Image Credit- AP
Now that their beloved All Blacks are about to win the
Webb Ellis Cup again, people in New Zealand may be more interested in another
World Cup. However, the cricket players have come out firing in this
tournament; their undefeated record has only been tarnished by another Virat
Kohli masterpiece.
In spite of this, New Zealand can virtually guarantee
a spot in the semi-finals by defeating Australia in another exciting
Trans-Tasman match, defying the predictions of numerous analysts. It won’t be
simple, though, as Australia, which had a rough tournament beginning, appears
to have bounced back and is now a legitimate title contender.
Since turning things around against Sri Lanka,
Australia has steadily improved, culminating in their record-breaking hammering
of an outmatched Netherlands. Australia still needs to be cautious about
slippage, though, as there is a lot riding on this day’s match at Dharamsala,
the scenic venue where they have never played an ODI. This is because of their
early losses to South Africa and India.
Opening batsman David Warner is back to his dominant
best at the top of the order, and Glenn Maxwell’s explosive performance against
the Netherlands at least temporarily eased Australia’s middle-order woes.
However, Australia might change their starting lineup
by forcing back opener Travis Head. Due to Dharamshala’s generally favourable
swing bowling conditions, Trent Boult and Matt Henry pose a significant threat
against New Zealand’s potent bowling arsenal.
Although Australia has a strong pace attack of their
own, it is good to see that frontline spinner Adam Zampa, whose early
difficulties mirrored the team’s, has improved.
With some doubt lingering around both teams, this game
looks to be a barometer of where they stand in the fight for the championship.
Although Australia and New Zealand might finish in the top four regardless of
the outcome, there does seem to be a lot riding on this Trans-Tasman matchup in
a rivalry that generally produces strong results.