Australia v New Zealand - 1st ODI betting and odds preview

Australia Cricket / Editor / 20 October 2007 / Leave a Comment

Two old rivals will do battle in the first of three one-day internationals on December 14 and the latest Australia v New Zealand match looks like an intriguing betting contest.

The home side are likely to go into the three-match series as odds-on favourites, after their outstanding form in the 50-over game in recent years.

Ricky Ponting's men have lost just two of their last 18 one-day internationals and there will undoubtedly be a whole of host of punters lining up to take a bet on them maintaining their excellent record.

Betting customers should note though that the last time Australia lost a series was against the Black Caps back in February, with New Zealand winning all three matches in a series whitewash on home soil.

In Australia though it is a different story - the Kiwis lost all five one-day matches against the Aussies in their last journey across the Tasman Sea in the Commonwealth Bank series, and the odds will be stacked against Daniel Vettori's men this time around.

The first match of the one-day series will be played in Adelaide, a ground that betting followers of New Zealand will be aware has been a successful venue for the Black Caps. There have been seven meetings between the two sides in Adelaide, with the Kiwis winning four of those encounters including the last match back in 2002.

Australia opener Matthew Hayden has scored two centuries in his last two appearances against New Zealand and is likely to be a popular option for those seeking a bet on the leading batsman.

Betting on top bowler should also provide some interest, with both sides forced to change their bowling attacks in recent times. Shane Bond has been a thorn in Australia's side but his continuing injury problems are likely to make him a doubt for this latest contest.