Canada’s life at the highest level has been one to forget, particularly at the World Cup level. The current one has scripted the same story and every match has been a damage-control practice. They take on New Zealand at Mumbai in their Group A match. The Kiwis are having a dream run at the moment and are high on confidence after their win against Pakistan. Let’s see what the match has in store.
Most runs scored
Both sides haven’t had consistent performers with the bat so far. With the exception of Martin Guptill, no one in the Kiwis squad has shown flowing form. However, after last game, considering Canada’s feeble bowling attack, Ross Taylor will be savouring the opportunity. As will McCullum. However, there’s no telling that someone else lower down that Kiwi order may not get runs.
Canada have had no big scores in the tournament so far. But there have been glimpses of talent from Jimmy Hansra. Ashish Bagai also looks to be back in form and Canada will be depending on him. Cheema was rated highly for his skills with the long handle, but his calm exterior has deceived everyone to reveal a bit of a tail-ender instinct.
Available odds: Martin Guptill @ 3.75; B McCullum @ 3.75; Ross Taylor @ 5.50; Ashish Bagai @ 5.00; Jimmy Hansra @ 7.50
that_guy’s bet: Martin Guptill @ 3.75; Jimmy Hansra @ 7.50 (bet365)
Most wickets
The Kiwis have been impressive with their bowling this World Cup. Hamish Bennett has been a revelation to the world, at good pace. Mills and Southee have done an impressive job as well. However, a large chunk of that bowling unit is missing- it goes by the name of Daniel Vettori. The Nez Zealand skipper will miss the game against Canada and the options will open up for New Zealand. Perhaps Bennett comes back into the squad to fill that void. Canada haven’t been too bad themselves. They have bowled well in the powerplays with Osinde and Baidwan but have often let themselves down later in the game. Will they be able to keep the rampant Kiwis under siege?
Available odds: Tim Southee @ 3.75; Kyle Mills @ 4.00; Oram @ 5.00; Bennett @ 7.00; Baidwan/Balaji Rao/Osinde @ 4.50
that_guy’s bet: Oram @ 5.00; Balaji Rao @ 4.50 (888sport)
Match Result
You would have to be extremely optimistic to expect Canada to win this one. Kiwis.
Available odds: New Zealand @ 1.03; Canada @ 12.00 (bet365)
that_guy’s bet: New Zealand @ 1.03
that_guy’s hunch
Jesse Ryder could be a late-exploding cracker today.