Australia vs West Indies first ODI: Tips and suggested bets

Australia and the West Indies get their ODI series underway at the spiritual home of cricket in the country.

The MCG hasn't been the happiest of hunting grounds for Australia in recent ODIs with the team only capable of winning one of their last four 50-over internationals at the ground.

For the West Indies it has been more than 30 years since they won an ODI in Melbourne but this group will feel a lift in the camps general mood after the thrilling end to the Test series.

Several top white-ball players are missing for both sides with Australia primarily resting their multi-format fast bowlers.

The West Indies have a few players unavailable due to being involved in the SA20 franchise T20 tournament with Nicholas Pooran and Kyle Mayers among he notable absentees.

 

Australia vs West Indies first ODI: Suggested bets

Cameron Green's underrated batting ability and the likelihood that he will be asked to opening the batting alongside Travis Head, make him a punt for Australian top scorer that could be an incredible windfall.

In-form fast bowler Lance Morris could get the inside lane on taking the most wickets if he can expose the West Indies vulnerable middle order early on.

West Indies stalwart Shai Hope is a banker when it comes to getting runs in white-ball cricket, and while others are more explosive the skipper has been incredibly consistent in finishing as his team's top scorer.

The West Indies offer good value in the sixes hit market with Australia installed as favourites despite the number of devastating hitters in the tourists batting lineup.

Gudakesh Motie could prove both tough to get away and a wicket threat at the MCG with its big boundaries.

 

Predictions

 

 

Shai Hope to top-score for the West Indies

Cameron Green to get highest score for Australia

Lance Morris to take the most wickets