New Zealand v Australia cricket tips & best odds | Second Test

Second Test: NZ v Australia match preview

Australia continue their tour of New Zealand this week as they heading to Christchurch looking to secure a series sweep in the second Test, starting Friday.

It was a breakout performance from Cameron Green that steered the Aussies to a 172-run victory in the first Test, as his score of 174 not out in the first innings set up the match. In bowler-friendly conditions, the other batsmen struggled, with only two other scores of 50 across the match.

It was also an excellent match for Nathan Lyon, who spun Australia to victory on day four. As New Zealand chased 369 to win in the fourth innings, Lyon took 6-65 as he claimed his fifth 10-wicket haul in Test cricket. He also did some damage with the bat in the second innings as nightwatchman, finishing as an unlikely top scorer with a quickfire 41.

After their disappointing performance in the first Test, the Black Caps will be looking for a much-improved performance in Christchurch. However, they will be without young fast bowler Will O’Rourke due to a hamstring injury, with Ben Sears called up to the squad as a potential debutant. Opener Devon Conway has also been ruled out of the second Test, as he has been unable to overcome a thumb injury.

After the success of Lyon and part-time spinner Glenn Phillips in Wellington, the Black Caps may also consider bringing in Mitchell Santner after they played the first Test without a front-line spin option.

The Aussies are expected to remain unchanged for this match despite the poor form of many of their batsmen. The pressure is rising on Marnus Labuschagne, who averages 2.4 over his past five innings, while Steve Smith has just one score over 50 since moving to the top of the order.

Second Test: NZ v Australia best bets & odds

Second Test: NZ v Australia betting predictions

Looking at the result of the first Test, the quality of the Australian line-up and the history between the two sides, backing the visitors seems like the reasonable decision. With further injuries to the Black Caps, it is hard to see them causing an upset, so back the Aussies at -200 with Bet365.

Since returning to the Test side during the Ashes last year, Mitchell Marsh has been arguably Australia’s best batsman. With another green wicket expected, his ability to play positively in all conditions could prove important once again. Batting at six, Marsh offers great value to top score for the Aussies in the first innings at +550 with cricket betting sites.

For New Zealand, it was fast bowler Matt Henry who looked the greatest threat in the first Test as he finished the match with figures of 8-106. His extra pace clearly troubled the Aussie batsmen, and now playing at his home ground, he should understand the conditions better than most. As the favourite, back Henry to take the most wickets for the Black Caps in the first innings at +225 with top online bookmakers.

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