Captaincy in the data-heavy environment of T20 cricket, can still be an onerous job. Possibly, thankless. I say that advisedly, in a broader sense.

Nevertheless, four captains remain standing, all with equal claims on this acutely ​​undecipherable World Cup.

Kane Williamson (New Zealand) is the most experienced, by matches captained (67). The highest winning percentage belongs to India’s, Rohit Sharma, with a 78% win percentage from 50 matches.

Babar Azam (Pakistan) combines experience and success equally with a win percentage of 66, from 64 matches. And, last, but by no means least, England's Jos Buttler, with 10 wins from 18 matches, none more significant than his team’s must-win contest against Sri Lanka in their final Super 12 game at the SCG.

So what does it all mean? And how influential can a captain be in this format?

Oh, and which captain will prevail?

The second question can be subjective, with much of the impartial opinion tabled by the team's analysts, who mine their burgeoning datasets for keys to unlock the doors of success. The average cricket fan has every right to be subjective and is likely to go to the heart of the matter. Win or lose, good captain, or not.

So what does it all mean? Captaincy sits with the individual, and as we know, everyone is unique in their ways — cricket captaincy included.

First, I want to look at Jos Buttler, the most inexperienced captain of the four. Which begs the question: Does captaincy inexperience undermine overall game experience?

Buttler has played 101 T20Is, 18 of them as captain. He has seen every inch of the T20I world, played against all the current players, and has a vast bank of knowledge to draw on. I would say no to captaincy inexperience being a hindrance.

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I spoke recently to Australian coach Andrew McDonald about Jos Buttler and his captaincy credentials. McDonald’s overarching view was somewhat skeptical. He believed Buttler presented as a reluctant leader, more of a comrade-in-arms than a general.

Buttler, in a recent interview with Mike Atherton (The Times) countered this argument.

Atherton, like McDonald, believed Buttler could easily forgo the added responsibility of captaincy.

Quoting Buttler from the interview: “I don’t crave it, but I am very much enjoying the challenge. I’m not the loudest guy in the room but I’m not shy of leading and if I feel I’ve got something to say I’ve never been shy of saying it, whether captain or not.”

England’s captain goes on to reveal his absolute want to win. His caring nature and natural willingness to be in the trenches working toward the common goal. Interestingly he says, “The on-the-field stuff is where I feel most comfortable. I feel I know the game and I can trust my instincts and the preparation I’ve done. I look at the numbers and the analysis to make sure I’m not going to be surprised.”

Buttler, and his team, have been teetering on the precipice since their loss to Ireland. And, even after their must-win victory over Sri Lanka, there were lingering doubts. The captain addressed this post-game.

Often the best time to air the dirty washing is after a win, not that there was too much dirty washing. Buttler sensed some disappointment in the room post-game — what to do — he said simply, "We know we can play better,” and that he was proud of the way they survived a difficult group stage.

It feels like he is comfortable in his space, and might escape the all-consuming expectancy of captaining your country. Atherton makes mention of family being around to help with the day-to-day chores of being a father. Jos Buttler seems OK.

On the other side of the coin-toss will be Rohit Sharma — a previous teammate of Buttler’s at the Mumbai Indians. In the same Atherton interview, Buttler describes Rohit as, “having sense of calm when everything around him is going on at a million miles an hour. A bit like when he bats, he makes it look pretty effortless.”

To me, Rohit is merely the conductor of one of the great orchestras — similar to the Berlin Philharmonic — India seems blessed with talent, poise, and metronomic attention to detail. Sure, he has to wave the stick around and bring in the correct instruments at the opportune times; he does this, though, knowing the players will deliver.

Of more concern is his form with the bat. Rohit is yet to make his mark on the tournament, looking sluggish in his movements and out-of-sync in his decision-making.

The England-India semi-final looks like it will be a cracker. England, and Buttler, will have a selection decision to make (who replaces Dawid Malan) — India might also have some pondering to do, with Rishabh Pant coming into focus to negate the influence of Adil Rashid.

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Today, though, sees MARCUS AURELIUS vs LAZARUS.

The Stoics vs “God Has Helped.”

That’s, New Zealand vs Pakistan, in the first semi-final at the SCG.

If Rohit Sharma conducts the best orchestra in the world, then I’m not sure where Babar Azam rates on that chart, maybe it’s the Portsmouth Sinfonia! Check them out when you get chance

Every ball has to be excruciating for Babar, continually riding the waves up and down, always trying to avoid the perfect storm. He has the players — well, the bowlers — it’s how they piece together on the day. I’m sure their room is calm internally; it just doesn’t appear that way from the outside.

Babar, like Rohit, is also short of runs and worse still, looks out of touch. There can be no doubting his class, as they say — class is permanent, and form is temporary — his team needs him to lift. The match-up with Trent Boult looks like a game-changer.

Finally to Kane Richardson, New Zealand’s captain.

Richardson’s team runs on auto-pilot, and it’s not his team, metaphorically speaking. New Zealand always gives a sense of autonomy that is not overplayed. They meander along with the game, attentive and ready to respond when needed. They appear to be in tune with each other and play with an even level of anticipation.

There is a feeling of the karma train here; they’ve been so close too many times. This might be their station. And, be sure, Richardson will be saying, “All aboard the karma train.”

For what it’s worth. I’m picking New Zealand and India to progress. So get ready for a 1992 reincarnation - an England and Pakistan final!

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Sound familiar? Then why has Aaron Finch been blasted from pillar to post? 

Yes, Finch was selected in this T20 World Cup squad as a player, and captain. Rightly so. And that’s in no specific order; he was picked and made captain. He has an enduring and successful working relationship with the head coach and staff. Indeed, it was a wise appointment.

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We can get to Finch’s numbers later.

For now, the questions are; what is the actual issue, and why do we polarise leaders at the drop of a hat, or a game, in this case in point. After all, New Zealand played a near-perfect game.

The most volatile format of cricket is T20. In this World Cup it was slated that none of the 12 teams would start a game with a less than 40% chance of winning. The margins of success and failure are incredibly acute.

Australian Indigenous culture defines an elder as, "someone who has gained recognition as a custodian of knowledge and lore, and who has permission to disclose knowledge and beliefs.

Elders in the Indigenous community play an important role in the maintenance of their culture. It presents as a hierarchical system, yet one that has flexibility in its workings. Cricket has slowly moved away from top-down leadership, with inclusion and self-discovery becoming more prevalent. Coaching now leans more toward teaching than instruction. You could say coaching has shifted to the left.

Finch is an elder by age and playing experience, and I will say wisdom. The captain's armband charges him with the responsibility of leading, and disclosing this wisdom. He excels in this space. A place where he is most comfortable. 

So, why have the last ten weeks been so excruciating for Aaron Finch? 

A straightforward, no-nonsense cricketer, who will never pass the buck, his resilience and composure has been severely tested by the media and fans alike. Remember, he lifted the T20 World Cup trophy only 12 months ago. 

Persistent questioning can easily lead to a place of frustration, generally reserved for a courtroom; canvassing over and over – in the case of Finch – has been laborious. What does he need to do to snap the run of outs? I wasn't able to answer confidently. 

I will readily concede there’s no doubt that Finch’s star has been fading of late, but Monday night showed that, like many great players, he can still muster the required innings when his team needs it most. There was a will, and a want, to influence a game again.

