Fourth Slip

Mitchell hoping for Australian Test selection

2012-02-15T14:48:00.001Z

Mitchell Johnson is optimistic a run of games in the IndianPremier League will stand him in good stead for selection back with the Australia Test and one-day international squads.

The Wanneroo favourite underwent surgery at the end of 2011 on an injury to hisleft foot sustained on the tour of South Africa and this weekend had hisprotective moonboot removed.

The 30-year-old has not given up hope of making this winter's one-day series inEngland but accepts he needs to improve his match sharpness (cricket bets: Australia 11/4 – The Ashes Series 2013 outrightwinner bet365).

The left-arm paceman was picked up by the Mumbai Indians for $300,000 inSaturday's auction and is convinced a spell out in Asia will help his recovery.

"It's a perfect opportunity for me coming back from injury to play theshorter form of the game to build up my bowling and hopefully be selected forAustralia laterin the year," said Johnson, a veteran of 47 Tests.

"I'm very thankful to be picked up considering the team doesn't reallyknow exactly when I'm going to be right."

"I'm still looking on track with everything to try to be there the secondor third week of the tournament so fingers crossed everything is still going toplan by that stage."

Johnson said he enjoyed his time off away from cricket at Christmas but was nowtargeting the England tour in June and July and September's Twenty20 World Cup(for those interested in making a bet on Australian cricket: Australia 9/2- Twenty20 World Cup bet365).

"I don’t want to start looking too far ahead, but I do have those goals ofwanting to play one-day cricket at that tournament," the veteran of 47Tests said.

He added: "In the last couple of weeks I've thought about what I want todo and I've got a plan of where I want to go. I'm looking forward to it. It'sreally exciting to have things in place now…I want to play for Australia for the next five years."

English stars overlooked for IPL

2012-02-07T10:53:00.003Z

A number of England's higher profile players ended a disappointing few weeks, which included a 3-0 series whitewash at the hands of Pakistan, by being overlooked at the Indian Premier League auction. James Anderson, Ian Bell, Graeme Swann and Matt Prior were all members of the beaten England Test squad who will have been disappointed to learn they remained unsold at the lucrative auction.

Anderson had been priced at the $300,000 going into the auction, although, the Lancastrian was the first England player to be overlooked by all nine franchises. The fast bowler was quickly followed by Bell and wicket-keeper Prior who failed to earn contracts. Ravi Bopara, who has previous experience of playing at the IPL, was another Englishman ignored, as was one-day specialist Luke Wright. People following the cricket betting may have been somewhat surprised by the fact none of them were snapped up.

The biggest surprise, perhaps, was the fact that Swann failed to earn a chance to debut at the IPL, joining the growing list of overlooked Englishmen. A reserve price of $400,000 had given the off-spinner plenty of hope that this could be his chance to experience the hugely popular T20 tournament in India, however, a lack of recent form appears to have put off any team of signing him up. Fans of Betfair should remember this.

The close of the auction means that it will be left to Stuart Broad, Kevin Pietersen and Eoin Morgan to carry the bat for England in this year's IPL, which gets under way at the beginning of April. The trio are already contracted to franchises and will be available for selection during the break between England's Test series in Sri Lanka and then at home against the ever-improving West Indies side.

It looks as though England's shocking performances in the 3-0 series defeat to Pakistan may have put off the IPL teams in signing any of the available players. The unsold players will now be able to put their full focus on bouncing back from their recent humiliation in the UAE.

No surprises as England crash 3-0

2012-02-06T19:30:00.000Z

Dubai Day 4; Pakistan 99 & 365; England 141 & 252
Pakistan win by 71 runs and take series 3-0

England made a slightly longer game of it than many predicted, but in the end the result was the obvious one. A defeat to complete a whitewash in what must go down as one of the most disappointing batting displays by a team unit in a series for a long time.

Some commentators have focused on KP, Morgan and Bell, with barely a run between them all tour. But Cook and Strauss never ever batted with any confidence at the top, and Trott was disappointing. Only 3 fifties from the top six in 36 efforts.

England have to look to strengthen the batting for Sri Lanka and there are three remedies - two short term and one will probably wait until after the Ashes. Morgan will probably be sacrificed for another batsman - England should blood a youngster; all the top six should get to the nets and face a bowling machine equipped with doosras and the DRS; and Strauss should retire once he's led us to Ashes retention, to make room for a new opener.

You could make a case for making KP sit out the Sri Lanka tour to work on his technique against spinners as he is the oldest of the batsmen barring the captain - but this would only be justified if a new youngster came in. There should be no going back to Bopara.

Bowling-wise not much needs to change, maybe Monty could give Swann some lessons in modesty.

England up against it to avoid whitewash

2012-02-05T19:17:00.001Z

3rd Test Dubai day 3

Pakistan 99 & 365; England 141 & 36-0

England face an uphill struggle to avoid being the first side in 100 years to lose to a team bowled out for under a hundred in their first innings. There was a creditable fight back this afternoon as Pakistan crumbled to lose seven wickets for 34 runs, but by then the damage had been done by the to century makers.

Strauss and Cook saw off 20 overs with relatively few alarms and the home side have already wasted a review. But it will need a titanic and positive batting performance tomorrow to snatch an improbable victory. The signs today were the pitch will continue to offer comfort for the spinners, and couple that with England's extraordinary ability to miss the straight ball or play it pad first, there is every expectation Pakistan will pick up a well-deserved 3-0 whitewash.

Nadir in Dubai for sorry England

2012-02-04T21:23:00.000Z

3rd Test Day 2 Dubai
Pakistan 99 & 222-2; England 141
After the heroics of the first session yesterday, this match has turned on its head into another England disaster. The batting effort was arguably the worst of the series so far in that England had a golden opportunity to take the Test by the scruff of the neck and hammer home a big first innings lead. Except once again the batsmen came out with not a clue how to play either spin or DRS.

Honourable exceptions to Strauss and to a lesser extent KP. Strauss showed how you can stay in - albeit scoring very slowly - whilst at the other end wickets tumbled. And KP at least took the game to Pakistan for an all too brief period by doing what he does best - attacking. However, he like the other top six, has not learnt that new technique is needed to offset the DRS. Which means using the bat rather than the pad.

This method was shown to be successful by the first decent batting partnership from either side all series led by Younis Khan which has taken the game away from England. During the run fest, the duo showed up the England bowling particularly Swann who was carted all round the park.

Bell and Pietersen let down their team

2012-02-02T13:37:00.004Z

The England batting line up may not have shamed themselves quite as much in the second Test against Pakistan as they did in the first, but there is, nevertheless, no denying that the two men who needed to step up their game more than anyone else in the England set-up both failed to perform when the time came, leaving England once again in a far weaker position than they should have been after their first innings.
England fans who had made the trip to the middle east, as well as those live cricket online at home were left disappointed thanks to a brittle middle order that undid all the bowlers hard work.
After being forced to put up with plenty of criticism last year, it seemed as though Kevin Pietersen had managed to shake off the general perception that he was no longer a necessary cog in the England cricket machine, but it now looks like he has it all to do once more, needing a strong performance in the next test to be able to regard himself as a fine batsman once again, with that tag all but deserting him.
Meanwhile, should Ian Bell continue to display the same kind of performance, he'll be all too aware of how quickly he could be placed under pressure, something he has failed to cope with in recent years despite the fact that England have managed to work their way to the top of the world rankings.There are already a number of cricket bets being taken that predict a radical change in the batting line-up by the time South Africa arrive next summer.

If the individuals involved with England want to stay there, however, the likes of Bell will need to prove themselves capable of improving the level of batting against all types of bowling, rather than displaying a susceptibility to spin bowling.
With the whole team now having the chance to get used to the conditions in Dubai, there really is no excuse not to perform at the very top level.

England hit lowest score and lowest ebb

2012-02-02T13:29:00.003Z

In recent years, English cricket fans have become familiar with feelings of pure joy and unadulterated glory being associated with performances from their cricket team, but the recent crushing and humiliating defeat at the hands of Pakistan in the latest test series between the cricket crazy nations has left both the England team and the team's loyal fans watching live cricket online wondering what on earth could happen next if England continue to bat in the shameful manner they did against Pakistan.

Although Pakistan’s bowlers certainly put in a few testing deliveries, the pitch was not one that made conditions too tricky to bat on and the cricket bets were still in their favour. Furthermore, the batsmen made a handful of grave errors that undoubtedly contributed to the England team, a team ranked number one in the world, snatching a miserable defeat from the jaws of victory.
With the likes of Australia putting in great performances (it's never easy to win 4-0 in a test series against India), England know that their position at the very top of the rankings is going to be placed under serious threat and will surely recognise the need to make drastic improvements now or else risk going from brilliance to a team of underachievers.
When all is said and done, it is worth noting that England have more than enough quality to dominate the world of cricket for quite some time to come, and if the English batsmen start to perform at anywhere near the level they're capable of achieving, the national side should be able to address the issues they've been facing in such a public manner.

England capitulate in desert crumble

2012-01-28T13:48:00.001Z

2nd Test Abu Dhabi Day 4; Pakistan 257 & 214; England 324 & 72

Pakistan win by 72 runs

A shocking performance by England this afternoon as they were bowled out in just over a session thanks to the lack of any plan or adventure. Chasing just 145 to win the disaster was foretold by the negative attitude shown by Cook and Strauss at the top of the order, taking 12 overs to score 15. That built pressure, and wickets tumbled quicker than Trott's trips to the toilet.

Can you imagine Australia coming out to chase 145 with such a negative attitude? With Trott unable to bat at 3 the situation was crying out for some imaginative captaincy which should have seen Broad or Swann sent in to pinch hit at 3. You could not see where a boundary was coming from - all it would have taken is one batsman to smack a 50 and the series would have been levelled.

Serious questions now over England and their inability to play spin in the sub continent. Strauss, Bell, KP and Morgan are bamboozled by Ajmal and walking wickets. For Strauss the batting malaise runs deeper as he hasn't got a score in almost two years. There is a case for dropping anyone of the four for the next test and giving Bopara a go, but in truth there are no able replacements on this tour. Long term the side needs to be strengthened by opening with Cook and Trott, and bringing in the first available player who can face spin competently. But that is unlikely to happen before the two Ashes series next year.

The tumble of wickets to defeat overshadowed a fine comeback performance from Monty. He cast a sorry figure at the end of the game, unable to celebrate a personal performance at odds with his colleagues miserable effort.

There are enough back room staff with England to identify and correct the batting problems - lets hope for a change of mindset in the next test otherwise we might as well reverse the order as the top six are being outperformed in all aspects by the rest in this series so far.

On a knife edge

2012-01-27T13:19:00.001Z

2nd Test Abu Dhabi Day 3

Pakistan 257 & 125-4; England 327

Incredible bowling from luton's finest Monty Panesar saw England briefly scent an early victory as Pakistan collapsed to 59-4 still trailing by 20 runs. But a late afternoon undefeated partnership has put this test once again on a knife edge.

The day started with the tail wagging - thanks chiefly to Stuart Broad who smacked it around to grab an unbeaten fifty at a run a ball. Panesar grabbed three quick wickets to cement his England comeback including a beauty to beat Younis.

Anything over 150 will be tough to chase with the ball turning so England need to collect the final six wickets swiftly to give themselves an incredible chance of squaring the series.

Worcestershire Planning Ajmal Swoop

2012-01-23T14:05:00.001Z

Worcestershire County Cricket Club have reportedly made an offer to sign spin-bowler, Saeed Ajmal. The Pakistani, who was instrumental in his country's rout of England, earlier this week, will play for Worcestershire in the Friends Life Twenty20, if he can be persuaded to swap Asia for the West Midlands.

This week, Ajmal, 34, is arguably one of the most famous players in Pakistan. The Punjab-born cricketer took seven wickets for 55 runs in the first innings of Pakistan's recent Test with England, in Dubai, a "career-best" tally, to quote the BBC. He famously toppled Ian Bell, Andrew Strauss, and Kevin Pietersen with just five balls.

His trademark delivery, the 'doosra', a ball that spins from the leg-side to the off-side, took England by surprise. The cricketer has, however, been criticised for the same bowling action by retired player, Bob Willis, who claimed that Ajmal's methods are illegal. It could be that England are simply sore losers. Those looking at the best cricket online betting bookmakers should remember this.

Worcestershire have no qualms about his methods; "we were very happy and comfortable with the way he bowled," explained David Leatherdale, executive at the cricket side. "Everyone knows the impact he made for us last season. He is a class act." The Worcestershire boss added that his team have "put an offer on the table" for Ajmal.

The player is believed to be keen to return to the County Championship. Ajmal, who was 30-years-old when he made his international debut, has a first-class bowling average of 16.69 in one-day games. Ajmal will play for Worcestershire in June and July, according to a "verbal agreement" between the club and the cricketer.

Ajmal will make his next appearance for Pakistan, on Wednesday, during his country's second Test with England.

Disintegration complete

2012-01-20T08:47:00.002Z

1st Test Dubai Day 3
Pakistan beat England by 10 wickets
England 192 & 160; Pakistan 338

It has been a long time since England batted so poorly in both innings of a test. Led by the captain, now without a test century in 30 months, the top six once again crumbled to hand Pakistan a deserved victory inside three days.

Five days now to regroup before the next Test. No panic changes is the cry. England have started recent series relatively slowly, but they will have to change their batting approach to get back into this.

For the attacking batsmen it is fair enough to attack. No blame to KP for his shot. As posted yesterday, his test form is better than most in the top 6.

Credit to Pakistan. They look a much improved outfits since last time we faced them. And they were out exercising minutes after securing victory, which shows they mean business.

A crucial third day ahead

2012-01-18T19:13:00.001Z

1st Test Dubai day 2; England 192; Pakistan 288-7

A better effort from England today with the bowlers all chipping in. The lads looked athletic and interested in the field as well. So we are still in the test match but a lot depends on whether we can play the spinners any better second time round.

In the previous test here both teams got big scores second innings. Strauss needs a decent knock; it has been ages since he delivered with the bat. Despite being prolific over the last 12 months including two double hundreds, the knives are being sharpened for KP again due to poor form in the warm up games. Morgan needs to prove he is test class.But as some tweeted yesterday, in general the England batsmen don't let the country down twice in the same test. That is why we are number one in the world. So time once again to prove it lads, starting tomorrow.

Not a good start

2012-01-17T16:01:00.000Z

Day 1 1st Test Dubai; England 192; Pakistan 42-0
A terrible first day for England in Dubai in front of what sounded like a handful of people in the crowd. Some basic mistakes from Strauss starting with the selection. Two spinners should have been chosen, but England think they can win in sub-continent-style conditions playing the same tried and trusted that has got them to 1st in the world. Fair enough, but unless the pacers skittle the Pakistanis quickly on day 2, this particular selection stance will look ridiculous.

Ajmal was the world's leading wicket taker in tests in 2011, and he, unlike our Swanny, has not written any premature books slagging off his team mates to earn a few bob. Today thanks to decent bowling and some crass shots, Saeed blew England away to pick up 7 wickets.

There were no alarms for Pakistan as they cruised to forty odd for none by the close - and they showed signs of taking on Swann which spells bad news for any English hopes of winning this game.

The other main mistake today from skipper Strauss was to bat first. With our bowling line-up, our best chance was to get the maximum life out of the pitch, and by all accounts that happens on the first day here.

Anyway, it's good to see England back in test action. Even if their first day of what promises to be 50+ days of test cricket this year was spectacularly unsuccessful.

