Australia will look to make it four titles in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup when they take on the West Indies in the Final at Kolkata on Sunday, April 3rd.
The Southern Stars overcame their fierce rivals England in the semi-finals, thanks to a superlative effort from their captain Meg Lanning. The Aussie captain scored a calm and measure 55 from 50 balls to guide her team to a respectable 132 on a slow pitch which they went on to defend with gusto.
The crafty innings was the highlight of the Aussie effort which was easily their best total in the tournament. Having made their way on the low and slow pitches, the bowling unit was excellent in all matches. The low scoring hurt them against neighbours New Zealand but that was the only loss in what was otherwise an admirable campaign so far.
The West Indies, on the other hand, have been living on the edge. They started with a close win against Pakistan but followed up with an impressive performance against Bangladesh. Against England, they fought until the last ball only to be condemned to a one wicket loss. The colourful Windies then pushed India out of contention with another close win.
And against all odds, they surprised the Kiwis in the semi-finals with an energetic display led by their captain Stefanie Taylor and Britney Cooper. After making their maiden final appearance, the Caribbean girls will be itching to make it count and take home the title.
The Aussies may look favourites before the first ball is bowled but much like their male counterparts, this West Indies team has enough flair and chutzpah to upset all calculations. Backing them at odds of $2.75 at William Hill to emerge victorious is a worthy risk.
Lanning continues to be pivotal for the Aussies and at odds of $3.25 at William Hill, she looks the best bet to be their top batswoman. For the Windies, it could be Deandra Dottin who can be explosive with her big shots. At odds of $5.00 at William Hill, she looks a decent bet.
Will it be a fourth successive title for the Australians? Or will the impressive West Indies’ women put a spanner in their hopes? The tournament is edging to a master class finale so get ready for an action-filled Sunday!
Take note: Any of the tips in this article are simply the author’s opinion, so bet at your own risk and always gamble responsibly. Also be sure to check out the Before You Bet Twitter Page for all our thoughts in the lead up to bets! Happy punting!