Australia and England will head to Adelaide for the second Test of the 2021-22 Ashes. The contest is slated to be a day-night Test played with the pink ball. The hosts have a 1-0 lead courtesy of a scintillating win at The Gabba.
Australia
The hosts began life under new skipper Pat Cummins on the perfect note. The pacer led his troops well through an all-round performance that helped them gain a series lead with a 9-wicket win.
They might have to alter their winning combination due to injury concerns. Pacer Josh Hazlewood has already been ruled out of the contest and is likely to be replaced by either one of Jhye Richardson or Michael Neser.
Opener David Warner is also a potential doubt after suffering a blow to his ribs. He could be replaced by fellow left-hander Usman Khawaja. However, he might make it to the playing XI according to teammate Travis Head.
England
The visitors’ misfortune in Brisbane continued and so did their dismal record in the land Down Under. Barring a partnership in the second innings between Joe Root and Dawid Malan, there was nothing positive for England to take from the game.
All eyes would be on the veteran pair of James Anderson and Stuart Broad, who were omitted from the playing XI in the first Test. Speculations are also emerging around Jack Leach, who endured a forgettable outing in the first Test. An all-pace attack could be on the cards, as a result.
Out of form opener, Rory Burns returned another poor set of figures but will retain his place in the lineup at the top of the order. Mark Wood’s spot is also safe in the tea after his short sharp spells were effective.
WAGING ODDS: AUSTRALIA (1.53) VS ENGLAND (6.50) DRAW(3.80)
Australia are the favorites and are priced at 1.53 meaning if you bet ₹100 on them and if they win the match, you’ll be making ₹180.
England are the underdogs and priced at 6.50 meaning if you bet ₹100 on them and if they win the match, you’ll be making ₹650.
The odds for a draw are placed at 23.80. Betting ₹100 on it will earn you ₹380 if the match is drawn.
Our Prediction
Adelaide is expected to sport a good surface that will largely aid batting, but the variable would arguably be the pink ball under the lights. Australia’s expertise and prowess with the revamped format of Test cricket make them clear favourites in this contest. England are in utter disarray at the moment and would like stability to have a say in the series. Australia are expected to win the contest.
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