Introduction:

The second edition of the International League T20 (ILT20) kicks off with a high-voltage encounter between Sharjah Warriors (SJH) and Gulf Giants (GUL) at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium on January 19, 2024. As the cricketing enthusiasts gear up for this thrilling showdown, fantasy cricket enthusiasts are equally excited to build their Dream11 teams. Let’s delve into the team analysis, probable playing XI, pitch report, and player picks to help you make informed decisions for your fantasy cricket squad.

Match Details:

Team Overview:

1. Sharjah Warriors (SJH): The Warriors, who secured three wins in the previous season, are hungry for success under new skipper Tom Kohler-Cadmore. Retaining key players like Martin Guptill, Johnson Charles, and Daniel Sams, SJH aims to start the tournament on a positive note. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, they will look to make a mark against the defending champions.

Probable Playing XI (SJH):

MJ Guptill, Johnson Charles, K Mendis (wk), T Kohler-Cadmore (C), Joe Denly, DR Sams, Chris Woakes, JK Fuller, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Jawadullah, D Madushanka

2. Gulf Giants (GUL): The reigning champions, Gulf Giants, led by James Vince, are eager to defend their title. With power-hitters like Chris Lynn and consistent performers like Usman Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, GUL presents a formidable lineup. The return of Vince as the captain adds experience to the side, and they will be aiming to set the tone for another successful campaign.

Probable Playing XI (GUL):

CA Lynn, JM Vince (C), Jordan Cox (wk), Usman Khan, Shimron Hetmyer, Zohaib Zubair, CR Brathwaite, CJ Jordan, DC Drakes, Aayan Afzal Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Weather and Pitch Report:

The Sharjah Cricket Stadium is expected to provide a balanced track, offering assistance to both batsmen and bowlers. With an average first innings score of 144 in the last 10 T20 matches, the teams winning the toss might opt to chase. The weather is clear with a temperature of 25.1°C and 50% humidity, creating ideal playing conditions.

Player Picks for Fantasy Cricket:

Captains:

1. Daniel Sams (SJH) – All-rounder
   • Notable performances in the Big Bash League.
   • Scored 102 runs and took 12 wickets in nine matches.
2. Usman Khan (GUL) – Batsman
   • 613 runs in 21 T20 matches with a strike rate of 143.55.
   • Two centuries and two half-centuries to his name.
3. Chris Lynn (GUL) – Batsman
   • Impressive BBL 2023-24 season with 304 runs at a strike rate of 164.32.

Don’t Pick:

1. Zohaib Zubair (GUL) – All-rounder
   • Recent poor performances in domestic tournaments.
2. Aayan Afzal Khan (GUL) – Bowler
   • Picked only one wicket in the last month’s Abu Dhabi T10 League.

Dream11 Prediction (Team 1):

Wicketkeepers: Johnson Charles, Kusal Mendis, Jordan Cox Batsmen: Martin Guptill, James Vince, Usman Khan, Chris Lynn All-rounders: Daniel Sams (C) Bowlers: Junaid Siddique, Chris Jordan (VC), Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Dream11 Prediction (Team 2):

Wicketkeepers: Johnson Charles, Kusal Mendis Batsmen: Martin Guptill, James Vince (VC), Shimron Hetmyer, Usman Khan (C), Chris Lynn All-rounders: Daniel Sams Bowlers: Chris Woakes, Dilshan Madushanka, Junaid Siddique

Grand League Team Lineup:

Wicketkeepers: Johnson Charles, Kusal Mendis Batsmen: James Vince (VC), Shimron Hetmyer, Usman Khan (C), Chris Lynn All-rounders: Daniel Sams Bowlers: Chris Woakes, Junaid Siddique, Chris Jordan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Mega League Team Lineup:

Wicketkeepers: Johnson Charles, Kusal Mendis Batsmen: Martin Guptill, James Vince (C), Shimron Hetmyer, Usman Khan (VC), Chris Lynn All-rounders: Daniel Sams Bowlers: Chris Woakes, Junaid Siddique, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Conclusion:

As the teams finalize their lineups after the toss, it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest information. The clash between Sharjah Warriors and Gulf Giants promises to be a spectacle, and your fantasy team selections could play a pivotal role in your success. Choose wisely, consider recent form, and enjoy the exhilarating ILT20 action at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

OV vs CS Dream11 Prediction