In-form batters have a range of hitting speeds like a grand tenor has command of his vocal pitch, smoothly moving up and down their vocal range. Similar to a batsman moving up and down the gears.

Finch’s innings Monday evening was paradoxical in every sense. Setting out to grasp the initiative from Ireland’s front-line bowlers – with mixed success. There were glimpses of his pure ball-striking, and clean down-the-line bat swing. And, there were the mis-cues, the misses; there was frustration.

As the innings meandered along Finch unintentionally morphed into the ‘pilot-role’ – not by design, it just worked out that way. Which, in my view, is needed with Australia’s power-based order.

63 off 44 balls was a satisfactory night’s work for any T20 opener; in this case, in Finch’s case, it was a welcome return to form and some fluency in his batting. Australia could have, should have, won by more than they did. Damn that hamstring.

Whether he gets to continue the upward trend is in doubt. Unfortunately, troublesome hamstrings have been a consistent companion for Finch and only time will tell if he can get back after tweaking it once again.

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The numbers …

Finch’s T20I career spans more than a decade. He debuted in early 2011, in a home series with England, making 15* and 53* in his first two hits. 

His most productive year was 2018: from 17 matches he scored 531 runs at an average of 40.84, striking at a massive 176.41. He also made his career high score against Zimbabwe – 172 from 76 balls (16 fours, and 10 sixes, totalling 124 in boundaries) – bizarrely, he was dismissed hit wicket. At one point in 2018 he was averaging 92.8 and striking at 201.37.

Overall, his record stands at: 3120 runs from 103 matches at an average of 34.28 with a strike rate of 142.53. Outstanding numbers.

And, to further highlight his worth to the team and the position he has predominantly batted  – opening – in 44 matches partnering David Warner at the top of the order; they combine to average 38.60 per wicket, with six 50-run, and four 100-run partnerships.

Finch’s individual numbers opening the batting also warrant consideration!

From 91 innings he’s made 2848 runs at an average of 34.08, and striking at 147.04 with 17 half-centuries, and two hundreds.

A colleague explained to me a long time ago, “Your numbers are your numbers.” “Build them, own them, and most importantly, look after them.” I ask all the young players I coach to do the same.

There is no denying the contribution Aaron Finch has made to Australia’s white-ball cricket this past decade. And, I would venture to say, I probably fuss more over his numbers than he would.

Let’s hope he can cajole that hamstring into one final push, and a fitting end caps of a stellar career. Not bad for a chunky wicket-keeper from Colac!

Australia’s progression to the final four still sits in their own hands, for the most part. We shall see how it plays out, with or without Captain Finch.

Thank you for being here.

No doubt, the biggest potential casualty so far has to be Pakistan. Can they find a way through qualifying to the final four? I fear NOT.

South Africa now holds pole position after a thrilling win over India, with David Miller calmly guiding them home after a profitable partnership with Aiden Markram — their 76 run collaboration (10 overs) was easily the game high, and the difference between the two teams.

For India, both Ravichandran Ashwin ( 1-43 from four overs) and Virat Kohli will be re-visiting their evenings. Ashwin not able to counter the Protea’s aggression toward him, and Kohli wishing for a replay of his missed chance in the outfield, from Ashwin’s bowling. Markram being the beneficiary.

South Africa’s net run rate (NRR) of +2.772, created in the main by the powerful 104-run win over Bangladesh, means they are now clear favourites to top Group 2.

India plays Bangladesh Wednesday, and this shapes as a pivotal game. An NRR of +0.844 gives India the edge. Although, I’m sure they are wanting Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul to find some form at the top of the order. Deepak Hooda will likely make way for Axar Patel. India finishes the group stage against Zimbabwe.

Pakistan needs two wins (v SA and Ban) and will have to hope for other results to fall their way. The qualification predictor has them a 14% chance to make it through — and, the question is, how will they get past South Africa on November 3 on current form?

South Africa play four left-handers in their top seven — both Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan will be turning back into their hitting zones. As a team, South Africa play left-arm spin very well, striking at 8.43 runs an over; this increases to 8.73 in the middle overs (5-16) at an average of 44. Nawaz looks likely to be replaced if they follow the numbers — Iftikhar Ahmed’s off spin looks a viable option.

Therefore, an Indian win against Bangladesh Wednesday night will basically close the door on the group. I believe, this will be the case.

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Group 1

New Zealand, one of only two teams to remain unbeaten, look to have Group 1 under control. Their qualification probability sits at a believable 84%. And their nett run rate (NRR) is far superior at +3.850

Australia and England will most likely fight out the other spot. England look to have the more difficult draw (v NZ and SL), while Australia play Ireland tonight, and finish with Afghanistan, Friday.

Australia will be looking to post two big wins; both collecting points, and boosting their NRR which sits at -1.555. Ireland and Afghanistan are the lowest ranked teams in Group 1 and you would expect no mistakes from the hosts. Starting with a win tonight, on the back of some reasonable momentum from their last game, against Sri Lanka.

If I were on staff, I would be suggesting a floating role for Matthew Wade. Three reasons: firstly, break up some of the right-hand dominance from (3-6) - the Gabba dimensions are unusual. Second, get the enigmatic Wade into the tournament, and lastly, use him to delay some of the batting entry points where needed. Namely, Glenn Maxwell and Tim David.

England has to get past New Zealand. How do they do this?

Firstly, get through the batting powerplay with minimal wicket damage, which flies in the face of their modus operandi.

It’s likely both Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi will play Wednesday — England have left-handers at (3, 4, and 7) - Sodhi’s economy rate (ER) is high against lefties (9.02) compared to 8.17 against right-handers. If they can get to Sodhi, and to a lesser extent Santner, then, Jimmy Neesham will have to bowl overs. His most recent ER is close to 11.0.

Wednesday night shapes as a cracking game — I’m sure the Kiwi’s will have a recent 50 over World Cup final on their minds!

I’m divided here! If England can beat New Zealand Wednesday, I think they will go through, and might just go all the way. Australia will win tonight and Friday. The last mention is England playing the last game of the group, which might give them an advantage if there are further upsets to the form lines.

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So, an interesting week ahead. As always, thank you for being here.

Why should Ireland’s win over England surprise us? Albeit via Duckworth-Lewis-Stern’s (DLS) secretive mathematical formula.

No doubt, fast-forward ten years, and the win might be attributed to the ‘luck of the Irish’, with the inclement Melbourne weather lauded as Ireland’s ally. Fancy that, an Ireland and weather association. Anyway, this assumption would be grossly unjust.

So why shouldn’t we be surprised — Ireland drove the game from the start-stop-start. The two powerplays — the first six overs, where the fielding team is restricted to a maximum of two fielders outside the 30 metre circle — are games within the game.Ireland dominated both — finishing at one for 59 with the bat, and their bowlers reduced England to three for 37. A telling differential in the T20 format.

How did this happen? Well, this leads us to the crux of the argument.

If we isolate the debate to the powerplays only, then the data-set is just 36 balls, or 72 in total. Therefore, the impact of a team’s higher-performing players is restricted, their influence is diluted.

It’s like racing Usain Bolt over 20 metres. You might fluke a start, he might miss it and stumble, and you cross the line first. Over 100 metres you have no chance; his superior skill-set is allowed to flourish and assert itself.

