Hobart Hurricanes (2-0) vs Adelaide Strikers (0-1)

Tues 15 Dec 2020 @ Launceston, Tasmania

The Hurricanes will aim for a perfect 3-0 start to BBL10 after fairly comfortable wins over the Sixers and Strikers. In Sunday’s win over this Strikers team, D’Arcy Short returned to form after a duck in the first game. After a slow start, he belted Rashid Khan for a couple of massive sixes and top-scored with 72 in the ‘Canes 174 run total. Then, the Hurricanes turned it on with the ball as they reduced the Strikers to 6 for 49. Faulkner looks back to his best with 3 wickets and Meredith ripped through their middle order, including a brilliant soccer run-out!

Adelaide struggled in their first game of the season, especially with the bat. But they will get a massive boost as Alex Carey returns to the side and should strengthen up the Strikers batting lineup. We also found out Daniel Worrall can swing the bat after an entertaining 62 not out! But the Strikers will need more from the likes of Weatherald and Salt atop the order. Rashid Khan also struggled with the ball against Short, which is a key matchup.

While Carey is back for the Strikers, they’re still missing Travis Head and the Hurricanes have the advantage of playing on their home deck again. Their bowling lineup looks very strong and we can’t see the Strikers scoring a large enough total to trouble the home team.

Stadium Record

The Hurricanes are 1-3 at this venue. The Strikers are 2-0 against the Hurricanes in BBL history at this venue.

Head to Head Record

Hobart have won the last 2 meetings, including an 11 run win on Sunday afternoon.

Best Bet

Hurricanes WIN $1.91

Perth Scorchers (0-1) vs Melbourne Stars (2-0)

Wed 16 Dec 2020 @ Launceston, Tasmania

The Scorchers will look to rebound on Wednesday night after a disappointing performance in Game 1 of their season against the Renegades. They were quickly 3 for 19 after 3 overs and their middle order just couldn’t recover as they were bowled out for an underpar 130. Then, they didn’t have much luck with the ball as Marsh and Finch easily made it through the powerplay as the Renegades won by 7 wickets. So the Scorchers will need to take early wickets against the Stars otherwise this will be another tough night.

Melbourne are looking good in the early stages of BBL10 after back to back wins. They trashed the Heat in their first win as Coulter-Nile took 4 wickets and Cartright/Maxwell both made 46 with the bat. Then on Saturday afternoon, Stoinis smashed 61 and Maxwell continued his form with 39. On debut, Liam Hatcher took 3 wickets and Zampa produced excellent figures of 2/10 off his 4 overs. So there’s not many weak areas for the Stars at the moment in terms of batting and bowling.

Until the Scorchers show something with the bat in BBL10, it’s hard to back against the in-form Stars. Perth do have a good matchup with their pace bowling lineup to Stoinis/Maxwell. However, the Scorchers batting will likely let them down if they’re batting first or chasing 170+.

Stadium Record

Perth have only played once at this venue and lost to the Hurricanes in 2018. The Stars are yet to play here.

Head to Head Record

In the 16 BBL meetings, both sides have won 8 apiece. While in the last 2 meetings, the Stars have won both.

Best Bet

Stars WIN $1.74

Adelaide Strikers (0-0) vs Hobart Hurricanes (1-0)

Sun 13 Dec 2020 @ Blundstone Arena, Hobart

Adelaide will be the last team to kick off their BBL10 campaign on Sunday afternoon and it’s a really tough start as they have to play the Hurricanes as the “home” team in Hobart. To make matters worse, their keeper and key batsman Alex Carey is currently keeping for Australia A against India. Travis Head is also missing as he prepares for the first Test. So the likes of Phil Salt, Weatherald, new recruit Matt Renshaw and Jon Wells will need to build key partnerships. In the bowling department, Peter Siddle will captain the side and Daniel Worrall is a handy inclusion from the Stars. They’ll also welcome back fan favourite Rashid Khan.

Hobart started their BBL10 season with a good overall performance between bat and ball as they beat the Sixers. After losing both openers for a duck, the Canes steadied behind Ingram’s 55 and Tim David smacked 58 off 33 in his Hurricanes debut. Meanwhile, Faulkner and Meredith were the pick of the bowlers with 2 wickets apiece as the Sixers fell short by 16 runs. But areas of improvement will include keeping wickets in hand during the batting powerplay and Nathan Ellis/Scott Boland were both expensive with the ball.

Despite taking this home game to Hobart, the Strikers are current favourites which is mainly because of their 8-5 head to head record against the ‘Canes. However, Adelaide is missing two key players in Carey and Head, which puts them at a massive disadvantage. Not to mention, the Hurricanes have already played their first game of the season and took down the defending champions. Back the ‘Canes.

