James Richardson previews match 7-10 of the 2021 T20 World Cup which sees Namibia face the Netherlands, Sri Lanka take on Ireland before Bangladesh go up against PNG.
Scotland have provided the only surprise to date in Round One action at the T20 World Cup and they are on the brink of qualifying for the Super 12s.
Sri Lanka will face the biggest test of their Super 12s credentials when they meet Ireland.
Namibia vs The Netherlands | 20 October | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi | 12:00
To Win Match
Namibia 31/20
Tie 25/1
The Netherlands 52/100
These two sides will be fighting for survival in the tournament having suffered losses in their opening encounters.
Both Namibia and the Netherlands were let down by a poor batting efforts, although there was a silver lining for the Dutch in the performance of Max O’Dowd.
With a victory, Namibia could turn their last match of the group into a virtual knockout match, depending on the result of the Sri Lanka vs Ireland fixture.
The Dutch should be the favourites for this one but Namibia have come a long way and should improve from their opening match blowout.
Verdict: The Netherlands 52/100
The Dutch should have a bit too much quality for an improving Namibia.
Sri Lanka vs Ireland | 20 October | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi | 16:00
To Win Match
Sri Lanka 42/100
Tie 25/1
Ireland 39/20
One of these two sides will take a giant leap towards the Super 12s with victory here.
Ireland were impressive in putting away the Netherlands first up, with SA-born Curtis Campher taking four wickets in four balls to make T20 World Cup history.
Sri Lanka were equally assured in dismantling Namibia, with the damage done by Sri Lanka’s bowling attack.
A young Sri Lanka team has been better for its recent experience, and there is genuine optimism surrounding this team full of exciting talents.
Verdict: Sri Lanka 42/100
At a shade over 4/10, Sri Lanka offer really good value here against an Irish side who may not be able to match the Islanders in these conditions.
Bangladesh vs Papua New Guinea | 21 October | Oman Cricket Academy Ground, Al Amerat| 12:00
To Win Match
Bangladesh 1/11
Tie 25/1
PNG 13/2
Bangladesh bounced back from defeat to Scotland to sweep aside Oman on their home ground last time out.
While there are scenarios where Bangladesh could lose this match and still progress, they shouldn’t ride their luck.
Papua New Guinea improved from their opening defeat, but still went down to Scotland.
While PNG have bowlers who could get amongst the brittle Bangladesh top order, the Tigers should have the quality to progress.
Verdict: Bangladesh 1/11
Bangladesh haven’t been at their best but there is nothing to suggest that they won’t cruise to victory here.
Scotland vs Oman | 21 October | Oman Cricket Academy Ground, Al Amerat | 16:00
To Win Match
Scotland 27/20
Tie 25/1
Oman 62/100
Scotland are sitting pretty with two wins from two but they aren’t through yet and should be wary of the hosts.
Bilal Khan has shown himself to be world-class both with the new ball and at the death, and he could do some damage to the Scotland batting lineup.
Scotland batter Richie Berrington comes into this match in great form after a magnificent half-century last time out.
Oman won’t go down without a fight but Scotland have been playing some very good cricket and should have the quality to overcome.
Verdict: Scotland 62/100
I’ve been really impressed with Scotland this week and reckon they’ll snatch another win here.
