India vs Australia 2nd ODI Betting Tips
India prevailed over World Champions Australia in a rain-curtailed first ODI at Chennai by 26-runs to take an early lead in the five-match series. The caravan now moves to Kolkata for the second match on Thursday, September 21st. The Kangaroos will have to win at the iconic Eden Gardens to avoid digging a hole for themselves in the series.
It was a game missed opportunities for Australia where poor catching cost them Hardik’s early wicket. Even the rain looked to have aided India’s bowlers although Australia losing wickets at regular intervals didn’t help their cause. All in all, Australia looked second best through the game and will have to improve significantly at Kolkata.
Virat Kohli would have been impressed with the fight shown by his team after losing quick wickets. MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya looked in control and took them to a challenging score. And after the rain arrived, it was the turn of the wrist-spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav to turn tormentors for the visitors.
Kohli still has questions with his batsmen left unanswered as Ajinkya Rahane and Manish Pandey failed to grab their chance and KL Rahul is waiting in the wings. Also, Ravindra Jadeja has joined the side and could be pushing for a start.
Smith will have different worries as he tries to get his side back into the series. A 2-0 deficit would be tough to surmount in a five-match series but Smith must oversee a lot of improvements. David Warner’s opening partner is a slot up for grabs and Peter Handscomb could be the next in line.
Adam Zampa and James Faulkner leaked runs at crucial points although Hardik’s assault was the prime culprit. Smith has the option of Ashton Agar or Kane Richardson to replace the misfiring duo.
Stats
India has been in spectacular form in the ODIs this year having lost just four times in 19 matches. The visitors have not been that prolific, picking up four wins and five losses in 11 matches this year so far.
At Eden Gardens, these two sides played just once – back in 2003 TVS Cup final – that the visitors won comprehensively.
Picks
Rain remains a worry and the match could be washed away. In case of a full match, India remain favourites to win at odds of $1.62 (William Hill).
Australia have a slight edge when it comes to scoring in the first 15 overs. The visitors may just pip their hosts in the first 15 overs at odds of $1.90 (bet365).
Smith must be hurting after the failure at Chennai and will be key for the visitors’ chances. Back him at odds of $4 (bet365) to be their top batsman.
TIP: Australia to score more in the first 15 overs – $1.90 at bet365
TIPS ARE SIMPLY THE AUTHOR’S OPINION. ALWAYS GAMBLE RESPONSIBLY
