South Africa vs Australia Preview

History is rife between the two sides as Durban is the host city for the opening of four test matches on South African soil. However, it has not been quite so generous for the home side as they would have hoped. That is because the Aussies claimed a 175-run win on their last visit to the Kingsmead with the hosts only having won 14 of the 42 test matches they have played on the Durban ground. Looking further into this South Africa vs Australia preview, it is clear that the Proteas will miss Dale Steyn who is absent until at least the third test. They have included the young sensation Lungi Ngidi in the squad and as highlighted in our best cricket betting previews, how he copes with the pressure could be the telling factor in this epic first test.

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South Africa vs Australia Prediction

Australia come into this test series with confidence sky-high after a comfortable summer demolishing England in the Ashes. However, there is to be no resting on their laurels as Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazelwood, and Pat Cummings are thrown straight back into the fray. The inclusion of 2017’s top test wicket taker Nathan Lyons only adds to the serious bowling attack the Aussies possess and makes them a formidable South Africa vs Australia prediction. With the mercurial Steve Smith holding the batting for Australia, it is no surprise that the side from down under are one of our top South Africa vs Australia betting tips to take a narrow win.

South Africa vs Australia Betting Tips

It appears that home form matters little between these two. South Africa haven’t beaten Australia on home soil in a test series since their readmission and with the bowling line-up the Aussies are fielding, it is quite clear they are eager to continue that run. It will not be easy with both sides boasting talent in abundance. We have already heavily focused on Australia, but the Proteas have included Morne Morkel, Vernon Philander, and Kagiso Rabada in their squad which is likely to make the match a close affair. However, form and confidence cannot be discounted, especially considering the Aussies have no fear playing away from home. This is where EnergyBet make the value even greater thanks to their best cricket odds on the outright match winner making the Aussies a winning prospect too tempting to miss out on.

30-year-old Australian bowler Nathan Lyon took the world by storm in 2017 after taking more test wickets throughout the calendar year than anyone else. Ironically, he headed home his opposing bowler Kagiso Rabada to do so. He also became only the second Australian spinner to take 250 wickets (only bettered by Shane Warne) and is eager to make 2018 another year of breaking records. At the price offered by SunBets to be the top 1^st innings wicket-taker for the visitors, it is also a great way to make some profit as Lyon is the leading spinner and will see his fair share of overs to attack the Proteas batting line-up. However, one thing is assured on both sides, the bowling will be fierce, the batting intense and without a doubt, the grandstands will be packed with a raucous crowd cheering their side on. It is all to play for as the first test gets underway.