Roy, 2. Jos Buttler (WK), 3. Dawid Malan, 4. Jonny Bairstow, 5. Eoin Morgan*, 6. Ben Stokes, 7. Sam Curran, 8. Moeen Ali, 9. Jofra Archer, 10. Adil Rashid, 11. Mark Wood

Squad: 12. Sam Billings, 13. Liam Livingstone, 14. Tom Curran, 15. Chris Jordan, 16. Saqib Mahmood, 17. James Vince, 18. Tom Banton, 19. Joe Root, 20. Reece Topley, 21. Liam Dawson, 22. Matt Parkinson, 23. Phil Salt

Sri Lanka

  1. Kusal Perera, 2. Pathum Nissanka, 3. Dhananjaya de Silva, 4. Dinesh Chandimal, 5. Avishka Fernando, 6. Wanindu Hasaranga, 7. Dasun Shanaka*, 8. Akila Dananjaya, 9. Isuru Udana, 10. Dushmantha Chameera, 11. Lakshan Sandakan

Squad: 12. Ashen Bandara, 13. Asitha Fernando, 14. Nuwan Pradeep, 15. Oshada Fernando, 16. Suranga Lakmal, 17. Ramesh Mendis, 18. Kamindu Mendis, 19. Dilshan Madushanka, 20. Suranga Lakmal, 21. Dimuth Karunaratne, 22. Praveen Jayawickrama, 23. Lasith Malinga

Upcoming Fixtures – England Vs Sri Lanka 2021

England’s camp was hit by COVID so an entire new squad, captained by Ben Stokes, was picked for the Pakistan series. No Alex Hales picked.

Apart from the Hundred in July, England & Sri Lanka have lots of game time for the two T20 World Cups.

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Copyright: @Nitesh Mathur, Broken Cricket Dreams, 7/10/2021. Email at bcd@brokencricketdreams.com to get in touch with us.