SKY SPORTS’ Joe Drabble (@Joe_Drabble) continues to deliver money-making advice. Can he continue his excellent World Cup form on Friday?
South Africa v West Indies | Friday 03.30 | Sky Sports 2
After a heavy humbling in their second match of the tournament at the hands of India, South Africa will aim to bounce back against a resurgent West Indies, in what should be a cracker on Friday morning.
The Proteas were priced up as one of the pre-tournament favourites and their backers will have been alarmed with how easily they were dismissed by India in Melbourne last week.
Hoping to retaliate in Sydney, AB de Villiers’ men will take heart from their fine record against the men from the Caribbean, who have won only one of 17 ODI encounters with South Africa since 2007.
The Sydney pitch is showing signs of wear and tear after a long summer and it’s not a venue the West Indies will have fond recent memories of, having been dismissed for just 122 in a recent warm-up match against England. I fancy South Africa to bounce back, but not at 1/3, so instead I’ll be looking at a few of their bowlers to make a serious impact on the match.
I like the 13/2 on Imran Tahir to be Top Bowler. He should thrive in spin friendly conditions and is capable of ripping through the West Indies middle and lower order. If he does, the 16/1 Man of the Match bet also looks great value.
South Africa speedster Dale Steyn looks primed for a return to form and is a top price 12/1 with Ladbrokes for the Man of the Match award. Get on that as a saver should Tahir not hit his straps.
In the batting stakes, I like the look of South Africa having the Highest Opening Partnership at 8/11 due to the inconsistency of Dwayne Smith and Chris Gayle and the threat of the Saffa seamers.
Best Bets
South Africa v West Indies – South Africa in the Highest Opening Partnership (8/11 William Hill)
South Africa v West Indies – Imran Tahir to be Top Bowler (13/2 888 Sport)
South Africa v West Indies – Imran Tahir to be Man of the Match (16/1 Bet365)
South Africa v West Indies – Dale Steyn to be Man of the Match (12/1 Ladbrokes)
Money Back If Match Decided In Final Over
888 Sport will refund losing pre-match and in:play Match Winner bets if the match is decided in the final over.
TOPICS Cricket Tips Other Sports
