You have drafted a star-studded fantasy team but couldn’t make it to the top of the leaderboard. Have you ignored the bowlers while play fantasy cricket game online in India? Have you prepared a squad only with batsmen? Well, these are the common questions that every fantasy manager often faces in their life.
Fantasy cricket is a game of skill where you need to apply the right strategies and statistical insights to win a match. By picking only your favorite players, you may not be able to sustain yourself in the long term. You need to anticipate match scenarios and assemble a balanced team to fetch maximum points.
When it comes to building a winning squad, your selected players (batsmen and bowlers) can make or break the game. This blog highlights some expert tips that will help you select the right players (bowlers and batsmen) for your fantasy squad. These strategies will make your game smarter and help you to dominate in upcoming contests, irrespective of whether you are a rookie or an expert.
Understanding the Scoring System
You can download fantasy cricket apps in India. Now, you need to understand its scoring system.
Points are given based on runs, wickets, catches, strike rate and economy rates. If you only select players based on their names and fame, you may not score well in the matches. So, the right approach is to select players who can perform well with both bowl and bat. All-rounders will increase your fantasy value.
So, your goal should not only pick the best players but also select the most effective point-scorers. Analyze players based on their past performances, pitch conditions, strengths, and injury status.
Tips for Selecting Batsmen
1. Top-Order is Gold
If you are playing fantasy cricket game online in India for limited-over matches (T20 and ODIs), select top-order batsmen. Your idea is to focus positions from 1 to 3. They have the potential to score high as they need to face most balls in a game.
- Pro Tip: Check the recent team lineups or probable XIs before the match to confirm batting positions.
Recommended reading: How many times has India Emerged Victorious in the T20 World Cup?
2. Form Over Fame
It’s tempting to pick big-name players, but recent form is a better indicator of fantasy performance. A lesser-known batsman scoring consistently in domestic or league matches can outperform an out-of-form international star.
- Check: Last 5 innings, average, and strike rate in the current tournament or series.
3. Pitch and Venue Analysis
On high-scoring pitches (like Bengaluru or Sharjah), prioritize explosive batsmen. On slow, turning tracks (like Chennai), pick players known for rotating the strike and handling spin well.
- Venue stat: Research average first-innings scores and whether the pitch favors batsmen or bowlers.
4. Left-Right Combinations
Many fantasy players ignore matchups. Picking a left-handed batsman against a team with a leg-spinner or an off-spinner can give you an edge. These small tactical choices often translate into big points.
5. Captaincy Candidates
Once you download fantasy cricket apps in India, you should be very careful while selecting the captain and vice-captain for your squad. Batsmen who anchor innings or open the batting are great options for captain or vice-captain roles. This multiplies your points if they perform well.
Tips for Selecting Bowlers
Bowlers often get overshadowed, but the smart selection here can be the difference between winning and losing.
1. Wicket-Takers & Economical Bowlers
In fantasy games, taking wickets earns more points than just bowling dot balls (unless the economy is a category bonus). Prioritize bowlers who are aggressive and attack-minded, especially in T20s.
- Look for: Bowlers with high strike rates, not just low economy.
2. Death Bowlers are Fantasy Gold
In T20s and ODIs, bowlers who bowl in the last 4-5 overs (death overs) have higher chances of picking wickets. Even if they leak runs, wickets in these overs fetch valuable points.
- Example: Jasprit Bumrah, Shaheen Afridi, or Mitchel Starc are classic death-over specialists.
3. Spin to Win on Turning Tracks
On dry or turning pitches, spinners become match-winners. If the game is in subcontinent conditions or the pitch is used or dusty, pick at least one frontline spinner.
- Check conditions: The best fantasy sports app in India offers the latest news, weather conditions, and match previews. You can get a hint of whether the pitch is spin-friendly or not.
4. Bowling All-Rounders Add Value
Players who bowl their full quota and bat a bit add double value. Even if they don’t pick wickets, they might get runs and vice versa. They are consistent point contributors.
- Fantasy benefit: They offer flexibility without sacrificing bowling options.
5. Strike Against Tail-Enders
Select bowlers who are likely to bowl to lower-order batsmen. They often pick up cheap wickets towards the end of the innings.
- Tip: If a bowler typically bowls overs 16-20 in a T20, they are likely to face tail-enders.
Bonus Tips: Strategy and Situational Awareness
1. Match Format Matters
Your player selection must align with the format:
- In T20s, prefer aggressive batsmen and death-over bowlers.
- In ODIs, look for players who can bat long or bowl their full 10 overs.
- In Tests, bowlers who bowl long spells and batsmen who can build innings score heavily.
2. Monitor the Weather and Toss
Weather interruptions or a toss win can drastically alter game plans. For instance, dew in the second innings can neutralize spinners. If your chosen team is bowling second on a dewy night, rethink your spinner choices. The best fantasy sports app in India gives a detailed analysis of the weather conditions so that managers can draft the best teams.
3. Differentials Win Grand Leagues
In grand leagues (high prize pool contests), picking one or two differential players (less than 20% selected) who are in form can set you apart. Research emerging or under-hyped performers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring matchups: Always consider the opposition’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Picking based on reputation: A player’s fantasy value isn’t always equal to their real-life fame.
- Over-stacking your team with one skill set: Balance is key. Don’t fill your team with only batsmen or bowlers.
- Not checking playing XI: Final lineups can affect roles. A player might be promoted or dropped entirely.
Final Thoughts: Trust Strategy, Not Luck
Fantasy cricket rewards preparation and smart decision-making. While including players in your team, evaluate parameters like pitch conditions, recent form, opposition, and other updates. Many apps offer free contests where you can test your strategy and then refurbish it based on the outcome.
Platforms like MyChamp11 are designed for fantasy game lovers, where you will get an opportunity to show your cricket skills and win real money. The app’s smooth interface, real-time updates, and fair policies encourage you to draft and track your team’s performance.
Once you evaluate all parameters, you will be able to climb the leaderboard. Whether you are playing head-to-head or joining mega contests, this platform is a reliable and exciting arena for fantasy cricket enthusiasts to portray their skills.
So, next time when you prepare your squad, draft it like a strategist, not just a fan
