http://www.senore.com/Cricket/England-c56013 – 3rd ODI - Match Preview
With a series win insight, England are set to take on Pakistan in the 3rd ODI, played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, February 18, 2012.
After a mauling suffered in the Test leg of the tour, many expected little from the visitors in a format, which has seen them struggle in the not too distant past. Their capitulation against the Aussies and Indians made them susceptible to carry any sort of hope into the 50-over bouts against the Men In Green - but as it stands, http://www.senore.com/Cricket/AN-Cook-c1026’s side is just one win away from achieving an unlikely, yet justifiable, series success.
While it is hard to criticize their performances in the opening two ODI games, question marks still linger over their credentials of playing quality spin bowling, especially in the sub-continent.
Apart from the http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Eoin-Joseph-Gerard-Morgan-c56032.
The bowling department has been impressive on their travels, with the standout performer being http://www.senore.com/Cricket/India-c750 in October, the lanky pacer has gone from strength to strength in claiming a permanent spot – at least in the limited overs team.
Also, it is fair to mention the rise of http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Samit-Patel-c2426, whose all-round abilities have been pivotal to his team’s success in the series so far. After spending considerable time on the sidelines (mainly due to weight issues), the 27-year-old proved his worth by impressive performances – claiming three wickets in the first match before grabbing another two in the second, while taking an excellent low catch off Umar Akmal.
All doubts regarding the team’s failure in the 50-over format could be put to rest if they manage to conjure up a win in the third one-dayer – a feat worthy of praise for the time being at least.
The hosts have a lot to ponder after two overwhelming losses – showing the unpredictable nature of their cricket. After another batting malfunction, many have criticized the highly domesticated approach used by http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Misbah-ul-Haq-c1972 in handling the senior players, who have needlessly thrown away wickets.
While the team has arguably made advancements under the leadership of the veteran, it is hard not to blame him for being too soft on his teamamtes after the recent failures, where they have bowled below par, fielded abysmally and topped that with performing poorly with the bat.
With the series sucess remaining out of reach, wins in the final two games will be precious concerning the future of many of the batters. http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Shoaib-Malik-c90088 is always self destructive.
The other major concern remains the balance of the team. With Malik not playing in the previous game, spinner http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Abdur-Rehman-c41691‘s inclusion proved costly after his 12-ball horror show. The composition surely will have a few changes, but for now even Misbah is not sure of his playing XI.
The last time the English contingent played at Dubai, the Men In Green spinners sealed an emphatic three-nil victory (Test) for their side. This time around, it will be the away team looking to emerge victorious and take a lead of similar magnitude.
Apart from the windy conditions (mainly due to sandstorms), the track will offer the customary assistance to the batsmen and bowlers of respective camps. Toss holds key.
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