Aussies heap more misery on India

2012-01-17T14:50:00.001Z

India’s beleaguered Test side are on course for their second successive away series whitewash following their latest comprehensive defeat, as Australia claimed victory in the third Test in Perth. The result sees the Aussies take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the four match series – heaping pressure on a team that could be about to undergo a similar period of change as Australia did.

Those who bet on Australian cricket are already predicting a 4-0 victory that will help heal some of the wound inflicted on them following last year’s Ashes, while leaving India at a crossroads following their similar hammering at the hands of England last summer.

It was the Australian pace attack that put paid to any chance India had of getting back into this series. After tearing apart this experienced Indian batting line-up in the first innings, it was a similar story in the second. Peter Siddle finally managed to claim the vital wicket of Virat Kohli, who had threatened to really get going after batting through the morning session and reaching his Test-best score of 75.

It was Ben Hilfenhaus who stole the headlines though, following a truly a destructive spell – including a stunning three wicket over – as the hosts made easy work of the Indian lower-order; taking the final four wickets without conceding a single run.

The fast-paced conditions at the WACA - which have summed up the trend of this series - have baffled and flummoxed this, at times, sorry looking Indian side.

The next live cricket online will be at the Adelaide Oval, with the Australians smelling blood.

Skipper MS Dhoni, who will miss the final Test of the series after becoming the first Test captain to be suspended for a slow over rate, was clear that it had been the lack the runs that had cost India dear.

“Getting out below 200, there's not much for the bowlers. In this Test we should have scored more runs.”

“We have not adapted well to the conditions quickly enough.”

“The bowlers have shown they can take wickets, we need to put the runs on the board.”

Monty mounting a strong case

2012-01-16T13:40:00.000Z

England's bowling attack gave the selectors plenty to ponder ahead of their opening Test against Pakistan in Dubai, after a number of impressive performances from those looking to earn their place in the final 11 - none more so that Monty Panesar. The left-arm spinner has failed to add to his 39 Test caps since 2009; when it was his last-ditch batting that earned him praise, as England held on for a draw in the opening Test against Australia in Cardiff.

On that occasion, and a number of others at the time, Panesar's bowling had seemed to stagnate. Coupled together with Graeme Swann's stunning form over the past few years, and it's been a tough ask for Monty to break into a winning side – and one which rarely goes with two spinners as part of its bowling attack. Anyone following the cricket betting online will know this.

That strategy could well be about to change during this three-match series, held in the UAE – with conditions seemingly pointing towards a war of spin between the two sides.

The 29-year old gave himself a great chance of earning a place in the 11 that take on Pakistan this week by starring in England's 100-run victory against a PCB XI last week - the spinner finishing the match figures of 8-103 and completely overshadowing fellow tweaker Swann.

It now remains to be seen whether or not the selectors now give Monty a chance to re-establish himself on the Test scene, but the Sussex man is determined to be a real part of an England team that is currently flying high in the Test arena. Fans of betting should bear this in mind.

"I've given myself an opportunity to get used to the conditions, and given myself a good chance to be ready. So if they want to play two spinners."

"I'm ready to play. I'm hungry to play Test cricket - and if or when the opportunity presents itself I've got to be ready."

"I want to be part of this successful England team."

Harris closes in on recall

2012-01-09T17:10:00.000Z

Fit again Ryan Harris looks likely to be given the nod when Australia take on India in the third Test in Perth after James Pattinson was ruled out. Following a hip injury, picked up in November’s series in South Africa, Harris has returned to the squad and appears, according to the flurry of cricket bets in his name, set to be given his chance in Perth, as Australia look to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the four Test series.

Pattinson’s foot injury has ruled him out of the remainder of the series, with Harris in a straight race with Mitchell Starc for a place in the in-form Australian bowling line-up. Australia’s head coach Mickey Arthur admitted Pattinson’s absence would be a blow to the team but the South African was very clear that Harris would be a more than capable replacement, should he be selected.

“We have a proven Test bowler waiting in the wings, ready to go. We've put a lot of work into Ryan over the last two weeks, he was close to getting a game in Sydney, but we felt that he hadn't had enough work.”

“We've put that work into him and we're satisfied that if selected he's ready to go come Perth.”

Those looking to bet on Australian cricket will surely consider the fast, bouncy conditions at the WACA as ideal for Harris and that, ultimately, may be the deciding factor when Arthur comes to naming his final 11. If selected, Harris will be determined to impress and re-establish himself in the Test side – something that has always been beyond him due to his continual injury issues. Many certainly believe Harris is due a spell of fortune.

Australia in transition

2012-01-03T12:54:00.001Z

For the last few years Australia’s Test cricket side have been a team in transition. For most nations, this phase of a country’s development is entirely natural: http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifit is a time in which a successful side can be dismantled and the old guard are retired to be replaced with young blood.

However, the job that started back in 2007 still seems a long way away from being completed. 2011 started badly with Australia’s first home Ashes series defeat since 1987, and went on to bear witness to their first home Test defeat to neighbours New Zealand since 1985. Those who bet on Australian cricket should remember this.

Now with India paying them a visit to compete in a four-Test series starting on December 25th, Dhoni’s men will be keen to add to the growing list of unwanted records under new captain Michael Clarke – and on current form, it looks as though the men in baggy greens will be powerless to stop them. People placing cricket bets need to bear this in mind.

If there is light at the end of the tunnel for Australia, then it comes courtesy of Nathan Lyon – who might be the first spin-bowler to come close to replacing Shane Warne since his retirement – and David Warner who has shown glimpses of bringing his excellent T20 form with the bat into the Test arena.

However, even with Simon Katich – who was this year surprisingly left off the list of centrally contracted Australian players – recalled in place of the beleaguered Phillip Hughes to partner Shane Watson at the top of the order, the Indian line-up are well-fancied to have too much class for the hosts. Victory for Australia, however, could be the launch-pad with which this team need to get back amongst the world’s top sides.

Too much cricket England's main foe

2011-12-31T12:49:00.000Z

A glance at England's schedule for 2012 reveals an incredible amount of cricket - surely the most congested line up of fixtures England have ever faced.

2012
January-February - England in Pakistan (3 Tests, 4 ODIs, 3 T20s)
March - England in Sri Lanka (2 Tests)
May - West Indies in England (3 Tests, 3 ODIs, 1 T20)
June-July - Australia in England (5 ODIs)
July-September - South Africa in England (3 Tests, 5 ODIs, 3 T20s)
September-October - ICC World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka
November-December - England in India (4 Tests)

I make that 15 tests, 17 ODIs, and at least 10 t20s.

No doubt that England have the pace bowling depth, although in the spin department any injury to Swann will mean a return for Panesar or a young un. Batting in the tests will be interesting for Straussy - an average of only 28 in the 8 tests played in 2011 was overshadowed and under reported because of the on field success. Even another poor year would make it unlikely England will pass the armband to Cook ahead of the back to back Ashes next year.

Pace the key for Aussie attack

2011-12-30T18:32:00.002Z

It was the pace bowlers who did for the Indian resistance in the end in the latest installment of live cricket online, with Australia securing a 122-run victory on the fourth day of the first Test in Melbourne. Much was expected from the Indians – and in particular their spin attack – but by the end of the Test, the names on everyone’s lips were James Pattinson and Peter Siddle.

The pair took seven wickets between them for a combined score of 95 runs, and with Ben Hilfenhaus chipping in with figures of 2-39 the Indian resistance was broken well short of their final target of 292 from their last innings following a Mike Hussey-inspired second innings total of 240.

Pattinson took the coveted wickets of VVS Laxman and Mahendra Dhoni before helping to mop up the tail in a dazzling display of pace bowling that will see the returning Ryan Harris unlikely to play more than a cameo role when the second Test gets underway in Sydney on January 3rd. The youngster has definitely earned his place in this bowling attack and will be confident of keeping his place ahead of his rivals.

Harris has claimed 35 wickets in eight Tests at an average of 21.37 but knows that his statistics will carry little weight with the Australian selectors following the bowlers’ phenomenal recent display.

The fact that the track at Melbourne was not obviously problematic for the batsmen will have further buoyed Australian confidence as they bid to start producing positive results after a long and tough transitional period, and captain Michael Clarke will certainly have the continued support of those who bet on Australian cricket as they continue the series.

Haddin beginning to show cracks

2011-12-17T15:26:00.000Z

Brad Haddin’s position as Australia’s first-choice wicketkeeper appears to be coming in for question for the first time since he replaced the retiring Adam Gilchrist in 2007. The 34-year old’s previously consistent glove-work has been way off the high standards which he had previously set himself, with his batting form causing even more concern with cricket bets.

A stuttering first innings of 27 from 70 deliveries was followed up by another failure in the second innings, Haddin this time out for a mere six in the live cricket online. The big-hitting batsman has often looked like a lost puppy when at the crease in recent matches – not knowing whether to stay or go in terms of tactics he needs to adopt at that certain time. Should he play his run-making game or take the role as the main man – the batsman who needs to carry his bat till the end of the innings.

Naturally a stroke-maker, Haddin simply looks out of his depth when called upon to hold up an end. The Kolkata Knight Riders star has began to look nervous at the crease in the Test arena and now it appears his keeping could be going the same way.

That isn’t the view of the man himself, who still believes he has plenty to offer the Australian side despite coming in for some recent criticism – especially after some shocking errors behind the stumps against the Indians at the MCG.

“I have a lot more cricket left in me.”

"I think everyone at this level is trying to improve all the time and I am no different. When you stop trying to be a better cricketer it is time you give it away."

Old pros key to Aussie hopes

2011-12-16T12:53:00.000Z

Australia's new cricket coach Mickey Arthur has called on his senior players to step up for the forthcoming Test series with India.

The four-game series starts on Boxing Day and Australia will be looking on an improvement on their recent series with neighbours New Zealand that ended 1-1.

Both India and Australia have fallen behind England in the world rankings in recent years and know they need some big performances to show they are still powerhouses in world cricket.

Some sections of the media have called for Australia to axe veteran players such as Ricky Ponting, Brad Haddin and Mike Hussey following the New Zealand disappointments and bring in a new generation of Aussie cricketers. People placing cricket bets should bear this in mind.

However, the newly-appointed Arthur reckons the senior pros among the Aussie ranks will have a massive part to play in the Test series with India, and there are no plans for international exits for any of that trio.

The coach said: “In my opinion they still have big roles to play because we do need some experience in our middle order, there's no doubt about it.

“The key for us is to get them up firing for Australia on Boxing Day because they are the key.”

Australia have been rocked by injuries to several of their bowling stars, while other top names with the ball have been struggling with indifferent form. Those looking at the cricket odds should remember this.

That has led forgotten man Doug Bollinger, who has not played a Test game for over a year, to be linked with a call-up for the Test series against India. If he impresses in the Big Bash League he could force his way into the Test set-up.

Moore snubs IPL

2011-12-16T10:29:00.000Z

Lancashire Stephen Moore has decided not to play in the Indian Premier League and has withdrawn from the pre-tournament auction.

Had he gone ahead with his plan to play in the competition, he would have missed seven County Championship games but has now decided to focus on his Lancashire career instead.

Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester he said: "The IPL falls during a big chunk of the season. I'd miss almost half of it.

"From that point of view I wanted to be around at the start of the season."

He also explained that he wants to be part of a side which he hopes will be able to mount a successful defence of its County Championship title. People following the cricket betting online should remember this.

The South Africa-born opener made something of a splash in domestic T20 cricket last season, clocking up an average of 34.80.

This attracted the attention of several IPL sides who were keen to engage his services in what was a potentially a highly lucrative payday.

However, he decided that given the auction through which players select teams does not take place until January and could potentially be delayed meaning he would not be sure of his plans as the new domestic season approached.

For this reason, he has decided to forgo the chance to play in the IPL so he can fully focus on his career at Lancashire.

He also expressed the desire to represent England and suggested that if he can keep up his good form the selectors could come calling.

Harris ready to go again

2011-12-15T15:30:00.000Z

Perennial nearly-man Ryan Harris will make his latest return to the Australian squad for their second Test against India in Sydney, following the fast-bowler’s recovery from another injury and he is a cricket bets favorite in the live cricket online game . The 32-year old has been named in the 12-man Aussie squad, with Mitchell Starc and Daniel Christian dropping out of contention after failing to feature in Melbourne.

Harris is by no means a certainty to make the final-11, with James Pattinson, Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus all impressing in the 122-run victory against the Indians at the MCG. Harris has admitted it would be tough for the selectors to warrant including him at the expense of any of the trio, maintaining his main focus is just getting fully fit and staying in and around the squad.

Unfortunately, Shane Watson has failed in his bid to fully recover from calf problem in time to be considered, meaning Ed Cowen and David Warner are expected to keep their place at the top of the order.

"I'm down the pecking order," Harris said. "It's my fault that I got injured and all I'm trying to do is just get fit and let it take care of itself.”

"I don't expect to be able to go straight back into that team. The boys, with what they did in the last two days against that batting line-up, was outstanding."

The aggressive and effective pace bowling which the young attack produced in Melbourne will have given hope to plenty of previously disheartened Aussie fans. Harris will just have to wait his turn and take his chance should one present itself. As ever, though, Harris main battle will be staying injury-free.

Worrying times for Cricket Australia

2011-12-15T13:26:00.000Z

Australia are planning to face India in a series of Test matches over the Christmas and New Year period but face competing without Shaun Marsh – whose absence will be a big blow to them.

The batsman has been struggling with a back injury and it was hoped he could take his place in the team for a tour match on December 19th, however he has not recovered in time and that seriously puts him as a doubt for the opening Test against India which begins on 26th December in Melbourne.

The 28-year-old opener has scored 284 runs in only three Test appearances to date but also boasts 1,274 one-day runs and is a very capable performer with the bat for Australia. People placing cricket bets should remember this.

With the national team currently struggling with a host of injuries, and also dealing with player commitments to the inaugural KFC T20 Big Bash League, it means they are going to be short of numbers against an India side looking to reclaim their place at the top of the Test rankings.

It is currently a worrying time for Cricket Australia and Pat Howard from the organisation admits it is doubtful if Marsh will be ready in time to face India on Boxing Day. Anyone looking at the cricket odds should bear this in mind.

“Our long term planning for the Vodafone Boxing Day Test had been based around the principle that all fit players would be available for round one KFC T20 Big Bash League games and then their focus will turn towards their individual preparation plans for the first Test against India," he said.

"While we are hopeful, Shaun’s chances of recovering sufficiently in order to be considered for the first Vodafone Test against India are considered unlikely at this stage.”

Shane Watson, Mitchell Johnson and Pat Cummins are all injured for Australia but they should be boosted by the return of bowler Ryan Harris, who has recovered from a hip problem.

The first Test commences on December 26th and Australia physiotherapist Alex Kountouris recently admitted he was hopeful both the bowler can make it onto the pitch.

Australia hopeful for Boxing Day boost

2011-12-14T15:39:00.001Z

Australia are hoping that key duo Shaun Marsh and Ryan Harris can be back to full fitness for their Test series against India that begins on Boxing Day.
The Baggy Greens have been nursing a long injury list in recent months, with the bowling duo of Shane Watson and Mitchell Johnson also out injured and forced to miss their Test matches against New Zealand.

Marsh originally injured his back facing South Africa in November and the batsman is set to return to feature in one of two tour matches in order to prove his fitness to the Australia selectors. Those placing cricket bets should remember this.