On the bowling side of the coin it’s rare that a bowler will bowl more than two overs in a T20I powerplay — 12 balls. Whereas, in Test cricket, a conventional fast-bowling spell can stretch to seven, maybe eight overs — 48 balls. As a result, the Test bowler has a wider opportunity to create chances and to utilise his skills.

Picking a case example from this game: In England’s batting powerplay, Fionn Hand bowled the sixth over — he was the fourth bowler used by Ireland. His first ball was a wide, leg side wide to Ben Stokes. An unsure start.

Next ball (ball 33 in England’s innings) Stokes was bowled with an in-swinging bail-trimmer. The ball wasn’t unplayable, but it’s relation to the previous ball was similar to a distant cousin second removed. The dismissal highlighted the narrow impact windows that T20 cricket presents. Hand didn’t come close to repeating this dose. His match figures were (one for 17) from two overs. Yet, that one ball, I will argue, changed the course of the game.

T20 cricket is a natural leveller, and it’s a diabolically difficult game to predict. Such is it’s attraction to the, dare I say, non-purist. And, arguably, the birthplace of the ubiquitous cricket analyst.

Adding more fuel to the fire. Zimbabwe defeated Pakistan last night in Perth. This after Pakistan added a fourth quick to their already pace-heavy attack. Zimbabwe played with poise against the new ball, forcing Pakistan to play catch up later in the innings, and held their nerve, closing out for a one-run win.

Who would be a T20 coach? Don’t ask Phil Simmons!

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England undoubtedly contributed to the perceived upset. Previous form had them riding a wave of irresistible momentum; both sides of their game were clicking. English pundits praised their well-balanced team. Sadly though, for England, this was washed away (as is much of Victoria) by an industrious Ireland, and an ill-timed downpour.

The Irish are persistent; watching the game, I couldn’t help but think of a friend back in Ireland. This is a gentlemen who baked bread on Ireland’s west coast, and sold it to a supermarket in Australia, that is named after another friend's son. Unbelievable? Ciaran Lally did exactly this. His gluten-free, pre-baked, vacuum-packed bread traveled half-way around the world onto the breakfast plates of ordinary Australians for years. Ingenious. And, of course he let me know about the bloody cricket!

Andrew Balbirnie, Ireland’s captain said — “I’ve seen a lot of rain in my time playing cricket and I’ve never been happier to see that rain come down,”

Earlier, Balbirnie had led from the front with the bat. His powerplay contribution was critical in seizing the initiative from England’s inconsistent bowling. Balbirnie lasted through to the 16th over before being dismissed by Liam Livingstone in the outfield — his 62 from 47 deliveries, provided Ireland the base to push toward a defendable total.

The other notable contribution came from Lorcan Tucker, who looked mightily impressive batting at three. Clean ball-striking, clever innovation, and a calm head all shone amidst a gloomy MCG. Absolutely one to watch through the rest of the tournament.

As mentioned, England had slipped to three for 37 by the end of their powerplay, and looked a long way off challenging Ireland’s 157.

With Jos Buttler, Alex Hales and, Stokes all checking the weather radar, it was left to Dawid Malan and Harry Brook to get the innings back on course. Neither found any rhythm, and surprisingly, no consistency in their ball-striking. Confusion was evident, which game do we try and win; the 20 over game, or will it be the DLS version. Hindsight says they picked incorrectly. Hardly legitimate blame to level though.

Moeen Ali looked dangerous, and given more time, it seemed likely he would lift England ahead of the DLS score. He was denied, as were England, and Ireland justifiably prevailed by a margin of five runs.

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Today, Friday, England find themselves playing a virtual eliminator with host country Australia. Similar, or worse, weather is forecast; with neither team able to absorb another defeat. If the cliche is correct, “you’re only as good as your last game,” then England have a job on their hands.

Selection will be critical with Chris Woakes under the most pressure. Chris Jordan is a like-for-like who might add another layer of defence, which given Australia’s last game, will be needed. Personally, I would table David Willey to bowl in with the new-ball, giving variation with his left-hand bias, and potentially a strong match-up for Aaron Finch. Keep in mind the rule of taking out the captain first.

Adam Zampa is likely to return from illness for Australia, and those calling for Aaron Finch to be replaced should re-boot their memory banks.

Everybody, including me, is hoping this bloody weather will bugger off somewhere else — preferably Bass Straight.

As always, thank you for being here.

His name was Henry Tillman — Mike Tyson had sensationally just lost his title to Buster Douglas  — Tillman was the scapegoat. He lasted a little over two minutes before Iron Mike lifted him into the Caesars Palace parking lot. Tyson went on to win his next eight fights before running into Evander Holyfield — Australia will hope for a similar run.

Australia had no choice but to win Tuesday night in Perth after backing themselves into a corner, with a crushing defeat at the hands of New Zealand Saturday night.

Sri Lanka was no Henry Tillman; they did present as easy pickings, though. Nearly all indicators pointed toward Australia: the pace of the pitch, excessive bounce and lateral movement, non spin-friendly, unusual ground dimensions. The only thing missing from Optus stadium was the crowd. Maybe it was the fear of being hacked!

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Australia resisted making any changes to their team from Saturday night.

Several cases could have been tabled in selection, as is their want, though they remained true to their starters. Sorry, except, for the forced change of Ashton Agar, for the Covid-infected Adam Zampa. Mitch Marsh was also passed fit to bowl, a nice bonus for Captain Finch.

Australia’s bowling powerplay, which was blown open by New Zealand, repaired it self with Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc all showing greater control. It was interesting to note that Starc’s entry-point wasn’t until the fifth over, with Hazlewood and Cummins sharing the first four — 1-22, being a far softer place to start. Hazlewood rounded out the powerplay by bowling over six, so bowling three of his allocation. Will this be repeated Friday night, against England — a wait and see.

Also worth noting: balls one, and two of their powerplay overs, Australia’s quicks conceded just 12 runs. Saturday night, against New Zealand, the tally was 20.

After Kusal Mendis top-edged the extra bounce from Cummins, Pathum Nissanka and Dhananjaya deSilva set about re-routing the Sri Lankan innings. Having taken the score to 75 in the 12th over Dhananjaya was deceived by Ashton Agar, the result being a tidy out-field catch to David Warner — Warner’s fielding was top-notch all night.

This precipitated a collapse of sorts with Sri Lanka losing five for 45 in the next seven overs. In those seven overs, six different bowlers were used, including Marsh, and Glenn Maxwell, who dismissed the dangerous Sri Lankan captain, Dasun Shanaka. Captain, Aaron Finch, dialled in on his bowling rotations, and match-ups.

The only blemish in the Australian bowling innings was the close-out — someone has to do it, right? — with Cummins conceding 20 in over 20, perfect symmetry for Sri Lankan supporters!

Starc was the big improver from the New Zealand game with 1-23 from his four overs, including: 13 dot-balls, and only one boundary conceded. A nice change in his bowling entry-point helping him settle early. Kudos to Andrew McDonald, and his trusted lieutenant, Dan Vettori.

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If what came next was planned, then I am astonished. Sri Lanka’s 157 for six on a lively Perth pitch looked serviceable, especially given Australia’s calamities last Saturday evening.

Warner and Finch, needed a start, both for themselves, and their partnership. Having one opener who can consistently, and effectively, bat through the powerplay is incredibly significant in building robust batting innings in this format.