Stadium Record

Adelaide hold a 1-2 record at this venue. The Hurricanes are 3-3 in their last 6 at Blundstone Arena.

Head to Head Record

The Hurricanes won the last meeting but overall, the Strikers hold an 8-5 record in BBL history.

Best Bet

Hurricanes WIN $2.15

Sydney Sixers (0-1) vs Melbourne Renegades (1-0)

Sun 13 Dec 2020 @ Blundstone Arena, Hobart

The Sixers kicked off BBL10 with a disappointing loss in Hobart, especially after reducing the Hurricanes to 2-4 after 1.1 overs. Their bowling lineup missed the likes of Abbott and Curran as their overall lineup was quite expensive with the ball. Which made it a tough chase for their batting lineup. The chase got off to a horrible start with Philippe out in the first over as well. However, Edwards and Vince steadied the innings with a 116 run partnership. But one of the Sixers real weak points is their middle order hitting if both Hughes and Silk bat together, as neither player can really clear the ropes. So the Sixers will hopefully make adjustments to their lineup so the likes of Christian or Brathwaite bat earlier.

Melbourne were at their clinical best against the Scorchers on Saturday night as they cruised to a 7 wicket victory to open BBL10. Josh Lalor and Kane Richardson were both brilliant with the ball as they took 3 wickets each. They ripped through Perth’s top order as at one stage they were 3-19 after 3 overs, which the Scorchers never recovered from. In chase of 130 against a very strong bowling lineup, Shaun Marsh played a masterful 62 off 47 balls and was well supported by Aaron Finch (35 off 28). After finishing dead last in BBL09, this was the perfect start to the new season.

After their Saturday night thrashing of the Scorchers, the Renegades lineup looks very dangerous and we believe they’ll continue the momentum against the Sixers. Meanwhile, the Sixers have a few problems to sort out, such as fixing their middle order and finding a way of replacing Curran, Abbott and Henriques. Which at the moment, is simply not an easy fix. Take the ‘Gades for a 2-0 start.

Stadium Record

The Sixers lost their opening game of BBL10 at this venue on Thursday night. Melbourne beat the Scorchers at the same venue on Saturday night.

Head to Head Record

The Sixers hold a 7-5 head to head record and have also won the last 2 meetings.

Best Bet

Renegades WIN $1.78

Sydney Thunder (0-1) vs Brisbane Heat (0-1)

Mon 14 Dec 2020 @ Manuka Oval, Canberra

The Thunder will look for their first win on Monday night after they were out-matched by the Stars on Saturday afternoon in a 22 run loss. Firstly, we’re not sure why they bowled spin to Stoinis in the powerplay after he was knocked over by pace in the opening game. That decision cost them big time as the big Stoin belted 61 in the Stars 169 total. However, the Thunder will be happy with their death bowling as they pegged back what could have been 200+. The other problem coming into BBL10 was the Thunder middle order if their top 3 didn’t bat the bulk of the 20 overs and that was the case on Saturday. But Ferguson did his job with a classy 54 and Hales made 46 off 41.

The Heat were absolutely dreadful in their opening BBL10 loss to the Stars on Friday night. They kind of remind us of the Renegades last year, a lot of their International players have pulled out and they’ve been left to play the youngsters. Their batting is still just hit or miss and basically relies on Lynn hitting 50+. But when teams can easily stop him with spin after the powerplay, they really have no answers in building a big total. Not to mention, their shocking running between the wickets. However, there are some positives in their bowling lineup. Xavier Bartlett looked brilliant with the new ball and removed Stoinis in the first over. Kuhnemann also bowled well and finished with an economy rate under 6.

There’s no way you can back the Heat after their performance in Game 1. Their batting lineup is dysfunctional and only a Chris Lynn masterclass can save them. However, the Thunder have plenty of spin options to stop him. So just can’t see the Thunder dropping this winnable game.

Stadium Record

The Thunder are now 1-5 in Canberra. Brisbane hold an 0-1 record in Canberra after their Friday night defeat.

Head to Head Record

The Heat have won 8 of 10 against the Thunder in BBL history.

Best Bet

Thunder WIN $1.82

Melbourne Stars (1-0) at Sydney Thunder (0-0)

Sat 12 Dec 2020 @ Manuka Oval, Canberra

A brilliant bowling and fielding display by the Melbourne Stars kicked off their season on Friday night with a comfortable win over the Heat. Nathan Coulter-Nile was excellent with ball in hand as he took an incredible 4-10 off 3.5 overs, while also adding 2 run-outs. Hussain also picked up 2 key wickets, including Heat topscorer Tom Cooper. In chase of 125, the Stars had a few nervous moments as Stoinis was out 2nd ball caught behind. But Hilton Cartwright and the Maxwell show steadied the innings as Melbourne passed the total with 6 wickets remaining.