Bowler Harris has been battling a hip problem and given the fact Pat Cummins unlikely to play another Test for a long time due to a foot injury, to add to the bowling concerns without Watson and Johnson, would be a welcome return for Australia.

There are two tour games on December 15 and December 19 before the first Test commences on December 26th and Australia physiotherapist Alex Kountouris is hopeful both of the stars can make it onto the pitch. Anyone looking at the cricket betting promotions needs to bear this in mind.

“Marsh had a run and is due to bat later this week as part of his programme to try to get up for Boxing Day and probably play one of the Chairman's XI games," he said.
"Harris started bowling this week and he went okay. It was only his first bowl so he has a long way to go still. Another week or so and we'll be more confident with how he's going."

The inexperienced duo of David Warner and Philip Hughes have been promoted to the top of the order given Australia’s injury problems, and both will be out to impress as they look to keep their positions in the Test team when the first Test with India gets underway.

Unstoppable Clarke!

2011-12-14T12:10:00.001Z

It might be worth having a bet on Australian cricket as Michael Clarke has ripped into India during the second test in Sydney with his highest ever recorded Test score of 251 not out, which puts Australia well in control of the second test and makes them popular cricket bets.

Clarkes sensational 251 was complemented with Ricky Pontings first century in 2 years who added 134 for good measure which saw Australia reach 482-4 at the close of play.

With a huge 291 run lead, the hosts will surely are in a great position going into the third day and Clarke will be eager to pick up where he left off as he and Mike Hussey will look to add to the tally!

India's first innings of 191 runs was quickly overhauled by Ponting and Clarke, with the Australia resuming play at the Sydney Cricket ground on 116-3. Ponting and Clarke were scoring at will as they hit 120 runs in the morning session. Clarke hit his century off only 136 balls which included 14 boundaries in a stunning performance.

In a run that looked like it could go on forever, Ponting was eventually out in unspectacular fashion with him holing out to Sachin Tendulkar at point off Ishant Sharma, after racking up 288 runs with Clarke.

That was as good as it got for India whose attack will have seen much better days!

In a faultless session, Clarke did however survive one scare, as Sharma grassed a sharp return chance when he was on 182, but it was to no avail and Australia will now look to push on day three - with Clarke sure to be targeting a triple-ton and a total of more than 600 as he looks to move 2-0 up in the four-Test series.

Bell Eager To Get Back Into Action!

2011-12-14T11:50:00.000Z

Ian Bell is determined to get back into the thick of the action in the Middle East for England's matches against Pakistan after enjoying a rare break following the busy 2011 schedule!

It has been two months of rest for the England team and cricket bets, which is a long time to be thinking about losing their last one day international tour of India - and so they will be looking forward trying to put that behind them with a win in their first series of the year.

England will warm up with a three-day contest against an ICC Combined Associate and Affiliate XI, who will be captained by Ireland's Will Porterfield, on January 7-9 which will be part of live cricket online.

Bell, hit a double century against the same opponents at the Oval in the last test meeting, and after only playing 1 match of the 5-0 drubbing in India he cant wait to get back into the groove:

"It's nice to have had a break. But a month or two into it, you're itching to get back in the nets and practise," he said.
Preparation

"It was brilliant to get out there. We're lucky to be able to use these facilities in preparation for a Test series - it is exactly what you need.

"We're going to really enjoy the next week of preparation, and getting ready."

Of course England now have the number one test status, which will give their opponents that extra boost and make every tour that little bit more difficult. They face a Pakistan team who are forced to take on the world at a neutral venue, but Bell knows they are still tough opponents.

"Pakistan have been playing some really good cricket, and obviously know these grounds pretty well - having played here for a while now," added Bell.

"It's going to be a tough series, and we've got to prepare really well for the next week and make sure we're ready to go for this next Test match."

Clarke calls for right priorities

2011-12-12T10:16:00.001Z

Australia captain Michael Clarke says he would like his players to prioritise the national team ahead of the lucrative Indian Premier League to make sure their availability for international cricket isn't compromised.

Clarke has never played in the IPL, instead preferring to make sure he is available for his country. Clarke insists he doesn't want his team to follow his lead but says' his players must be focused on their country. Those looking at the cricket betting will no doubt agree.

International cricket is now played almost all year and has led to many players opting to play in the IPL instead of representing their country. The most high-profile of these has been Chris Gayle who is still in dispute with the West Indies Cricket board after a missing a series in the Spring and hasn't represented his country since.

Clarke says the thing he likes about the IPL is that is gives the players the choice where they play but adds that he wishes more players chose their country over money after bowlers Patrick Cummins and Mitchell Johnson had expressed interest in playing in the Indian league. Anyone following the betting should bear this in mind.

"The one thing I love about IPL is that every individual has the opportunity to make their own choice," Clarke was quoted as saying by Herald Sun.

"But I think the individual player needs to work out where his body is and make that decision at the time of going into the IPL."

"There is a lot of international cricket. I just don't want to see players not prioritising international cricket.

"That is my goal, that every player who plays for Australia, that (role) is first and foremost, and Test cricket being the pinnacle of that."

Panaser and Bopara picked for England

2011-12-09T15:17:00.000Z

Monty Panaser and Ravi Bopara have both been selected as part of England’s 16-man squad to face Pakistan in three test matches next month.

Andrew Strauss’ men – who begin the year as the No.1 test team in the world – take on Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates as they begin what is going to be a challenging 12 months.

Those assessing the betting offers for the series will note how Panaser was preferred as the second spinner over Samit Patel, while Bopara got the nod as England’s reserve batsman. Elsewhere, Steven Davies has been selected as Matt Prior’s understudy with the gloves.

England have also been boosted by the return to fitness of Tim Bresnan, Stuart Broad and Eoin Morgan with the rest of the squad as expected.

Referring to the selection of Panaser and Bopara, national selector Geoff Miller said: “Monty had a super season with Sussex and could play a very big part in the series.”

“But we will wait and see what the wickets are like and, if we need two spinners, they are there.”

“Ravi Bopara has another opportunity to show his growth as a Test player, and we believe he will continue to add depth to our batting stocks for what promises to be a highly competitive series.”

Miller – who will already be thinking about cricket world cup betting - then continued by discussing the type of series this could be against a hard to predict Pakistan team.

He said: “Pakistan are used to playing in the UAE and are playing very good cricket at the moment.”

“To be best in the world is all about beating opposition not only at home but away as well. But we are quietly confident that we have players who can perform in all conditions with bat or ball.”

This is England’s first test series since becoming No.1 in the world of course, so they will be refreshed and ready to show everyone why they are the team to beat.

With test matches coming up against Sri Lanka, West Indies and South Africa during 2012, getting off to a good start against Pakistan is vital.

The first match gets underway on the 17th January in Dubai.

No place for Strauss

2011-11-29T14:37:00.000Z

The shortlist for BBC sports personality was unveiled yesterday and Andrew Strauss is a surprise inclusion. No blame attached to the BBC - the shortlist is drawn up by the UK sports writers - but his inclusion is astonishing, because as all cricket lovers know, he hasn't contributed with the bat in tests all year, averaging 28. Yes the team is number one in the world, and yes we won the Ashes, and by all means give England the team of the year award, but anybody who votes for Strauss is a fool.

The bookies at least seem to agree; he is as long as 100-1 with the leading firms.

Notts to Trade UK Gloom for Palm Trees

2011-11-29T12:20:00.000Z

County Cricket side, Nottinghamshire, will spend part of the pre-season on the Caribbean island of Barbados, preparing for the next instalment of the County Championship, in April, next year.

The cricket team will join domestic rivals, Warwickshire and Yorkshire, in the popular holiday destination, from March 15 2012.

Notts will begin their tour at the Franklyn Stevenson Cricket Academy on Friday March 16, with a training session, an appointment they will follow with a two-day match against Warwickshire, on Saturday and Sunday. The fixture will take place at the Windward Cricket Club. Those looking at the domestic cricket betting will be keeping an eye on their preparations.

Tuesday will see Notts take on Warwickshire for the second time, in a Pro40 match, before the Inter County Barbados Golf Classic gets underway, on Wednesday. The event gives fans the opportunity to play golf with their favourite cricketers, such as Samit Patel and England's Graeme Swann.

Notts face Yorkshire in their second Pro40 encounter on March 22, a Thursday. However, the tour's highlight is likely to come two days later, when Notts play against Barbados at the Kensington Oval.

Bridgetown. A victory will allow the county to progress to the semi-finals of the Barbados Cup and Plate, a Twenty20 tournament.

Speaking about their Caribbean adventure, Notts' chief, Mike Newell, said that the presence of Warwickshire and Yorkshire gives the club "access to quality pre-season fixtures in a competitive environment". Newell added that it is "pleasing" to be able to "compete for additional silverware".

Notts will return to the UK, via Gatwick Airport, on Tuesday March 27. The county side has a full itinerary, including instructions for fans hoping to follow the team on their 'winter sun' tour, on their official website.

Swann Wants ODIs Buried

2011-11-28T12:29:00.000Z

A few days ago, the former chairman of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), David Morgan, evinced his desire to see the return of fifty-over cricket at county level, in a move that could force alterations to the popular CB40 competition.

The changes would give county cricketers greater experience with a format that was removed from the domestic game in 2009, much to the detriment of the national side's World Cup campaign.

However, despite the backing of several high-profile figures, Morgan's radical plans have not been universally welcomed. England's Graeme Swann, in particular, has spoken out against the fifty-over format, insisting that one-day international (ODI) fixtures interfere with Test and Twenty20 cricket.

While remarking that his opinion could be an unpopular one, Swann said: "I think one-day cricket will have to give at some point, hopefully for everyone". The spinner cited heavy schedules as the impetus for his criticism of ODI games, adding that English cricketers play too much cricket".

Swann is ostensibly angry at a decision made by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to hold the World Test Championship in 2017, at the earliest, a postponement of four years from its original date of 2013. The contest has been replaced with the Champions Trophy, a fifty-over tournament, at the request of television network, ESPN. Even those following the Sri Lanka cricket odds online will have been surprised by this.

The bowler referred to the ICC's decision to run with the Champions Trophy over the Test Championship as "a bit disturbing".

Despite Swann's assurances that English people appreciate five-day cricket "above and beyond anything else", recent developments appear to be further confirmation that the popularity of Test cricket is on the wane. A good example is Australia's recent series with South Africa, which drew criticism for being a short, two match contest, rather than a true four-day event.

Ponting determined to fight for place

2011-11-23T16:23:00.001Z

Despite many live sports betting pundits suggesting that his test career is over, Ricky Ponting has vowed to continue to fight for his place as Australia move into a new era.

The former captain has struggled with his form recently – he hasn’t scored a test century for two years – but after scoring 62 during an excellent win over South Africa recently, he has dismissed any retirement talks.

Mickey Arthur was named as Australia’s new coach this week with the South African signing a deal until after the 2015 World Cup and Ponting clearly wants to be part of the new regime.

Speaking about his future he said: “I want to be around and hopefully be able to have some sort of impact on the way the team plays.”

“It's a great team to be a part of at the moment. When you contribute to wins, that's what it's all about.”

Ponting has received support from Australia captain Michael Clarke too who believes that both the 36-year-old and under-fire wicket-keeper Brad Haddin should continue to be available for selection.

Clarke said: “I'd like to see them continue playing as well as they did the other day. I think, like anybody, we're judged on performance, they are two very experienced players and bring a lot to our team.”

"But they will continue to be judged on making runs and, for Hadds [Haddin] keeping wicket, so I'll continue to support anyone in my team.”

"I think Punter [Ponting] is hitting the ball really well, he's just short of a big score. I think he proved that to a few people the other night.”

"Hadds is the same. He performed beautifully the other night.”

As for the new coach, Arthur has stated that he, Clarke and the Australia selectors will sit down this week and discuss the squad for the two test matches against New Zealand next month.

Referring to the future of the older players in the team, he said: “I'll defer that to the first selection meeting. It's hard coming in from the outside without knowing what is going on. That's something for John Inverarity to take up.”

As for how he is feeling about being named Australia’s new coach, he said that it was a massive honour and that he hopes to take the team forward in a positive way over the next four years.

Arthur stated: “Australian cricket is in a very exciting phase [but] getting to the top of the Test rankings is something that just doesn't happen, because you need sustainable success over a period of time.”

“We need a real good, strong squad system. I think young players need to be given quality opportunities to develop their games under pressure and hopefully we can create that environment for them to all perform.”

It is certainly set to be an interesting month or two for Australia with the two tests against New Zealand followed by a four match test series against India.

Arthur named as Australia coach

2011-11-23T14:49:00.000Z

Australia have named Mickey Arthur as their new head coach, with the South African the first ever foreigner to take the role.

The 43-year-old – who succeeds Tim Nielsen – is contracted until after the 2015 World Cup, meaning that he will be involved for at least two Ashes campaigns as he looks to make a positive impact on Australian cricket.

After being announced in the role, he said: “I am confident the talent is there to ensure Australia is successful.”

“Australian cricket is in a very exciting phase [but] getting to the top of the Test rankings is something that just doesn't happen, because you need sustainable success over a period of time.”

“We need a real good, strong squad system. I think young players need to be given quality opportunities to develop their games under pressure and hopefully we can create that environment for them to all perform.”

Arthur then said he would decide on the future of the more senior players in the side – such as 36-year-old former captain Ricky Ponting – after having some time to sit down and chat to the other selectors.

He continued: “I'll defer that to the first selection meeting. It's hard coming in from the outside without knowing what is going on. That's something for John Inverarity to take up.”

Arthur will take charge for the first time against New Zealand in December. Australia face them in two test matches. They then face India in a four-match test series, so there will be several early tests of Arthur’s credentials in the role.

Meanwhile, Australia captain Michael Clarke has spoken of the need to protect young fast bowler Pat Cummins to ensure that he has a long and successful international career.

The 18-year-old was excellent in South Africa this month and has been touted as a future leader of the Australian bowling attack, but Clarke doesn’t want to expect too much too soon.

He said: “He is as good an athlete in the field as we've had come into this team for a while. To play every single game, I think would be silly. That's only my opinion.”

"We need to speak to the selectors and we need to make a plan for him, because he's got a bright future.”

"He's got the potential to be an amazing cricketer for Australia, and we have to be smart and make sure we look after him.”

Arthur agreed with Clarke’s assessment, adding: “We need to be a little careful. With six Test matches in eight weeks coming up, it's going to be tough on the bowlers having to win games, day in and day out.”

With several important matches coming up, it seems likely that some of Australia’s players might relax with some texas hold em inbetween test matches. It might help their team bonding as they move into a new era with a new coach!

Flower calls for Test action

2011-11-15T12:35:00.001Z

England coach Andy Flower has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to make sure Test cricket survives as the popularity of Twenty20 grows.

Sri Lankan bowler Lasith Malinga recently decided to focus on the shortest form of the game and Flower is worried this may be the shape of things to come.

Flower said: "The rewards out there for playing less cricket are obvious.

"The ICC has to address that as a serious problem looming in the future."

Although traditionalists still see Test cricket as the purest form of the game, the huge financial rewards on offer for Twenty20's biggest stars mean that some players are increasingly focusing on that form of the game as they look to maximise their income during what is a short career. The best online betting reflects this.

Flower called on the ICC to "act very responsibly" to make sure they do what is best for the game.

