Although we successfully tipped South Africa to win the First Test in WACA last week, unfortunately for the Australians, it brings into question a whole lot of dilemmas going into the Second Test in Hobart starting this Saturday, the 12th of November.
After a tough loss where the batting order failed miserably, the Australian selectors will be scrambling to plug some holes in a middle order which was ravaged by a bowing attack that was one short due to a Dale Steyn injury.
Questions will be asked of both Adam Voges and Mitchell Marsh at five and six respectively after putting on a total of 54 runs between them over their four innings. I have always been under the belief that Australia plays best with a strong batting all-rounder at six. Mitchell Marsh is clearly not that, while he is more than handy with the ball, he is a massive liability batting at number six in a batting order that is prone to collapse. Look for Marsh’s head to be on the chopping block going into the Second Test. Suitable replacements are littered throughout the Sheffield Shield competition, but the selectors have been unwilling to drop Marsh despite his poor form. Victorian all rounder Marcus Stoinis, NSW captain Moises Henriques and former test player James Faulkner are just a few that could garner selection.
The South Arfrican’s will go into the second test with at least one change. Dale Steyn, who injured his right shoulder on the first day of play in the WACA Test has been ruled out for the series. While Kyle Abbott should slot straight into the side in his place, it’s clear that this attack is now led by 20-year-old Phenom Kagiso Rabada. The paceman claimed seven wickets and man of the match honours in the first test and looks to be the quick that really has the Aussies measure going into the Second Test.
We tipped Australia to win this series 2-1 in our Series Preview and Betting Tips, however, I can’t envision a way for the Aussies to win this test if their batting order, particularly Steve Smith, Voges and Marsh, can’t produce runs. Although the Aussies allowed South Africa to make 540 runs in their second innings of the WACA Test, their bowling, and in particular that of Mitchell Starc, looked impressive. However, Smith’s reluctance to use spinner Nathan Lyon is worrying, hopefully a more spin friendly pitch will be prepared in Hobart.
Weather will play a big role in the Hobart Test, with rain forecast throughout the first three days. If it were guaranteed clear weather for all five days, I would probably suggest backing the in form Proteas to take a 2-0 series lead here. However, due to the uncertainty with the weather and South Africa’s ability to bat for long periods, I am backing the draw. At short odds of $1.60 it might be worth putting in a multi.
TIP: Draw - $1.60 at CrownBet
Australia’s batting order was dismal in the first test, however, their opening pair got off to good starts in both innings, which is why I think the line of 29.5 is quite low for their 1st wicket partnership in the first innings.
TIP: Australia fall of first wicket OVER 29.5 - $1.90 at CrownBet
I’m sticking with my prediction that if Australia are to have any success, it will be on the back of Mitchell Starc. Taking him to win man of the match in what could be a rain effected match means he might only need to take a few wickets to claim the award.
TIP: Mitchell Starc man of the match - $7 at CrownBet
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Take note: Any of the tips in this article are simply the author’s opinion, so bet at your own risk and always gamble responsibly. Also be sure to check out the Before You Bet Twitter Page for all our thoughts in the lead up to bets! Happy punting!
