Australia claimed a 2-1 Twenty20 series win over Sri Lanka recently and we now move on the One Day International phase of their tour, with the former regarded as strong favourites to have the upper hand as they did in the short format of the game.
Between now and the first Test Match on Wednesday 29 June, there are five One Day International games, with the first of these taking place at Pallekele on 14 June.
It’s always difficult to judge the respective teams given that there’s been a large hiatus in activities since COVID-19, with Head Coach Andrew McDonald having one eye on the 2023 World Cup and the focus will be on winning games before that big tournament.
On paper, we have a dangerous visiting side despite the fact that they are missing Kane Richardson, while Mitchell Starc is likely to be absent for the first two matches in Pallekele and it is hoped that Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood will be able to have the necessary impact.
As is often the case with the Australian team, there is strength in depth and that is particularly when it comes to the batting order. Travis Head could come into the team after showing strong form in Pakistan.
We are going to take a punt on the Baggy Greens to overcome a Sri Lanka team who have been inconsistent at One Day level for several years, even if they did overcome South Africa and Zimbabwe in previous ODI series’.
There isn’t a huge amount of cricket betting value when it comes to the handicap market, although Australia on the handicap could be the shout.
BETTING TIP: Australia -6.5 wkts / -41.5 runs with bet365.
