Australia were finally able to hold on for a win in the fourth match of their five ODI series against India on Thursday. The series now moves to Nagpur for the fifth and final match on Sunday with the Aussies hoping to win some more pride back.
After openers David Warner and Aaron Finch put up a massive first wicket stand of 234 runs, the Aussies were able to steer themselves comfortably to a total of 334 in the 4th ODI in Bangalore. Warner blasted a magnificent 124 off 119 balls while Finch added a brilliant 94 to go with his Game 3 ton.
The Indians put up a good fight, battling their way to 313 after a great 106 run opening stand between Sharma and Rahane but ultimately, the total set by the Aussies was too much as they claimed their first win of the series.
The pace attack of Pat Cummins, Nathan Coulter-Nile and Kane Richardson all bowled reasonably in the win, although their economy left a little to be desired, all going at at least 5.60rpo. The fact that the Australians need to make over 300 even to have a chance against the Indian batting line-up is very daunting.
The Vidarbha Cricket Association in Nagpur is expected to roll out a pretty well balanced pitch for the final ODI, something that hasn’t been seen there in some time. The pitch was rated as extremely poor just last year so a good contest between bat and ball here will be welcome.
It’s really unknown how the Australian’s will approach the match selection wise. They have been making a few changes here and there through nearly every match this series and with a three match T20 series against India to follow, they might want to give some of the players a bit of rest for the last ODI.
India have hardly changed their winning line-up throughout the series, and will likely go into Game 5 with a similar core to the one that has been dominating the series so far. With the series already wrapped up, focus may be turning towards the T20’s, so it’s hard to get a read on this game.
Due to their loss in Game 4, the Indians have drifted out to $1.67 to win this match, which we think is pretty good value considering the Aussies had to have an absolute day out with the bat to marginally beat them on Thursday.
TIP: India to win - $1.67 at Ladbrokes
The Indian opening pair have been spectacular throughout the series so far, plundering 354 runs between them. While Warner and Finch got off to a blistering start in Game 4, they are a temperamental pair at the best of times and prone to early wickets so we like the more stable duo of Rahane and Sharma to go better here.
TIP: Highest opening partnership India -1.5 runs - $1.88 at Ladbrokes
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