Related Articles
The inaugural season of the International Masters League (IML) has been a thrilling spectacle, and the upcoming clash between India Masters and Australia Masters promises to be another exciting contest. So far, India Masters have dominated the competition, securing convincing victories over England Masters and South Africa Masters after a narrow win against Sri Lanka Masters.
On the other hand, Australia Masters, despite being tipped as favorites before the tournament, have struggled to find their rhythm, suffering two close defeats. As these two teams face off at the Kotambi Cricket Stadium in Vadodara, fans can expect fireworks on the field.
Match Details
| Match | India Masters vs Australia Masters |
|---|---|
| Tournament | International Masters League 2025 |
| Date & Time | 5th March 2025, 7:30 PM |
| Venue | Kotambi Cricket Stadium, Vadodara |
| Format | T20 |
Team Previews
India Masters Preview
India Masters have been unstoppable in this edition of the IML. Their recent performances showcase their dominance, especially their clinical dismantling of South Africa Masters in the last game. Ambati Rayudu has been the standout performer with the bat, while Rahul Sharma and Yuvraj Singh have wreaked havoc with the ball. The team’s depth in both batting and bowling makes them formidable opponents. Captain Sachin Tendulkar may not have fired consistently yet, but his leadership has kept the squad motivated. With home advantage and momentum on their side, India Masters enter this match as overwhelming favorites.
Australia Masters Preview
Despite their talent-laden lineup, Australia Masters have had a disappointing start to the tournament. In their previous game, they posted a mammoth total of 217/4 but fell short against Sri Lanka Masters. Shaun Marsh and Ben Dunk have been exceptional with the bat, while Ben Laughlin has led the charge with the ball. However, inconsistency in execution has cost them dearly. Captain Shane Watson will need to inspire his troops to deliver their best performance if they hope to upset the hosts.
Favorite Team to Win Today’s Match
| Team | Reasons for Winning |
|---|---|
| India Masters | Strong form, balanced team, home advantage, and confidence from previous wins make them favorites today. |
India Masters are the clear favorites due to their unbeaten streak and dominant performances. Their batsmen, led by Ambati Rayudu, have consistently delivered, while bowlers like Rahul Sharma and Yuvraj Singh have provided breakthroughs. The Kotambi pitch suits their aggressive style, and playing at home gives them an added edge. Australia Masters, though talented, lack consistency and have already lost twice. India Masters’ experience and current form should see them through comfortably.
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Role | Points Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Ambati Rayudu (C) | WK/Batsman | High |
| Shaun Marsh (VC) | Batsman | High |
| Pawan Negi | All-Rounder | Medium-High |
| Dan Christian | All-Rounder | Medium-High |
| Yuvraj Singh | Bowler/All-Rnd | High |
| Ben Laughlin | Bowler | High |
| Irfan Pathan | All-Rounder | Medium |
| Nathan Coulter-Nile | Bowler | Medium-High |
| Yusuf Pathan | Batsman | Medium |
| Dhawal Kulkarni | Bowler | Medium |
| Xavier Doherty | Bowler | Medium |
Explanation: This fantasy team balances star performers from both sides. Ambati Rayudu is picked as captain due to his consistent batting, while Shaun Marsh is vice-captain for his explosive potential. Key all-rounders like Pawan Negi and Dan Christian add flexibility, and bowlers like Yuvraj Singh and Ben Laughlin ensure wicket-taking ability.
Suggested Captains and Vice-Captains
- Captain: Ambati Rayudu
- Vice-Captain: Shaun Marsh
These players offer the highest points potential based on their recent performances and roles within their teams.
Players to Avoid in Fantasy Team
- Sachin Tendulkar – Despite his legendary status, he hasn’t been consistent in this tournament.
- Ben Hilfenhaus – His economy rate has been poor, and he hasn’t taken many wickets.
Probable Playing XIs
India Masters
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Ambati Rayudu (WK) | Wicketkeeper |
| Sachin Tendulkar (C) | Batsman |
| Irfan Pathan | All-Rounder |
| Pawan Negi | All-Rounder |
| Yuvraj Singh | All-Rounder |
| Yusuf Pathan | Batsman |
| Gurkeerat Singh Mann | Batsman |
| Stuart Binny | All-Rounder |
| Dhawal Kulkarni | Bowler |
| Abhimanyu Mithun | Bowler |
| Rahul Sharma | Bowler |
Australia Masters
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Shane Watson (C) | All-Rounder |
| Shaun Marsh | Batsman |
| Ben Dunk | Batsman |
| Dan Christian | All-Rounder |
| Nathan Reardon | Batsman |
| Ben Cutting | All-Rounder |
| Peter Nevill (WK) | Wicketkeeper |
| Nathan Coulter-Nile | Bowler |
| Xavier Doherty | Bowler |
| Ben Hilfenhaus | Bowler |
| Ben Laughlin | Bowler |
Pitch Report
The Kotambi Cricket Stadium offers excellent batting conditions with good pace and bounce. Spinners might get some assistance later in the innings, but overall, it’s a high-scoring venue. A par score would be around 200+ .
Toss Prediction
Both captains might prefer to bowl first given the chasing trend in T20s. However, winning the toss won’t significantly impact the outcome here.
Winner Prediction
While Australia Masters have shown glimpses of brilliance, India Masters’ consistency and home advantage give them the upper hand. Prediction: India Masters to win.
CricketPandith Match Prediction Package
Per Match Charges: 1000 Rs/Match
Monthly Package: 5000 Rs/Month (Unlimited Match)
All International/League Match Prediction Available
Download Our Cricket Pandith Android App
