FANTASY
Follow UsZimbabwe are on a roll. They have now defeated the team in their peak ODI form, Bangladesh. Perhaps, it says a lot of things about how determined the African side have been in competing with the big dogs in world cricket.
Conceding 303 and recovering from that against a tough Bangladesh attack is a big thing. But what was more impressive, was the way the two Zimbabwean batters – Innocent Kaia and Sikandar Raza – put on a show. While Kaia was dismissed on 110, Raza ensured that the task was done, with an unbeaten 135.
So, would you still put all your faith in Zimbabwe?
Ground details and Team combination
It is almost tough to predict how Harare’s pitch would be for the second ODI. If you have followed the series closely, the first games, be it the first T20I or the ODI, have been high-scoring ones. But the ones that have followed next have not been as good scoring.
The first ODI between these two sides had 610 runs, with just seven wickets lost across with just 98.2 overs being bowled. Over the last two years though, the average first innings score has been 251. However, for teams to win, 276 is the target. But you wouldn’t take that seriously, considering how a target of 304 was a walk in the park for Zimbabwe.
58 of the wickets at the venue since 2020, have been taken by the pacers, accounting to 62.4%. The spinners though, have only picked up 35 wickets. We might see the pattern continuing, so back the batters.
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: Innocent Kaia (c), Mushfiqur Rahim (vc)
Stats that matter
• Sikandar Raza is a must-pick for your fantasy team, with the right-hander having scored 367 runs at the venue, the most by any batter here in Harare over the last two years. His average of 73.4 stands out amidst the crowd.
• In Liton Das’ absence, Tamim Iqbal has more responsibility than ever. The southpaw has been Bangladesh’s best batter since 2020, with 1113 runs, averaging 50.59, with seven half-centuries and three centuries.
• 58 of the wickets at the venue since 2020, have been taken by the pacers, accounting to 62.4%. The spinners though, have only picked up 35 wickets. We might see the pattern continuing, so back the batters.
Grand League punts
• It is always worth taking a punt on batters who are in prime form, especially in a format which has been lob-sided for the batters. Innocent Kaia is just 29, and four ODIs old but his 110 would always be a top reason to back him on Sunday.
• Anamul Haque made his comeback in ODIs with a 73. While he hasn’t played a lot of ODIs in the last three years, his 73 is a definite sign to pick him in your fantasy team, something that could give you the edge over the others.
• Mushfiqur Rahim has been one of the most dependable batters for Bangladesh in the recent years. In just 17 innings since 2020, the right-handed batter averages 46.36, scoring 649 runs, striking at 79.9.
Here are the Top 10 Criclytics Projections
Probable XI
Zimbabwe: Regis Chakabva (c & wk), Innocent Kaia, Wesley Madhevere, Tarisai Musakanda, Sikandar Raza, Milton Shumba, Ryan Burl, Luke Jongwe, Victor Nyauchi, Richard Ngarava, Wellington Masakadza
Bangladesh: Tamim Iqbal (c), Najmul Hossain Shanto, Anamul Haque (wk), Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Afif Hossain, Mosaddek Hossain, Mehidy Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman
