ICC T20 World Cup Tips and Previews – 31st October
Australia vs. Ireland
October 31st
Australia hasn’t been able to properly atone for last week’s heavy loss to New Zealand but this game finally presents that chance. With Friday’s clash with England abandoned, the Australians find themselves fourth in their Super 12 group, in the rare position of being behind Ireland on Net Run Rate.
The Irish team has been the story of the World Cup so far, defeating the West Indies and England in their most successful cricket tournament so far.
But the extended break may serve to both freshen up the Aussies and halt the momentum of Ireland.
Marcus Stoinis almost single-handedly powered Australia to its recent win over Sri Lanka with a record-breaking 59 off 18 balls while its bowling attack has been economical.
Andy Balbirine and Lorcan Tucker have formed a formidable opening partnership for Ireland and need to set the tone again but anything but a perfect game for them might be where the romance of the Ireland story comes to an end.
Suggested Bet:
Marcus Stoinis top scorer for Australia at $7
Afghanistan vs. Sri Lanka
November 1st
Unfortunately, poor weather has been the constant of this World Cup, and Afghanistan has been as held back as anyone.
With only one of their games being completed, Afghanistan has very little exposed form bar a quality knock from power-hitter Ibrahim Zadran in the England game. But the rest of the batting attacks were well held by England and needed to lift to secure an achievable win against Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka has been one of the disappointments of this series, most recently losing heavily against New Zealand.
Kasun Rajitha claimed two wickets with his troublesome pace, which will worry Afghanistan, but its battling line-up remains as unreliable as ever. What works for Sri Lanka here is Afghanistan’s lack of continuity, and that could find them wanting here.
Suggested Bet:
Sri Lanka to win at $1.48
England vs. New Zealand
November 1st
Coming into this World Cup, England’s bowling attack was considered one of the best. And it has primarily lived up to its hype, with seamers Sam Curran and Mark Wood troubling just about every batting attack they face and Liam Livingstone playing a decent support act. Chris Woakes will be low on confidence after he was hit around the park by Ireland, and that could be where the powerful Black Caps expose their opponents.
New Zealand has not put a foot wrong so far, quickly putting away Australia and Sri Lanka. Glenn Phillips and Devon Conway have posted two of the three most significant scores so far. In contrast, paceman Trent Boult has been almost unplayable, barely conceding any runs while tearing through attacks. Back New Zealand to take this win and most likely the cup.
