England vs Scotland Predictions
England begin the defence of their World T20 crown against Scotland in Barbados on Tuesday (3.30pm, Sky Sports Main Event).
Jos Buttler’s side were triumphant in Australia in 2022, although UK betting sites make them third favourites behind India and the Baggy Greens to reclaim their crown.
They warmed up for the World T20 with a series win over Pakistan, albeit one that was blighted by rain in two of the four matches. But, England can feel confident ahead of the tournament even with the potential skin of Scotland in their opener.
Scotland won the last meeting between the two sides back in 2018 in a 50-over contest. Calum MacLeod was the hero with a score of 140 as England failed to chase down 372 in Edinburgh.
Scotland will be desperate to inflict another famous defeat on their rivals, although England are firm favourites at a best-price 1/14 to get the win in their opener.
The Panel has weighed up the form guide, trends and betting markets to make three predictions for the Group B showdown in Barbados.
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England vs Scotland Prediction: Buttler In Prime Form
England have a point to prove in the World T20 after their dismal performance in the 50-over World Cup last season.
Buttler’s men surrendered their title without a fight, losing six of their nine matches. As captain, Buttler came in for his fair share of criticism, especially after a shocking time in India with the bat.
The 33-year-old has had time away from international cricket and looks back to his best following a stint for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League, where he scored two centuries.
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He returned to England and displayed his brilliance once more with 84 in the second T20 against Pakistan before following up it with a 21-ball 39 in the final match of the series. Teams will be wary of his skill at the top of the order, but a Buttler in form is almost unstoppable.
He was a notable absentee last time these sides met and one that could have swung the balance in England’s favour. The Panel are expecting big things out of Buttler to kickstart the tournament. They like the odds of 13/8 for Buttler to score 50 runs or more with Betway.
The Panel Tip: Jos Buttler To Score 50 Runs Or More – 13/8 Betway
England vs Scotland Betting: Wood To Make Amends
Mark Wood was another England player far from his best in the 50-over World Cup. The Durham paceman claimed six wickets at an average of 58.16, highlighting his underwhelming tournament, although he was far from the only England player to struggle.
It was a stark contrast to his performances in the 2022 World T20, where he played a significant role in England’s triumph. In conditions that suited his style of bowling, Wood took 12 wickets in four matches at an average of 12.
Unfortunately, injury ruled him out of the semi-finals and the final, and although England prevailed without their key man, Wood will be desperate to play a crucial role in another triumph.
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The presence of Jofra Archer in the squad could be crucial in driving Wood on to retain his place in the ranks or allow him to rest up to allow him to maintain his speeds of 90mph plus.
Wood was on point in his one warm-up match, tormenting Pakistan with his pace. The Panel are optimistic that he can repeat his efforts against Scotland.
Cricket betting sites have set a wicket line at 1.5 wickets in the game, and The Panel are taking the odds of 4/6 on the over with Bet365.
The Panel Tip: Mark Wood Over 1.5 Wickets – 4/6 Bet365
England vs Scotland Tips: Powerful Duo To Provide England Platform
The Panel are already confident in Buttler’s ability to perform with their first pick. Now, they’re going to use the England skipper again for their final bet with his partnership with Phil Salt for the first wicket.
England’s opening pair could be a huge factor in their hopes of winning the tournament. It’s arguably the most destructive opening duo in the World T20. Both players can score quickly against all types of bowlers.
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While Buttler gets the headlines, Salt has proven himself a class act, notably scoring two centuries in England’s T20 tour of the West Indies last winter.
Scotland’s bowlers could be the metaphorical lambs to the slaughter against Salt and Buttler, and The Panel are bullish that England’s opening pair will outscore their opponents. Odds of 8/15 are available on betting apps for England to have the highest opening partnership.
The Panel Tip: England Highest Opening Partnership – 8/15 BetGoodwin
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