2022 T20 Cricket World Cup:
Group B: Match Day 3 –Zimbabwe vs Scotland & West Indies vs Ireland
It is all to play for in Group B at the T20 Cricket World Cup in Australia, as all 4 sides in Group B have won 1 and lost 1 of their opening two games played at the tournament. Consequently, the group hangs in the balance, with all 4 teams knowing that a win in their respective fixtures here, will propel them into the Super 12s.
Match Preview: Zimbabwe vs Scotland
Match Winner Odds:
Team Previews
Zimbabwe
Beating Ireland gave Zimbabwe the perfect start to the competition in Australia but their defeat to the West Indies last time out, was a reminder of the inconsistencies they still battle as a side. Captain Craig Ervine will be a player they are looking towards for runs, with Sean Williams often providing stability in the middle order. Sikandar Raza has been with fine form with both bat and ball so far at the 2022 T20 World Cup and he will be seeking a repeat showing, whilst Blessing Muzarabani will be steaming in with ball in hand.
Scotland
After picking up an incredible win against the West Indies in their first game, Scotland were brought back down to earth with a bump by Ireland. Scotland are starting to really showcase their talents on the world stage regularly though and they will be eager to clinch a famous win here. George Munsey and Michael Jones provide experience at the top of the order, whilst captain Richie Berrington is one of the most exciting players on the affiliate circuit. Chris Greaves is a powerful all-rounder, capable of changing the game with bat and ball, whilst Josh Davey, Mark Watt and Brad Wheal constitute a strong bowling attack.
Match Betting Tips
Top Zimbabwean Batsman – Craig Ervine – 33/10
Captain Craig Ervine often comes up trumps for Zimbabwe and they will want a repeat performance from him here.
Top Scottish Bowler – Mark Watt – 3/1
Mark Watt has been in great form throughout the tournament and his confidence should be high.
Zimbabwe to win the match – 7/10
Scotland will be bang up for this and should cause Zimbabwe plenty of problems, but Zimbabwe should just about get over the line.
Match Preview: West Indies vs Ireland
Match Winner Odds:
Team Previews
West Indies
2016 T20 World Cup winners West Indies put in a poor showing against Scotland but bounced back well against Zimbabwe last time out. Finding a balance in their side has proven difficult in recent seasons but they remain a class side on their day and reaching the Super 12s is a must for them. Evin Lewis will be aggressive from the off, whilst captain Nicholas Pooran remains one of the most exciting players in world cricket. Jason Holder is as potent as ever as an all-rounder, with Alzarri Joseph and Obed McCoy heading up the pace attack.
Ireland
Ireland remain one of the most potent affiliate nations and they too bounced back from an opening match loss to Zimbabwe, to overcome Scotland. Andrew Balbirnie is the leader of the side and his runs at the top of the order are essential, as are the exploits of Paul Sterling – who has developed into one of the most dangerous T20 batters in the world in recent years. Curtis Campher and Gareth Delany are two genuine all-rounders, who can change the game with both bat and ball, and they could be vital here. Mark Adair brings the X-factor of pace to the Irish attack and with support from Joshua Little and Craig Young, it is a handy-looking bowling department Ireland possess.
Match Betting Tips
Top West Indian Batsman – Evin Lewis – 33/10
Evin Lewis hits the ball hard and he will be after the Irish bowlers from the off.
Top Irish Bowler – Josh Little – 28/10
Opening bowler Josh Little is a serious prospect, and he will be up for bowling on the pacy Australian pitches.
West Indies to win the match – 9/20
In an all or nothing shootout, the West Indies should have too much for Ireland here.
