Fantasy: Put your money on Raza and Tamim

Two One-Day Internationals, two successful 290-plus run chases, Zimbabwe have been mighty impressive in the ongoing three-match series against Bangladesh. The hosts have already taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series and would be eager to complete a whitewash in Harare on Wednesday (August 10).

Ground details and team combination

The surface at the Harare Sports Club has been superb for batting considering the first two ODIs have been high-scoring affairs. In this series, the batters here have scored runs at an average of 56.7, while a wicket has fallen every 56 deliveries. Hence, it would be ideal to have at least seven proper batting options in your team. The bowlers have had a good time playing here over the last two years but the surface used in this series hasn’t been great for them, especially the seamers, who are averaging 112.8 in this series.

Suggested team

While you could go for the above team, you also have the option of choosing your team from Cricket.com’s Fantasy Research Centre. You can use this tool to build your team with the help of algorithms. Then, based on your preferences, the platform will guide you through creating the ideal fantasy XI.

Captaincy suggestions

For small leagues: Sikandar Raza (c), Tamim Iqbal (vc)

For grand leagues: Regis Chakabva (c), Mehidy Hasan (vc)

Stats that matter

Sikandar Raza is a must-pick for your fantasy team, with the right-hander having scored 484 runs at the venue, the most by any batter here in Harare over the last two years. His average of 96.8 stands out amidst the crowd. Also, two centuries in two games, do we need to say more?

In Liton Das’ absence, Tamim Iqbal has more responsibility than ever. The southpaw has been Bangladesh’s best batter since 2020, with 1163 runs, averaging 50.57, with eight half-centuries and three centuries. 

Anamul Haque made his comeback in ODIs with a knock of 73. The right-hander could only manage 20 in the second ODI but once again looked in great touch.

Grand league punts

Regis Chakabva smashed his first ODI century in the second game after Zimbabwe were reduced to 49/4 in the 291-run chase. The wicketkeeper-batter smashed 102 off 75 and could once again prove to be a game-changing pick, especially considering he is also a wicketkeeper.

Mehidy Hasan hasn't had a great series but has been one of Bangladesh's most-consistent players in this format. In ODIs since 2021, the spin-bowling allrounder has claimed 34 wickets at a strike rate of 32 and has also scored 208 runs at an average of 23.11.

Probable XIs

Zimbabwe: Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Innocent Kaia, Wesley Madhevere, Sikandar Raza, Regis Chakabva (c & wk), Tony Munyonga, Luke Jongwe, Brad Evans, Victor Nyauchi, Tanaka Chivanga.

Bangladesh: Tamim Iqbal (c), Anamul Haque, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah, Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam.