A-League Predictions: Betting Tips & High Odds
A-League betting is a popular pastime for Aussie football fans, adding excitement and potential rewards to each matchday. From Sydney to Perth, punters eagerly await each game not just for the on-pitch action but also for the thrill of having a wager riding on the outcome. A-League betting offers unique opportunities, especially at casinos not on BetStop, where fans can explore sports wagers alongside the usual casino games like pokies. Aussies can place smarter bets by analyzing team form, player performance, and match dynamics, making each wager an informed one rather than a blind gamble. A-League betting caters to a variety of interests and techniques, from backing a favorite team to finding hidden gems among underdogs, ensuring there’s something for every kind of punter.
High odds and spectacular moments on the pitch present possibilities for experienced punters as the league evolves. By staying strategic and informed, Aussie bettors can make the most of these opportunities. Below, we break down key prediction factors, strategies for safer betting, how to find value in bets and choose the right betting platforms, as well as highlight some must-watch A-League matchups of the season.
For more insights on safe and exciting betting options, check out the complete guide to casinos not on BetStop in Australia.
Prediction Factors to Consider Before Betting
When it comes to A-League predictions, understanding the factors that influence match outcomes is crucial. Savvy Australian bettors pay attention to several key elements before placing a bet. Here are the most important factors to evaluate:
- Recent Team Form & Performance: Analyze each club’s latest results and performances. Consider not just wins or losses but the quality of opponents beaten, goal differentials, and consistency in attack and defense. A team on a winning streak against strong opponents may signal confidence, whereas narrow wins against weaker teams might be less convincing.
- Head-to-Head History: Check the historical matchups between the two teams. Some clubs have a psychological edge or tactical matchup advantage over others. If one team historically struggles against another (for example, due to style clashes or rivalry pressure), that can influence the outcome. Look at how many times they’ve met and any patterns in those encounters (e.g. consistently high-scoring games or frequent draws).
- Player Availability (Injuries/Suspensions): Always verify the status of key players before a match. Injuries or suspensions to star strikers, creative midfielders, or solid defenders can disrupt a team’s game plan and chemistry. If a club’s top scorer or captain is sidelined, the team’s performance might dip, making an upset more likely.
- Travel and Schedule Fatigue: Australia’s geography means teams often travel vast distances. An East Coast team flying to Perth (or vice versa) faces a long trip, and back-to-back away games can cause fatigue. Fixture congestion (many matches in a short span) also strains squads. Bettors should account for whether a team is playing their third match in a week or coming off a mid-week cup game, tired legs can lead to surprise results.
- Weather and Pitch Conditions: Extreme weather can significantly impact matches. Scorching heat, heavy rain, or high humidity affect player performance and can level the playing field. For instance, a summer match in Perth once saw players suffering heat exhaustion and even vomiting due to 39°C temperatures during play. Always consider if a match will be played in blistering afternoon heat or wet and windy conditions, as this might slow down the game or cause more errors.
- Motivation and Mindset: Finally, gauge each team’s motivation. Are they fighting for a finals spot or a trophy? Is it a derby or rivalry game where pride is on the line? Teams often lift their intensity in important matches or could underperform if they have little to play for. A club on the brink of playoffs or a team eager to impress a new coach may put in extra effort, which can tilt the odds. By staying current on team news and league context, punters can better judge which side has the mental edge.
By carefully evaluating these factors before each A-League match, Aussies can improve their prediction accuracy. The more boxes you check in your research, the more confidence you can have that your bet is grounded in reason, not just hope.
Where to Find Value in A-League Matches with High Odds
Finding value is the cornerstone of profitable betting. In A-League matches, value can often be found by spotting high odds that don’t accurately reflect an underdog’s real chances or by capitalizing on bookmaker promotions. Here’s how Australian punters can find value and maximize their returns:
1. Underdogs and Market Overreactions
One classic value-finding technique is to look for underdog teams that have a genuine chance to upset the favorites. These situations can arise due to factors like the favorite having key injuries or coming off a tiring travel schedule. Bookmakers and the public might still heavily back the favorite, resulting in long odds on the underdog that are higher than they should be. Astute Aussies can profit by betting on these undervalued underdogs or by using markets like double chance (covering the underdog win or draw) to secure a safer bet at decent odds. Keep an eye on whether odds have shifted due to a recent result or media hype, sometimes a big win can lead to market overreaction, where the team’s odds shorten too much the next week, creating value in the opposite side.
2. Choosing the Right Betting Platform
Value isn’t just about the teams, it’s also about where you place your bets. Different betting sites offer different odds and promotions. Savvy punters should select Aussie-friendly sportsbooks or casinos that offer competitive odds on A-League games, a wide range of markets, and lucrative bonuses. For example, some new online casinos give special sports offers that can boost your bankroll:
MyStake
This popular platform (available to Australian bettors) is known for high odds and a generous welcome offer. New users on MyStake can claim a 120% sports betting match bonus up to $600 on their first deposit. This kind of bonus provides extra funds to bet on A-League matches, effectively increasing the value you get for your money.
WinSpirit
WinSpirit Casino also caters to sports bettors with enticing promotions. It offers a 100% first deposit sports bonus up to roughly €200 (or equivalent in AUD) for new players, with a reasonable 7x wagering requirement. Not only that, WinSpirit sweetens the deal by providing a 25% free bet bonus on a second deposit (up to €100) if you meet a minimum deposit, giving punters an added chance to bet on A-League games with the house’s money. Regular free bet deals (such as weekly free bets for active players) and combo bet boosts up to 70% also make it appealing for finding value.
RocketPlay
- Rocketplay casino offers a Curaçao License and provides us with secure encryption of our data to players.
- It is accessible on any mobile or desktop device.
- An extensive collection of more than 6000 games available from top providers.
- Offers a live casino.
This crypto-friendly casino has a sportsbook that is gaining traction in Australia. RocketPlay currently features a hefty 200% welcome bonus up to 600 AUD for sports bettors, plus a 30 AUD no-risk free bet included in the package. Essentially, if you deposit 30 AUD or more, RocketPlay will triple your betting bankroll, and the free bet (which stays valid for 3 days) can be used on any A-League match or other sports events within certain odds. Such an offer allows you to take a shot at higher odds bets (like an adventurous multi or a correct score prediction) with reduced risk.
3. Sports Bonuses and Promotions
Always leverage sports bonuses that align with your A-League betting. Many platforms have ongoing promotions, for instance, odds boosts on local football derbies, cashback on accumulators, or free bets if one leg of a multi loses. These promos effectively tilt the value in your favor. For example, if a bookmaker offers a refund on losing bets if a match ends 0-0, and you’re betting on an A-League game known for occasional scoreless draws, you have a safety net in place. Similarly, loyalty or VIP programs can return value through cashback or bonus bets over time, which is worth considering if you’re a regular punter.
In summary, finding value in A-League betting means doing your homework on the teams and being strategic about where you bet. By spotting mismatches between odds and reality, and by choosing betting sites with the best offers (high odds, low margins, and great bonuses), Australians can ensure they get the maximum bang for their buck on every wager. Remember, a good bet is not just one that wins, it’s one that was worth taking because the potential reward outweighed the risk.
Smart Betting Strategies for A-League Punters
Betting without a strategy is like playing football without a game plan, you might get lucky occasionally, but over the long run you’ll likely come up short. Successful Aussie punters often employ well-thought-out strategies to manage risk and secure profits. Here are a few smart betting strategies tailored for A-League betting that can help you place safer bets and even “re-insure” your positions when needed:
- Hedging Your Bets for Insurance: One way to protect yourself (or lock in profits) is hedging, essentially placing a second bet to cover an opposite outcome of your original wager. For instance, imagine you backed an underdog team at juicy odds before the match, and they take an early lead. You could then place a live bet on the favorite or on a draw to “insure” your position. This way, no matter how the game ends, you secure a return. Some savvy bettors even use the double chance market for hedging; as one expert points out, double chance bets let you cover two of three outcomes, basically hedging and protecting yourself against losses. For example, if your initial bet on the underdog is looking good, you might hedge late in the game by betting “Favorite or Draw” (double chance) to cover the other side. While hedging slightly reduces your maximum profit, it significantly lowers risk, a worthwhile trade-off when you want to guarantee a win or minimize a loss on a volatile bet.
- Focus on Low-Risk Markets (Draw No Bet & Double Chance): If your goal is to bet safely and steadily, consider markets that inherently reduce risk. Two popular options are Draw No Bet (DNB) and Double Chance. Draw No Bet means if the match ends in a draw, your stake is refunded, you’re only betting on a winner. This is great in A-League if you think a team is likely to win but want insurance in case of a draw (which is not uncommon in tightly contested matches). Double Chance allows you to cover two outcomes with one bet (win or draw for one team), which greatly increases your chances of winning at the cost of lower odds. It’s essentially a low-risk strategy for cautious punters. For example, if Melbourne City is strong at home but prone to occasional stalemates, you might bet on “Melbourne City or Draw” to avoid losing your stake on an unexpected draw. As with any safer bet, the payout is smaller, but these markets are excellent for building your bankroll slowly or including in multis as relatively secure legs. They can also be used for hedging as described above.
- Bankroll Management and Staking Strategy: No betting strategy is complete without proper bankroll management. This isn’t about a specific bet on an A-League match, but how you bet across many matches. Set a fixed budget for how much you are willing to risk (e.g., a monthly or season-long bankroll), and never chase losses by betting more than your planned stake. A common approach is the flat betting strategy, wagering the same amount (a small percentage of your bankroll, say 2-5%) on each bet regardless of confidence. This prevents a couple of losses from wiping you out and keeps you in the game for the long haul. Australian bettors often enjoy multis (accumulators) for a bigger payday, but use them sparingly and mix in single bets too. And if you do go for a multi, consider using those low-risk double chance or DNB selections to anchor it. Always remember: even the surest favorites can sometimes draw or lose in football, so avoid lumping your entire bankroll on one “guaranteed” outcome. By staying disciplined and only wagering what you can afford, you’ll be able to ride out the losing streaks and profit from the winning streaks.
- Value Betting and Line Shopping: A more advanced strategy is value betting, as touched on earlier, this means betting only when the odds are in your favor (i.e., the odds imply a lower probability than you believe is true). To execute this, you need to develop a sense for fair odds (perhaps by studying team stats, expected goals, etc.) and compare across different bookmakers. Sometimes one bookmaker might have significantly better odds on a particular A-League match outcome than another. Line shopping, comparing odds across multiple betting sites, allows you to always place your bet where you get the highest payout. Over a season, consistently taking slightly better odds (say 2.10 instead of 2.00) can make a notable difference in your profitability. Combining value betting with the patience of bankroll management is often how professional punters eke out profits. For the everyday bettor, it simply means: do a bit of homework, and don’t be afraid to pass on a bet if the odds aren’t attractive. There will always be another match.
By employing these strategies, Australian punters can enjoy A-League betting as not only a fun pastime but also a more calculated and potentially profitable endeavor. The key is to stay flexible, sometimes you’ll hedge, sometimes you’ll let a bet ride, but you should always be thinking a step ahead. Treat betting like a marathon, not a sprint: smart strategies and good habits will take you further than any one big win or risky flutter.
Aussie punters who want to expand beyond football can explore our detailed guide to online sports betting in Australia for more strategies and platforms.
Tips and Advice
Even with solid strategies and research, it never hurts to hear from those who live and breathe A-League football. Tapping into expert insight can give you a nuanced perspective that pure statistics might miss. Here are some tips and advice that experienced tipsters and commentators often share with A-League bettors in Australia:
- Stay Informed with Expert Analysis: Follow reputable A-League tipsters, blogs, and podcasts. Aussie football pundits and former players often provide pre-match analysis highlighting tactical matchups or player form that might not be obvious in the stats. For instance, an expert might point out that a particular coach has a great record in rainy conditions, or a young player is poised for a breakout against a specific opponent. These insights can help you spot betting opportunities that others overlook.
- Factor in Tactical Matchups: Experts often stress looking at how teams match up tactically. One team might have a speedy winger that can terrorize a full-back on the opposing side, or a coach might adjust formations in away games. Understanding these nuances can guide you on markets beyond just win/lose, such as both teams to score, over/under goals, or a particular player to score/assist. If, say, Melbourne Victory’s style historically gives Sydney FC trouble in midfield, an expert might advise backing Victory to win or at least avoiding a bet on Sydney, even if Sydney are favorites.
- Discipline and Bankroll Management: Seasoned bettors repeatedly emphasize the importance of discipline. This means avoiding emotional betting. Just because it’s your favorite team playing, or a big derby match is on TV, doesn’t mean you should place a large bet for the thrill. Stick to your analysis and staking plan. If a string of bets didn’t go your way, resist the urge to double up the next wager to catch up, this is known as chasing losses, and it’s a quick way to derail your bankroll. Experts advise setting win/loss limits for a day or week. For example, “If I lose X amount, I’ll stop and review my strategy rather than try to win it back immediately.”
- Explore Niche Markets with Caution: Experienced punters sometimes find value in less common betting markets, but they approach them carefully. Markets like halftime/fulltime results, correct score, or first goalscorer can offer high odds. An expert tip might be to use these as small “fun” punts when you have a strong hunch (for example, a pattern of fast starts by a team might make a halftime/fulltime bet attractive). However, they’ll remind you that these are harder to predict, so such bets should remain a small portion of your overall betting activity.
- Leverage Promotions and Communities: Many Aussie bettors join online betting communities or forums where they share tips and discuss picks. Engaging with these communities (like subreddits or local forums) can provide a wealth of crowd-sourced information, from rumor mill team news to historical stats someone dug up. Additionally, tipster competitions or following verified tipsters on social media can give you extra confidence in certain bets. If three seasoned tipsters you trust all independently favor Melbourne City to win on the weekend, it backs up your own research. Still, always exercise your own judgment and avoid blindly following someone else’s tip, use it as one more piece of information.
For the latest updates on promotions, match analysis, and market shifts, follow our gambling news blog for non-BetStop casinos.
Incorporating advice from experts with your own analysis creates a balanced approach. You get the benefit of experience and insider knowledge while still making decisions that fit your betting strategy. Over time, you’ll develop an intuition for A-League betting, a combination of statistical reasoning and gut feel honed by watching countless matches and digesting expert commentary. That’s when betting becomes not just potentially profitable, but richly rewarding as a fan, because you’re engaging with the sport on a deeper level.
Top A-League Matches to Watch This Season
Just as European football has its massive showdowns like Barcelona vs Real Madrid or AC Milan vs Inter, the A-League has its own must-watch confrontations that capture the attention of fans across Australia. These high-profile matchups are not only thrilling to watch but also offer strategic betting opportunities due to the high stakes and intense competition involved. Here are some of the central rivalries and big games in the A-League, along with a snapshot of their history:
- Sydney FC vs Melbourne Victory (The Big Blue): This is arguably the A-League’s marquee rivalry, a clash between two of the most successful clubs from Australia’s two largest cities. Dubbed “The Big Blue,” whenever Sydney and Victory meet, you can expect fireworks on the pitch and in the stands. Historically, this matchup has been very competitive. As of early 2025, they had faced each other 66 times in all competitions, with Sydney FC winning 26 times and Melbourne Victory 21 times (19 matches ended in draws). The Big Blue has decided championships (they’ve met in Grand Finals) and produced classic moments, making it a favorite for punters. In betting terms, these games can be tricky, form can go out the window in a rivalry, but one thing to consider is the goals market; these teams average around 2.9 goals per game in their encounters, indicating that neutrals and over/under bettors often see action.
- Sydney FC vs Western Sydney Wanderers (The Sydney Derby): When it comes to local grudges, the Sydney Derby is top of the list. Sydney FC (based in the city’s east) and Western Sydney Wanderers (representing the west) have a fierce rivalry that’s about more than just football, it’s a cultural and geographic divide. Since the Wanderers joined the league in 2012, this derby has become one of the biggest events in Australian sport, often drawing huge crowds and passionate atmospheres. By February 2025, they had met 41 times, with Sydney FC winning 20 of those clashes, the Wanderers winning 11, and 10 ending in draws. The balance of power has swung back and forth; Sydney FC had periods of dominance, but the Wanderers have had their moments too (including memorable finals meetings). Bettors should note that derby matches are often closely contested, it’s not uncommon to see upsets or tight draws. Keep an eye on the Both Teams to Score market in these games; with intense attacking play and emotions high, goals can come from either side (their latest meeting was a thrilling 3-3 draw).