They laboured in the early going, leaving Australia 0-26 from four overs — with only 15 coming from the bat. Over five saw the introduction of Maheesh Theekshana, who was quickly into his work dismissing Warner on the drive.

At this point it looked like Sri Lanka’s spinners held the key.

Since the start of 2021, Sri Lanka have one of the best-performing spin attacks in T20I’s. During this period their combined numbers are: 112 wickets (Wkts), economy rate (ER) 6.8, and average (Avg) 20.5. Wanindu Hasaranga and Theekshana present many problems to middle-order batters across the world.

Also factor in Australia’s deficiency against spin in the same time period seeing them rank joint-second lowest average (20.4) and the second-lowest balls-per-dismissals ratio against spin-bowling (16.9) - David Warner, statistically, is by far their best player of spin in this format. He was already back in the hutch.

So, you can throw the baby out with the bath-water. What looked liked a suspect match-up for the Aussies, turned into a game changer — and, more importantly, a net-run-rate changer.

Mitch Marsh dropped on two from the spin of Dhananjaya, recovered slightly by attacking Hasaranga’s first over, before holing out in the deep. Enter Glenn Maxwell.

Maxwell averages 51 in 12 innings against Sri Lanka at an exceptional strike-rate of 175.2. Can he arrest his down-turn in form is the question — he whipped Dhananjaya through midwicket, then took down the hapless Hasaranga with two straight sixes, before landing a reverse-swept four. Next minute he’s 22 from six balls.

Where is Finch you might ask? He’s fine, just watching, happy to be a partnership batter at this stage!

After Maxwell departed the game got really silly.

Marcus Stoinis’ entry point was three for 89 in the 13th over. The equation was 61 required from 42 balls — not overly taxing, yet hardly a walk in the park. 25 balls later the game was over. Stoinis had bludgeoned his way to 59* from 18 balls. The partnership with Finch was worth 69* — Finch had made 7* in the partnership, and finished with 31 from 42. Stoinis had hit four boundaries, and six maximums, at an incredible SR of 327. Nuts. Absolute nuts.

Stoinis had given his team what they needed: a win, and a net run-rate boost. As animated as ever, he thrived on the attention, the ground wasn’t big enough, he gave no thought to anything else other than hitting every ball he faced for six.

Was it compelling viewing? Yes.

Did it rival that Virat Kohli innings? No.

And, that is likely an unfair comparison, I know.

What it does though is bring into contrast the different ways you can play this format. I worry that Australia Warner aside only has one way to play with the bat. T20 lends itself to individuality. Australia must find a way of harnessing some togetherness in their batting, some finesse, and a little less muscle. To me, they look like a boxer always looking for a K.O. punch.

Can anyone bat like Virat Kohli?

Will a boxer ever glide around the ring like Muhammad Ali?

As always, thank you for being here.

So, the late filing of this report seems tardy, and a tiny bit inconsequential after India and Pakistan's epic encounter Sunday night. We will get to that game later. It's probably wise to actually take a breath, and take some time to reflect. OMG. What a game of cricket. Forget about the format — just, what a game of cricket.

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So back to Saturday night …

New Zealand, the country, was closed for a while. They, too, have one of those leaders, apparently, one that leans without preference toward the woke movement.

Wokeism challenges me. Like calculus, I really don't understand it. Mathematics was easy, then they introduced letters - a line borrowed from Ricky Gervais. Even a conscientious Google search reveals little on Woke, and it’s many derivatives.

Anyway, back to New Zealand, and their tourism marketers — who are, by the way, working pro bono!

They proudly announce, "100% pure New Zealand." "Come and see it."

That’s all well and good if you can get in. Ask nicely, and we shall see. Thank you, Ms. Ardern.

Instead, New Zealand came to Sydney to play cricket. And, this they did.

They traveled with a plan, and a good deal of baggage — maybe the 2015 final in Melbourne was front of mind, or the last T20 World Cup. Whatever, and however, they came and ambushed a hapless Australian team Saturday night.

Summarising Australia …

Every batter failed (Glenn Maxwell might argue against this, given his recent form); all five bowlers got carted, and they were fielded off the park.

One positive was Aaron Finch winning the toss, and he did what anybody else would have done — bowled first.

What came next though — The Finn Allen show (yes, you could absolutely pitch it to late-night American TV) — was a heist of the highest proportions.

Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins all came and went. New Zealand’s over progression read: 0-14, 0-29, 0-46 — yes 0-46 from three, with the triumvirate of quicks all seeking calmer pastures.

All-rounder, Marcus Stoinis steadied the ship in over four, conceding just 10!

With the score 0-56 from four overs, Hazelwood returned and removed Allen with a well-directed yorker. The score was 1-56, and Allen had made 42 from 16 balls at a strike rate of 262. At one point the projected innings score was 280. OMG. Yes, Finn Allen, not Martin Guptill, had taken down the tournament hosts big-time.

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If Allen’s exploits were unexpected, which they were perceived to be, then Devon Conway's template innings was statistically predictive.

Conway has an exceptional record in his 28-match T20I career, averaging 52.3 per game, with a total of 941 runs. The leftie’s five innings against Australia see him making 192 runs at an average of 48, with a 140 strike-rate, and a career high-score of 99* - my stat-pack from the dependable Prateek Patil (Pratty), said simply, “Conway is a key member of the Kiwi’s batting line-up.”

His ability to score heavily at the front-end of overs was undeniable. Australia’s bowlers were never able to settle, Adam Zampa included. Conway’s tempo is like watching Ernie Els swing a golf club, just easy on the eye. He ran the wickets like a man in a hurry, always looking to extract an extra run. Partnership batting is often forgotten in this format; not in this case. Conway went: 56, 69, 27, and 48.

Australia could not take a trick with the ball and a partisan supporter could argue; it was through no fault of their own. This was a near-perfect batting innings by New Zealand, orchestrated by Conway, and ignited by Allen. It always seemed too much for Australia to handle.

David Warner was abjectly unlucky, and his dismissal said it all: this wasn’t to be Australia’s night. Tim Southee delivered a harmless loosener, only to see Warner move the ball from pad, to body, back to the bat, which had completed the swing, and then to the stumps. If that description is confusing, it was meant to be. It resembled a pinball game.

Australia lurched to 3-34 in the fifth over when Southee induced Mitchell Marsh to hit a tame fly-ball to the reliable Jimmy Neesham (another late-night TV name for you); at this point Australia’s lot read like this: current run rate (RR) 6.80, required run rate (RRR) 11.13, runs required 167, balls remaining 90. Optimism abounds. Or not.

Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis stared down the above equation for all of 20 balls, progressing the score to 4-54. When Stoinis left Maxwell, their lot looked like this: RR 6.0, RRR 13.36, runs required 147, balls remaining 66. Remarkably Australia’s win probability was still at 47%.

A procession followed, and before net-run-rate (NRR) could be considered, the innings was over, Australia slipping to an 89 run loss. The Kiwi’s had parachuted into Sydney’s eastern suburbs and stole the loot without objection.

Where to now for Australia?

Captain, Aaron Finch, who looks increasingly agitated as each game passes, said when pressed on his team's chances of defending the trophy, "To be able to not look that far ahead – because you can't win the tournament if you don't win the next game – (is important),"

Also, "We've taken the fate out of our own hands to a point – we need to be ultra-positive and ultra-aggressive." I question this comment. Why is this often the default reaction to a set-back — aggression, and being positive?