Sydney were heavily backed for the spoon last season but made some noise in the finals by knocking out the Hurricanes and Strikers. They fell short to the Stars in the finals so there’s a revenge factor here for the Thunder. They come into BBL10 with a similar lineup as last year. Their batting is led by Hales and Khawaja at the top. Then you have the experience of Ferguson and Ross. Their lower order is likely their weak area so building partnerships is the key. Bowling wise, Daniel Sams is back after a breakout season and a spot in Australia’s T20 team. They’ve also added Kiwi Adam Milne, Ben Cutting from the Heat and Chris Green returns from suspension.

The Stars have a great advantage in this matchup having already played their first match of the season. In contrast, the Thunder may be a tad rusty in their first game of BBL10. We’re not sold on the Thunder’s batting options if early wickets fall and they also don’t have a great BBL record in Canberra. Back the Stars for a 2-0 start here.

Stadium Record

The Thunder have a poor 1-4 record in Canberra. Melbourne beat the Heat by 6 wickets on Friday night at this venue.

Head to Head Record

Melbourne have won the last 4 meetings and hold an overall 7-6 record in the BBL.

Best Bet

Stars WIN $1.60

Melbourne Renegades (0-0) vs Perth Scorchers (0-0)

Sat 12 Dec 2020 @ Blundstone Arena, Hobart

The Renegades will start their BBL season in Tasmania as they look to rebound from the wooden spoon in BBL09. Their squad for Game 1 presents a good balance between experience and young talent. But they will missing a few key all-rounders, such as Nabi. Their batting strength does look quite good with Finchy and Marsh atop the order along with the aggressive Sam Harper. Rilee Rossouw is one to watch in the middle order as well. Meanwhile, Beau Webster was one of the ‘Gades best last season. The bowling unit is led by Kane Richardson and he should be well supported by new signing Josh Lalor. Cam Boyce will be missing with health issues so Jon Holland will likely be their main spinner.

For the Scorchers, they’ll be eager to start the season with a bang as the schedule has them on the east coast for a while. But with a stretch home games in January, the Scorchers can really setup their season in the early goings. Looking at the Scorchers lineup, there’s a whole lot of talent that should see Perth hard to beat. Starting with their batting, Josh Inglis looks to be a future star and the addition of Kiwi Colin Munro should be fun to watch. Along with the experience of Marsh and Turner in the middle overs, Perth look to have a powerful lineup. Meanwhile, they have plenty of pace bowling stocks with Tye, Behrendorff, Richardson, Paris and Kelly to choose from. Fawad Ahmad is also back as their main spinner.

Perth has a wonderful record over the Scorchers in the BBL with 10 wins in 12 meetings. We really like the look of their squad at the moment with a nice balance between bat and ball. Meanwhile, the Renegades are missing a few key International players at the moment and may struggle in the early stages of the season.

Stadium Record

The Renegades are 0-2 at this venue since 2018. Perth have a nice 4-1 record here since 2012.

Head to Head Record

Perth is 10-2 against the Renegades in BBL history.

Best Bet

Scorchers WIN $1.73

Hobart Hurricanes (0-0) vs Sydney Sixers (0-0)

Thu 10 Dec 2020 @ Blundstone Arena, Hobart

The Hurricanes begin their quest for a maiden BBL title this Thursday night as they host the Sixers. With the first part of the season being played in a Tasmanian bubble, the ‘Canes really need to take advantage of the situation and that starts with a good first up performance. While they will miss the services of Matty Wade atop the batting, they’ve recruited some firepower with Ingram and Will Jacks. They should also get Short back from the T20 series against India. Not to mention, Ben McDermott smashed 96 off just 49 in a practice match against the Sixers on Tuesday. Bowling wise, the addition of Johan Botha also gives them more experience around the park and a solid spin option along with their pace bowling stocks.

Sydney will start their BBL title defence with a massive blow as Tom Curran will miss this year’s edition due to fatigue. Last season, he finished 2nd in the league for wickets taken (22) and was always handy with the bat in the late overs. So the pressure will be on Abbott and Dwarshuis to pick up the slack in the death overs. While in the batting department, the key will be getting off to a good start with the likes of Philippe and Vince. Hopefully Moises Henriques can lineup as well after playing against India.

The Sixers will take confidence out of their final over win over the ‘Canes in Tuesday’s practice match. However, the home side will likely welcome back D’Arcy Short into lineup and as mentioned, Curran is a big out for the Sixers. So we’ll be backing the ‘Canes to start the season with a close win as they hold a solid winning record at this venue and against the Sixers.

Stadium Record

Hobart went 2-2 at this venue last season. Sydney are 2-3 here since 2011.

Head to Head Record

Hurricanes are 6-5 against the Sixers and bowled them out for 104 in last year’s meeting.