- Melbourne Victory vs Melbourne City (The Melbourne Derby): Melbourne’s football fans are split between the traditional powerhouse Victory and the newer ambitious Melbourne City (formerly Melbourne Heart). The Melbourne Derby has grown in stature over the past decade and is now a highlight of the A-League calendar. Victory, with its larger historical fanbase, dominated early on, but City – backed by the City Football Group – has become a force, winning premierships and championships in recent years. The rivalry on the pitch has evened out as a result. In their first 48 derby encounters up to 2025, Melbourne Victory won 17 times and Melbourne City won 14 times, with 17 draws between them. This near parity makes the Melbourne Derby intriguing for bettors, as odds are often fairly even. One thing to consider is the context: if one of the two clubs is on a hot streak or if they meet in a final (as happened in 2021 when Melbourne City beat Victory in a Grand Final), the intensity and pressure skyrocket. Derbies can also be card-heavy affairs, so some punters even look at booking points or red card markets in such matches, anticipating the fiery nature of the contest.
- Melbourne Victory vs Adelaide United (The Original Rivalry): Before the new city derbies and expansion teams, one of the A-League’s first major rivalries was between Victory and Adelaide. Dubbed “The Original Rivalry,” these two clubs developed bad blood in the league’s early years, meeting in multiple finals (including a notorious Grand Final in 2007 where Victory triumphed 6-0). Although the intensity has cooled slightly compared to the city derbies, Victory vs Adelaide matches still carry historical significance and often have a bit of extra spice. They remain significant especially when both teams are in contention on the table. For instance, an Adelaide vs Victory match late in the season could have playoff implications, rekindling the fierce competitive spirit. When betting, if you sense a throwback heated battle, consider the over 2.5 goals or cards markets, as pride can push these teams to play openly or physically.
These top matches are not just great spectacles; they also allow bettors to leverage the wealth of historical data available. Rivalries tend to have patterns – some teams consistently rise to the occasion, while others falter under derby pressure. By looking at the past stats (wins, draws, goal totals, etc.) and considering the current form, Aussie punters can make more informed bets on these high-stakes games. And even if you choose not to bet on a derby, they’re absolutely worth watching for any football fan – the passion and drama on display are what make the A-League special.
Key Takeaways for A-League Betting
- Player Impact: Goal scorers, dynamic midfielders, and competent defenders can greatly affect match outcomes and betting opportunities.
- Injury and suspension: Key players’ injuries and suspensions can upset team dynamics and betting odds, so monitoring them is vital.
- Form and Motivation: Players’ recent form, motivation, and mental resilience affect their performance and betting results.
- Team: Player dynamics and connections effect team cohesion on the pitch and in betting markets.
- Matchups and History: Betting fans can learn a lot from significant players’ past results versus specific opponents.
Where to Bet on A-League?
If you’re ready to place your A-League bets, there are several excellent online platforms (casinos and sportsbooks) available to Australians that offer markets on A-League matches. These casinos are not on BetStop and have built a reputation for reliability, good odds, and user-friendly service. Here are three options that cover everything from sports betting to classic casino gaming:
Jackbit Casino
Jackbit is a newer online casino that operates exclusively with cryptocurrency. Run by Ryker B.V. (the company behind 20Bets and FreshBet), Jackbit offers a robust sportsbook alongside a library of roughly 6,800 games. The website has a sleek, dark-themed interface common to many crypto casinos, emphasizing quick gameplay and navigation. For sports bettors, Jackbit provides competitive odds on A-League matches and a wide range of markets, beyond just win/draw/win, you’ll find handicaps, totals, and player props. Being crypto-only, Jackbit also ensures fast transactions. It’s a solid choice if you’re familiar with digital currencies and want both casino games and sports bets under one roof.
Fresh Casino
Launched in 2020 and also operated by Ryker B.V., FreshBet (sometimes just called Fresh Casino) has quickly become popular among Aussie players for its extensive game selection and dependable operations. It holds a Curacao license and prides itself on prompt payments and generous bonuses. In the sports section, FreshBet covers A-League betting thoroughly. You can expect all the main betting options for each match, plus some special markets during the finals or derbies. What makes Fresh Casino stand out is its hybrid nature, over 3,500 slots, table games, live casino options, virtual sports, and a sportsbook all in one place. They also accept cryptocurrencies in addition to traditional payment methods, which is a plus for modern bettors. FreshBet’s interface is clean and mobile-friendly, meaning you can place A-League bets on the go without hassle.
