Live on Skysports 1: Wed 08.30: Pakistan are 8/15 (Paddy Power) to beat the West Indies in the first World Cup quarter final.
The West Indies, 7/4 at Totesport, did not cover themselves in glory towards the end of the groups, collapsing against England and being comprehensively beaten by India.
By contrast, Pakistan finished on a high after ending Australia’s long unbeaten run and will take a huge wave of confidence going into this game.
All of Pakistan’s bowlers pitched in during the Australia game and Umar Gul stood out, he is 3/1 with Ladbrokes to take the most wickets against the Windies.
Gul and Afridi (also 3/1, Ladbrokes) are weighing in with very important wickets as the batsmen haven’t dazzled; Pakistan have the weakest opening pair any quarter final team with a high score of 28 and will rely on their bowlers. Umar Akmal is a touch overpriced at 13/2 (Stan James) to top score though.
West Indies must have concerns over their batting after two collapses in succession has made a mockery of their fairly decent bowling.
Chris Gayle rested against India and is an immediate choice for top score at 3/1 (Sportingbet) while Devon Smith impressed last time (4/1, Boylesports) but preference is for the captain.
As for the bowling, there are a few candidates but two that stand out are Andre Russell, England’s tormentor, at 5/1 (bet365) to take the most wickets and Ravi Rampaul who tore into India; he is 4/1 at 888sport.
Overall, Pakistan should be eyeing a win as West Indies have failed against the bigger sides and have only beaten Pakistan 3 in the last 16 attempts. The scores should be low but West Indies could at least shade the 6 count; Paddy Power have them at 10/11 to hit the most.
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