Best Bet

Hurricanes WIN $1.82

Melbourne Stars (0-0) vs Brisbane Heat (0-0)

Fri 11 Dec 2020 @ Manuka Oval, Canberra

Melbourne will look to put the disappointment of back to back Grand Final defeats behind them as they enter BBL10. Firstly, they’ll need to get used to this Canberra wicket with consecutive home games against the Heat/Thunder. It also won’t be an easy start to BBL10 with Marcus Stoinis likely missing for a few games with injury. He led BBL09 with 705 runs so the likes of Maxwell will need to fill the gap in the batting department. Their bowling lineup does look a bit suspect without the likes of Rauf, Worrall and Lamichhane. But they will benefit from having the in-form Zampa for the whole tournament and they’ll be hoping Billy Stanlake can find form.

The Heat will be eager to rebound from a disappointing campaign last year as they finished 7th. Luckily, Chris Lynn could not be in any better form after belting 398 runs off 139 balls in Brisbane club cricket! But the biggest question mark on the Heat is if Lynn gets out cheaply, will the batting collapses of last season continue? Unfortunately Tom Banton has been ruled out as well due to fatigue so they’ll really need their younger guys to setup. In the bowling department, the Heat have really changed things up. While they’ve lost the likes of Pattinson, Lalor and Cutting. They’ve brought in Morkel, Wildermuth and Lewis Gregory from England. So it’s tough to get read on the Heat with so many team changes at the moment. However, we do like their chances of an upset considering they seem to matchup well with the Stars.

If Stoinis is out for Melbourne, the Heat are really underpriced at the moment and actually have a wonderful record against the Stars. In their 12 meetings, the Heat hold an 8-4 record and they also won the last meeting by 71 runs. So if Lynnsanity continues in Canberra, the Heat can definitely cause an early season upset here.

Stadium Record

Melbourne are 0-1 at this venue in BBL history. Meanwhile, Brisbane are yet to play a BBL game in Canberra.

Head to Head Record

The Heat have won 8 of the 12 BBL meetings.

Best Bet

Heat WIN $2.20

BBL 2020/21 Teams Overview

The 2020-21 Big Bash League season is right around the corner and the team at BlueBet has you covered with a full overview of each team and predictions for what should be another entertaining season!

Melbourne Stars ($4.50)

After back to back runner-up trophies, can the Melbourne Stars finally bridge the gap in 2020/21? That’s something we’re not quite sure on. Firstly, they have to play most of their home games in Canberra before finishing the season with 4 of 5 at the MCG. Marcus Stoinis picked up an injury in the ODI series and they’ll be hoping he’s right to go. They have also lost a lot of strikepower in the bowling department with Rauf, Worrall and Lamichhane all missing. But with the likes of Glenn Maxwell in the lineup, the Stars can surely reach the top 5 and more.

Sydney Sixers ($6.00)

The defending champions will have a tough road back to the final this season as like most teams, they’ll have a number of “home” games away from the SCG. But they do have a very settled squad and seem to enjoy the underdog tag. They’ve also added some exicting talented West Indians in Carlos Brathwaite and Jason Holder. The addition of Dan Christian to the middle order will also help them in the latter overs and he just seems to win trophies whereever he plays! Hard to see them missing the top 5.

Perth Scorchers ($6.00)

The Scorchers just missed the finals last season and have accordingly made some key additions to their squad. In the batting department, Jason Roy and Colin Munro provide match winning ability with the bat atop the order. So they’ll be hoping their pace bowling brigade can re-capture their form to match their powerful batting lineup. The opening fixture hasn’t been kind to them with their first 5 games away from Perth. But they do play 4 straight games at Optus in the new year. We think the Scorchers can have a better season and should make the finals.

Adelaide Strikers ($7.00)

The Strikers are always a good chance with the likes of Rashid Khan in the lineup. However, the fixture is really tough on the Strikers and they’ll also miss Travis Head for most of the season due his likely inclusion into the Test series against India. Overall in the fixturing department, the Strikers will have to play 3 home games away from Adelaide Oval and their first 4 games are away from home. Rashid Khan will also likely miss the end of the season with International duties. So we just can’t see the Strikers having a successful season.

Hobart Hurricanes ($7.00)

The Hurricanes are looking like a real danger threat in this year’s BBL. Firstly, due to COVID they’ll be able to play their 4 games in Tasmania, which includes a “home” game against the Strikers. So they should start the season with at least 3 wins. Their squad looks really strong with a number of key additions. Handscomb and Lamichhane (tested positive to Covid though) have both joined from the Stars. They’ve also added International in-form batsman Dawid Malan. So their batting looks very strong on paper. The major question mark is their bowling lineup which probably lacks a strike wicket-taker. However, this is a very talented squad that should be aiming to bat first on every occasion.

