England and Pakistan are set to meet at the MCG to decide who is the T20 World Cup champion.
Our expert team has analysed all the form and markets for a big final.
England vs. Pakistan
13th November 7:00pm
Pakistan has been cursed at most tournaments since its famous 1992 World Cup win over England at the MCG, but the wheel could turn full circle at the same venue against the same opponent 30 years on.
Opening batsmen Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam have had an indifferent tournament but stood up when it counted in the semi-final win over New Zealand, becoming the first pair to post three opening stands over 100 runs.
A strong start may be crucial with some gloomy weather forecast, and if Pakistan bats first, they could be in the box seat to take this one.
Of course, they will still most likely have to bowl to an in-form England attack and need another big performance from Shaheen Shar Afridi, who ripped through the New Zealand attack from his first over the day. Throw in some tight, economic bowling from Mohammad Nawaz and Mohammad Wasim, and it can be hard to score runs off them.
Not only is England in form, but they are absolutely firing. Thursday night’s demolition of India was as one-sided as they come. But one small factor could be that while Alex Hales and Jos Buttler chased down India’s total together, they did it so well that no other English batsman had to take the crease. Obviously, that is a positive, but it did mean a lack of exposure for the rest of their order.
Ben Stokes doesn’t need regular time in the middle to prove his credentials. Whether he comes in after two overs or 18, he can have an immediate impact and turn a game instantly. He will be a major worry for Pakistan.
England has a multi-faceted bowling attack, and even without speedster Mark Wood, any of their bowlers can rip through a batting line-up.
Sam Curran had possibly his quietest performance so far against India, but he has been one of the stars of this World Cup and should bounce back.
The biggest question for them, selection-wise, is Wood who was too stiff and sore to take his place. Whether he can make it back and stand up for four overs will be crucial to England’s hopes.
Suggested Bet: Ben Stokes, top batsman at $8.50
