Former spinner Brad Hogg firmly believes that Australia will defeat the arch-rivals England in their Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup on Saturday.
After meticulously analysing both sides' strengths and weaknesses, Hogg concluded that Australia have an advantage over England as they have a Powerplay overs triumvirate of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood.
"While Australia have Starc for the death, who can bowl reverse swing and control a lot of batsmen in that period. But, England have Jordan as well as Mills, two of the best death bowlers going around in International cricket right now. Where the game is going to be won is the early wickets and that's where I think Australia have got the advantage and that's why I think they will win tonight," Hogg said in a video on his YouTube channel.
The chinaman bowler also reckoned that England’s batters are well equipped to take on the Australian challenge.
"Australia are strong with the new ball. Three genuine quick bowlers. So it will be an interesting contest against a good batting outfit. Spinners on both teams are evenly matched. But, I think England batsmen play spin better, so they have a slight advantage in that aspect," the 50-year-old further said.
Australia and England, both are undefeated in the competition so far. South Africa and Sri Lanka were defeated by Australia, while England fared better against West Indies and Bangladesh. Both teams have four points under their belt, but England have a better net run rate (NRR) of +3.614, putting them in first place in Group 1.
Nonetheless, one of the teams will lose their winning streak tonight, while the other will improve its chances of making the semi-finals.