Brisbane Heat ($8.00)

There’s no doubt about it, the Heat underachieved with their squad last year and Darren Lehmann has made wholesale changes. However, they’re really lacking a superstar batsman to ease the pressure on Chris Lynn. AB de Villiers is missing this year and Renshaw has moved to the Strikers. They’ve also lost Cutting, Pattinson and Lalor. Morne Morkel is a good addition on a bouncy Gabba wicket and Tom Banton can be damaging on his day. However, we’re not sold on the Heat’s overall lineup at the moment.

Melbourne Renegades ($10.00)

It’s fair to say the Renegades had a Grand Final hangover last season as they finished dead last. However, they’ve recruited well in the offseason especially in the bowling department. Such as James Pattinson from the Heat and underrated wicket-taker Josh Lalor. While they’ve lost Dan Christian, South African Rilee Rossouw could be an ideal replacement in the middle order. With Aaron Finch and Shaun Marsh at top the batting lineup, expect the Renegades to be more competitive this year.

Sydney Thunder ($10.00)

The Thunder scraped into the finals last year but did some damage by knocking out the Hurricanes and Strikers. On paper, their squad isn’t full of superstars but they seem to play well as a team. They’ve countered the loss of Chris Morris by picking up Ben Cutting. Alex Hales is back for another year and he’ll join his English teammate Sam Billings. So the major question mark on the Thunder is their wicket tacking abilties and middle order striking in the late overs. But after last year’s surprising run to the finals, the Thunder should really take great confidence into this year’s BBL.

BBL Outrights 2020/21- Hobart Hurricanes

This will be one of the most unpredicted BBL seasons due to the number of venue changes as most teams won’t be at their normal home ground in the first half of the tournament. However, we do like the value on offer for the Hobart Hurricanes. They should start the season on fire in Tasmania and have a strong overall squad of International and local talent. While Matty Wade will likely play Test cricket, their squad should be fairly untouched otherwise which definitely helps their chances.

Winner – Hobart Hurricanes $7.00

To Reach the Final – Hobart Hurricanes $4.00

Top 5 Finish – Sydney Thunder

After finishing top 5 last season and almost reaching the final, the underrated Thunder really don’t deserve to be at this price to achieve the same result in 2020/21. They have a strong batting lineup that can bat down to number 8 and it looks like Usman Khawaja is out of favour in terms of Test cricket selection. Their bowling lineup isn’t as strong but they do have good mix between pace and spin, especially with Daniel Sams taking plenty of wickets and Ben Cutting should be a solid addition.

Sydney Thunder $2.20

2019 ICC World Cup Final Preview

England and New Zealand will face off in the 2019 ICC World Cup decider on Sunday night (AEST) at Lord’s in what promises to be an electrifying clash.

It marks New Zealand’s second consecutive World Cup final, going down to the Aussies at the MCG in 2015 as they look to go one better this year and claim their first trophy at the tournament.

The Kiwis qualified for the decider in a nail-biting shock win over India in a game they were given no hope of winning. New Zealand were led by Ross Taylor and Kane Williamson with the bat, making 74 and 67 respectively. But it was their bowling attack of Matt Henry, Mitchell Santner and Trent Boult that really changed the game, taking the early wickets of star Indian trio KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Gary Stead’s side is expected to go into the final unchanged despite opening batsmen Martin Guptil and Henry Nicholls’ struggles against India. Guptil is averaging just 20 runs over the tournament, while Nicholls is averaging 12 from his three innings.

Williamson has led New Zealand with the bat over the tournament and has carried them to big scores, averaging a team-best 91 runs from his eight innings, including a 148 against the West Indies in the group stages. And he will simply need to perform in the final if the Kiwis are any chance, particularly if the rest of their key batsman continue to misfire.

It has been New Zealand’s bowlers that have largely guided them through the tournament, with pacers Lockie Ferguson and Boult leading the charge. The duo will have to be out in full force if they can get through England’s formidable batting line-up.

England steamrolled their way through Australia at Edgbaston to qualify for their first final in 27 years. And like their opponent, will be looking to win their first World Cup trophy, with three runners-up to their name.

The host’s semi-final win was arguably their best performance of the tournament, as Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes were in scintillating form with the ball, swinging it in all directions.

Trevor Bayliss’ side lost the toss to the Aussies and fielded first, but their fierce bowling got them off to the ideal start that was ultimately the difference in the game.

After such a strong display, it would be a shock to see England make any changes to their team, possessing the ideal team balance for the 50-over format.

Jason Roy’s return from injury has been a major boost for this side, and combined with Jonny Bairstow, Eoin Morgan, Joe Root and Stokes, boast a deep batting order capable of hitting huge scores. The opening partnership of Roy and Bairstow is particularly key, and the duo never fail to deliver, averaging 71 and 68 runs respectively.