He also admitted to being baffled by the fact that although some one-day international series stretch to as many as seven games, Test series are routinely limited to two matches.

This is a clear sign that something needs to be done about the way fixture lists are drawn up, he explained.

However, the battle to save Test cricket was made even more difficult when the ICC revealed that the first Test Championship had been delayed until at least 2017.
The competition, which is due to be held in England, had originally been pencilled in for 2013.

According to the ICC, the event has been postponed because of a lack of "support and consent" from its broadcast partner.

First Test Championship postponed

2011-11-15T12:31:00.000Z

The inaugural Test Championship has been delayed for at least four years because of a lack of "support and consent" from the ICC's broadcast partner.

Scheduled to take place in 2013 in England, the competition was aimed at breathing fresh life into the longest format of the game which has suffered a fall in popularity in recent years.

Now the tournament will not take place until 2017 at the earliest and there seems to be no guarantee that it will happen then. Those following the online sports betting will be disappointed by the news.

"I am disappointed it is not going to take place sooner," said International Cricket Council (ICC) chief executive Haroon Lorgat.

The tournament was conceived to replace the Champions Trophy, a 50-overs competition which was often criticised due to its similarities to the Cricket World Cup.
Lord's was set to host the final of the Test Championship and its owners are now keen to find an event to replace it.

MCC head of cricket John Stephenson said: "The club's priority, given there will be a gap in the calendar in 2013, will be to secure the best possible major matches it can for Lord's to supplement the Australia Test and the New Zealand one-day international being played that year."

However, it seems the future of the Test Championship remains unclear and fans will no doubt be keeping a close eye on developments.

Although the future of Test cricket doesn't hinge on the event below, the news will still come as a blow to its many fans around the world.

Willoughby signs for Essex

2011-11-15T10:18:00.000Z

Charl Willoughby has signed a two-year deal to join Essex after leaving Somerset. The 36-year-old – who has played two tests and three ODI’s for South Africa – will start life in Essex after six years at Taunton.

The left-arm seamer has revealed to those looking at sporting tips that his aim for the season is to help Essex back into Division One of the County Championship.

He said: “I obviously have a lot of experience in the game and Paul Grayson wants a wise old head to help David Masters with the bowling attack.”

“Essex have some promising youngsters coming through the ranks and I can certainly pass on some of my knowledge as a left-armer.”

As for Essex coach Grayson, he has revealed how pleased he is to secure the move to Willoughby, especially when you consider how many other counties were after his signature.

He said: “I'm delighted with the signing of Charl. He is a very experienced bowler and someone we wanted to add to our ranks alongside David Masters and Graham Napier.”

“He is a quality left-arm bowler and we see him also helping Reece Topley and Tymal Mills in their development with his experience and knowledge of the game.”

It appears that Essex see this signing as beneficial on two parts. First up, he can take valuable wickets as the team look to gain promotion in the County Championship.

Secondly, he can act as a mentor for the younger bowlers at the club, taking some of the responsibility away from the vastly experienced David Masters.

As for Willoughby’s record in the County Championship last season, he took 53 wickets at an average of 32.47, so there is no doubt he can still turn on the style in these latter stages of his career.

He also helped Somerset have an extremely successful clash with India during the summer. During their tour of England, MS Dhoni’s men came to Taunton and were dismissed for 224 with Willoughby taking an impressive 6-76.

Those placing betting money on a successful season for Essex will hope that he can reproduce this type of form many times next season.

Fast Bowlers Have it Tough - Sehwag

2011-11-01T14:30:00.000Z

Indian cricketer, Virender Sehwag, believes that the heavy schedule of a modern fast bowler is one of the leading causes of injuries to players in the position. Sehwag, who is an opening batsman for the national side, says that it is important that coaches recognise the risks of fielding fast bowlers in back-to-back competitions.

His comments refer to India's favourite fast bowler, Zaheer Khan. Khan, 33, is currently nursing an ankle problem. "Fast bowlers are prone to injuries, and when they get injured their pace goes", Sehwag told a Hindi TV channel. The cricketer added that bowlers could easily lose their place in a side, during convalescence, as comebacks are "very difficult". Those following the cricket betting will know this.

According to the Physio Room website, fast bowlers, especially younger players, are the most likely to hurt themselves, of all cricketers. An alleged 14% of all fast bowlers are absent due to injury, at any given time, with bowling in general accounting for around 41% of all cricket-related injuries.

"The primary mechanism of injury in these cricketers was found to be the delivery and follow through of the fast bowler", the website said, quoting research from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, South Africa. In comparison, being hit with a cricket ball, every schoolboy's worst nightmare, accounts for just 7% of cricket injuries. Pundits like Michael Vaughan will be aware of this.

Sehwag continued to say that other players can fall victim to packed schedules. He cited the example of India's recent tour of England. "I hurried my comeback in England. It was a difficult time for the whole team." Sehwag added that many injuries were sustained on the tour by his compatriots.

India are notable for having several different line-ups, which allows players to request leave from the squad, if they feel particularly delicate on the field.

Kent Chasing Veteran Batsman

2011-10-31T11:32:00.001Z

Recent reports indicate that beleaguered cricket side, Kent, are lining up a move for unemployed batsman, Mike Powell, who was released by Welsh team, Glamorgan, at the culmination of this year's campaign. The Canterbury-based club have offered the 34-year-old a two year contract, according to BBC Sport.

Kent did not have a good season in 2011. Joe Denly, a batsman, left the club for greener pastures (Middlesex), as did Martin van Jaarsveld, who deserted the St. Lawrence Ground for Grace Road, the home of Leicestershire. Making matters worse, head coach, Paul Farbrace, recently quit the team, after overseeing Kent's descent into the doldrums of Division Two. People looking at the betting online need to remember this.

Signing Mike Powell would be a step towards rebuilding the battered club, which has also faced mutiny in the boardroom, in recent months.

Powell was given the boot by Glamorgan in his fifteenth year at the team. He challenged himself to "prove doubters wrong", earlier this year, in order to win himself a new contract at the side. However, as evidenced by his recent release, nagging doubts remained for the Glamorgan brass, and he exited as his team's fifth-highest scorer, with 675 runs in 23 innings. Pundits like Michael Vaughan will be wondering if he has what it takes.

The batsman was optimistic, on the day of his release, noting that a recent health scare had steeled him for trying times.

"Once you've been on life-support for three or four days, losing your job pales into insignificance really", Powell said. The cricketer suffered a blood clot in his shoulder, back in 2007. He lost a rib to the condition. He buried the bone on the green at Glamorgan's Swalec Stadium.

Powell is hopefully of playing cricket for at least another two years, noting that he remains "fit and fresh".

Another tour over

2011-10-30T15:52:00.000Z

Another 5 meaningless one day games - another 5-0 whitewash in India - but a spark of genius yesterday thanks to KP's switch hit six. The team come back for a rest now before a trip to the United Arab Emirates in the New Year.

A quality shot in a tour otherwise marked by England disappointment. A long way to go in the 50 over game, but when it comes to test and T20, which let's face it, are the two forms of the game anyone cares about, England still lead the world!

Swann happy to be team granddad

2011-09-22T15:36:00.000+01:00

England spinner Graeme Swann says he is happy to play the 'granddad' role in his first match as England's twenty20 captain when he leads the side out at The Oval on Friday.

Swann is three years older than the second oldest member of his side at 32 but is hoping his experience can rub off on his younger teammates ahead of the two matches against their Caribbean opponents.

The off-spinner took over the captaincy role due to injuries to both regular skipper Stuart Broad and his deputy Eoin Morgan who are both unlikely to represent their country again this year. Fans of mobile betting will be wondering how Swann will get on.

However, despite the extra responsibility, Swann says he won't completely forgo his reputation as the team's joker and will be doing all he can to ensure a relaxed atmosphere within the team.

He will be making sure the team are fully focussed though and sees the two-match series as a stepping stone to next year's Twenty20 World Cup defence.

He said: "I feel like a granddad to some of these boys. I've been around the block a few more times than these lads, but it's nice to have that bit of experience under your belt."

Swann says he fully expects the recent success of the team to continue in all forms of the game with the likes of Jonny Bairstow coming through and establishing themselves in the side. People looking at online betting sites will be excited by the prospects coming through.

The Yorkshireman hit 41 from 21 in his one-day debut last Friday to carry the team to victory and Swann says this is a superb sign for the future.

"These young guys are coming into a pressure situation, but we believe they're good enough to cope with that," he said.

Murali ponders a new franchise

2011-09-20T12:06:00.001+01:00

Sri Lankan cricket legend Muttiah Muralitharan says he is hopeful that he will be signed by another franchise after his current side the Kochi Tuskers had their IPL contract terminated by the BCCI.

The Kerala-based franchise have continually breached the rules and had their contract torn up on Monday, which could lead to the team's directors taking legal action.

The BCCI's new president N Srinivisan has even said there would be no way he and the board would consider reversing their decision.

This has left their players without a team for the IPL but Murialitharan remains optimistic he can find a side before the tournament starts in the new year. Those following the mobile sports betting will be expecting him to be snapped up.

"I am hopeful that if they (Kochi) are not playing, some other franchise will take me as I am fit and playing this format continuously. I want to play two more years in IPL," Muralitharan told PTI Bhasha from Colombo.

"If the BCCI has decided something, then we can't do anything. BCCI has taken this decision but I hope that they will arrange something for the 20 contracted players of the franchise. It's a three-party agreement and we have our three-year contract with BCCI," he added.

The off-spinner, is current holds the world record for tests wickets taken, after claiming over 800 scalps for the national side. Anyone following the betting will know that figure is unlikely to be beaten.

Despite his consistent form for his country, he has had somewhat of an unhappy time with the Kerala side and feels it may benefit him if the franchise isn't given a reprieve.

He explained the he much preferred his time with the Super Kings, and lamented the fact that he had played so few games last season.

Tendulkar adds to India injury woes

2011-09-06T14:30:00.001+01:00

By William Taylor - From CricketFanCast

Sachin Tendulkar has been ruled out for the rest of the one-day series with England, adding to India’s injury woes.

It is just the latest in a line of fitness problems that have blighted their tour this summer, with Tendulkar becoming just the latest on a growing list of players ruled out – the figure now stands at eight.

It will also mean that the Little Master will have to wait a bit longer for his century of centuries, having failed to score a hundred against England all summer.

He had been hoping that it would come at some point during this five game limited overs series, but that can no longer happen.

The reason for Tendulkar being sidelined for the rest of the tour is down to an inflamed toe that has been causing him trouble.

Furthermore, this tour was expected to be his last of England, as at 38, his days as a professional cricketer are winding down.

That is not to say he will not appear in an India shirt in England again, however, with the inaugural World Test Championship set for 2013 in the country.

Tendulkar’s absence has seen a recall for Subramaniam Badrinath – a player who flopped majorly during India’s tour of the West Indies.

When India face England in the second ODI at the Rose Bowl, they will be without Rohit Sharma, who broke his finger in the last game.

He is not expected to be out long, though, but it only will add to the immediate injury crisis that is causing India serious problems.

England, meanwhile, should have a fully fit squad to chose from, with Graeme Swann having recovered from a stomach virus that kept him out of the last game.

He is expected to come into the team for fellow Nottinghamshire team mate, Samit Patel, despite that meaning England would have a very long tail with Tim Bresnan at seven.

Check out CricketFanCast today for the latest cricket news. You should follow us on Twitter too!

England v India ODI Series Preview

2011-08-30T12:28:00.001+01:00

England will be aware that an impressive Test series win can be followed by an anti-climax. Their stunning Ashes victory in the winter was followed by a 6-1 One Day International hammering by their oldest rivals and a chaotic rollercoaster of a World Cup campaign that ended in ignominious defeat. Those looking at Free Sports Betting should bear this in mind.

The new world number ones in Test terms face a stiff examination of their credentials by the world champions, albeit in another format. India are a different proposition in coloured clothing and only the most optimistic of English fans expect their teams to record a whitewash in the five-match ODI series.

MS Dhoni nonetheless faces a tough task in lifting a dispirited squad that has been damaged by the loss Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Zaheer Khan, Harbhajan Singh and Ishant Sharma, the first three being key parts of the team’s World Cup success.

The hugely talented Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma bring technical expertise and zest to the batting line-up, but the tourists will again be worked over by the home attack, especially if, as expected, seam-friendly conditions prevail in some late summer day-night matches.

England have beaten Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Australia and Bangladesh in their last four home ODI series and have proved they are hard to beat in home conditions. However, they struggled against all those opponents in matches when pitches were flat and the ball did not swing. This could be ominous news for those involved in on-line betting.

The hosts have so many in-form batsmen, even without the rested Kevin Pietersen, that the threadbare touring bowling attack will struggle to regularly break partnerships. A strong start at Chester-le-Street should set England off on a series victory by a 3-2 or 4-1 scoreline.

England look to continue dominance

2011-08-25T11:33:00.002+01:00

After securing their status as the world’s top Test playing nation, England have set their sights on extending their dominance to the limited overs game.

Despite a ICC World Twenty20 victory in 2010, those placing free bets note how England have struggled for consistency in the shortened versions of the game.

A particularly poor One Day International record has come under significant criticism and team coach Andrew Flower has admitted that he is seeking an improvement in the output of the 50-over team in a bid for success at the 2015 ODI World Cup.

And Flower was adamant that he would not rest on his laurels after his side’s Test series dominance over India secured them the world number one ranking from the ICC.

The former Zimbabwe player said: “"There's no way our goal will be just trying to maintain that status. We've got to have something more exciting than that.

"England has never won a 50-over World Cup so 2015 is something we've already started planning towards."

England are currently ranked fifth in the ODI World Rankings, but endured a woeful series in the winter in Australia and were subjected to a ten-wicket hammering from Sri Lanka in the quarter-finals of this year’s World Cup, following a modest group stage performance. You wouldn't rush to place a free bet on England's ODI side at the moment, that's for sure.

The structure of England’s limited overs hierarchy has been criticised, but with Alastair Cook instilled as ODI skipper and Stuart Broad taking over the Twenty20 captaincy, the ECB are hopeful that this consistency will provide grounds for success.

Bowler James Anderson, who heavily involved in England’s limited overs set-up told the BBC: "Every nation wants to be number one in all forms of the game but it very rarely happens that way.

"We have conquered one step and we are the best Test nation in the world at the moment. Now we can push everything else forward hopefully."
England will play five ODIs and one T20 international against India in September

4-0 sealed in comprehensive finale

2011-08-22T21:26:00.000+01:00

4th Test Day 5 The Oval; England 591; India 300 & 288
England won by an innings and 8 runs
Another brilliant day for England fans who had risked an unscheduled day off, allowed in for the bargain price of £15. Sadly Fourth Slip could not be one of them. India looked like making a fist of it at lunch - their first session without losing a wicket all series. But the smart punters who had backed a calypso collapso in the afternoon session were smartly rewarded as India lost seven wickets for bugger all.

So England now go and leave their number one test status and go into a long spell of hit and giggle cricket - or more specifically - 50 over cricket which consists of 5 interesting overs at the start and finish sandwiched by 40 overs of usually nothing. But India are much better at the one day format so at least those who have paid £90 a ticket for the forthcoming series should see a more competitive contest.

