International cricket returns, with three matches commencing this week. Australia take on India at home in Sydney, while across the Tasman, New Zealand will be hoping to start their summer off on a positive note, with a win over the West Indies in their T20 series. 2019 World Cup winners, England will do battle against South Africa.
The COVID-19 pandemic has meant a major shift in the international cricket calendar, with the players only recently returning after a stint in the 2020 Indian Premier League (IPL). Below are our odds and match tips on all three games.
Australia vs India
Australia welcome back star batsmen Steve Smith into their line-up for their opening fixture against India in Sydney. Australia have not played together as a side since a 2-1 series win over England in September. The Aussies will be hoping that mercurial all-rounder Glenn Maxwell and keeper Alex Carey can continue their stellar form with the bat. Maxwell and Carey combined for a 212-run partnership to seal a win for the Aussies, in their last outing against England. Australia are expected to field both Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis, with all-rounder Mitch Marsh set to be sidelined for the summer through injury.