The BLACKCAPS are on the ground in Sydney to defend the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy … here’s everything you need to know.
The Matches
Game 1 - SCG in Sydney, Sunday December 4th
Game 2 - Manuka Oval in Canberra, Tuesday December 6th
Game 3 - MCG in Melbourne, Friday December 9th
The History
Played: 27 .… BLACKCAPS: 12 …. Australia: 12 …. Tied/No Result: 3
It’s dead even in the overall count while Australia have won an extra series to lead 4-3.
The BLACKCAPS however are the holders after first winning the trophy in the one off pool game at last year’s Cricket World Cup, before defending it in February’s thrilling three game home series.
The Rankings
Australia #1 BLACKCAPS #3
The Match-Ups
Batsmen
Both sides batting line-ups are packed with power up front. Martin Guptill (#8) and David Warner (#3) will look to get their sides off to flyers, while plenty is expected from captains Kane Williamson (#5) and Steve Smith. Don’t forget about the in form Tom Latham and also explosive Australia open and T20 star Aaron Finch.
All Rounders
After a strong showing in India, Mitchell Santner will be looking to show the Aussies his developing all round skills. He’ll likely go head to head with the mercurial Glenn Maxwell (#8), who quite frankly could produce anything! After bursting onto the Test scene, Colin de Grandhomme should also feature in his preferred shorter format. The Aussies also have James Faulkner and Mitchell Marsh who are ranked the 4th and 5th best all rounders in the world respectively.
Bowlers
There’s sure to be plenty of fire up front with Trent Boult (#1) and Matt Henry (#5) facing off against Mitchell Starc (#4) and the in form Josh Halewood. All quality bowlers and all with jobs on their hands to ensure the opposition don’t get out off the blocks fast and unharmed.
The Quotes
Kane Williamson: “The’ve got a lot of depth in their country so they’re always a formidable challenge.”
Mike Hesson: “As an ODI unit we’ve been pretty strong for a while. We’ve got an excintg group but not perhaps as experienced as we have been, but that provides opportunity.”
