Big Bash is the most exciting form of cricket in Australia, and the playoffs are about to begin on Friday night. Our Heat vs Strikers betting preview has cricket odds for the Big Bash League, including Friday night’s eagerly-awaited contest.
The Brisbane Heat and Adelaide Strikers do battle at The Gabba, with the winner progressing to face the Perth Scorchers on Sunday night.
Online betting markets have the Heat as slight favorites at home, but the Strikers are out to prove their worth.
Heat Squeak Into Playoffs
It was an all-or-nothing game for Brisbane on Tuesday, but it passed with flying colors. The Heat scored 181 runs against Perth, and they held on to score by six runs.
A potential rematch against Perth awaits, but they must get past Adelaide first. Brisbane has relied heavily on Chris Lynn and Max Bryant, but the addition of Australian representative, Marnus Labuschagne, has changed their dynamic.
Labuschagne is a quality all-rounder, and having his experience has helped this team make the playoffs. It was a close-run thing, as three teams finished on an equal number of wins, but Brisbane had a bonus point in its bank.
Strikers Bring A Stellar Bowling Attack
Adelaide didn’t show its best against the Sydney Thunder on Tuesday, but the bowling attack is worth noting.
It’s headed by former Australian test bowler, Peter Siddle, who has been on fire during the Big Bash League. He leads a strong bowling attack, which also includes Daniel Worrall, Wes Agar, and Michael Neser.
Siddle got 5/16 earlier this season, so the Brisbane Heat will need to watch out when he’s coming into bowl.
Wes Agar has taken 21 wickets from 14 matches this season, which puts him in equal third position. One ahead of him is Brisbane’s Mark Steketee, who is bowling lights out at the moment.
Lynn vs Carey
The game on Friday could come down to Chris Lynn vs. Alex Carey. Brisbane’s Lynn has scored 420 runs this season, and Adelaide’s Alex Carey has gone for 412.
There is little between them, and both have important roles to play. Lynn is the most successful six-hitter in Big Bash history, so he needs to clear the rope to have maximum impact.
Carey is more of a tactical batsmen, who will work for singles before launching late. The difference is Lynn has scored more runs from two fewer innings, so he is the more explosive bat in Friday’s game.
Whichever way this game goes, online sports bettors should expect both batsmen to have an impact on proceedings.
Heat vs Strikers Game Pick
There is very little separating these teams, but we are leaning towards the Brisbane Heat.
They found form at the right time of the season, and Adelaide might have peaked a few weeks early.
Not only does the Heat have the likes of Lynn and Steketee, but the addition of Labuschagne has transformed their season.
The Heat have a balanced attack and the advantage of playing home. Even with a smaller crowd than usual, playing on a familiar surface can make all the difference in cricket.
Cricket markets have the Heat as slight favorites, and we expect plenty of money to come for them on game night.