Strauss won't pick up a bat again in anger for months (playing for Middlesex doesn't count) and no doubt he will cite tiredness to take the family off for a long holiday. But the question the selectors have got to answer eventually is do they continue with the man who has taken England to No1, but who clearly is losing his touch with the bat and as a fielder - or do they be ruthless like the Australians of old and say thanks Straussy, it is time for the Chef? Of course there is always the possibility Strauss might recognise his time is up soon and fall on his own sword like Vaughan, Hussein and Atherton did before him. Some tough long tours coming up - has Strauss taken this England team as far as he can?

As we sit on top of the world, fair play to Andrew - he has done a magnificent job as skipper.

Sehwag and Sharma to miss ODI series

2011-08-22T15:37:00.002+01:00

India's poor run of luck with injuries has continued this week with the news that Virender Sehwag and Ishant Sharma will both miss next month's ODI series against England.

Sehwag - who only returned to the test arena for the third test - has been diagnosed with labyrinthitis of the left ear while Sharma has an ankle ligament injury.

The inexperienced Varun Aaron and batsman Ajinkya Rahane have been added to the squad as replacements as India look to finish what has been a disappointing tour on a positive note.

The Indians have already lost the test series 4-0 and they will look to the limited overs game as a chance to prove some of their doubters wrong. However, with morale low and injuries continuing to disrupt them, many are expected an England win.

India are the World Champions of 50 over cricket, but there were also No.1 test team in the world before this tour began.

There are lots of people that will be placing their bet365 free bets on England to continue their dominance over India.

Mood in the England camp is so fantastic right now and it will take a lot to beat them on home soil. The likes of Alastair Cook, Ian Bell, Kevin Pietersen, Tim Bresnan and Graeme Swann will remain in the side and their will be some fresh faces too.

Many will be tempted to put one of their Bookmakers Free Bets on another series win for England and rightly so.

Authorities with a bit to learn still

2011-08-22T09:25:00.001+01:00

4th Test The Oval; England 591-6, India 300 & 129-3
Fourth Slip had enjoyable day at the Oval on Saturday near the Royal Family although the authorities could have done more to get the game on when the rain stopped shortly before 3pm. The sun was out from about 3.10, and play could have easily restarted before tea. Instead the pompous announcer who has the gig for each test announced an early tea would be taken at 4.10, the umpires then inspected again at 4.30, and finally at 4.50, after 90 minutes constant sunshine, the cricket restarted.

Too often the announcer and his cohorts are too slow with the news, and seem to specialise in talking down to the crowd as though they have gatecrashed a private party. The crowd should be first with the news, and everything possible down to ensure they get full value for money.

Incidentally it was the same ECB announcer who failed to inform the crowd what was going on during the Pakistan fiasco at the Oval a few years ago when the tourists did not reappear after tea. And the same one who failed to tell the crowd that Dhoni had taken back his appeal giving Bell a reprieve at Trent Bridge, resulting in some unnecessary booing from the crowd.

The weekend saw some proper test cricket with India making a fight of it, thanks to Dravid, and England will have to work hard in front of a sell-out 5th day to complete the 4-0 whitewash.

More magnificence from Bell and KP

2011-08-19T22:31:00.001+01:00

4th Test Oval, Day 2; England 457-3

Those lucky enough to be at the Oval today witnessed a masterclass in batting from Ian Bell and Kevin Pietersen. The former silky as Gower, the latter as destructive as Tyson at his best. Shame the fun ended 25 minutes before the close when KP departed after an explosive 175.

England are on the crest of the wave at the moment, and it will be no surprise if amongst the showers toomorrow, the hosts cruise another 150 runs then smack the Indians in and roll them over cheaply. This England team is crushing all before them and it is terrific to witness.

England out to dominate for years

2011-08-16T12:02:00.001+01:00

England have been forced to settle for second-best over the years but now they have a team which is regarded as world beaters and their dominance could continue for a while yet.

After their Ashes win over Australia, England have then gone on to dominate India to rise to number one in the International Cricket Council's Test rankings for the first time in their history.

It is a momentous time for England under Andrew Flower and Andy Strauss and it is the sheer strength of the entire squad that has helped them reach that pivotal top spot. Anyone placing cricket bets should bear this in mind.

They have stuck with a consistent unit and England benefit from the strength in depth they have, with the likes of Tim Bresnan coming in against India and showing how strong a Test player they have.

England star Kevin Pietersen has experienced some huge lows during his international career but now predicts a strong period of dominance for his side as he has few doubts about the potential in this England Test side. The cricket odds reflect his confidence.

The South African-born batsman reckons there is a "real good structure" in place and now England have "all departments covered" with experienced guys playing scintillating cricket.

"The team department is absolutely amazing, and all we need to do is continue that and not let it get affected by anything that happens or any success that is achieved," KP said.

"I think we've proved that by winning in Australia (last winter) and then coming back to England and beating India in England."

England coach Flower has stated his intent to ensure the country dominate world cricket for years to come, with Strauss' side facing winter series against Pakistan and also Sri Lanka, before match with South Africa next summer.

Voges Hopes for Notts Return

2011-08-15T11:11:00.000+01:00

Adam Voges, a batsman from Australia, would like to play for Nottinghamshire again in the future, according to the BBC. Voges will return to his homeland this month, after four seasons at the northern club, beginning in 2008.

"[Notts'] feels like a home away from home", Voges explained. "I've always been made to feel welcome." The Aussie says that he would be happy to play for Notts again, if Mick Newell, the club's chief of cricket, will permit the move. "Hopefully, […] I will come back at some stage."

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here [at Notts], and I always love playing here", Voges said. The batsman was instrumental in the team's victory in the County Championship, last season.

Voges played his last match for Notts in the side's Twenty20 match against Somerset, on August 7 2011. Those following the Betfair cricket odds will know what a good match that was.

The 31-year-old is remembered by cricket fans in the southern hemisphere for hitting the fastest domestic century in Australia's history. Voges scored 100 runs from just 62 balls in the mid-2000s.

During the same match, he hit an ING Group advertising board with a six, a feat that netted the batsman $50,000. The board had been designated as a target for batsmen, prior to the start of the game.

Western Warriors, a Perth, Australia-based team, will be Voges' club during the upcoming cricket season. He will also play for the Melbourne Stars, a newly founded Twenty20 outfit. Michael Vaughan Betfair ambassador will no doubt be keeping an eye on the tournament.

"I'm on a flight home next week", Voges said, yesterday.

Notts will play their next game against Somerset in the CB40, on Monday August 15 2011.

On top of the world

2011-08-14T09:35:00.000+01:00

3rd Test Edgbaston Day 4; India 224 & 244; England 710-7 dec
England won by an innings & 242 runs

England delivered the knockout blows yesterday and deservedly rose to number one in the world, less than 30 months after being at a record low having been skittled for 51 in the West Indies.

The most credit should go to coach Andy Flower who with his backroom team have improved the bowlers, strengthened the batting, and disciplined the fielding unit. There are plans for each opposition batsman, and you can see it working. All the progress has been achieved against an ever increasing test and one day programme. The good news is that this England team can only get better.

Skipper Strauss has done a great job but perhaps been overpraised for his part in the success - having demonstrably underachieved with the bat in the last 12 months. The time will come possibly after Ashes 2013 to hand over to Alastair Cook; it may even come before that if Strauss struggles in this winter.

The next 3 tours are tough - and it is not helped by a meaningless trip to India in October to play 5 ODIs and 1 T20.

Fletcher Comes to Aid of Batsmen

2011-08-12T09:56:00.001+01:00

Duncan Fletcher, the Rhodesian-born coach of the Indian cricket team, has made an effort to exonerate his batsmen of blame, in the wake of India's lacklustre performance at the crease in Edgbaston. "Our guys are finding it difficult at the moment to handle the swing and seam [bowling]", explained Fletcher, who coached England to Ashes victory in 2005.

"I've not seen three pitches that have swung […] around as much as these have in three Tests."

England are currently at 250 for 1, after captain, Andrew Strauss', wicket was taken by Amit Mishra. Strauss fell just 13 runs short of a century. He was replaced by Ian Bell. Alistair Cook, Strauss' partner for much of this morning, currently stands at 98 runs from 210 balls (as of 15:20). India, on the other hand, slumped to 224 all-out after62.2 overs. Only a late salvo by M.S. Dhoni saved the Indians from complete humiliation. The cricket betting odds still suggest they will struggle.

Duncan Fletcher was clearly frustrated by the opening day's cricket, "How can you practise playing swing bowling when there is no swing [in India?]"

Comments on the BBC News website indicate that Fletcher has also blamed cloud cover and even the colour of the pitch for his team's low score. However, England player, Tim Bresnan, attributed India's early bath in the first innings to the quality of the home side's bowling.

The 26-year-old has defended the Edgbaston pitch, referring to the playing surface as "all right". Those following the Michael Vaughan betting tips may want to bear this in mind.

India's lack of success between the stumps may have more to do with players' attitude. Retired cricketer, Michael Vaughan, noted fielders standing with their hands in their pockets, and a general lack of interest in the game among the visiting team. The Yorkshireman said that the Indians should "go home", if they do not want to play cricket.

Dominant England knock out India again

2011-08-11T09:17:00.000+01:00

3rd Test Edgbaston Day 1; India 224 all out; England 84-0

Don't worry about 5 bowlers - England only needed 3 yesterday to once again rip through India and put themselves on the verge of an historic 3-0 series lead. Bresnan was exceptional, his ball to dismiss Dravid the jaffer of the summer; Broady continued to pick up wickets in a hurry, and Jimmy cleaned up the rest.

When it came to bat Strauss survived a few difficult moments to smash his highest score of the summer, and the chef remains in place for England to crack on whilst dodging showers on day two.

Time for fifth bowler

2011-08-06T17:56:00.000+01:00

The third test squad was announced this morning and the selectors appear to have moved backwards with a recall for Ravi Bopara. The smart thing would have been to bring in one for the future, perhaps James Taylor. But regardless, Bopara should not play at Edgbaston, and England should go for five bowlers.

This means promoting Prior to 6, with Broad and Bresnan now showing the form with the bat to justify promotions to 7 and 8. With Swann still to come, it gives England a strong looking tail, and given their respective form, does not significantly weaken the England batting. Importantly the reshuffle gives Strauss another bowling option - something he will need this winter, with two spinners essential.

Tremlett is struggling to be fit so England should name this starting XI:
- Strauss, Cook, Bell, Pietersen, Morgan, Prior, Broad, Bresnan, Swann, Finn, Anderson

England thrash India to confirm move to number one

2011-08-01T20:21:00.000+01:00

2nd Test Trent Bridge Day 5; England 221 & 544; India 288 & 158
England won by 319 runs
What a thrashing. The Indians got blown away today. It was a no contest. If boxing, the towel would have been thrown in. So if it rains for the final 10 days of Test cricket in England this summer the boys will be number one in the world at Test level, an incredible achievement.

Bresnan was exceptional today grabbing five wickets. The most improved cricketer in England, and a tribute to the coaches as well as the lad himself. Broad rightly walked off with the man of the match award - a match contribution better than anything Flintoff managed.

Three players haven't really turned up for England so far this series - Strauss, Cook, and to a lesser extent, Swann - but it is a measure of the gulf between the sides that it hasn't mattered at all. Zaheer is back for Edgbaston but unless India can rid themselves of their golden duck fondness, one man is not going to turn around their fortunes.

Another memorable test match, and congratulations to the whole England team.

Decency from Dhoni as England run riot

2011-07-31T21:38:00.001+01:00

2nd Test Day 3 Trent Bridge; England 221 & 448-6, India 288

Another quality day's Test cricket which almost boiled over at tea when Bell was given run out in controversial circumstances. Stupidly he assumed the ball had gone for 4; it hadn't, India whipped the bails off, the 3rd umpire gave it out, and it took a delegation from Flower & Strauss to ask Dhoni to do the decent thing. To his great credit, and against apparently what past England captains would have done, Dhoni withdrew the appeal and Bell was given another chance.

England had one of their most explosive batting days for years, beating the 407 they scored against Australia in a single day in 2005. In the context of the match and series it was crucial, with Bell laying the foundations, well supported by Pietersen, Morgan, Prior (on fire this summer), and Bresnan. Ironically after being the lynchpin against Australia it is now Cook who looks out of touch, along with his captain who hasn't bought a run all summer.

Two full days to go and it looks like England will go well past a lead of 400 before throwing the tourists back in.

Cricket looks to tackle corruption

2011-07-26T10:10:00.000+01:00

Corruption in cricket has come into questioning again as it has been revealed that over the last two years the amount of players being approached illegally by bookmakers has risen ten-fold since 2009. However the International Cricket Council (ICC) chief Haroon Lorgat has hit back at former Australian captain Steve Waugh's claims that 56 cricketers reported illegal approaches by bookmakers to the governing body last year.

In 2009 only five players came forward to the governing body about being illegally approached by bookmakers, and now Steve Waugh claims that in 2010 the number reached 56, which is clearly a substantial rise. Cricket betting is illegal in India, and this leads to problems.

The ICC are trying to do everything to show cricket in a good light, with these new statistics they are denying that corruption has increased just that players have realised the responsibility they have to the game. Experts like Michael Vaughan know this is an issue that needs to be tackled.

Lograt told the Sydney Morning Herald that he didn’t believe authenticity of Waugh’s figures: "I am not sure where Steve Waugh gets that figure from because we do not publish any such information.

"What I can say is that we have substantially more players coming forward and reporting approaches made to them and I think that is a result of the education process, the awareness that we have created amongst all of the international players and that is a good thing."

Corruption in cricket has forever been monitored closely, even more so since three Pakistani players were found guilty of deliberately bowling no balls in certain over’s which happened during a test match with England last August. This has subsequently led to three high profile players, Mohammad Amir, Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif all being given lengthy bans from the sport.

England on verge of becoming the best

2011-07-25T21:06:00.000+01:00

1st Test Lords Day 5; England 474-8d & 269-6d beat India 286 & 261 by 196 runs

You probably couldn't get a better day of test cricket. A 27,000 crowd for once full of genuine cricket fans who hadn't been ripped off at £90 tickets. An England team full of belief who buried India with high quality bowling throughout. An incredible effort from all the lads, and England deservedly go 1-0 up in the 4 test series.

In fact England took at least 12 wickets today as there were two plumb decisions the umpire turned down, and thanks to India's ridiculous decision to refuse the DRS system, justice was not available to overturn them.

Man of the match went to Kevin Pietersen but it could equally have gone to Matthew Prior, whose second innings century was vital. Or Stuart Broad, whose 50 and crucial wickets were instrumental.

Churlish to say it perhaps, but the only question remaining to be answered is can skipper Andrew Strauss rediscover any sort of form with the bat during the rest of this series. If not, and if England really seek to consolidate at the top of the game, is it time to pass the baton on and send the Chef as skipper this winter? The selectors and coach Flower showed their ruthless side with the exiling of Paul Collingwood, so although a long shot, it could happen.

Good finish expected on final day

2011-07-24T20:01:00.000+01:00

1st Test Lords Day 4; England 474-8d and 269-6d; India 286 and 80-1
At lunch today things didn't look too clever; a collapse had seen England stumble to 60 odd for 5, but then Matt Prior took over and bashed a majestic 103 not out, kept company by Stuart Broad who has now turned round his form in this test with both bat and ball.

But India aren't ranked No 1 for nothing, and tomorrow could be a struggle particularly if the pitch doesn't misbehave and Jimmy can't chip in with wickets. Laxman, Dravid and Tendulkar all have the capability and mentality to bat for days if needed. The tourists will need 4 an over if they go for the victory, or survive 98 overs if they settle for a draw.