Spinning Samurai Casino
Established in 2020, Spin Samurai has grown rapidly thanks to its unique theme, rewarding bonuses, and a wide range of games (around 3,000, including pokies, classic casino games, and live dealer experiences). Australian players appreciate the multitude of payment options – over a dozen methods, and notably no processing fees on deposits or withdrawals. While Spin Samurai is primarily known as a casino, it does offer a sportsbook or partners with a sportsbook platform for sports betting. Here, you can find odds on A-League matches and other sports. A few things to note: Spin Samurai requires a three-times deposit turnover (an anti-money laundering measure, meaning you need to wager your deposit amount 3x before withdrawing to avoid fees) and has a few withdrawal limitations. However, its strength lies in frequent promotions, a tiered loyalty program, and even progressive jackpots that can boost your bankroll. These promos can indirectly benefit your sports betting if you use extra funds from bonuses on A-League wagers. Overall, Spin Samurai provides a safe and engaging environment to enjoy both casino gaming and some A-League betting action.
If you’re searching for trusted operators, our list of the top casinos not on BetStop highlights the best platforms for Aussie punters.
Conclusion
Australia’s A-League provides a thrilling arena for sports bettors, and the landscape of casinos not on BetStop ensures that punters have plenty of avenues to get involved. By understanding the game, from the factors that influence match outcomes to the strategic ways to place bets, you can elevate your betting experience from mere guesswork to something more akin to a skilled pursuit. We’ve outlined how analyzing team form, player impacts, and even travel or weather conditions can give you a betting edge. We’ve also discussed concrete strategies like hedging bets for safety, leveraging double chance or draw-no-bet markets for lower-risk wagers, and always hunting for value (whether through savvy odds comparison or juicy bonus offers).
Aussie punters are fortunate to have a variety of offshore betting platforms like Jackbit, MyStake, FreshBet, WinSpirit, RocketPlay, Spin Samurai, and others competing to offer the best odds and promotions on A-League action. These sites not only broaden the betting options (so you’re not limited to just the basics) but also often come with perks like deposit bonuses, free bets, and loyalty rewards that can enhance your potential returns. We’ve compared some of their sports bonuses and features – while not every platform will have A-League-specific promos, all generally provide incentives that you can use on A-League betting. Choosing the right casino or sportsbook can be just as important as picking the winning team, so take the time to pick a platform that offers great odds, is secure and trustworthy, and suits your preferred payment methods (be it AUD, crypto, etc.).
As the A-League season unfolds, keep an eye on those marquee matchups, the derbies and rivalries that bring out the best (and sometimes the unexpected) in teams. We highlighted how games like the Big Blue or the Sydney Derby are not just entertainment spectacles but also opportunities for informed betting if you leverage historical data and current form correctly.
In summary, A-League betting for Australian fans can be a highly rewarding hobby. With the right mix of research, strategy, and prudent money management, you can maximize your excitement and potential profits while enjoying the beautiful game. So gear up for the next matchday, do your homework on the teams, perhaps claim a nice bonus to boost your bankroll, and most importantly, enjoy the ride. Happy betting, and may your A-League predictions be spot on!
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
Can Australians legally gamble on A-League matches in non-Betstop casinos?
Australians can legally gamble on A-League matches at casinos, but not on Betstop. These offshore casinos provide A-League fans a variety of betting alternatives without local rules.
If you’ve self-excluded but still want safe options, here’s how to get around BetStop responsibly while betting on the A-League.
Are the casinos mentioned in the article safe for A-League betting?
The casinos described in the article prioritize player safety and security. They protect financial transactions and assure fair gaming with strong encryption.
What A-League betting choices do these casinos offer?
Betting choices for A-League matches include traditional match outcomes, goal totals, player props, halftime/fulltime results, and more at these casinos.
Do these casinos offer A-League betting bonuses and promotions for Australian players?
At these casinos, Australian gamers can enjoy various bonuses and promotions for betting on A-League matches. These platforms offer welcome bonuses and loyalty prizes to improve betting.
How can I deposit and withdraw A-League betting funds in these casinos?
The casinos accept cryptocurrencies, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets, making it easy for Australian punters to deposit and withdraw funds for A-League betting. Processing timeframes for withdrawals vary by method.
Understanding deposit and withdrawal methods is crucial; our breakdown of no BetStop casino payments covers all options for Australian players.