Australia vs England 4th ODI Preview & Tips
England continued to enjoy ODI domination while Australia plunged into further slump. The Gillette ODI series is already won by the visitors 3-0, but there is so much to play for!
For starters, the hosts have never been whitewashed at home, which now looks a distinct possibility. The next World Cup is 18 months away, but England’s early form has set a pre-cursor for the World Champions Australia to follow and replicate. The stage is set for an exciting fourth ODI on Australia Day (Friday, January 26th) in Adelaide.
Australia – will the slump end?
This is the first time in Australia’s decorated ODI history that they have suffered a stretch of ten losses in 11 matches. There is a strong case for delineation between the Test and ODI sides, much like what they did after the 1996 World Cup defeat.
Captain Steve Smith has advocated following England’s adventurous approach, although it is easier said than done! They did have their moments of upper hand in the third ODI but lost out the key moments to their bitter rivals, and eventually slumping to a loss!
England – a chance to avenge the Ashes’ loss!
No matter what, this England side does, they will not be able to erase the hurt of losing the Ashes 4-0. However, there is hope within the camp that a ODI series whitewash will go some way in bringing the battered pride back to its shape.
To be fair to England, they looked a class above their hosts through the series. Every time Australia threw the gauntlet, a different player rose to the occasion and led the visitors. They know that winning as a habit needs to be continued and will be gunning for another win.
Stats
This is only the second time that Australia has lost a five-match bilateral series at home, while they have never been beaten 5-0 at home.
At the Adelaide Oval, Australia have a 5-2 record against England.
Key players
Aaron Finch will be missing from the Australian line-up after sustaining a minor hamstring strain, so the bulk of the scoring responsibility at the top of the innings will fall on David Warner. Can the powerful lefty break out of his ODI slump?
Joe Root’s class in the group of hard-hitters is a solace for England captain Eoin Morgan. The England Test captain is in a class of his own and his ability to graft is a boon. Will he continue to lay anchor?
Picks
Australia’s ability to stop England is a huge question mark. Back England to win at odds of 2.0 (bet365).
Back the visitors to score more sixes than their counterparts at odds of 2.1 (William Hill).
TIP: England to score more sixes – $2.10 at Ladbrokes
* Tips are author’s opinion and provided for informational purposes only. Please gamble responsibily.