Expect Swanny to contribute tomorrow even though Bhaji, with 400 test wickets, has match figures of 1 for 200 odd. Lords have got the prices right, £20 for adults, and U16s free. Should be a good end to what has been a great test match.

KP back alongside best in world

2011-07-23T09:51:00.002+01:00

1st Test Lords Day 2; England 474-8 dec, India 17-0

A magnificent innings from Kevin Pietersen held England together and silenced, hopefully permanently, the army of critics who have been on his back for many months. Now with two double hundreds against Australia and India in less than a year, the pundits can focus fully on the complete lack of runs in the last 12 months from Andrew Strauss instead.

It was an innings full of team responsibility from KP; a measured first 80 and then an increasingly brutal assault, culminating in a final 52 runs in just 26 balls, reducing the Indian fielders to cowering on the boundary rope. No other player in the England team can have such a devastating effect on the opposition; those at Lords yesterday were lucky to witness it.

Good support too from Bell, Prior and Swann; and now the focus the turns to the bowlers, who must live up to their pre-Test reputation as one of the best attacks in world cricket. Jimmy needs to swing it, Tremlett needs to keep pitching it up, and Broady wants to rediscover the burst that put paid to the Aussies last summer at the Oval. If they all fail, expect the Swann to tie them in knots from the other end.

Haddin confident of success

2011-07-21T13:09:00.000+01:00

Australia's Brad Haddin believes his side's change in training methods will enable them to rebuild their reputation and once again reassert themselves at the top of the world rankings.

The Australians face a tough summer, starting with a tour to Sri Lanka and is followed by matches with both South Africa and India.

The Sri Lanka series will mark a changing of the guard as it will be new skipper Michael Clarke's first in charge of the team after a tumultuous year under the Ricky Ponting which has seen them lose the Ashes on home soil and fail to defend the World Cup. Those following the cricket betting odds will have been surprised by how poor they were.

Changes have also been made off the field with both Steve Rixon and Craig McDermott joining the coaching staff and Haddin believes the new additions have boosted morale within the camp and their new training methods will help the side improve no end.

"They were very intense and that's what I enjoyed about them the most," Haddin said. "They had to be because we've got to make sure we're not just doing the same things we've been doing over the last 12 months because we haven't been getting the results we wanted."

The Australian's head to Sri Lanka with a somewhat inexperienced side with the likes of veteran Simon Katich having been excluded from the touring party. Anyone following the Betfair Michael Vaughan tips will know just how controversial this is.

However, the wicketkeeper has rejected talks that the side would be unprepared due to the amount of cricket they've played in recent years on the sub-continent.

"It's not as much of a shock now with the wickets and the facilities that you get over there," he explained.

Harper points the finger at India

2011-07-19T10:18:00.000+01:00

Daryl Harper has accused the Indian team of using bullying tactics to get decisions in their favour. The recently retired umpire had a number of controversial run-ins with the Indians during last month's first Test in the West Indies, prompting the Australian to pull out of the third Test match, which would have been his farewell game.

The umpire claimed a "lack of support" from the ICC was the reason for his decision to withdraw from the Test, following numerous Indian players reportedly publicly criticising Harper for his performance in the first Test. Anyone following the cricket betting odds will have been alarmed by the developments.

The experienced umpire claimed the Indian players try and force decisions their way. The Australian also felt he had to make a stand following the ICC's failure to act on various interviews with Indian players condemning his performance, most notably captain MS Dhoni. The Indian skipper slammed Harper's display, claiming the match was drawn out due to the poor decision making by the veteran umpire.

"I thought someone had to make a stand, so I did," Harper said.

"I wanted some action to be taken when there was some unwarranted criticism of me. But no action was taken after the Test match and I felt that if the ICC were not going to take some action then I thought I would. So I packed up and went home."

India will be looking to continue their dominance of Test cricket over the next few weeks, taking on an England side who have their own sights set on the number one spot.

England skipper eyes Test series victory

2011-07-18T13:42:00.001+01:00

England captain Andrew Strauss is confident his side can beat the team ranked as the best Test outfit in the world, India.

The tourists have arrived in England for Test, one-day and Twenty20 series throughout the coming months knowing their hosts could replace them at the top of the International Cricket Council rankings if they win by two clear Tests.

Strauss is set to face India's bowlers earlier than the rest of his England colleagues, as he is due to play for Somerset against the tourists in a warm-up game. Those following the cricket odds will be keeping an eye on the game.

The captain will get an early guide to the capabilities and form of India, who are coming into this Test series following a morale-boosting win over the West Indies.

Strauss also gets a chance to test himself against one of the best left-arm seamers in the world in the shape of India's Zaheer Khan – which is vital given the fact the skipper has looked susceptible to such bowling in recent matches with Sri Lanka. Those placing cricket bets will be wondering if he can solve this problem.

He knows India pose a much tougher test than Sri Lanka, who England beat 1-0 in the Test series and 3-2 in the one-day games, but he reckons his side have the capability to beat them.

"We definitely have the capability to beat them, but we are not going to win this series without playing at our very best," Strauss said.

"It's a huge challenge - the number one Test side coming over here, it's a really strong test to see how far we have come as a team. From a pure cricketing side, there's no bigger challenge than that."

After the Test series, England face India in a series of one-day games and one-day skipper Alistair Cook has called on the team to step up in that series as England are "a long way off" the level he expects them to be at.

2011-07-11T16:01:00.000+01:00

Hot Spot creator doubts “unusual” Indian bats

2011-07-11T15:59:00.000+01:00

The creator of the technology that forms a vital part of the referral system for the test series between England and India has raised doubts over some of the bats being used by India, suggesting they are deliberately trying to fool the HotSpot technology into missing thin edges.

HotSpot detects changes in temperature generated by friction between the ball brushing the edge of the bat, and is one of the tools at the disposal of the third umpire to help overturn the on-field umpire’s decision.

However there was controversy on the 2nd day of the Test at Trent Bridge as a clear noise was hear as the ball past Rahul Dravid’s bat that HotSpot failed to pick up, leading to umpire Asad Rauf’s on field decision of not out remaining unchanged.

Dravid went on to delight sports betting punters who had backed him to score a century as “the Wall” picked up his second ton of the series.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan incurred the wrath of Indian fans after he suggested on Twitter that the likes of Dravid and his international team-mate VVS Laxman were using Vaseline to trick the camera into missing fine edges, but Warren Brennan, the inventor of the HotSpot technology, accused India of underhanded tactics of a different nature.

"I noticed that quite a few players have stickers or logos down the side of their bats.” Brennan said.

“When I was looking at them through the HotSpot camera, it looked like there were five hot spots, one underneath the other, on both sides of their bats. It is quite unusual."

Brennan went onto blame the bat manufacturers for attempting to deceive the technology, saying the stickers posed a greater threat to HotSpot than Vaseline or hand cream.

"Now, I don't quite understand why a manufacturer will put a sticker on the side of the bat which looks like hot spots. I think that probably is going to be more of an issue than cream or Vaseline.” He commented.

Brennan added that he had notified the ICC of his concerns, with India likely to deny any wrongdoing. England wrapped up the Indian tail on the fourth day of the second test at Trent Bridge to take a 2-0 series lead, with some sports bets now backing England for the whitewash in the four match series.

Cook silences critics for now

2011-07-10T10:33:00.000+01:00

Old Trafford 5th ODI England 268-9 by Sri Lanka 252 by 16 runs
England win series 3-2
A great series for new captain Cook rightly named man of the series. Good series also for Kieswetter, Trott, Morgan, Bresnan, Dernbach, Anderson and Swann. But elsewhere several players have major ODI doubts still hanging over them. They are KP, Bell and Patel.

Interesting KP when given the captaincy excelled in the ODI format averaging 52 over 11 games. Will the Chef be at that figure after his first 11, particularly as the next 10 games are against India.

Yorkshire call for back-up

2011-07-07T10:05:00.001+01:00

Yorkshire have called for back-up after a disastrous start to their season which has left them second from bottom in Division One of the County Championship. Jacques Rudolph will join Yorkshire as their overseas player until the end of the season, hopefully in time to play the Roses derby against Lancashire on July 20th. Yorkshire currently find themselves second from bottom after winning just one of their nine matches so far.

It has been an especially disappointing season so far for Yorkshire after coming so close to winning Division One last year, finishing third in what was an impressive season for the county. Andrew Gale's young team have struggled and having Rudolph back in the team could well save the season and secure their top-flight status. Those looking to place a cricket bet will wonder if he has what it takes.

It will be something of a homecoming for the left-hander after previously spending four years at Headingley, scoring over 1,000 runs each season he spent in the north of England before returning to South Africa. The 29-year-old scored just short of 9,000 runs for Yorkshire in all competitions during his four year spell, and that sort of scoring could well save the county from relegation come the end of the season.

Director of Cricket Martyn Moxon expressed his delight at the move, admitting the move could well turn into a long-term deal, although there are a number of factors that could stop any deal, not to mention the batsman's hope of returning to the South Africa squad.

"We hope his ability and influence will help us win matches," he said.

"(Any long term deal) depends on a lot of things, not least in which division we are playing our cricket next season. Also Jacques is keen to get back into the South Africa international side."

Cracks appear as Murray and England both beaten

2011-07-01T21:42:00.000+01:00

2nd ODI Headingley, Sri Lanka 309-5 beat England 240 by 69 runs
A good day for it in Leeds - scandalously the only international given to this great ground this year - but England crumbled today. They conceded too many runs, were sloppy in the field, and then were never in it with the bat.

England now have 3 plodders and 3 attackers in the batting line-up; it is going to take a few games to see if this approach will blend together.

Elsewhere Cardiff have lost their test for next year, with the odds being it will be given to Lords. Unlike the ex-players turned pundits, I consider Lords to be one of the least enjoyable venues in the country to watch cricket. Often at the highest prices as well. In many of the lower stands you sit in virtual darkness, miles from the action, in a stuffy, claustrophobic setting with no legroom. The MCC members don't help matters either having barely changed attitudes in the last 100 years, who scandalously treated Sir Ian to silence in 1981.

Contrast this with the Oval where the open stands are always conducive to generating a great atmosphere.

A much better look to the 50 over line-up

2011-06-29T09:08:00.000+01:00

Oval 1st One Day; England 229-8 beat Sri Lanka 121 by 110 runs
Six decent batsmen. 5 proper bowlers. No bits and pieces players who are neither one thing or the other. Result? A convincing win. Despite a batting failure from the new captain. Atherton has got stick for slating the chef before he even took charge; but the central point Mike and others make is valid; if you put write England's best one day XI down, Cook wouldn't be anywhere near the side.

Kieswetter targets Test spot

2011-06-24T16:06:00.000+01:00

Craig Kieswetter says he is using the forthcoming one day series with Sri Lanka as his chance to try and claim a place in the full England test side.
The wicketkeeper hasn't played for England for nine months but has been recalled for the limited over series against the tourists and will start for the side in Saturday's Twenty20 match at Bristol.

The South African born player was England's Twenty20 hero last summer, hitting 63 and claiming the man of the match in the World Cup final but has since been left out of both one-day sides after poor performances against Australia and Bangladesh. Those looking at the iPad betting will be wondering if he has what it takes.

However, the Somerset man is now back in the team after being preferred Matt Prior for the one-day side, is now targeting his place in the test team.

"I'd love to play Test cricket. That's the pinnacle. I always grew up wanting to playing Test cricket," he said. "There wasn't Twenty20 when I was eight or nine and Test cricket is what you aimed for.

"But right now I've got a Twenty20 and a one-day series to look forward and that is all I'm putting my energy into right now."

However, he knows that he must take his chances if he is to ever breakthrough to the Test side. Kieswetter is yet to make his England debut but is hoping his recall can spur him on to greater things and that he can keep the gloves for the upcoming series with India. Most mobile betting sites suggest he won't though.

"I wouldn't say I've won the battle already. I think with any spot in the side there are always battles and people coming up behind to try and take your spot" he added.

Dilshan concerns mount for tourists

2011-06-23T10:09:00.001+01:00

Tillakaratne Dilshan is expected to miss out on the Twenty20 international between England and Sri Lanka, as he continues to struggle with a broken thumb.

The batsman suffered a hairline fracture during the second Test draw at Lord's, which forced him to miss the third and final Test at the Rose Bowl.

Sri Lanka's captaun was forced to sit out the tourists warm-up game with Worcestershire on Wednesday and looks a serious doubt for Saturday's 20-over clash in Bristol. Those following the cricket odds will know what a blow this will be for the side.

Coach Stuart Law feels the T20 clash may come "too soon" for Dilshan, but says he expects the opener to be fit for the five-match ODI series – which begins on June 28.

Thilina Kandamby captained Sri Lanka in the 50-over warm-up, will take charge of the side once again on Saturday should Dilshan not recover in time.

The tourists did beat Worcestershire, but it was not a convincing performance as Sri Lanka ran out winners by 57 runs. As in the Test series, it was the batsman who impressed while the bowling attack toiled against a county team.

Jeevan Mendis top scored with an unbeaten 99, while two players called up for the limited-overs matches also shone. All-rounder Angelo Mathews smashed 81, while veteran Sanath Jayasuriya made 78 at the top of the order as Sri Lanka reached 351-5.

Sri Lanka's bowling attack though allowed Moeen Ali to smash 136 off 90 deliveries, but a late collapse saw Worcestershire dismissed for 294 after 43.2 overs.

Reflecting on the match, Law said: "I think we will be better off with the cricket we have played but if we bowl like that against England, we are going to be in a lot of trouble."

Windies skipper confident

2011-06-21T12:23:00.000+01:00

West Indies skipper Darren Sammy says the pitch at Sabina Park will perfectly suite his side ahead of the first test against India.

Sammy had previously complained about the state of the Caribbean pitches throughout the both the proceeding series against Pakistan and the one-day whitewash that his side suffered against India earlier this month, arguing that they were too heavily favoured towards his sides opponents.

Sammy argued that the pitches appeared to have been prepared for spin bowlers which heavily suited both Pakistan and India as they have a number of high-quality spinners but after seeing the pitch in Jamaica, believes the Windies have the upper-hand going into the match. Anyone with a Betfair Android app may disagree.

"It's been a pitch (over the years) that suits our style -- it's not where the ball would spin past the bat and better firepower (in the bowling) always has the best chance against India," said Sammy. "I think our batters prefer their chances against the Indian bowlers on this surface".

The west Indies go into the series with shadow of Chris Gayle's omission from the side for the second successive series. The flamboyant batsman missed the series against Pakistan after choosing to play in the lucrative IPL and has subsequently fallen out of with the West Indies Cricket Board over both the appointment of Ottis Gibson as coach and the country's selection policies. Those following the mobile betting site news will be wondering how things will pan out.

However, Sammy was unwilling to comment on the situation, preferring to concentrate on the players at his disposal rather than the ones who aren't.

"The Gayle issue is a matter beyond our control, so we the players can only just go out there, and do what we have to do, which is to represent the West Indies team" he added.

Series ends in damp draw

2011-06-20T21:51:00.001+01:00

3rd Test Day 5 Rose Bowl
England were a bit toothless today and were unable to knock over the tourists cheaply. For the first time it looked like an even contest.

India up next in a few weeks. Questions to answer. Can Strauss get his form back? Will Broad be able to get back in the wickets? It should at least be a competitive series.

