The absence of Michael Clarke hasn’t deterred punters from rallying behind Australia to defeat New Zealand in their second Champions Trophy pool game at Edgbaston on Wednesday night Australian time.

Australia has been backed from $1.77 into $1.72 with Sportingbet Australia, while New Zealand’s odds have drifted from $2.10 out to $2.15.

“It’s surprising when you consider Australia just lost comprehensively to England, yet New Zealand recently beat England in a one-day series,” Sportingbet spokesman Andrew Brown said.

“But punters clearly think Australia will be doing everything they can to avoid going out in straight sets,” Brown said.

Shane Watson is a $3.50 favourite with Sportingbet to score the most runs, while Mitchell Starc is a $4 favourite to take the most wickets.

Visit Sportingbet.com.au for all the latest Champions trophy markets and offers.

Champions trophy
Sportingbet Australia market
Australia v New Zealand – Match winner
Australia $1.72
New Zealand $2.12

Australia v New Zealand – Man Of The Match
Shane Watson $7.50
Martin Guptill $9.00
David Warner $11.00
Mitchell Starc $11.00
Mitchell Johnson $13.00
Ross Taylor $13.00
Others $15+