We preview the ICC Cricket World Cup semifinal clash between Australia and England.
Australia were forced into this match by a defeat to the Proteas that also saw a number of their players suffer injuries.
England have to be happy with the semi-final they got after the tournament they have had considering they could have been forced to take on India at Edgbaston.
Cricket World Cup 2019 | Thursday 11 July | Edgbaston, Birmingham | 11:30
To Win Match
Australia 72/100
Tie 40/1
England 23/20
Australia
Australia lost Usman Khawaja to injury before the semi-final, having lost Shaun Marsh to a knock in the nets just before their match against South Africa and allrounder Marcus Stoinis is in doubt with a suspected side strain.
The Aussie’s World Cup success has been powered by the opening pair of David Warner and Aaron Finch. Finch was accounted for early by the Proteas, who brought spin into the attack early to unsettle the heavy-hitting pair. If they are to match the batting power of England, the pair will have to play some role.
Australia’s bowling attack looks good barring the lack of an attacking wrist-spinner with Nathan Lyon preferred to Adam Zampa in the latter stages of the tournament. Mitchell Starc has already taken a World Cup record equaling 26 wickets.
England beat India at Edgbaston earlier in the tournament but Australia haven’t played in Birmingham yet at the 2019 World Cup.
England
England are happier than they were two weeks ago when their place in the semi-finals was in doubt and on current form should be classed as favourites for this match.
With Jason Roy, fit again England look a much better side with his stand-in James Vince yet again failing to impress in national colours.
The late decision to include Jofra Archer was a sensible one given his form and apparent quality and he has repaid the faith shown in him with excellent performances.
This match also serves as an appetizer for the Ashes series that follows hot on the heels of this Cricket World Cup and is expected to be a big test of nerve for both sides.
Australia triumphed when the sides met in the round-robin phase but despite that recent history heavily favours the England ODI juggernaut.
Verdict: England 23/20
The hosts have come good at the right moment and should book a place in the final.
Written by James Richardson for Hollywoodbets.
