ATP Cup
Norrie vs Kuzmanov (Approx 05:40pm AEDST)
We are going to be seeing a lot of large handicaps throughout the ATP Cup, such is the variety in terms of rankings and level of tennis.
Cam Norrie is one that stands out, given his solid leftie serving, ability to cover the court and return well against Dimitar Kuzmanov. You could say this is a significant step up in form for Kuzmanov, who isn’t long off his tournament victory in December in the Doha M15 tournament, where he defeated Danylo Kalenichenko in the final.
Kuzmanov doesn’t have the biggest serve on tour, with a height of 184cm, or just over 6ft. That becomes a touch more appealing when considering the larger handicap, when you consider this as a significant step up in terms of form and opponent. Kuzmanov is 1-8 against players in the top 210 in the last 12 months, with the one victory over Laaksonen via retirement. He is 1-10 in his career against top 200 players on hardcourt.
Norrie started his 2019 in convincing fashion, reaching the final in Auckland in his first tournament for the year. The conditions will suit him in Sydney, and with motivation high in the team environment. He will be keen to get Team Great Britain off to a great start here. He did defeat Kuzmanov 6-1 6-1 many years ago, however a lot of water has gone under the bridge since.
The -5 game handicap looks value. The all-round style of Norrie gives him the advantage here. Worth a play for 2 units.
Suggested Bet
2 units Norrie -5 games vs Kuzmanov at $2.01 at Topsport