Combined with their ferocious bowling attack, there really isn’t any holes in this England team and they will take great confidence into Sunday after dismantling the Aussies. Archer has been the real bright light of this team, having taken 19 wickets for the tournament.

When these sides met earlier in the group stages, England won by 119 runs at Riverside Ground.

Prediction: England to win @ $1.30

India v New Zealand

India and New Zealand kick off the semi-final action on Tuesday night (all times AEST) in what promises to be an exciting contest.

India have hardly stepped a foot wrong all tournament, dropping just the one game to England to finish on top of the standings.

They have been led tremendously by Rohit Sharma, who hit a record-breaking fifth century of the tournament against Sri Lanka. Sharma has made the most runs in the World Cup at 647 and is the biggest weapon to his side at the moment.

If Virat Kohli gets going, look out. The skipper has made five 50s over the tournament to help stabilise the Indian middle order, but is yet to go on with a 100. It feels like Kohli has at least one big innings in him before the tournament is out.

Jasprit Bumrah has taken a team-high 17 wickets over the tournament, while Mohammed Shami has taken 14 himself.

They meet a New Zealand outfit that have been a tale of two halves over the tournament. The Kiwis were flying at the start of their campaign, winning their first five matches to sit on the top of the table. However, they have since dropped their last three to slide down to fourth, ultimately qualifying for the semis through run rate.

Kane Williamson has been in fine form but is relied upon too heavily as the rest of the top order haven’t batted well together. Williamson will need some help if they are any chance of knocking off India.

Trent Boult (15 wickets) and Lockie Ferguson (17 wickets) have been in good touch with the ball over the tournament and could cause the Indian batsmen some headaches.

India and New Zealand’s earlier meeting during the group stages was washed out.

Tip: India at $1.33.

Australia ($2.17) v England ($1.70)

Two of the game’s biggest rivals collide as Australia and England face off on Thursday for a spot in the final.

Australia has been the more consistent side over the tournament and probably deserved to finish on top of the standings if not for a hiccup against South Africa.

They boast two of the tournament’s top four run scorers in David Warner (638) and Aaron Finch (507). Warner and Steve Smith have been huge additions to this team and provide real punch in the top order.

Mitchell Starc has taken the most wickets (26) to equal Glenn McGrath’s record and looks likely of claiming consecutive player of the tournament awards.

The Aussies will have to do it without Usman Khawaja (hamstring) and Shaun Marsh (arm) but have found a serious player in Alex Carey, who is averaging 65.8 runs and provided real depth to the batting.

England has been below their best over the tournament but are starting to hit their straps and have all the ammunition to knock off the Aussies, coming off consecutive wins to India and New Zealand.

Their top order has been as good as any, led by Jason Roy (averaging 68.2 runs), Joe Root (62.5) and Ben Stokes (55). England have scored seven centuries from five men but could use a lift out of skipper Eoin Morgan.

Jofra Archer is having a fine tournament, taking 17 wickets, while Mark Wood and Chris Woakes have also delivered. Adil Rashid hasn’t been at his best.

The Aussies defeated England by 64 runs in the group stages. However, this clash will take place at Edgbaston, a venue the Aussies have not played at and where England have fired.

Tip: England at $1.70.

England

England go into the tournament as favourites on their home soil as they look for their maiden win at the event. This might be the most balanced England side we’ve ever seen in the ODI format.

Eoin Morgan’s side have shown an ability to hit massive scores in recent times, led by opening batsmen Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow. England are capable of knocking up scores in the mid-300s, defeating the likes of Pakistan, Ireland, India, Australia and the West Indies over the last 18 months.

Morgan is one of the best leaders in cricket and Jofra Archer is the most exciting and dangerous bowler in the tournament. The number one ranked ODI side will be more than a handful.

India

India are also one of the favourites, and like England, have basically no weaknesses throughout their squad.

India have had consistency through their side over the last couple of years which has really allowed them to gel. There might not be a stronger trio of batsmen in one team than Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli, who are capable of leading this team to greatness.

The Indian captain and undisputed best batsman in the world holds the key to his side’s hopes. Kohli averages an impressive 54.46 in ODIs in the UK and is primed for a big series.

As impressive as their batting attack is, India’s bowling line-up is just as damaging when firing. They have the No. 1 bowler in the world in Jasprit Bumrah, with support from Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. And if spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are turning the ball, look out.

Australia

The boys in green and gold press their own strong case as they shoot for their fifth World Cup triumph from the last six tournaments.

The Aussies are bolstered by the returns of Steve Smith and David Warner after serving their 12-month bans. The duo are coming off big performances in the IPL and will undoubtably be hungry to repay their country.

