We take a look at Thursday’s (12/12/2019) 1st Test 2019 match which is between the Australia vs New Zealand. View the odds and teams for both sides as well as our Tips and Bets for the match.
When: Thursday 12th, December at 10:30
Where: Optus Stadiam, Perth
Bet: Bet On This Match HERE
Preview:
As if day-night cricket in Perth wasn’t exciting enough, we’ll also be treated to one of the world’s most mouth-watering match-ups at the crease between Steve Smith and Kane Williamson.
Smith failed to fire against Pakistan batting twice for a combined 40 runs. Williamson, meanwhile, played an integral part in the Kiwis’ draw against England scoring a ton in the second innings.
Pakistan proved no match for Australia last month as the bowling attack struggled to challenge the top order. New Zealand will pose a whole new set of challenges however, as medium pacers Trent Boult and Tim Southee both performed exceptionally well in England.
Australia has dominated the Trans-Tasman series over the last two decades, retaining the trophy since 1993. That said, the last time these two sides met in a Test match was 2016, so it’s safe to say a lot has changed since then.
New Zealand is more than capable of matching Australia’s run totals, and despite what you may think, it won’t be just a one-man job.
Williamson is the world’s third-best Test batsman, but the Black Caps can also find confidence in Tom Latham, who has been the most successful Test opener over the last two years.
Of course, all of this may be a moot point if the Kiwis struggle to deal with the heat in Perth. Temperatures are set to reach 40 degrees this week, which could pose a few challenges to a New Zealand side straight off the plane from England.
The heat should also impact the wicket in Perth and force several cracks to appear by the second or third day. From a batting perspective, these two teams are fairly even on talent, but Australia can feel confident in their bowling after Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc tore through Pakistan.
We should see Steve Smith return to his very best this week after spending ample time in the rooms against Pakistan. New Zealand is a classy side that will challenge Australia in all areas, but on a tricky wicket, you have to stick with the favourites in this one.
Odds:
Tip: Australia at $1.38
Value Tip: Man Of The Match: Steve Smith at $6.50
Teams:
TBA
*Odds correct at time of posting. Subject to change