Be smarter. Be reflective. Be honest. You got beat on the night — even Mike Tyson lost, eventually.

Tactically, I agree with coach Andrew McDonald; spin (Maxwell) would have been a viable option during the power play. Two-fold: to match up against Conway, and to bring Maxwell into the game early. McDonald will have plenty to ponder on his cross-continent trip to Perth. The T20 format demands resilience from players, teams, and coaches alike.

One boost for the Aussies will be having Mitch Marsh available to bowl in Perth.

As for New Zealand …

They place themselves in an enviable table position. And, as Finn Allen stated, they absolutely “landed the first punch” Saturday evening.

And their scheduling: well, they make the short commute to Melbourne (bushranger country) to take on Afghanistan tomorrow night.

So, that’s all she wrote for now. Tonight’s game is eagerly anticipated, an opportunity for Australia to right the ship. I think they will. And, I’m sure they have more than an eye on Friday night, and how to beat England.

As always, thank you for being here.

New Zealand

ICC Ranking: 5

New Zealand (the Black Caps) — last years beaten finalists, will start their 2022 campaign against Australia tomorrow at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Most pundits have the Black Caps outside the top four, and I have to agree. A fast start in the Super 12s section will be imperative to their chances.

They tell me the air is always clear in Aotearoa, and that it has no hesitation in shaping innovative thinkers.

As a country, New Zealand (NZ) is one of the great exporters of talent. Boardrooms across the globe are full of wandering Kiwis — and cricket is no exception — many high-profile ex-players are, or have been in, dressing rooms across the world. Daniel Vettori will be in the opposite dugout on Saturday. Brendon McCullum has already fostered a dramatic change in England’s Test cricket. To name just two.

New Zealand’s current coach, Gary Stead, is cut from precisely the cloth they prefer. Carrying a low-key persona, entering coaching from a nondescript playing career, and one who turns his nose up to ultra-professionalism. Stead is going to be challenged at this tournament, and it will be interesting to see what his team has up its sleeve.

Black Cap supporters fear not, this tribe always have a bunny to pull - just ask Mark Greatbatch and Dipak Patel!

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Batting

Will the veteran Martin Guptill be able to produce the fireworks needed at the top of the order? Is newcomer Finn Allen ready for a tournament like this, specifically Australia’s bowling attack in game one? Will it be the pilot role for Kane Williamson, and can Daryl Mitchell regain fitness in time? All questions to ponder.

Martin Guptill is one of those NZ exports, having plied his trade across many continents. A veteran of the IPL, having played with four separate franchises; a regular visitor to the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and stints in English county cricket. Guptill is a sweet swinger and a deadly ball striker when he is on. His step-hit play to spin is excellent, and quicks he handles from both feet - it's just his early balls that are an issue. Maybe Finn Allen can alleviate some of this? Allen is young and aggressive - fast starts will give Guptill time to settle. We shall see. Allen will provide candid viewing.

Kane Williamson — not normally a player you would look up stats on — shows a definite bias toward red-ball cricket. Averaging 50-plus in Test cricket is elite, agreed. Williamson does this. Averaging over 45 in ODI cricket is also elite, agreed, ditto. Yet, his T20I numbers sit in the average bracket: 2225 runs at a 32 average, with a 123 strike-rate. Agreed, in the average band. Also, he has not made a hundred in his 81 games. Williamson’s great skill in this format is gap-hitting and rotation of the strike. His contact points are super consistent, and the bat face is nearly always square to the target line. Williamson plays a role in this format, and an important one.

Three batters sit ahead of Williamson in the ICC T20I rankings: Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, and Martin Guptill. Actually, my mistake, it’s four with Finn Allen, the rookie also heading Williamson. Anyway, Conway, Phillips, and Guptill will all be charged with elevating New Zealand's current par score in T20I - which sits around 165 - to be competitive, they have to be looking at 180, and beyond.

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Bowling

Trent Boult is once again set to lead the attack. There are several variations to his signature delivery, which involves intricate lateral movement through the air. He continues to be a troublesome proposition for opposition batsmen. Boult is likely to bowl powerplay overs, as well as looking to break partnerships through the middle of the innings.

Opposition analysts are likely to have Tim Southee in their sights. He still plays all formats, a creditable achievement for the 33-year-old, yet he looks vulnerable in this setup. Southee's ball-speed sits right in the sweet spot of optimal hitting pace, and his change-ups are missing some of their old disguise. He will do well to maintain his current economy rate of 8.26 - the most optimal trade off will be continuing a strong strike rate, which currently sits at 18 ball per wicket.

Lachlan Ferguson will provide pace, and plenty of it. The solidly built right-arm quick will rely on raw speed and steep bounce. His numbers stack up well: an economy rate of 6.8, and a strike rate of just over 14. He will be hoping to maintain that form. Jimmy Neesham (Twitter star), and to a lesser extent, Daryl Mitchell, will provide medium-pace back-up.

New Zealand's spin bowling looks critical to their overall bowling plan. As a team they play really solid defence, with fielding being a key component. Spin provides their fielding with opportunities to shine. Mitchell Santner provides left-arm orthodox; Michael Bracewell is a fast-improving right-arm off-spinner; and the joker in the pack is Ish Sodhi, with his right-arm leg spin. It's likely they do not play as a trio, however, they give New Zealand solid rotation options.

New Zealand: Kane Williamson (c), Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Mitchell Santner, Glenn Phillips, Jimmy Neesham, Daryl Mitchell, Adam Milne, Martin Guptill, Lachlan Ferguson, Devon Conway, Mark Chapman, Michael Bracewell, Trent Boult, Finn Allen.

That’s it for New Zealand. Roll on tomorrow …

Pakistan

ICC Ranking: 3

Pakistan has been boosted by the late inclusion of left-arm speedster Shaheen Shah Afridi, bolstering an already robust pace-bowling group. Afridi joins Harris Rauf, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Hasnain shaping a slippery quartet that frames the engine room of the Pakistan team. Yes, there are high expectations for Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan at the top of the order, for Pakistan to be competitive though, they must first acknowledge the importance of their pace attack.

Pakistan’s batsmen, it seems like - and this is a holistic view — have continually enjoyed impunity when it comes to responsibility and accountability around their batting. Home umpires have reliably lent a hand here, tending to see proceedings through an altered prism, presumably while dreamily anticipating their evening meal. Rob Moody of @robelinda2 on Twitter captured some supporting evidence — you could say it’s a little more than circumstantial! Watch here.

Anyway, as is our want here, we try our best to avoid any undue controversy. It has to be said, though, that Pakistan will benefit from placing greater trust in their fast bowlers and be less reliant on Babar and Rizwan, and the opener’s supporting cast.

It was indeed the Sultan of Swing, Wasim Akram, who bowled Pakistan to victory in the 1992 World Cup final. Described as a “delivery from the Gods”, England’s Allan Lamb was opened up like a can of sardines, losing his off bail to a ball which had a mind of its own - it shaped in toward Lamb, only to detour past his hopeful edge, meeting the top of off stump, bang on time. Enjoy it here.

Twenty years on, can Shaheen Shah Afridi emulate his idol? We shall see.

