Couch Critic provides the betting preview for the Mzansi Super League eliminator between Nelson Mandela Bay Giants and Tshwane Spartans which takes place on Friday 13th December
NMB GIANTS vs TSHWANE SPARTANS - Port Elizabeth (Friday, 13 December – 17:30)
There are now only two remaining and come Friday evening the Mzansi title will be up for grabs to only two possible contenders. The Paarl Rocks lie in wait of the winner of this clash Giants and the Spartans in PE (a reserve day is also in place should rain be an issue).
Setting the Scene:
The Giants have been at or near the top of the table pretty much from the word go. They went through the regular campaign with 6 wins, three losses and a draw – exactly the same as the table topping Rocks. It was only a last outing defeat in Paarl as well as the eventual net run rate which relegated the Nelson Mandela Bay team to having to play this qualifier.
The Spartans on the other hand were left thanking the rain gods as they sneaked into the all important third spot and stop the trophy from being guaranteed a home close to the coast. The Pretoria-based outfit could only manage three victories, yet it should be kept in mind that five of their matches couldn’t reach a conclusion.
Let’s Talk Tactics:
We have seen the Giants rely heavily on their strong batting lineup toward the latter part of the tournament. Junior Dala started like a house on fire but in general there has been a serious lack of support for the ultra-impressive Imran Tahir in the NMB bowling ranks. Even without Roy the men in orange still have the likes of Ben Dunk and JJ Smuts to rely on. Marco Marais has also been a revelation as lower order boundary striker.
The last time the Spartans took to the field was on 03 December, when they looked on as the self-same Giants surpassed the 188/5 that the visitors were able to amass. Morne Morkel has looked at the top of his game whilst Roelof van der Merwe has pitched in at times, Lungi Ngidi has been a big wicket-taker but has leaked some runs. Bat in hand the early dominance of the Theunis-Elgar opening combo ran out of gas a few matches ago. Mr 360, AB de Villiers remains head and shoulders the top dog in the lineup.
Verdict:
This Nelson Madela Bay side has proven a tough nut to crack, especially on their home turf but the Spartans will know that they have given themselves a chance to spring the surprise and they will be hoping they can hit the ground running and do the business.
It’s been my trend to stick with the experienced stars at the business end of the competition. In this regard Morne Morkel and Tahir are far and away the best on show. Also, AB has shown glimpses of getting his top gear going and I expect him to be super hungry for success here – I’ll back him to go BIG.
Smuts has seen my money with regularity. A tried and tested local performer I am expecting a big day from the Giants’ skipper.
Betolimp Bets:
Top NMB Bowler – I Tahir @3.60
Top Spartans Bowler – M Morkel @4.50
To score most sixes – AB de Villiers @5.50
Man of the Match – JJ Smuts @13.00
(Note, all odds quoted are subject to change)
Enjoy the cricket and happy punting!
