Couch Critic previews Friday's first T20 International between New Zealand and West Indies including best bets from @Olimp_SA
NEW ZEALAND vs WEST INDIES 1st T20I, Auckland. Friday 27 Nov @ 08:00
International cricket action has kicked off in earnest this week and one of the three matches on a blockbuster Friday sees the Windies take on the Black Caps in Auckland in the shortest format of the game.
Setting the Scene
The Islanders are a dangerous beast in this form of the game and pitch up on New Zealand shores with plenty of short format batting power in the form of Pollard, Pooran and Hetmyer all fresh from the IPL. The bowling ranks of the maroon men looks a little less likely to prove match-winning.
The hosts will mostly have settled performers to call on in their squad. Guptill, Taylor, Southee, Santner, Sodhi, Neesham and Ferguson have been around the block a few times but the likes of Phillips and Conway will be keen to use any chance that comes their way.
How I see it Playing Out
The strength of the Kiwi bowling line-up has me leaning in favour of the men in black but the visitors have a number of star players who can win a game on their own, especially with the willow so the exotic markets certainly hold more appeal for me in this one. It should prove a cracking watch though and I can’t wait!
Betolimp Best Bets
Player to score the most Sixes – N Pooran @ 9.00
Kieron Pollard was in superb form for Mumbai in the IPL but Nicolas Pooran certainly found his hitting range, and he should be coming to the wicket earlier than Pollard.
Top New Zealand Bowler – L Ferguson @ 4.00
Ferguson started his IPL stint with a bang. He lost a bit of potency later on but conditions should suit his firebolts a bit more at Eden Park. The Kiwi tactic is also likely to be one of trying to unsettle the visiting batters and no one does it better than Lockie. Boult is also missing for this series so this strengthens my faith in the quicky to lead the charge.
Man of the Match – M Santner @ 17.00
Santner will be under pressure against the big hitting islanders but he is an all round player who is likely to pitch in with all three disciplines and that makes him a lively MOM contender here.
T20 Series Bet: Top West Indies Batsman – N Pooran @ 5.00
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Note, odds quoted are available at the time of writing but are subject to change
Couch Critic
