Cricket Betting: New Zealand vs Australia 1st ODI

One eye on the upcoming Indian tour and one eye on managing the injuries – Australia will have a tough task of balancing their priorities in the Chappel-Hadlee three match ODI series that starts at Auckland on Monday, January 30.

With many regulars missing due to various reasons for the visitors, the hosts will have renewed hopes in reclaiming the coveted title they lost just two months back in Australia.

Best shot at redemption?

For a side that prides itself in being a tough unit in the shorter formats, New Zealand folded meekly in the previous series against Australia. What would have hurt the Kiwis more, is the manner of their capitulation – 68 runs, 116 runs and 117 runs.

Kane Williamson didn’t have a full strength squad at his disposal then which shouldn’t be a concern this time around. But even he would acknowledge that his side has to improve by leaps and bounds to keep even an under-strength Aussie side at bay.

What works in favour of the hosts is the confidence they carry on the back of emphatic wins over Bangladesh in the recently concluded series across formats. Although Australia provide a challenge of bigger magnitude, the Kiwis will start a confident bunch.

A huge challenge for Wade!

David Warner and Steve Smith are missing the series for different reasons which means ‘keeper Mathew Wade will stand-in as captain. Not an easy task considering the second-rung batting line-up that’s on cue.

That’s a harsh statement though, on the likes of Aaron Finch and Shaun Marsh who have fallen down the pecking order. This series gives the duo and the likes of Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell and Peter Handscomb a glorious chance to cement their places.

Bowling though, is at full strength for the Aussie side that has overwhelmed Pakistan in the just concluded series.

Odds

New Zealand would like to think they have an edge over an injury-ridden Kangaroo side. A bet on New Zealand win is not an outrageous one.

TIP: New Zealand to Win – $2.10 at William Hill

Martin Guptill was the lone torchbearer for the Kiwis when they toured Australia and will once again be vital for the hosts at the top of the order. With the ball, Hazlewood should top the charts for the visitors considering his accuracy and form. Back him at odds of $4 (William Hill) for most wickets. For the hosts, Tim Southee at odds of $4 (William Hill) looks an exciting option.

TIP: Martin Guptill Most Runs (NZ) – $4.33 at Sportsbet

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