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The antics of the WICB are hurting Test team

2011-06-20T15:33:00.001+01:00

The West Indies have a big task ahead of them in the Test series against India, and they are not making things easier for themselves by continuing to leave out Chris Gayle.

Captain and talisman Gayle has been in dispute with the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) over recent months and looks set to have to watch the Test series with India – the side ranked officially as the best Test side in the world – on the TV back at home.
He publicly criticised the WICB over their selection policy and then compounded the dispute by playing in the IPL when he was apparently unfit. Those following the cricket odds will be baffled by the goings on.

It all adds up to Gayle not playing against India, but the WICB have made another strange decision in giving Dwayne Brave an extended period of rest to include the first Test game.

Let's not forget the issues the WICB have with Shivnarine Chanderpaul but, unlike in the Gayle situation, they have agreed to include him in the Test series squad to face India. Anyone placing cricket bets won't be filled with confidence give the turmoil the Windies seem to be in.

A statement from the WICB read: "Following communications between WICB Management and Chanderpaul over the past weeks the WICB Management and Team Management will meet with Shivnarine Chanderpaul prior to the Test.

"The WICB Management and Team Management will outline to Chanderpaul the WICB's expectations of him in his future participation in the West Indies team as a player."

It all adds up to a huge task for the West Indies against India, but they could be boosted by the injury news coming out of the India camp.

Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir are all being rested ahead of the upcoming tour of England, while Murali Vijay is struggling to be fit for the first Test and Zaheer Khan and Sreesanth are both ruled out already.

Windies and Chris Gayle still in dispute

2011-06-20T12:05:00.000+01:00

The West Indies have once again left Chris Gayle out of their squad as his dispute with the national cricket board continues.

The Windies face India in the first test at Sabinha Park on Monday and the former skipper's exile has been extended as his public feud with the West Indies Cricket Board continues.

The argument centres around Gayle's criticism surround the WCIB's selection policy following their disappointing World Cup campaign as well as his participation in the lucrative Indian Premier League which meant he chose to be left out of the series against Pakistan in April.

The West Indies have struggled without their talisman and many had hoped the dispute would be settled in time for the India series but it appears the saga continues with neither side looking like backing down. Anyone placing a free online sports bet will know the saga isn't going to help the side's chances.

In one change to the side that faced Pakistan, opener Adrian Barath comes back from injury, replacing Kraigg Braithwaite at the top of the order.

Shivnarine Chanderpaul could also return after being left out of the one-day side but first must meet with the WCIB to establish his future role in the national side. Chanderpaul is also understood to be one of Gayle's allies in the dispute and he is also likely to be questioned about his commitment to the side. Those looking at the tips will be interested to see he is back though.

"Following communications between WICB Management and Chanderpaul over the past weeks the WICB Management and Team Management will meet with Shivnarine Chanderpaul prior to the Test," a WCIB statement read.

"The WICB Management and Team Management will outline to Chanderpaul the WICB's expectations of him in his future participation in the West Indies team as a player."

Bell tolls for Sri Lanka

2011-06-19T21:20:00.000+01:00

3rd Test Rose Bowl Day 4; England 377-8 dec v Sri Lanka 184 & 112-3
Another century for Ian Bell today who is rivalling the Chef for performances in the last 12 months; it enabled England to declare early for the normally cautious Strauss, and take 3 wickets before the end of play.

Tomorrow is the start of Wimbledon which usually means a day of constant rain but there might just be enough time for Tremlett and Broad to bounce out the remaining 7 Sri Lankans and secure a 2-0 series win. In truth the Sri Lankans haven't turned up this series; without the retired Murali and Vaas they look a very ordinary side.

KP dazzles in between the showers

2011-06-18T22:41:00.001+01:00

3rd Test Southampton, Day 3, Sri Lanka 184, England 195-4
A magnificent innings from KP today has surely put the critics back in their box for another 12 months and reminded everyone he remains England's most entertaining and watchable batsman. He is the number one player the crowds come to see - and the ECB and journalists should reflect on that.

Sadly KP's heroics were overshadowed by another farcical showing from the umpires and authorities with teams taking tea when the sun was shining, and people being faced to wait 20 minutes after "inspections" when the ground was playable immediately. Those in power need to quickly change the rules as follows:
- bad light should be scrapped; you just turn the flood lights on.
- if has stopped raining and the pitch is ok, you start play again in 5 minutes. You don't wait 20 minutes in bright sunshine
- if you've been off for most of the day, you scrap tea intervals if the weather has improved

£70 plus people pay to watch test cricket and yet again today they've been robbed - not just by the elements - but by the shirted tie brigade running English cricket who belong to a dinosaur age.

Anderson makes fitness pledge

2011-06-15T11:07:00.001+01:00

James Anderson insists he will be fit to take his place in the England team for the third and final Test against Sri Lanka.

The Lancashire paceman was forced to sit out the second Test at Lord's having suffered a side injury in the first Test in Cardiff.

But after several tough workouts in the nets, Anderson has convinced the selectors of his fitness ahead of the clash at the Rose Bowl – which begins this Thursday. Those following the India cricket betting, who England play next, will be hoping the bowler doesn't aggravate things.

Chairman of selectors Geoff Miller admitted at the weekend that they were happy for Anderson not to play a competitive match before the third Test and Anderson has done enough to prove his fitness.

The 28-year-old arrived in Hampshire early on Monday and had a bowl, claiming he felt "fine" and is "pretty comfortable" heading into the Test.

Anderson admitted that it would have been a risk to play at Lord's but now looks set to get the nod from the selectors, who must decide who to drop if their main strike bowler returns.

Steve Finn is the most likely absentee, with the England chiefs expected to select Anderson in a three-man pace attack with Stuart Broad and Chris Tremlett.

This week's clash will be the first Test played at the Rose Bowl, but it has looked like a batting pitch in this year's County Championship.

The average first-innings score in county cricket has been around 400 and Anderson is under no illusions how difficult it will be to bowl Sri Lanka out twice – even without their injured captain.

The Lancastrian admitted: "It's going to be hard for us to get 20 wickets here, especially if the wicket is going to be as flat as it looks. It's going to be hard work for us but it's something we've come up against in the past."

KP back in credit after Lords draw

2011-06-07T20:01:00.001+01:00

2nd Test Lords, Day 5, England 486 & 335-7 dec; Sri Lanka 479 & 127-3
Kevin Pietersen was the star of the final day with a gutsy innings of 72 ended by a superb delivery. The effort was all the more commendable knowing the gin-soaked livers in the press box were poised to write his obituary should another failure occurred. Instead, the cricket scribe glitterati would do better to focus on the batting shortcomings of captain Andrew Strauss who averages 8 from his 3 efforts in the series so far.

Not only did Kev shine with the bat but he held on to a superb catch at Fourth Slip to give England a faint glimmer when Sri Lanka went 3 down, effectively 4 with Dilshan crocked, when we thought another Cardiff was on, but the match petered out, and England head to the 3rd test in a good position, although questioning where the captain's next run is coming from.

Chef and Trott bank more runs after tourists collapse

2011-06-06T19:38:00.000+01:00

2nd Test Lords, Day 4; England 486 & 149-2, Sri Lanka 479
If you'd paid £12 to get in after 4pm today, not that generous methinks, you'd have seen 36 overs of cricket and the umpires inexplicably bring the players off for bad light. You'd also have seen Cook and Trott continue their personal run feasts, and another batting failure for captain Strauss - his form and weaknesses are more of a concern than KP's at the moment.

So heading in to day 5 for the second test running, we look destined for a draw. But England only need 24 overs to bowl this lot out, so a declaration any time up to 5.30 tomorrow should see us win comfortably. Particularly as this time we have four fit bowlers rather than 3.

If you paid £90 for today you'd feel cheated

2011-06-05T19:29:00.000+01:00

2nd Test Lords Day 3; England 486, Sri Lanka 372-3
Sri Lanka batted well, England bowled without menace; and the game was ruined by a combination of rain and bad light. Many more days as dull as this and Geoff Boycott's prognosis that test cricket will be dead in 50 years will gain credence. If you'd paid £90 to sit in the ground today, you'd be feeling sore tonight.

Bowlers fail to cut through

2011-06-04T19:52:00.000+01:00

2nd Test Lords Day 2; England 486 Sri Lanka 231-1
No cutting edge from the attack minus Jimmy today and Strauss was forced to turn to KP's chuckers to inspire a breakthrough; it didn't come. The game has moved on a long way in 2 days and don't rule out a result particularly if day 3 sees a collapse.

Prior showed his worth to the England side with a great attacking century, ably supported by Broad, Tremlett and Finn. Those three couldn't cut the mustard with the ball however, and will need to on a flat wicket for England to have any aspirations of getting close to the best side in Test cricket.

Prior and Chef tuck in after Strauss & KP fail again

2011-06-03T19:02:00.000+01:00

2nd Test Lords Day 1; England 342-6
An entertaining day at headquarters saw England recover from 22-3. Strauss failed again with the bat; his poor form (average 38 in last 2 years) has gone completely unnoticed by the gin-soaked cricket writers; meanwhile another failure from KP (average 39 in last 2 years) will get the scribes once again sharpening the poison pens.

The Chef continued serenely until a KP moment saw him gift his wicket 4 short of another ton; Morgan batted as though his place dependent on it, and Prior came in to biff some post-tea fireworks.

England have to be favourites now to post a 400+ 1st innings and then skittle the Sri Lankans, who won't fancy it against our trio of tall fellas.

Extraordinary goings on in Cardiff

2011-05-31T17:41:00.000+01:00

1st Test, Day 5, England 496-5 dec, Sri Lanka 400 & 82
England win by an innings and 14 runs

The quickest collapse by a side facing England for 37 years; one punter who put £5 at 9,999-1; extraordinary stories from Cardiff as Sri Lanka imploded to gift England the 1st test after being bowled out in 2 hours.

Tremlett and Broad were terrific, Swann back to his old magic, and there was no resistance. Trott earned the man of the match for his 200 and he now averages over 70 in his last 14 tests.

Just a shame not many in Cardiff to witness it. Always quite a lot of rain in Wales, early test, high prices, same old story - but credit to England, pulling something out the hat that only one punter expected.

KP nearing last chance saloon

2011-05-30T11:19:00.001+01:00

1st Test Day 4 England 491-5, Sri Lanka 400
The game is heading for a draw but yesterday's failure by KP gives the critics more ammunition and such is the vitriol aimed at England's most exciting batsman that the knives will be out once more. Realistically you'd like to think the selectors will give him the Sri Lanka series to silence the doubters - but another failure in the 2nd Test will see the poison pens raised once again.

There is no other England batsman who comes close to exciting the crowd as KP - so if his test career is halted prematurely by the selectors, they will be robbing the punters of the one class act they increasingly grudgingly pay £100 on a day out to see.

Good as their innings were yesterday, if the England team was full of Trott, Cook and Bell clones, the scores might still be high, but more people would be heading for the beer tent than staying in their seats. Media cronies who have rarely sampled life paying for a ticket in the crowd would do well to sit and take in the expectation from the paying spectators whenever KP walks to the wicket.

And let's not forget yesterday's point - KP is averaging more in test cricket in the last 2 years than captain Andrew Strauss.

Cook and Trott cash in

2011-05-29T07:56:00.000+01:00

1st Test Cardiff Day 3, England 281-2, Sri Lanka 400
Dominant batting against a mediocre attack on a slow pitch on day three, except this time it was England at the crease and Sri Lanka firing blanks - a reverse of the previous two days. Jimmy is crocked again, with Cook and Trott continuing their run scoring exploits from the winter.
The stage is set on Sunday for KP to add a hundred. Incidentally the carps and critics are back on his case, led by the usual suspects, despite the fact over the past 2 years that Pietersen averages higher than Strauss. It's all to do with levels of expectation combined with smoke and mirrors; whatever the reason KP can silence the doubters with a decent contribution today.

Strauss still the boss

2011-05-25T10:46:00.000+01:00

Andrew Strauss has made it clear that England's new three captain system is in no way a sign of him winding him his international career. Strauss had already given up the Twenty20 captaincy, and after the World Cup the opening batsman decided to step down from the one-day role. With Alistair Cook the new one-day captain and Stuart Broad taking the T20 reins, England will now be hoping too many captains don't spoil the broth. Those with a Betfair Android betting app will be thinking the same.

The move has been seen by some as Strauss looking to step aside and leave the international scene. The Middlesex man has rejected those claims, insisting he still has a good few years left in him playing top-level cricket. The 34-year-old has been an impressive Test captain for England and is going into this summer coming off the back of the stunning winter Ashes series Down Under.

Strauss has maintained that he sees no reason to leave his position as England's Test captain while the team are playing such effective cricket.

"I understand there is a chance what we are doing with Ally and Stuart could accelerate my replacement, but that is no reason not to do it," he said.

"I'd love to think I could carry on even beyond the Ashes. It's less of a weight if you're winning and the majority of my captaincy we've done pretty well. So if we keep winning I've still got a long time left."

Next up for Strauss will be a three-Test series against Sri Lanka, starting this week at Cardiff. Sri Lanka have already been hit by a number of high profile withdrawals, both through injury and retirement, and England will go into the series as overwhelming favourites. After the Test and one-day series, England will quickly have to refocus as they welcome an India side coming off the back of their recent World Cup triumph. Those looking at a mobile betting site will be expecting a close series.

The fact is that England have looked a virtually unbeatable Test team over the past 12 months and that is down in big part to Strauss' captaincy. The squad will be desperate to keep their skipper around for a couple more years yet.

Sri Lanka rally to see of Lions

2011-05-23T11:58:00.000+01:00

Sri Lanka claimed an impressive final day victory against England Lions this weekend, bowling England out 38 runs short of their target. The tourists had to claw back a 227 run deficit after both team's first innings to claim the morale boosting win, and the performance of many will be encouraging heading into this week's opening Test match of the summer.

The final day started with Sri Lanka on 392-6 in their second innings, thanks in part to stunning centuries from opening pair Tharanga Paranavitana and Tillakaratne Dilshan. England took only 14 overs to clean up the tail in the morning, Thilan Samaraweera did his best to hold up the English attack with a brave 74 before Steven Finn and Jade Dernbach cleaned up the tail with Sri Lanka all out for 448. Dernback was the stand-out English bowler after his 4-94 took his match total to nine wickets. Those following the iPhone betting will have been impressed with his performance.

The Lions' would have been confident of reaching their target of 222, at the least finishing the game as a draw. Dilhara Fernando and Nuwan Pradeep had other ideas though and did their best to earn a surprise victory by taking seven wickets between them. Dilshan claimed opener Jimmy Adams for just 11 before Fernando and Pradeep got about the batsmen. Fernando claimed James Taylor when the batsman looked confident, quickly adding the scalps of Ravi Bopara and first innings' hero Eoin Morgan in the same over. Those looking at a mobile sports betting site will wonder if this reflects the shape of things to come in the Test series.

Samit Patel and James Hildreth settled things down with a partnership of 61 before Pradeep broke the Lions' flow with his first wicket, trapping first innings centurion Patel lbw for 35. Three wickets then quickly followed with only six runs added, Pradeep claiming the wicket of Hildreth on 38. The fast-medium bowler claimed his fourth and final wicket before Surev Randiv picked up Finn's wicket to end the innings and claim the confidence boosting win against an England side coming off the back of their successful Ashes winter.

