Two years of test cricket comes to a head this Thursday with Australia vs South Africa in the World Test Championship Final at Lord’s.
One of the most historic venues in world sport will host the Baggy Greens chasing the first back to back Test Championship against the Proteas who enter their first final on the back of a seven Test win streak.
There could be some surprises in this one so here are five hot tips to help you get your eye in before the toss.
Australia’s record against South Africa in Tests? Yeah not bad.
They’ve taken out 54 of their 101 meetings, compared to South Africa’s 26 wins.
The Baggy Greens have also had the stronger WTC cycle—racking up series wins over India, England, and Pakistan.
Form, confidence, and history are all in Australia’s corner, punters chasing a result market or series trend should take note.
Some players just suit certain grounds and for Steve Smith, Lord’s might as well be a second home.
He’s knocked 525 runs over five Tests at The Home of Cricket, averaging 58.33. His record boasts two centuries alongside a pair of half-centuries.
So with that said, I’d take the 50+ runs at $2.40
You can’t look past Kagiso Rabada in the bowling markets.
The Proteas speedster is ranked No.2 in the world for Test bowling and will be South Africa’s go-to weapon.
If the ball swings (and at Lord’s it usually does) he’s a threat every spell.
Backing him for most wickets or even a three-wicket haul? Not a bad shout.
Safest bet would likely be Tembar Bavuma, he’s South Africa’s most consistent bat in recent times.
But I’ve been a bit safe so far so lets go left of field here, Marco Jansen.
Hear me out!
If the top order collapses, the all-rounder at No. 7 could top score.
He’s got multiple Test 50’s and enough flair to cash in against a tiring attack.
Want value? Bavuma.
Want a Hail Mary? Jansen
Looking for value in run-scorer markets without needing a ton?
Marnus Labuschagne to score a first innings 50 might be your best bet.
He has a solid record at Lord’s and is due for a meaningful knock after a lean patch.
Reliable technicians like Marnus often fly under the radar in the 50+ runs market, offering sneaky good odds at $2.80
Hope for a gritty 55 before a Rabada yorker rearranges him then both legs should be on!