3 minute read

Our betfair team uses extensive International Test Cricket knowledge to provide in-depth analysis and betting strategies for all international Test matches. International Test Cricket tips and previews are live.

FIRST TEST: AUSTRALIA VS PAKISTAN – OPTUS STADIUM (DEC 14-18)

The first test of the summer is upon us with Australia and Pakistan commencing a three-match series for the Benaud-Qadir Trophy at Perth's Optus Stadium, starting on Thursday. Fresh from claiming the World Test Championship and retaining the Ashes, prior to their World Cup heroics, the Aussies come into this contest with plenty of confidence and a settled squad which is set to welcome back veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon following his recovery from a calf injury. While after an impressive Ashes series, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh looks set to retain his place in the starting side ahead of fellow Sandgroper Cameron Green.

As you might expect there is less stability around Pakistan who have a new captain in top-order batsman Shan Masood, while there are possible debuts for opener Saim Ayub and pace bowler Khurram Shahzad. However a knee injury during a warm-up match against the Prime Minister's XI has ruled out first-choice spinner Abrar Ahmed, with offie Sajid Khan brought into the squad, however it is expected that left-arm orthodox bowler Noman Ali will get the nod in Perth.

Betting Strategy:

With the visitors having lost their last 14 tests in Australia, it comes as little surprise to see the hosts as warm favourites with a Pakistani victory and a draw considered equally unlikely outcomes. Although their recent record outside of the sub-continent has been poor and they are without young speedster Naseem Shah, Pakistan's pace bowling attack remains one of their strengths and if they are to land any blows in this series, it is likely to come on the quicker surface at Optus Stadium. So I'll be steering clear of the short odds about the Aussies.

The home side have had many star performers over the last 12 months or so but few have reached the heights of the counter-attacking Travis Head. Whilst many will remember the left-hander's player of the match efforts in the World Cup semi-final and final, prior to that he also enjoyed a stellar run in test cricket, averaging 47.11 in the longer format so far this year. It is early in the match where Head likes to make an impression, averaging 65.79 in the first innings across his past 14 tests and so hidden away from the dangerous new ball, we think he presents great value to top-score for his country again.

BACK: Travis Head Top Australia 1st Inns Batter for 1 unit at $6.50+ 

Check out more of Betfair's sport content including Cricket tips on the Betfair Hub