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Batting

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has rejoined the Pakistan men’s team as a mentor for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 - and will be seeking to build on his initial work in the role. Presumably Hayden’s focus will centre on the team’s batting output; he has the stock to work with; of this there is no doubt, how he frames his messages will be at the centre of his thinking. Will he isolate Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, by pouring the majority of his focus into Pakistan’s prolific opening partnership. Or, will he look for lesser players with upside, knowing that the collective effort is more likely to succeed in Australian conditions.

Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan will open the batting for Pakistan in the T20 World Cup. Really — are you 100% sure? I read that journalism is about breaking stories; there you have my contribution, which is exactly why I’m not a journo, or a budding one at best.

Sorry back to the writing. Neither Babar or Rizwan should be taken lightly, and both are wonderful players. Babar is currently the most aesthetically watchable batsman in world cricket, and for good measure, sits third in the ICC T20I rankings — with his partner-in-crime, Rizwan — taking the top spot. Rizwan averages 52 runs an innings in T20I’s, with a strike-rate of 128, from 72 games — impressive reading. Babar averages 44 with a strike-rate of 129, from 91 games. Equally impressive.

The support cast is exactly that. Or, that it is how it presents. There can be no doubt that Pakistan will need runs outside of Babar and Rizwan. Fakhar Zaman shapes as an interesting inclusion, the veteran left-hander suffered a knee injury in the final of last month's Asia Cup. Initially named as a traveling replacement, he now finds himself likely to play in the tournament opener, this Sunday, against India at the MCG. Shadab Khan will also offer Hayden some cause for optimism, as will Shan Masood and Haider Ali.

Hayden might be best served by first engaging the mind of fellow left-hander Fakhar Zaman. Personally, I see upside in the powerful south-paw; his best will off-set some of the more pedestrian players in the Pakistan batting group.

Matthew Hayden chose to provoke some thought prior to his team’s last warm up game at the Gabba by presenting a throwing challenge to Mohammad Wasim and Naseem Shah — details are not important — his message, though, is. “It’s not about the power, it’s about the brain.” Yes, you’re not mistaken. One of Australia’s most unapologetic enforcers is preaching from the modern-day woke playbook! It goes like this, “Do as I say, not as I did.”

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Bowling

It feels like a final before the finale. Pakistan v India at the MCG — day two of the tournament, and the opening game for both countries — so much hinges on the result. Pakistan are undoubtably a momentum team. Where, as, India predictably subscribes to a self-conscious form of paranoia. A win will provide so much for both teams, will bowling be the key that unlocks the door?

As mentioned prior: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain look certain starters. Afridi will operate with the new ball, searching for pace and lateral swing, that is likely to trouble any batsman. Rauf stands out as the most versatile of the three; being able to bowl in the powerplay if needed, looking to break partnerships in the middle overs. And, he is a capable death bowler. Raw pace and unpredictability will be the domain of Mohammad Hasnain. Also factor in Naseem Shah — who is likely to start on the bench — and will have plenty to offer when required.

Spin options start with Shadab Khan, a strong right-arm legspinner, with an excellent wrong-un. Which he is not averse to showing off. His best match-ups will be right-hand batters; he combines an excellent strike rate, with a miserly economy rate. The sort of right-left combination coaches dream about.

Pakistan remains a cricket analysts' worst nightmare. Brimming with uncertainty, and precariousness, they linger in the shadows, and you’re never certain when they will step out. Sunday’s encounter with India should tell much more than I can attempt to predict here!

Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan, Asif Ali, Fakhar Zaman, Haider Ali, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Wasim, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shan Masood. Standby Players: Usman Qadir, Mohammad Haris, Shahnawaz Dahani.

That’s it for Pakistan. More to follow on the rest …

England

ICC Ranking: 2

Matthew Mott, England’s newly appointed white ball coach, has ground to make up on his red ball counterpart, Brendon McCullum, after a pedestrian start to his tenure. Mott’s team endured series losses to South Africa in both ODI’s and T20I’s - looking far from settled. Previously, Mott had guided the Australian women’s team to an unassailable number-one world ranking. His cross-over to Men’s cricket will provide interesting debate.

Conversely, McCullum secured Test series wins against New Zealand, India, and South Africa. And was mighty close to an imperial knighthood for his services to "Bazball."

On the positive side of the ledger, and probably not a decision isolated to Mott; leaving Jason Roy out of the Pakistan bi-lateral series and World Cup squad sent a strong message to Mott’s charges. If form is temporary, then so is inclusion. A tough call that needed to be made.

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Batting

England’s three batting groups seem efficiently proportioned — that is: top three, middle four, and back four. Captain, Jos Buttler, will drive their powerplay output, and I expect this will be a fundamental factor for England in posting and chasing winning totals. The first view might suggest Ben Stokes will pilot the middle group; Stokes was short of T20I cricket over the last 18 months; leadership, though, will not trouble him. He also has able allies with him. The back four will have to be ready to go, as is the need in T20 cricket. Either Sam Curran or Chris Jordan will occupy the pivotal eight spot.

Dawid Malan is England’s only batsman in the ICC T20I rankings. Faster starts have become more the norm for Malan in the last 12 months, quietening the busy-bee analysts who have questioned his speed out of the blocks. His left-hand bias compliments Buttler and Alex Hales in the powerplay overs and gives opposition spin issues in the early overs out of the powerplay. As said, I suspect Buttler will be dominant in the early overs. Likewise, Hales will also be a handful if and when he gets set. Phil Salt provides a dependable alternative.

Ben Stokes provides compelling discussion around his place in the team and role. He is likely to start at four - a more facile assumption without Jonny Bairstow being available - having played minimal cricket in this format recently, the question is, will he be able to provide the required impetus from a crucial batting position? The four-spot demands a low dot-ball percentage, accurate gap-hitting, and boundaries from the spin overs. Of course, Stokes is capable of all that; can he deliver consistently, though? After Stokes: Harry Brook will be energetic and imaginative in equal doses - Brook should provide an enthralling case study throughout the tournament. Moeen Ali is a uniquely mercurial player in every sense of the word. And the increasingly highlighted closing spot will be coveted by Liam Livingstone - a Barrow-in-Furness native, no less!

Sam Curran and Chris Jordan will compete for the last all-rounders' slot. Either of them is capable of batting eight - I would weigh their batting measures in Curran’s favour. His impish imagination with bat and ball could be the secret sauce needed for an otherwise predictable, yet efficient, recipe. A decision for Rob Key to ponder, who is not normally averse to palatable recipes.

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Bowling

Australia is conducive to wrist spin. Heard this before? Yes, I know - ad nauseam. It did foster the world’s best practitioner though, and he was the leading advocate of this compelling art-form. In Adil Rashid, England have a highly skilled leg spinner, who has also been at the centre of their bowling group for some time now. It's hard not to like his whirling approach. Rashid looks Ikea-built for leg spin, his repertoire is wide and varied, and his control is there to match. He has plenty to ponder.

Front-end bowling doesn't shape as a problem for England. Reece Topley will take the new ball, he offers height and a left-arm bias as pros, and it's likely we might see the cons the more he plays. Chris Woakes is also a front-end option, swinging away from right-handers and hitting hard lengths. David Willey can offer left-arm swing with the new ball, and is a versatile middle, and late overs option. Lastly, Ben Stokes could also be used in this role, as could Sam Curran if selected.

