While Cricket fans anticipate this incredible edition of the ICC T20 World Cup, it is time to brace ourselves for what will be a tournament filled with boundaries, classic catches and value for punters.
A historical first will be had in cricket with 15 of the 55 games being hosted in the United States, and the remaining 40 games will be in the sunny and beautiful shores of the Caribbean.
History is being made left, right and centre with an expansion of international teams from 16 to 20, adding a new dimension of unpredictability and competitiveness to the already outstanding event.
From the Australians, to the ever-improving India, England, and New Zealand, each nation will bring a competitive team aiming to get their hands on the coveted trophy.
Every day, you can find me on the neds blog sharing my thoughts on EVERY SINGLE GAME, and my betting plays on our opening matches can be found below.
Sunday June 2nd
The t20 World Cup will have unforgettable moments all tournament long, with the world’s best teams colliding for the prestigious T20 World Cup.
Amongst the most sought-after matches is the cross-border rivalry between the United States and Canada who will be opening the World Cup.
Two nations with a deep, rich cricketing history and an inclining presence on the international stage, this match-up is sure to build intense excitement for home fans.
USA, ranked 20th in the ICC rankings, has significantly progressed in recent years, qualifying for three consecutive World Cups.
Led by experienced Indian-born American all-rounder Monank Patel and explosive striker Steven Taylor, the Americans hold a balanced squad with match-winners in every department.
Canada, ranked 24th, has also shown enormous signs of improvement, with seasoned campaigner Nitish Kumar and rising star Saad Bin Zafar leading their challenge to World Cup glory.
Their spin-heavy attack, along with a solid batting lineup, makes them an underrated and underappreciated side in the World Cup campaign.
The betting markets in my opinion are too far apart, with the hosts opening up as a 1.44 favourite whereas Canada is being touted as underdogs, opening a 2.75 outsiders.
Canada has a history of upsetting higher-ranked opponents and should not be underestimated – beating the likes of Kenya and Bangladesh in recent World Cup campaigns.
The Americans will seek to impose their power-hitting style of play, while Canada will aim to abolish their threats with tight bowling and pristine fielding.
Both teams will have their eyes on the ever so important Super 12 stage, and a positive start to their campaign could provide a dividend in their momentum going forward.
Here are my suggested betting plays.
- Canada to win ($2.75)
- Rayyan Pathan Top Canada Run Scorer ($4.50)
- Steven Taylor Top USA Run Scorer ($4)
- Jessy Singh Top USA Wicket Taker ($4)