However, after those two, there aren’t too many reliable batsman in this side. Aaron Finch is out of form and Shaun Marsh and Usman Khawaja have never shown they are capable of being alphas. Glenn Maxwell could be the real X-factor here.

Big run totals are expected at the World Cup, but Australia’s bowling attack should cause problems, led by Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Nathan Lyon can single handily win games and Adam Zampa is a quality spinner.

The Aussies are ranked just the fifth best ODI side in the world, but the talent is there.

The next three

South Africa should never be counted out; however, veteran pace bowler Dale Steyn is entering the tournament with an injured shoulder and has already been ruled out of his side’s opener against England.

New Zealand will still be reeling from their 2015 loss to Australia in the final and have chosen an experienced squad to go one better in 2019, including Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Ross Taylor and Tim Southee.

There are reasons to be optimistic about Pakistan, who are more renowned for T20s where they have been the No. 1 team for over a year now. A big series from Babar Azam is critical, leading his side to a warm-up win over Afghanistan with 112 and averaging 52.44 this year.

Predictions

Winner – England @ $3.00

Most tournament runs – Virat Kohli @ $8.00

Most tournament wickets – Jofra Archer @ $14.00

BBL08 Semi Finals

BlueBet previews the BBL08 Semi Finals action below. Read on for our best betting tips per game and an overview of the feature games this week.

Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Stars

14 Feb 2019, 7:30pm (AEDT) – Blundstone Arena, Hobart

Odds: Hurricanes $1.76, Stars $2.08

The first semi-final of BBL08 will see the Hobart Hurricanes take on the Melbourne Stars this Thursday night. Hobart are $1.76 favourites to beat the Stars after a dominant regular season.

Hobart topped the BBL ladder with a 10-4 record and an equally impressive 5-0 record at this venue. The story of the season has mainly been the opening partnership between Wade and Short. Both players are ranked #1 and #2 for runs scored and they’re also the only batsman to score 500+ runs. So they will obviously be the key to this matchup. They’ve also been well supported by Bailey (326 runs) and McDermott (323 runs). They’ll also be boosted by the return of James Faulkner from injury. He’s missed the last few games and has taken 18 wickets for the Canes’ in BBL08. Along with Archer (17w) and Meredith (16w), the Hurricanes deserve to be favourites here.

For the Stars, they returned to form with a huge win over the Sixers in the last fixture. It followed a shocking bowling performance at the Gabba and Glenn Maxwell was the “star”. He belted a quick-fire half-century and could do no wrong in the field as the Stars easily bowled the Sixers out. It’s been a fairly inconsistent season for Melbourne but they have the talent to possibly trouble the Hurricanes. Maxwell is the key and the batting of Stoinis has led the way. He’s the 3rd top run scorer in the league and has also taken 14 wickets. But the question will be whether they can stop the Hurricanes strong batting lineup and I don’t see that changing in this final. The Stars also lack batting depth if Maxwell and Stoinis get out cheaply.

Hobart is undefeated at this venue in BBL08 and they’ve also beaten the Stars comfortably in the 2 clashes this season. In the first meeting, Hobart easily chased 155 at this venue. Then at the MCG, the Hurricanes bowled them out for 126 after making 185/2.

Stadium Record

Hobart is 5-0 at this venue this season. Melbourne lost their only game here in BBL08.

Head to Head Record

The Hurricanes won both clashes against the Stars this season.

Best Bet

Hurricanes WIN $1.76

Melbourne Renegades vs Sydney Sixes

15 Feb 2019, 7:40pm (AEDT) – Marvel Stadium

Odds: Renegades $1.78, Sixes $2.05

The second semi-final will be played at Marvel Stadium as the Renegades clash with the Sixers on Friday night.

The Renegades earned a home final with an 8-6 record and they recorded 3 wins from 5 games at this venue. They’re led by Aaron Finch and if he gets going, the Sixers could be in trouble. Sam Harper is a young player to watch in the future and he’s scored 299 runs in BBL08. A big loss will be Mohammad Nabi who will miss this game due to an Afghanistan camp. His batting in the middle order and handy off-spin will be missed. But they do have the best wicket-taker in the league – Kane Richardson. He’s been really impressive with 24 wickets at an average of just 14.91 from just 12 games. He’ll likely be a handful on the Marvel Stadium deck.

Sydney comes into this game on the back of a horrible showing against the Stars in the last round. They were bowled out for just 74 and lost the opportunity to host a home final in the process. Their top order batting can be an issue with losing early wickets and they’ll hope that doesn’t happen in this final. Daniel Hughes has been their top performer with 347 runs for the season. He’s been well supported by Silk in the middle order and Phillppe looks like a future star. The Sixers bowling lineup is their real strength. Abbott has taken 21 wickets in another strong season and Curran has added 20 wickets. However, he will miss this final due to International duty.