Rashid provides wrist spin, and Moeen Ali will offer excellent match ups to left-handers with his off spin. Ali should not be underestimated in this format - he has a mountain of domestic experience to back up his international credentials. Oh, and there's more! The dude from Barrow-in-Furness - those that know Barrow-in-Furness should be smiling - imitates Sachin Tendulkar with ball in hand, switching between leg spin and off spin dependent on the batter. This strategy does not fill me with confidence at this level!

Last piece of the puzzle is pace through the middle of the innings. Ah, and those pesky death overs which England have not negotiated well in previous tournaments. Mark Wood — an Ashington native, remember Steve Harmison — will do what he does through the middle: hustle and bustle, bowl super quick, and be competitive in every ball - no questions asked. Thinking about the death overs - 18, 19 and 20 - it really is a poor mans lot. Yet, so important. Actually wanting the role might be 80 percent of the equation, the remaining 20 percent left to luck. I believe whoever has the ball in hand at that time just needs to know he is playing with house money. This will sound irresponsible: someone has to do it, so what is there to lose? Play the odds, and of course, back your skills.

I suspect both Sam Curran and Chris Jordan will be charged with this onerous task at different stages of the tournament, possibly Ben Stokes also. If the final were tomorrow, I would optimistically place trust in Curran. Watch and wait. If there is any solace in this space — most teams should feel the same uncertainty.

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England: Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Alex Hales. Standby Players: Liam Dawson, Richard Gleeson, Tymal Mills.

Coach: Matthew Mott

That’s it for England. More to follow on the rest.

As always, thank you for being here.

Australia (holders)

ICC Ranking: 6

Australia holds the ICC T20 World Cup; confirmed. Australia, is the ranked sixth team in the ICC T20I rankings; confirmed. An unusual combination! Also — apologies Rob — they are the clear tournament betting favourite. Confusing form-lines to follow. My line — they will be extremely difficult to beat on home soil.

There is no tighter international captain/coach partnership than Aaron Finch and Andrew McDonald. Their association encompasses time as state teammates, domestic captain/coach (Melbourne Renegades), international captain/assistant coach, and now, captain/head coach. Captain Finch will be insistent on delivering McDonald his first trophy as Head Coach, and Coach McDonald will be equally determined to send off Finch as a dual T20 World Cup-winning captain. Both wish for the perfect storm (which we are getting in VIC now!)

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Batting

First to the Australian batting lineup: loaded with experience, skill, and power. David Warner is likely to be their barometer; his powerplay batting is as good as anyone in world cricket, his real strength, though, is his ability to maintain momentum in overs seven to 10, and bat deep into the innings.

At 35, David Warner, is still one of the very best ball-strikers in world cricket. His horizontal bat-swing is as pure as spring water, and he plays Australian wickets like Kenny G plays the saxophone; effortlessly. I’m not sure of Kenny G’s track ability. Warner, though, runs like the wind, and is an insistent pain to opposition fielders. Cricket IQ can be hard to measure subjectively; in Warner, it is easy. He is clearly in command of his own space and the one occupied by his partners and team.

Is Aaron Finch a complimentary opener to Warner? I’m unsure. The question is how Finch should play and in what position. For me, he must open. His method will benefit from a strong shot of self-belief and a wider shot-focus. Right now, it appears hand-cuffed by a single thought process — hitting over the in-field. Finch is better than this. I say: use the floor as well as the aerial route, open up more scoring options. If he can trust his hands, and feet, he has a chance of going out the way he should. Captain — express yourself, please.

Mitch Marsh looks likely to hold down the three-spot. Replicating his form from the previous campaign will be the focus — that form was excellent. Today, he presents as strong and focused, and his ball-striking is as crisp as ever. Tomorrow, hold your breath. Fitness will always be a worry, for now, though, he looks cherry-ripe. Breathe out — again.

Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis will occupy positions in the top six — presuming Matthew Wade will bat in the seven-spot — in what order, we shall see. Maxwell looks devoid of his white-ball powers with no runs to speak of and isn’t presenting a threat to the opposition. Fear not; he can flick the switch at any moment. However, his run of form will need to be reversed sooner, rather than later.

Stoinis will offer plenty: ‘ the hulk’ will be flexing his proverbial’s. Brooding, photogenic, self-absorbed — the list goes on — Stoinis, though, is a fierce competitor, and nobody craves the pivotal moments more. Perhaps it is self-fulfilling. Still, he remains an instrumental player in this Australian team.

New kid on the block, Tim David, shapes as a likely ally to Matthew Wade. David is a power-hitter built from the new-age mould. Both, he and Wade will be engaged to close-out innings, whether setting totals or chasing them down. Their right-left combination will likely harmonise the execution required in this demanding role. David will play the part of enforcer, and Wade, the agitator.

If Wade has any political ambitions, I suspect he might be a prime recruit for Australia’s republican movement. Coach McDonald holds great faith in the combative Wade; he seems to be the eyes and ears that management will need on the ground and in the dressing room.

Profiling Steve Smith as a backup player seems ludicrous; this is how it looks, though. Smith, shuffled back in the pack and with his role unclear, might be a spectator for much of the tournament. Pretty handy card to have up the sleeve!

In summary: Australia’s success with the bat will be contingent on two factors: Warner’s powerplay batting, then his switch to the ‘pilot role’: and then how many of the power-hitters can fire simultaneously. Also, not to leave too much to the Republican, Matthew Wade. And some Maxwell magic will help things along.

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Bowling

Australia’s bowling group appears reliant on pace; Starc, Cummins, and Hazelwood form a dependable troika; they are likely to shoulder a burdensome load. Support will arrive in the way of all-rounders — with no backup quick — and spin; is in the nifty fingers of Adam Zampa, and to a lesser degree, Ashton Agar.

It’s like playing blackjack: the dealer gives you two sevens, you choose not to split them, then twist and receive a third seven to beat the house. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood give you this type of competitive advantage.

There is no better pace trifecta in world cricket.

Starc provides left-arm bias, consistently high ball-speed, and variation from both sides of the stumps — to right and left handers alike. The propensity to produce elite balls* — to knock over any top-order batter in world cricket — sets him apart, and defines his role. Later over defence is susceptible, although, when his yorker is functioning, watch out.

Hazelwood, number one ranked bowler, and Cummins both hit hard lengths* consistently, that’s an understatement, I know. They also both use the crease to vary angles, and target the stumps more than most. Hazelwood can be dynamic in the powerplay; by restricting scoring, and creating wicket opportunities. The hard overs, and closing will be where Cummins will factor. I expect the bigger boundaries to help his off-speed-into-the-wicket variations.

Augmenting the trio will be Marcus Stoinis, and possibly Mitch Marsh with their medium-pace. Stoinis — like his batting — is able to slot in anywhere. He might bowl powerplay overs, through the middle, or be used at the death. What was once predictable, is now brimming with variations. Watch, and compare, with India’s Hardik Pandya — I expect them both to have big tournaments.

Wrist spin is a religion in Australia; pace, bounce, and substantial boundaries give all wrist-spinners cause for optimism. The rising star of Adam Zampa might not have reached its peak yet, but it is most certainly on the ascent. Zampa has discarded inconsistency, replacing it with assertive right-arm leg spin and a wicked wrong-un (that sounds so wrong). The stumps always look directly at his deliveries — “you miss, and I hit” — being Zampa’s mantra.

