New Zealand’s rising star all-rounder, Rachin Ravindra, has been a revelation at the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, garnering significant attention from the global cricket fraternity.

This left-handed dynamo didn’t just rack up 290 runs in a mere five innings during the iconic tournament but also demonstrated his prowess with the ball, claiming three pivotal wickets.

IPL’s tradition of scouting young prodigies

The Wellington prodigy’s multifaceted skills, comprising impactful batting and efficient bowling, have undeniably placed him on the radar of premier cricket establishments, notably the Indian Premier League (IPL). The allure of the IPL has always been its melange of international stalwarts, and at 23, Rachin fits perfectly into the bracket of emerging talents that the league often vies for.

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Considering his meteoric rise and the potential he brings to the table, several IPL franchises would undoubtedly be vying for his inclusion in their lineup for the forthcoming season.

Historically, the IPL has been a beacon for top-tier international players, and Rachin, with his youthful exuberance and exceptional talent, is a prime candidate for many teams seeking a fresh infusion of prowess.

1. Mumbai Indians The Mumbai Indians, with their illustrious IPL legacy, have always shown an inclination towards fostering budding talents. Given the potential gaps in their middle-order and spinning department, Rachin’s dual capabilities might just be the answer to their needs.
2. Royal Challengers Bangalore Year after year, the Royal Challengers Bangalore have been in the hunt but without clinching the coveted IPL trophy. The addition of an all-rounder of Rachin’s stature might be the missing piece in their championship puzzle, offering them both balance and depth.
3. Rajasthan Royals The Royals have always been forward-thinking, scouting and molding young talents to fit their vision. Given Rachin’s versatility, he might seamlessly fit into their blueprint, adding both firepower and flexibility.
4. Sunrisers Hyderabad Synonymous with fostering emerging talents, the Sunrisers might see in Rachin the ideal blend of a potent middle-order batsman and a handy bowler. His spin bowling could be the perfect foil to their already impressive pace attack, making him a valuable prospect for the team.

The Pakistan Cricket Team’s performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 has been disappointing. Despite a promising start with victories over the Netherlands and Sri Lanka in Hyderabad, Pakistan has suffered three consecutive defeats in the tournament. Their losing streak began with a defeat to India in Ahmedabad, followed by losses to Australia in Bangalore, and a significant setback against Afghanistan in Chennai. These results have prompted concern within the Pakistan Cricket Board.

The PCB has made a significant announcement

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a statement addressing their team’s performance in the 2023 World Cup and alluding to potential changes within their setup. Concerns raised by Pakistan fans and former cricketers regarding Babar Azam’s captaincy have prompted the PCB to respond. In their statement, the PCB expressed, “Looking forward, the board will make decisions in the best interest of Pakistan cricket based on the team’s World Cup performance.”

The PCB also revealed that both Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, and chief selector, Inzamam-ul-Haq, were given considerable autonomy and freedom for the duration of the tournament. They have called on fans to continue supporting their team and stand behind the players as there are still four crucial games left in the tournament. Babar Azam has come under significant criticism following Pakistan’s underwhelming performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.

Babar Azam is facing intense scrutiny and criticism

Several former Pakistan players have called for Babar Azam to step down from his captaincy role. Earlier reports even suggested that Babar Azam might consider resigning from the leadership position, prompting the PCB to explore new options for leading the national team. Potential candidates for the role may include Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan, and Shaheen Afridi.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has been critical of Babar’s approach in the tournament, urging him to take a more active role during matches.

In the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Pakistan has played five games, securing two wins but suffering three consecutive losses, accumulating a total of four points. As of now, they hold the 5th position in the points table. Despite the challenges, Pakistan still has a chance to reach the semi-finals if they can secure victories in their remaining four matches. Their next match is scheduled against South Africa in Chennai on October 27th.

Sri Lanka has played some good cricket in the last ten months or so. They won an Asia Cup, beat Australia at home, and their players have done a fine job in franchise cricket around the World. Dasun Shanaka as a skipper has built his team very well but could not get the results on time with Sri Lanka gearing up for the World Cup qualifiers.

Champions once, runners-up in consecutive occasions, Sri Lanka has been a big part of the World Cup since its inception. They have a pretty good record and often push themselves harder in World Cups. In the 2019 World Cup for instance, Sri Lanka came in looking like minnows posing no threats to the bigger opponents. In 2018 they were whitewashed by England at home, but in 2019, with their World Cup still alive, Sri Lanka managed to upset the Hosts, the favorites and the eventual champions in what was an absolute dog fight.

With such a rich history behind them, Sri Lanka are now left fighting for a World Cup squad as they risk failing to qualify for the first time. Seeing their style of play in recent months though, Sri Lanka may be happy with their participation as it allows them to fine-tune their line-up despite running the risk of not qualifying if something goes wrong over the course of the tournament.

