After 4 matches in Dublin comprising 3 ODI’s and 1 T20 the Proteas play the 2nd T20 against Ireland in Belfast on Thursday and we take a look at the match from a betting angle.
Having drawn the ODI Series 1-1 South Africa got their T20 Series off to an excellent start with a 33 run victory over Ireland. Ireland won the toss and elected to field first and Temba Bavuma was the first to go, caught behind for 13 at a run a ball. The innings never really took off, but there were decent contributions all the way down with Aiden Markram top scoring with 39 at a strike rate of 130. The Proteas finished on 165 for 7 in their 20 overs and although he was a bit expensive, Mark Adair picked up 3 for 39 in his 4 overs and the most economic spell was Simi Singh with 2 for 19 in his 4.
All eyes were on Kevin O’Brien opening the batting for the Irish given that he had retired from ODI cricket and was now looking to come into form ahead of the T20 World Cup. He went for a first baller, caught and bowled by Rabada and Ireland never threatened South Africa’s score with only Harry Tector with his 36 at just over a run a ball making any sort of impression.
There were good contributions all round from the bowlers, but the pick was Shamsi with 4 for 27 in his 4 overs.
2nd T20 BETTING – Click here to bet
Ireland 9/2
South Africa 1/6
Suggested Bet: Player to score the most 6’s De Kock at 4/1
De Kock failed in the last match, but still managed to clear the boundary once and only one player namely, Aiden Markram the 13/2 favourite scored more 6’s. I am going to give De Kock another go as he has been in excellent form and if he gets going can make light work of this Irish attack.
Suggested bet: Top away bowler, Shamsi at 3/1
Shamsi is incredibly consistent, but that doesn’t always relate to wickets which is what makes this market interesting. Sometimes he squeezes an end while wickets fall on the other side, but in the 1st T20 he had the Irish all at sea and picked up 4 sticks. I see no reason why he can’t continue that form and am backing him to be the top Proteas Bowler.
Remember there is plenty of in-running betting options available so if you don’t have a strong fancy at the start of the game, watch to see how things go and then get involved.
Note: All prices correct at the time of writing but are subject to change
