2022 ICC T20 Cricket World Cup:
Group B: Match Day 2 – Scotland vs Ireland & West Indies vs Zimbabwe
Following opening match wins for Scotland and Zimbabwe, Group B at the 2022 T20 Cricket World Cup in Australia looks wide open. Arguably the shock of the tournament so far, saw Scotland cruise home against West Indies by 42 runs, whilst Zimbabwe ultimately had too much for Ireland – winning by 31 runs.
Heading into match day 2, the stakes could not be higher, as both Scotland and Zimbabwe know that a repeat result against their opponents in this match, will all but end their chances of reaching the Super 12’s. However, for the West Indies and Ireland, prevailing on this match day will bring all 4 teams to one win each, heading into the final round of fixtures, with only two sides progressing to the next round.
Match Preview: Scotland vs Ireland
Match Winner Odds:
Team Previews
Ireland
With Test status already secured and some excellent results against higher-ranked sides in recent years, Irish cricket is continually making huge leaps forward. Andrew Balbirnie is now 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.
Scotland
After picking up an incredible win against the West Indies, confidence in the Scottish camp should be sky high as they take on their old foes Ireland. Whilst they haven’t followed suit in achieving Test status yet, Scotland are starting to really showcase their talents on the world stage regularly. George Munsey and Michael Jones provide County Championship 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 pace attack.
Match Betting Tips
Top Irish Batsman – Paul Stirling – 3/1
Paul Stirling is a quality operator and he will want a score after failing against Zimbabwe.
Top Scottish Bowler – Mark Watt – 3/1
Mark Watt had way too much about him for the West Indies last time out and his confidence should be high.
Ireland to win the match – 13/20
There will be no love lost here between two sides that have played each other plenty of times but Ireland need a result and they should get it here.
Match Preview: West Indies vs Zimbabwe
Match Winner Odds:
Team Previews
West Indies
2016 T20 World Cup winners West Indies put in a poor showing against Scotland and they will want a response here. Finding a balance in their side has proven difficult in recent seasons but they remain a class side on their day. 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.
Zimbabwe
Beating Ireland is sure to give Zimbabwe a real confidence boost heading into this one and they will be all too aware of the opportunity to put the West Indies out of the competition here. Captain Craig Ervine will be a player they are looking towards for runs, with Sean Williams providing stability in the middle order. Sikandar Raza was in fine form against Ireland and will be seeking a repeat showing, whilst Blessing Muzarabani will be steaming in with ball in hand.
Match Betting Tips
Top West Indian Batsman – Nicholas Pooran – 5/1
Captain Nicholas Pooran needs a score, and he could well get his side over the line here.
Top Zimbabwean Bowler – Blessing Muzarabani – 3/1
Pace will be key down under and Blessing Muzarabani has it in abundance.
West Indies to win the match – 7/20
West Indies are playing on the brink of being eliminated, a threat that should spur them on here.
