South Africa will play Pakistan in the first of the three-match ODI series at Boland Park in Paarl starting tomorrow (December 17). Here's Wisden's pick of the betting odds for the opening game.
SA v PAK first ODI: Who will win?
South Africa have announced a full-strength ODI squad, naming as many as nine additions to the outfit which played against Ireland in October. This is probably the one last opportunity for the regulars to regroup ahead of next year’s Champions Trophy. They are scheduled to play hosts Pakistan and New Zealand in a tri-series in February but the close turnaround from SA20 raises doubt over the availability of the first-choice players.
The hosts are entering the series in form, having won 2-0 against the same opposition in the preceding T20Is. Which is why the odds are stacked up in South Africa’s favour to clinch the first ODI. Pakistan, however, can take inspiration from their recent historic series victory in Australia but it would need some doing to emulate the feat against the star-studded Proteas side in their backyard.
Batery is offering a 1.60 return on every pound bet on South Africa's win, with a 2.35 return on a Pakistan victory.
SA v PAK first ODI: Which side will hit most fours and sixes?
The deadly duo of Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller are back in the side after a long gap, having last played against India in December last year. Aiden Markram and Rassie van der Dussen are decent boundary hitters as well. They are priced at 1.68 on Batery to hit more fours, compared to Pakistan's 2.35.
In terms of sixes, South Africa's well-round batting lineup makes them a safe bet as well at 1.60. Pakistan on the other hand have a soft underbelly in lack of powerhitters. Their captain Mohammed Rizwan copped criticism for a slow fifty in a run chase during the first T20I in Durban. As a result, the tourists are priced at 3.05 to hit more sixes.
Follow Wisden for all cricket updates, including live scores, match stats, quizzes and more. Stay up to date with the latest cricket news, player updates, team standings, match highlights, video analysis and live match odds.
