Australia vs West Indies - Steve Smith to star in win for defending champions

Leonard Solms

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Last updated: 14 Jun 2019

Leonard Solms 14 Jun 2019

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West Indies to wobble in Cricket World Cup clash

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Steve Smith could be the kingpin for Australia in their Cricket World Cup match against the West Indies. (Getty Images)

Australia vs West Indies Preview, Predictions & Betting Tips

Australia can continue their good run of form in the Cricket World Cup against the West Indies at Trent Bridge. Steve Smith top scored against Floyd Reifer’s team on his return to international cricket and is backed to be Australia’s top scorer once more on Thursday at 4.50.

Australia Form & Team News

Australia appear to be peaking at the right time yet again and have won their last 11 ODIs, most recently demolishing Afghanistan by seven wickets. Steve Smith has been in fine form for Justin Langer’s men with 210 runs in his last three innings since his return to the international arena, including 76 in an unofficial warm-up win over the West Indies.

Returning to top form after the ball-tampering scandal which cost Smith the Australia captaincy is testament to his character. I am tipping him for top Australia batsman at 4.50 whilst another option is David Warner at 3.75.

Former test vice-captain Warner was also at the centre of the ball-tampering saga along with Cameron Bancroft. Warner and Smith have come back determined to rewrite their legacy although the former is only now starting to really hit his stride.

Australia are the bookies’ favourites to win at 1.44 largely due to the impeccable form of their star batsmen and their fine Cricket World Cup record. They are five-time world champions after all.

Steve Smith is a man on a mission and has hit fine form since returning from a lengthy ban. (Getty Images) — Steve Smith is a man on a mission and has hit fine form since returning from a lengthy ban from playing for Australia. (Getty Images)

West Indies Form & Team News

The West Indies started their Cricket World Cup campaign with a resounding seven-wicket win over Pakistan and are in decent form. They have held their own in recent matches against England and New Zealand but were torn apart by Steve Smith when they faced Australia.

Smith’s 76 led Australia to a seven-wicket win in the warmup match and the likes of Oshane Thomas and Jason Holder have a difficult task ahead of them with the ball. The experience of Chris Gayle with the bat might also be vital and he can be backed for top West Indies run scorer at 3.75.

Floyd Reifer took over as the West Indies’ coach as recently as April but has done a good job so far. The West Indies can be backed for the win at 2.75 if you think they will rise up to the challenge posed by Australia.

Australia vs West Indies Head to Head

Australia won the warmup match between the two sides by seven wickets with 11.3 overs to spare. They have won six of their 11 ODI series against the West Indies with three draws and two losses.

Australia vs West Indies Live Stream

Head to bet365 if you want to stream the action from Thursday's match live, subject to terms and conditions. Australia and the West Indies are two of the world's famous cricketing nations and there will be plenty of pride at stake in what should be an entertaining match.

Australia vs West Indies Match Up

Steve Smith is back at his best for Australia and has an average of 56 in five ODI innings against the West Indies including his knock in the warmup match.

Chris Gayle is the big name in the West Indies’ batting lineup and can hit the ball out of the park. A career ODI average of 38.20 shows he is still not as reliable as the biggest names in the game.

Steve Smith has scored 210 runs in his last three innings for Australia. (Getty Images)

Australia vs West Indies Key Statistics

Australia’s Steve Smith has an average of 56 in 5 innings against the West Indies (ODIs).
Australia’s Steve Smith has an average of 70 in his last 3 ODI innings including all warm-ups.
Australia’s Steve Smith top scored with 76 in his last match against the West Indies (ODIs).

Verdict

Australia are the favourites for this match and Steve Smith in particular is worth watching. I am backing Smith to be top batsman for Justin Langer’s men at 4.50.

Best Bet: Steve Smith To Score 50 @ 2.25 at bet365 - 4 Units

Best Australia Batsman Bet: Steve Smith @ 4.50 at bet365 - 2 Units