Couch Critic provides the betting preview for the Mzansi Super League match between Durban Heat and Tshwane Spartans which takes place on Saturday 9th November
DURBAN HEAT vs TSHWANE SPARTANS - Durban (Saturday, 09 November – 12:30)
Both the Durban Heat and Tshwane Spartans let their fans down last season. From the opening Saturday one of these sides have the chance to start their 2019 campaign with a positive result as they clash in Durban.
Setting the Scene:
People around the country will be delighted to see Mr360, AB de Villiers back on local ground and ready to entertain. Roelof van der Merwe and Morne Morkel are two other Saffas who follow AB back into the Republic for this event and all three will be vital to the Spartans’ cause.
The Durban Heat will be expecting Alex Hales to add the much-needed spice at the top of the order whilst Dane Vilas is also back in KZN to add his weight to the possible revival of the Durban based franchise. Kyle Abbott is another Kolpak back on home turf.
Let’s Talk Tactics:
One has to think much will rely on Hales for the Durbanites. He needs to lay the platform for Vilas, Miller and co to finish off. With the ball one has to give the edge to the visitors as Morkel, Sipamla, Ngidi and Mulder could dish out too much fire for the Heat to handle… Apart from De Villiers the Tshwane outfit have boundary clearing options with Vaughn van Jaarsveld and Pite van Biljon. Theunis de Bruyn and Dean Elgar are the steadier options in the batting line-up.
Verdict:
Alex Hales will be determined to have a scorching tournament to force his way back into the English T20 fold. Yet unless he comes off in a substantial manner the Spartans should be able to out-shine their hosts with the bat and bowling wise Abbott won’t have nearly the quality support that Morkel has. A Spartans victory is where I’m going in this one.
Additional plays for me include backing Roelof van der Merwe’s slow left armers to pick up a few sticks (he has been in good bowling form for the Netherlands recently) and Dean Elgar to be the glue that keeps the Tshwane innings together.
Betolimp Bets:
To win the game – Tshwane Spartans @ 1.73
Best Spartans Bowler – R van der Merwe @ 5.50
Best Spartans Batsman – D Elgar @ 5.50
Player to hit the Most Sixes – A Hales @ 8.00
(Note, all odds quoted are subject to change)
Enjoy the cricket and happy punting!