Scorned with equal enthusiasm is the practice of finger spin. So, with this in mind, we wish Ashton Agar all the best. No, joking aside, Agar might not see much game time. However, if he does, he will manage his quota adequately. He does have Zampa covered with the bat in hand.

Fielding (defence)

More to follow here.  I plan to go back over all the teams previewed with a quick-hit summary. Fielding (defence) will be featured, as well as a deeper dive into stats, both player, and team based.

Australian squad for ICC T20 World Cup: Aaron Finch (c), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

That’s it for Australia. More to follow on the rest.

As always, thank you for being here.

India

ICC Ranking: 1

India will arrive in Australia under new leadership. Captain Rohit Sharma connects with former teammate, and newly appointed coach, Rahul Dravid, to form a scholarly partnership. Both will be determined to push India past the Super Four stage, where they have faltered in their last two World Cup campaigns.

After a disappointing Asia Cup where they finished third, the world number one has shown no evidence of panic in their selection, sticking with a majority of the players who travelled to the UAE. Clearly, though, they will miss the influential Jasprit Bumrah.

Bumrah misses the tournament due to a back injury — extremely unfortunate timing for India, and the ebullient 28-year-old.

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Batting

First, we look at the Indian batting lineup, full of experience, skill, and power. Expect them to be high, or top, in the overall scoring category. The soft spot appears to be in their bottom four.

The continuous production of India’s right-handed batters resembles one of Henry Ford’s assembly lines. Systematic, repeatable, and efficient; are all words that would have resonated with Ford. The latest model is Suryakumar Yadav (SKY) — a 360 striker with power and touch in equal doses. His flat-line temperament is well suited to the pivotal four-spot (number four) — and recent form stands up well (Australia T20I home series) — there will be lofty expectations of the talented rookie. Twenty-three matches into his T20I career, SKY is placed No.2 in the ICC T20 Batter Rankings with a strike rate of 175.45, the best of any player to bat as many times in T20I history. Only Pakistan captain, Babar Azam, heads him. (an additional note on SKY — check to see if he brings his thigh pad to Australia)

Rohit Sharma, who sleeps with white cricket balls, will be a lock at the top of the order. Who will be his partner is an interesting question. Convention says KL Rahul —he to a product of the Indian batting assembly line — Rahul gives India a double threat in the powerplay alongside Rohit; however, other options exist. Virat Kohli could move up a spot and play the ‘pilot*’ role. Equally, Rishabh Pant is an option with his unpredictable method and left-hand bias. Whichever way they triangulate the top three, it will remain an intimidating proposition, particularly with Suryakumar Yadav, at four. After that, you can throw the balls up.

Other batters to note are: Deepak Hooda — a versatile and seemingly resilient player who can slot into multiple spots in the order. Hooda gives India excellent cover in the five-spot, that will be initially occupied by Hardik Pandya. Pandya is a key cog in the bigger machine, providing India’s bowling with difficult overs, and his hitting can be as destructive as any batter in their line-up. The one question mark will be fitness, or maintaining his fitness in a tournament environment. Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik are the glovemen, and both crucial middle-to-late-over batters. Saying that, as mentioned, Pant might be a viable option to open with Rohit if needed.

Where other sides will try to lengthen their batting orders with all-rounders, India has typically exposed their mid-to-late-order as high as seven or eight, playing genuine bowlers at eight, nine, 10, and 11. Ravichandran Ashwin’s inclusion will alleviate some of this lower-order pressure, although India has placed plenty of hope in the batting of bowling all-rounder, Axar Patel — I am still to be convinced. Ashwin might see more game time than expected.

In summary: India looks to have most of the batting bases covered. Whichever way they go with the top three, it seems dangerous. Rohit, Rahul, Kohli, and possibly, Pant — all bat deep into the innings when set. Suryakumar Yadav, Pandya, and Karthik form a provoking middle-order, and the back-end — we will see. Opposition might not get to the back four too often.

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Bowling

India’s bowling group is young on experience, with the exception of Ashwin. It will provide fascinating viewing throughout the tournament. Look for their spin economy rate to be one of the best.

Reiterating a previous comment — Jasprit Bumrah shapes as a huge loss for India — the gap left seems a gaping void in their title aspirations. Bumrah has the experience, and reputation to draw on; statistically, he is way down the ICC rankings; however, this is not a genuine reflection of his worth to the Indian team. He will be missed.

Shoes are never left empty for long; they are there to be filled. So, who will it be? India named Deepak Chahar and Mohammad Shami as standby players; Shami has the overall experience, yet his T20 numbers are average, at best. Chahar is relatively inexperienced. but appears the better option, and his inclusion would be in keeping with the rest of this youthful bowling group — Ashwin excepted. Much will rest with them.

Arshdeep Singh will give natural variety with the new ball; tall, left-handed, and quick enough, he’s able to swing the ball back into right-handers; as well as lefties. A rock-solid wrist at release presents a near-perfect seam, and he has a dependable command of length. Australian pitches and overhead conditions, in October, should offer plenty to the wiry Punjabi.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is the most experienced of the bowlers — by games played — he also offers a high level of skill with ball in hand. Adapting to in-game conditions will be crucial; Bhuvneshwar looks will placed to handle this, and do not discount his poker-like temperament. Hardik Pandya and Harshal Patel round out the pacers, with one more to be added before the October 15 cut-off. Unfortunately for Indian supporters, it won’t be Jasprit Bumrah.

A left-field replacement for Bumrah could still be Mohammed Siraj — who might just edge out Shami and Chahar. Siraj has bowled well on previous tours of Australia, and his aggressively quick swing with the new ball, coupled with solid defensive capability, might just land him the last spot.

Spin will sit in the hands of a former chess player: one of India’s all-time greats; and a newcomer who replaces a personal favourite of mine — Ravi Jadeja. It seems a natural progression — a former chess player to international leg-spinner — enter; Yuzvendra Chahal. Chahal has prospered in the most difficult of environments, bowling white-ball, leg-spin, inside some of the smallest grounds in world cricket. He entrusts nous and patience with admirable conviction, and should benefit from Australia’s deeper boundaries.

Axar Patel stands tall and wide, a frame better suited to a quick bowler. Spin it is, though, left-arm finger spin — delivered from a lower arm with an under-cutter action. Right-handers will be his best match-up. Axar rarely gives the timbers away — Harsha Boghle believes he is in the midst of a love affair with the stumps, often visiting them — only can it be, the voice of cricket, Harsha Boghle. *Note to all batters and coaches: lower your 45-degree boundary bat swing.

Rounding out the triangle is Ravi Ashwin. The sum of the three sides is not equal in this instance. Ashwin is vastly experienced, and well-travelled in all formats. Previously, Indian selectors have seen international T20 as a hindrance to Ashwin, preferring to watch him play ODI’s and Test matches. And, of course, IPL. I believe Ashwin shapes as the joker in the deck — India is likely to play him when they need him. A handy card to have up your sleeve.

Fielding (defence)

More to follow here.  I plan to go back over all the teams previewed with a quick-hit summary. Fielding (defence) will be featured, as well as a deeper dive into stats, both player, and team based.

Indian squad for ICC T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh.

*One player to be added by 15 October*

That’s it for India. More to follow on the rest.

As always, thank you for being here.