England vs West Indies, 2020: 2nd Test: Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Tips – Playing XI, Pitch Report & Injury Update

Match Details

The 2nd Test of the three-match series between England and West Indies will be played at the Old Trafford in Manchester.

This match starts at 11 AM local time (3:30 PM IST) (10 AM GMT). It will be live on Sony Six and Sony Six HD. Live streaming will be available on Sony LIV.

Preview

After a resounding victory in the first match of the series, West Indies will be hoping to seal the series by winning the second Test against England. Their skipper Jason Holder led the team really well while the Caribbean bowlers were at their best. With the bat, they found an unlikely hero in Jermaine Blackwood and apart from any injury concerns, the West Indies won’t seem to be making any changes to their team.

England, on the other hand, will see their skipper Joe Root returning to the set up and also taking over the captaincy from Ben Stokes. Joe Denly is the likeliest player to make way for him after Zak Crawley’s impressive knock in the second innings. In the pace department, Stuart Broad’s return looks certain after Mark Wood didn’t impress much in the series opener.

Weather Report

It will be cloudy in Manchester on the opening day of the Test with the weather expected to improve as the match progresses. The chances of rain coming down remains around 20% throughout the five days which clearly indicates there is nothing much to worry for the teams in that aspect.

Pitch Report

Old Trafford has hosted 79 Tests before and is generally known to assist pacers. However, the rough created outside the crease also brings spinners into play in the second innings. In England, weather plays a crucial role and if the dark clouds are hovering over, the team winning the toss is expected to bowl first after winning the toss.

Average first innings score: 333

Injury & Availability News

Joe Root will play this match and also lead England. He is expected to replace either Joe Denly or Zak Crawley.

John Campbell was hit on the toe by Jofra Archer while batting in the second innings. He walked off retired hurt soon after only to return to bat later. He was uncomfortable even then. There is no update on his injury.

Probable Playing XIs

England

Rory Burns, Dominic Sibley, Zak Crawley/Joe Denly, Joe Root, Ben Stokes (C), Ollie Pope, Jos Buttler (WK), Dom Bess, James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood/Stuart Broad.

Bench – Chris Woakes, Mark Wood/Stuart Broad, Zak Crawley/Joe Denly

West Indies

Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, Shai Hope, Shamarh Brooks, Roston Chase, Jermaine Blackwood, Shane Dowrich (WK), Jason Holder (C), Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, Shannon Gabriel.

Bench – Chemar Holder, Raymon Reifer, Nkrumah Bonnerm, Rahkeem Cornwall

Top Picks

Captaincy didn’t affect Ben Stokes’ performance at all as he scored 89 runs and picked 6 wickets across two innings in the first Test. He continues to be the favourite captain option. Jason Holder is another best pick for this match thanks to his all-round ability. He picked up seven wickets in the last game but would like to contribute more with the bat. Joe Root is considered the best among all of them and should be picked without an iota of doubt.

With the ball, James Anderson and Shannon Gabriel should be picked at any cost. The latter returned with nine wickets in the last match and is expected to make an impact with his pace again. Jofra Archer couldn’t do much apart from three wickets in the second innings.

Captain and Vice-Captain Options

Captain Options: Ben Stokes, Jason Holder

Vice-Captain Options: Roston Chase, Joe Root

Suggested Playing XI for Head to Head/Small Leagues

Keeper – Shane Dowrich

Batsmen – Kraigg Brathwaite, Rory Burns, Joe Root

All-Rounders – Jason Holder (VC), Ben Stokes (C), Roston Chase

Bowlers – Shannon Gabriel, James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Dom Bess

Suggested Playing XI for Grand/Mega Leagues:

Keeper – Shane Dowrich, Shai Hope

Batsmen – Jermaine Blackwood, Dom Sibley, Zak Crawley

All-Rounders – Jason Holder (C), Roston Chase (VC), Ben Stokes

Bowlers – Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, Stuart Broad

Expert Advice

Joe Root is making a comeback and might be rusty as well. It is absolutely fine if you don’t pick him in the side and go for other players who will save credits.

Probable Winners

England are expected to make a comeback and level the series.

Note: Updated Fantasy teams and Playing XIs of every match will be provided in our Telegram channel if the information is available.

Disclaimer: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.