We take a look at the 3rd Ashes Test between England and Australia which will start on Thursday 22nd August at 8PM. View the odds for both teams as well as our tips and bets for the test match.
When: Thursday 22nd August, 8PM
Where: Lord’s
Bet: Bet On This Match HERE
Preview:
The Australians opened well over the $2.00 mark and have since drifted out to $3.00 following Smith’s late omission.
Despite a strong fightback in the second innings at Lord’s, Smith’s absence places enormous strain on the rest of the Australian order.
England is now short-priced favourites to even up the series, and rightfully so. England’s resolve was tested in the early stages at Lord’s, but the hosts still managed to put forward a respectable 258 first innings total which went a long way to securing the draw.
The batting order has been a problem for both sides so far, which in turn, has placed strain on the bowling attack. Australia’s paceman relished on day one at Lord’s as both Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood combined for six wickets, while Stuart Broad also enjoyed a Test to remember.
Without their best batsman, it’s fair to say Australia is a long shot to win the Third Test. With Smith on the sidelines, Australia’s hopes rest on the shoulders of David Warner – who so far has struggled on both sides of the ball.
Looking ahead, the Australian selectors also have some tough decisions to make. Cameron Bancroft has come under fire averaging just 11 runs during the series, while captain Tim Paine continues to struggle with the bat.
Australia could potentially bring Marcus Harris in for the Third Test, but even he mightn’t be enough to stop England’s fast bowling. Justin Langer faces an enormous challenge as he looks to combat Jofra Archer’s menacing bouncers, and with a much smoother and even pitch, the Australians need an answer in a hurry.
On a positive note, the Aussies won the last Ashes Test at Headingley back in 2009 but considering they only won the First Test thanks to Smith’s bat, it’s difficult to see the Australian order coping with the short spells of Archer and company.
For the first time in the series, the added threat of rain doesn’t look to play a factor, which is good news considering there hasn’t been a drawn Test at Headingley since 2012. The same can’t be said for Australia’s atrocious review decisions though, so with all things considered, it looks as though England should even up the series.
Odds:
Tip: England at $1.66
Value Tip: Jofra Archer Man of the Match at $6.50
*Odds correct at time of posting. Subject to change