Since the end of the 2019 World Cup though, the overall numbers have not been great. With 18 wins in 42 games, Sri Lanka’s ever-so-long transition has continued to move through. The scores during the period were not great and batting collapses have been a common feature. The struggle through the ODI Super League is what has left them in a tough situation with Sri Lanka unable to beat big sides both at home and away, until they got past Australia in one of their best performances in recent times.

As a result of all those tough results, Sri Lanka now find themselves in Zimbabwe fighting for a spot in the World Cup. Injuries have haunted them. Kusal Perera and Avishka Fernando had long injury layoffs. Fast bowlers Lahiru Kumara and Dushmantha Chameera too have been in and out with injuries and consistent niggles.

What are their chances though. The first round looks fine with minimal threats as Ireland could prove their most threatening opponent. They already moved past UAE. Coming to the next round, games against West Indies and Zimbabwe could prove interesting as the pair could provide challenges for them when it comes to qualifying to the next round.

However, going by the past few months, Sri Lanka should find themselves in a comfortable spot. They have gotten past some big opponents in recent games and that should give them some confidence as they look to secure a World Cup spot.

ZIM vs NEP, 1st Match Preview

The first ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers 2023 match between Zimbabwe and Nepal will take place on June 18 at 12:30 PM IST at Harare Sports Club in Harare. The ten teams are divided into two groups. Each country will compete in four group games, with the top three from each group progressing to the Super Six stage. Zimbabwe won the ODI series against the Netherlands 2-1 in March 2023. Prior to that, they had won warm-up matches against Oman and Scotland. Meanwhile, Nepal won the ACC Premier Cup 2023 after defeating UAE in the finals. The UAE, on the other hand, defeated them in a warm-up match for the Cricket World Cup.

ZIM vs NEP, 1st Match Details

Zimbabwe vs Nepal – 1st Match

Venue: Harare Sports Club – Harare

Date & Time: 18th June at 12:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: SonyLIV app

ZIM vs NEP Venue Stats

ZIM vs NEP, 1st Match Pitch Report

It’s a balanced surface that doesn’t going to change its nature during the course of the match.

ZIM vs NEP Weather Report

The forecast calls for partly cloudy skies throughout the game, with humidity hovering around 70% from start to finish. Rain is not expected to fall during the game.

ZIM vs NEP Last Five Matches

ZIM vs NEP Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

ZIM vs NEP, 1st Match Probable Playing XIs:

Zimbabwe Probable Playing XIs

Craig Ervine (c), Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wesley Madhevere, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Clive Madande (wk), Bradley Evans, Richard Ngarava, Tendai Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani

Nepal Probable Playing XIs

Kushal Bhurtel, Asif Sheikh (wk), Gulsan Jha, Rohit Kumar Paudel (c), Bhim Sarki, Kushal Malla, Lalit Rajbanshi, Aarif Sheikh, KC Karan, Sompal Kami, Sandeep Lamichhane

Topmost Picks for ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Prediction, 1st Match:

Top Picks – Zimbabwe

• Sean Williams – Sean Williams will be the second-hottest pick in the fantasy teams. He has been in red-hot form with both the bat and ball, making him a valuable asset.
• Sikandar Raza – Sikandar Raza can anchor innings and build partnerships, as well as play aggressive strokes when required. Apart from batting prowess, Raza has a knack for breaking crucial partnerships and taking pivotal wickets.

Top Picks – Nepal

• Sandeep Lamichhane – Sandeep Lamichhane’s remarkable performances on the cricket field have established him as a highly promising talent in the international arena.
• Rohit Kumar Paudel – He is just 20 years old and has already been given the responsibility to lead Nepal at important tournaments.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Team:

Asif Sheikh, Rohit Kumar Paudel, Wesley Madhevere, Kushal Malla, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza(C), Aarif Sheikh, Ryan Burl, Sompal Kami, Sandeep Lamichhane(VC), Blessing Muzarabani

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for ZIM vs NEP Dream11 Team:

Asif Sheikh, Rohit Kumar Paudel, Wesley Madhevere(VC), Craig Ervine(C), Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Aarif Sheikh, Ryan Burl, Sompal Kami, Sandeep Lamichhane, Blessing Muzarabani

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Sikandar Raza, Craig Ervine

Vice-captain – Sandeep Lamichhane, Wesley Madhevere

Wicketkeeper – Asif Sheikh

ZIM vs NEP 1st Match Probable Winners:

Zimbabwe, which did not qualify for the 2019 World Cup, is hoping to secure a spot in this year’s showpiece event, which will be held in India. Nepal has thoroughly enjoyed their journey in the 50-over format this year. They have only been defeated once in their last 16 One-Day Internationals. Considering the team combination, Zimbabwe is expected to win this match.