Head set to return against Kiwis in major boost to Aussies

Australian star Travis Head looks set to return to the line-up for their crucial Cricket World Cup clash against New Zealand at HPCA Stadium on Saturday.

Head’s return to the Australian cricket team was put on hold as he was deemed unfit to participate in their huge win over the Netherlands.

Australia is at $1.62 to defeat New Zealand ($2.25) with both of these teams considered strong chances of winning the tournament, bookmakers pricing them at $5 and $6.50 respectively.

Despite Head’s recent hand injury, his reintegration into the squad had raised hopes he would play against an improving Netherlands.

However, Captain Pat Cummins, at the coin toss, confirmed Head’s absence, citing the need for a few more days for complete recovery.

Additionally, all-rounder Marcus Stoinis was sidelined due to a calf problem, making room for Cameron Green’s inclusion in the team.

Cummins, after winning the toss, opted to bat first, seeking to replicate the impressive opening partnership from their previous game against Pakistan, but it is a partnership they are likely to tinker with against the Kiwis.

Australia has indicated that opener Mitchell Marsh is likely to bat at no.3, with Head set to open alongside in-form David Warner, while Steve Smith will shuffle down to four.

Australia will also be tempted to axe Marnus Labuschagne to keep Cameron Green in the line-up, if Stoinis is declared fit to face New Zealand, who have lost just one game for the tournament.

India remain the only team in the World Cup that are undefeated, having beaten both Australia and New Zealand in their flawless start to the event.

Read our free Australia v New Zealand tips to get the inside running on how we expect the encounter against the Kiwis to go.

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