In the 2 meetings between the sides in BBL08, bowling has been dominant and I don’t see any different in this game. At this venue, the Sixers bowling lineup limited the ‘Gades to 99 from their 20 overs in pursuit of just 132. Then in Sydney, Melbourne got their revenge with a comfortable 7 wicket win. Both sides will also miss key International talent in Curran for the Sixers and Nabi for the Renegades. In the end, the Renegades are at home and I think that will be enough to get them over the line. The Sixers batting was really poor last game and the ‘Gades bowling can take advantage on a slow pitch. They’ll miss Nabi but Aaron Finch could be the difference maker in a Renegades victory.

Stadium Record

Melbourne went 3-2 at this venue in BBL08. The Sixers have won 3 in a row at this venue.

Head to Head Record

This season, both sides won a game against each other. In the last 9 meetings, the Sixers just lead 5-4.

Best Bet

Renegades WIN $1.78

In the 3rd test, India batted Australia out of the game in the first innings as they piled on 443/7 (declared). Pujara hit another patient hundred and Kohli chipped with 82 as the pair put on 170 for the 3rd wicket. Credit goes to India’s bowling lineup in this test as they kept Australia to just 151 on a very good batting wicket. Bumrah took 6/33 and the rest of the bowlers chipped in. Australia fought back in India’s 2nd innings, mainly thanks to Patty Cummins. He finished with 6/27 and surprisingly had Pujara/Kohli out in the same over via the same dismissal. Chasing a mammoth total to win, Australia’s top order failed again as they made starts but couldn’t go on with the job. The bright spot was again Cummins as he top scored with 63. In the end, India won by 137 runs and take a 2-1 series lead to Sydney.

After winning in Perth, Australia came crashing back to earth in Melbourne and they’ll need a quick turnaround in Sydney to salvage a series draw. It starts with the batting lineup where all of the top 6 haven’t converted their opportunites. Aaron Finch has a poor Shield record as an opener and India have exposed his weaknesses in this series. Harris has batted well for a new player to the team and the same can be said for Travis Head. Meanwhile, the experienced pair of Marsh and Khawaja have been inconsistent. Mitch Marsh returned to the lineup in Melbourne but looked horribly out of form with the bat and didn’t get much out of the Boxing Day pitch with his bowling. There’s talk Marnus Labuschagne will come into the lineup for the Sydney test in-place of Marsh.

India are the number #1 Test side in the World and they’re playing like it at the moment. They feed off Kohli’s passion and there’s no doubt they’ll be keen to re-write history with India’s first series win in Australia. The bowling lineup has exposed Australia without Smith and Warner with excellent bowling plans. In his debut test, Agarwal looked like a veteran opener at the top of the order and Australia can’t stop Purjara on slow decks. They will need to make a forced chance in the 4th test as Rohit Sharma has returned home for personal reasons. So Vihari will move back to number #6 and they’ll likely open with Vijay or Rahul.

SCG Stats

• Australia is 5-0 (2 draws) at the SCG since 2012.
• India’s last win at the SCG in Test cricket was back in 1978.
• The last meeting at the venue in Test cricket was in 2015 and the match finished in a draw.
• In the last 5 meetings at the SCG, Australia has won 3 and there’s been 2 draws.

Top Australia Batsman

Australia’s top runscorer in this series is Travis Head with 217 runs at 36.16. He’s been the most consistent performer while not making overly big scores. Khawaja is the favourite at $4 and he does have a great record at the SCG. He’s averaging 80.25 in 4 matches at the SCG. However, his first innings performances in this series have been underwhelming. Aaron Finch at $5 is way over the odds as he’s scored just 97 runs in this series. Harris has batted well in the series but the value odds are with Travis Head.

Best Bet

T. Head $6.00

Top India Batsman

India’s top runscorer is basically a two-horse race between Pujara and Kohli. Despite both batsman getting a duck in the 2nd innings of the 3rd test, they should be back to their best on the SCG wicket. Pujura has scored a first innings hundred in Adelaide and Melbourne during this series. The SCG wicket is fairly similar to those venues and I don’t see how Australia can stop him. Kohli is the 2nd top runscorer in the series so far with 259 runs at 43.16. He scored 147 in the first innings of India’s last test at this venue as well. However, I like the form of Pujara on pitches like the SCG.

Best Bet

C. Pujara $3.80

Prediction

The momentum in the series is back with India as they have Australia covered with the bat and ball. Australia’s top order obviously lacks the ability to score hundreds without Smith and Warner. They’ve also been outplayed by a seriously good Indian bowling lineup. So the best bet in the 4th test looks to be India taking a first innings lead. After the first innings in Melbourne, they were ahead by 292 runs and have taken a first innings lead in 2 of the 3 test matches so far.

Best Bet

First Innings Lead – India $1.80