Australia will begin their playoffs push when they face Bangladesh in their 2nd game of the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy this Monday, the 5th of June. Group A became extremely interesting after Australia and New Zealand drew their Round 1 clash due to rain, making a win here against Bangladesh absolutely crucial for the Aussies chances of advancing.
Australia’s bowling unit looked a little off on Friday night against NZ. They allowed the Kiwi’s to get off to a great start with Luke Ronchi and Kane Williamson dominating the game early. Rain set in and limited NZ to just 46 overs before Australia mounted somewhat of a comeback, bowling them out for 291 in 45 overs.
The Aussies innings never really got going, they were under the pump from the start with a revised total of just over 230 off 33 overs and after losing 3 quick wickets for just 53 runs, more rain arguably saved Australia and they were able to come away with a draw.
Bangladesh were valiant in their opening round loss to England on Thursday night. After England won the toss and sent the visitors in, Bangladesh posted an impressive 6/305 off their 50 overs with opener Tamim Iqbal blasting 128. Iqbal is a top 20 ranked ODI batsman and will be a crucial wicket in ensuring the Aussies can keep Bangladesh to a manageable score. Back him to top score again here.
TIP: Tamim Iqbal BAN top run scorer – $3.75 at Sportsbet
The Aussies bowling stocks will need to be better in their 2nd game, particularly Mitch Starc who was wicketless in their opening game. Josh Hazlewood was the mainstay of the Aussie bowling unit with 6 wickets, and it will be interesting to see if the selectors go with the same outfit or elect to bring in a frontline spinner in Adam Zampa at the expense of either Pat Cummins or John Hastings. Either way, back Starc to bounce back this game against a Bangladesh outfit that wouldn’t have much experience in facing someone with his pace and bounce.
TIP: Mitch Starc top AUS wicket taker – $3.75 at Ladbrokes
Out of the 19 occasions that Australia and Bangladesh have met in an ODI match, Bangladesh have won on just one occasion. The two teams haven’t faced off in the 50 over format since 2011. Australia should win this match quite comfortably but there isn’t much value about.
It looks like David Warner and Aaron Finch’s responsibility this tournament will once again be to go out and score quickly. If the Aussies lose a quick wicket look for Steve Smith to come in and steady the ship as he does so well. A double bet on Australia to win and Smith to top score for the Aussies is great value at $3.75.
TIP: Australia H2H/Steve Smith top AUS run scorer - $3.75 at Sportsbet
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