Pakistan switch captaincy again

2011-05-20T10:13:00.001+01:00

The Pakistan Cricket Board seems to have once again fallen out with Shahid Afridi following the all-rounder's comments accusing them of interfering team matters. During the recent 3-2 one-day series victory against the West Indies, Afridi claimed "everyone should mind their own business", a swipe seemingly aimed at coach Waqar Younis. The problem apparently stems from Pakistan's World Cup campaign earlier this year, in which the team were knocked out in the semi-final to India.

It now looks as though the PCB have had enough with the maverick all-rounder and have acted by stripping him of the one-day captaincy ahead of the tour to Ireland later this month. Test captain Misbah-ul-Haq will now add the one-day role to his responsibilities, with Afridi now relegated to regular squad member. Those placing a free sports bet will be concerned about this chopping and changing.

PCB chairman Ijaz Buzz revealed the move, without actually going into detail as to why Afridi had been replaced.

"Afridi has been retained as a player in the one-day squad but the captaincy has gone to Misbah," he said.

With Afridi still in the side, Pakistan will be confident of making it back-to-back series wins when they arrive in Ireland for two matches on May 28th and 30th. Ireland will be looking to prove a point or two after the ICC initially decided to reduce the World Cup from 14 teams down to two, which would have meant no place for the ever improving Ireland team. Those following the cricket betting online should remember the side have something to prove.

The members of the ICC have come under pressure to reconsider their decision, and Ireland's case would be heavily strengthened if they put in an impressive display against Pakistan next week. Ireland's victory against Pakistan at the 2007 World Cup was the springboard the team's impressive form over the past few years and Phil Simmons' side will be looking to repeat that victory next week.

Sir Jack Hobbs - England's Greatest Cricketer

2011-05-15T13:29:00.001+01:00

One of the most interesting cricket books is about to hit the shops, detailing the life of England's greatest cricketer Sir Jack Hobbs. Fourth Slip has seen a copy, and can strongly recommend it to all cricket fans.

The extraordinary Hobbs had a career spanning half a century and scored more runs and centuries than anybody else. He played his first game for Surrey in 1905, and retired after the 1934 season during which he hit a century at the age of 52.

Written by the award-winning Leo McKinstry, whose book on Boycott was rightly lauded by Wisden, the reader is struck by the achievements of Hobbs over such a long period of time; the man possessed an energy and appetite for runs which would put the modern test cricketer to shame.

The book contains an interesting nugget about Bedford School where Hobbs spent an unhappy few months on the staff - a school at the time apparently had an obsession with sport & the military; something that hadn't changed much when I went there 70 years later!

Jack Hobbs, England's Greatest Cricketer, is published by Yellow Jersey Press and is available to pre-order from Amazon for £13.29

England sailing wrong way with Captain Cook

2011-05-05T13:10:00.001+01:00

England today appointed Alastair Cook to lead the 50 over team, and Stuart Broad to skipper the T20 version. Andrew Strauss continues as captain of the test team, but retires from one day international. The curtain also probably falls on Paul Collingwood's career unless he remarkably rediscovers fitness and form.

So England have 3 captains for 3 different forms of the game, unique to international cricket. It looks as though it could be a deliberate beauty contest to see who proves the most effective captain - safe Cook, or feisty Broad.

The odds very much favour Cook given England are still scheduled to play a ridiculous amount of 50 over cricket in the next 5 months (10 matches), and only 2 T20s. Not much chance there for Broad to make his mark.

But what makes no sense is to use the 50 over format as some kind of training ground to captain the test team. And to bring in as captain a player who was not considered good enough to make England's last World Cup team, a tournament that ended in another failure. A player who has only 26 ODI caps with just one ton.

As Mike Selvey argues in the Guardian today, Cook will need shots to succeed in 50 over cricket that he has eliminated to prosper in test cricket. He will also need to clear the in-field in the subcontinent, something he has no history of doing.

The bolder move would have been to let Broad captain both one day sides.

One other annoyance - no England announcement is ever a surprise because of the cosy relationship between favoured cricket journos and the ECB. It is always leaked. The Broad, Cook split was reported accurately several hours earlier making the 11am official announcement a bit pointless.

Is Fletcher ready for Indian task?

2011-04-29T16:28:00.001+01:00

His record as a coach is without question, but does Duncan Fletcher know what he has let himself in for with the India job?

The closest job I can compare it too is the England football manager's role a goldfish bowl where his every move will be scrutinised and his reputation can depend on the finest of sporting margins. Those looking at the sports betting should remember this.

But unlike the England manager's position Indian fans have no real concern whether their coach is Indian or not. The fact Fabio Capello is Italian is seen as significant but for India the likes of South African Gary Kirsten and Australian Gregg Chappell have held the post in the past.

But if you think the England's job has pressure you can turn the dial up a few notches with India. A country of more than a billion people, the cricket team are national heroes and the national mood is directly linked with their successes. Such interest naturally attracts media attention and there lies Fletcher's problem. His record at England proves he is a good coach but his relationship with the media was tetchy at best; with former England skipper Michael Vaughan saying Fletcher just didn't understand the role of the media. As anyone who has bet in-play will know this can have an impact on team morale.

Like it or not it is a factor in the modern game and it is something to be managed and the best coaches are the ones who can handle the media as well.

It is something of a baptism of fire then this summer when he returns to England to see if India can retain their position as number one test side against an English outfit buoyant after their thrashing of Australia. When Fletcher took over England they were below Zimbabwe in the test rankings, the only way was up, India the number one test side and also World one-day Champions is the only way down?

Money once again placed ahead of the game's development

2011-04-07T16:47:00.001+01:00

The Cricket World Cup provided a much needed shot-in-the-arm for the 50 over game, proving to the gathering doubters that it does indeed have a future and can compete in terms of excitement with the ever expanding T20.

Many of the headlines during the tournament were written by Ireland, who on the back of a successful 2007 tournament famously shocked England in the group stages this time round.

But their reward for years of consistent progress was to be excluded from the next competition in 2015. Instead just the 10 test playing nations will be invited to take part – despite Ireland currently being ahead of Zimbabwe in the rankings. Those who follow the online sports betting wouldn't back the "established" side to win a match between the two teams.

The reason once again is down to money, with the influential sub-continent teams as well as cricketing powerhouse Australia expressing their frustration at the length of the tournament, bloated in their eyes by the presence of the likes of Kenya, Ireland and the Netherlands.

There is a simple solution to this – play more games on each day. That is how the football World Cup gets through its 64 games in a month. Or reduce it to 12 teams and organise a play-off before the tourament that will determine which two associate side will enter.

But the ICC can't have that can they? No, they are bowing down to the TV companies who want every game screened live with minimal clashes, so instead the associate nations are made to suffer, as well as those who enjoy online betting UK as there will be less chances of an upset.

The World Cup is a great opportunity for the smaller cricketing countries to progress, which can only be a good thing for the development of the game. For example Ireland could realistically look towards applying for Test status ahead of the next World Cup. But instead their exclusion might mean more of their star players will follow Eoin Morgan's lead and choose to represent England, undoing all their recent good work.

I agree that a reduction in teams may help streamline the next World Cup, but to throw out the associate nations altogether will only damage the spread of cricket across the World.

Sadly though those considerations are quickly swatted aside when a big fat TV cheque is waved underneath the ICC's noses.

50 over KP dilemma

2011-03-29T20:31:00.000+01:00

England need a new 50 over captain as Strauss is poised to quit the role - and who gets the nod as his successor could well depend on coach Flower's conversations with KP. Pietersen is rumoured to want to quit the 50 over format and concentrate on Tests / 20-20 - a reasonable enough stance. Not many players in world cricket - and even fewer English ones - will continue to play all forms.

So the management should throw KP the bone and see if the opportunity to captain the side again banishes the memories of the Moores debacle where KP was badly let down by Morris et al. Pietersen relishes a challenge and such an offer may just persuade him. He'd need to take over the 20/20 captaincy as well from Collingwood who can't justify his place in the side in any format any more.

If KP declines the captaincy and decides to retire from 50 over, then no problem, England can move on without him, and look elsewhere.

Deflated England put out of their misery

2011-03-26T18:52:00.000Z

World Cup 1/4 Final Colombo; England 229 (50 overs) Sri Lanka 231-0 (39 overs)
The right result today, anything else would have papered over the cracks. Sri Lanka absolutely murdered England - restricting them to 229 and then cruising home to administer a thrashing that hasn't been seen for some time. 7 games in this World Cup and England only won 3 - no side seriously deserved to go any further with that sort of record.

A lot of questions will need answering into what ultimately was a world cup debacle following the Ashes sensations, and apparently Hugh Morris has called an inquest for mid May - presumably everyone is having 6 weeks kip before then. Here are some of the issues to address:

1) The schedule. 9 meaningless one day matches after the Ashes in conditions totally alien to the World Cup were a pointless waste of time and exhausted the England squad.

2) The captain. Strauss has put everything into the test side but it is too much to combine both roles and he is too old, so time to pass the one day mantle on.

3) Burn out. Increasingly the key players clearly are not going to play tests, 20/20, countless meaningless ODIs, and the IPL without opting out of one or more forms of the game. The 50 over ODIs are the easiest to give up. Expect Strauss, KP and others to do so in the next few months.

4) Injuries. There were lots. See 3) above.

5) The batting line-up; Kieswetter was sensational as opener in the 20/20, but has been ditched by England - KP and Strauss worked OK, but as soon as KP's hernia went, the same problems resurfaced. Other teams got wise to the fact Strauss can't cope with spin first up, and both Prior and Bell are not the opening answers. Apart from KP no England player is comfortable taking a stride down and smacking the ball straight back over the bower, the safest attacking shot in this format.

6) The bowling. Fourth Slip was worried we'd miss a fast attacking bowling in the Ashes but it didn't matter. But we didn't have any strike bowlers in this World Cup - in five of the matches the bowling was frankly terrible.

All in all no disappointment in going out. We've said here before 50 over cricket is a format we can now do without; nobody really cares we've gone out of the World Cup; the prizes already grabbed in the last year - the 20/20 and Ashes successes, easily make up for this debacle. But England need to learn the lessons and work out where they go from here if this form of the game does survive in the short term.

Weary England on brink of elimination

2011-03-15T16:19:00.000Z

The one positive England fans can take out of the World Cup so far is that the performances of their team have almost singlehandedly re-invigorated the competition.

Ok that is a slight exaggeration as other teams have done so as well but there can be no doubt that England's dramatic wins against South Africa and the Netherlands, the tie with India, and defeats to Bangladesh and Ireland have reminded the doubters as to why the 50-over game still deserves a place in the modern, T20 dominated cricket calendar.

Not that it will matter much to Andrew Strauss should his side topple out of the competition this week, especially as the Cricket World Cup betting suggested they could win the tournament.

Bangladesh – their conquers on Friday – nudged ahead of Andy Flower's men into 4th place and the final qualifying spot following their win over the Netherlands.

In a remarkably tight Group ,B England have to beat West Indies in their final group game to have any chance of qualifying. And even if they win they will have to wait for the results of the Bangladesh v South Africa and West Indies v India games before knowing whether their place is secure.

But what England are we going to see?

Their performances have fluctuated wildly with each passing game, as has the confidence among the players – Graeme Swann's reference to a long, hard winter in a recent press conference again raises doubts over the suitably of the modern cricket calendar, which places intense physical demands on the players, some of whom have only spent three days at home since October. Anyone following the cricket world cup betting news will know how badly the side have been hit by injuries.

That pressure, both mental and physical, must be taking its toll and I imagine some are privately looking forward to England's elimination so they can finally head back home.

Whether that elimination will be this week though is hard to tell, the West Indies are also a side who put in fluctuating performance levels but as a test playing nation are well equipped to dump England out.

In what has already been an eventful World Cup for Strauss and co, I get the feel there is one twist in the tail lying in wait.

Strauss preparing to fall on sword

2011-03-13T19:59:00.000Z

News today in the Sunday papers that Strauss is very likely to quit ODIs at the end of this world cup and concentrate on the test side. Fair enough, he is getting on a bit, and he has led the Test side to great triumphs. But it would be a massive mistake if the selectors turn to Alistair Cook as rumoured and parachute him into a format he is plainly unsuited to.

KP is also likely to quit ODIs, but his reasons are entirely different - you blatantly can't play all 3 forms of the game and remain injury-free and be available for the IPL. 50-over cricket long term is dead - and it is the administrators insistence on scheduling loads and loads of it that has killed the format, and crippled the best players.

Collingwood's future also looks in the balance - the management have clearly lost faith with him this World Cup, and his form is shocking in all forms of the game.

Some big decisions ahead, even a win over West Indies this week may not be enough to prevent England disappearing early from yet another 50 over World Cup - then the real inquests will begin. Too many of England's players are simply exhausted from constant over-scheduling from Morris, Clarke and the other ECB fools.

Sri Lanka pile on the runs to qualify for the Quarter Finals

2011-03-11T10:27:00.003Z

Upul Tharanga and Tillakaratne Dilshan put on an opening wicket partnership of 282 for Sri Lanka – a record opening partnership at the World Cup – as the joint hosts brushed aside Zimbabwe to secure a quarter final place.

Tharanga’s 133 and Dilshan’s 144 helped Sri Lanka on their way to a score of 327-6, a total Zimbabwe never looked likely to trouble. They and were eventually bowled out for 188 with 11 overs remaining. They now face New Zealand next Friday and big free bet are backing Kumar Sangakkara to win that game and top the group.

Sri Lanka’s openers looked to take advantage of a flat pitch in conditions they knew well in Kandy, and made Zimbabwe captain Elton Chigumbura's decision to bowl first look a strange one as the runs easily flowed.

77 runs of the first ten overs signalled Sri Lanka’s intent and the onslaught continued until Thuranga was eventually dismissed in the 44th over. Christopher Mpofu came in for some serious punishment, conceding 62 runs from just 7 overs, but eventually helped slow the Sri Lankan charge, taking 3 wickets from a single over as the batting side lost momentum towards the end of their innings.

Zimbabwe needed to get off to a bright start and looked to be in with a chance of a memorable victory as openers Brandon Taylor and Regis Chakabva reached 100 without loss after 17 overs, but that was as good as it got as wickets soon tumbled after the opening pair were removed in quick succession.

Chakabva fell to the spin of Murali for 35 before new batsman Tatenda Taibu was dismissed for just 4. Taylor, whose 80 was the only bright spot in an otherwise gloomy day, was caught off the bowling of Angelo Matthews, and Zimbabwe had lost three wickets in little over four overs.

After Taylor was dismissed, the Zimbabwean batting order collapsed as the remaining seven wickets fell for just 56 runs, leaving them 139 short of their target. Tillakaratne Dilshan was the architect of their downfall, taking four wickets, while Murali took three more wickets to add to his ever-growing world record total, and Matthews took two.

Safely into the quarter finals of the competition, Sri Lanka are looking to become one of the bigfreebet favourites for the competition, while Zimbabwe are all but out of the tournament.

Hussey back to aid Aussie's cause

2011-03-07T12:59:00.000Z

Mike Hussey will join up with the Australia squad this week following Doug Bollinger's tournament ending injury. The batsman was overlooked for Australia's 15-man World Cup squad because of his own injury concerns, but Hussey will now travel to the sub-continent and could be recalled for his country's next game against Kenya and could be in line to take the place of his brother David in the middle order.

Left-hander Hussey's initial omission from the squad raised plenty of eyebrows, especially following his stunning Ashes' form during the winter. His hamstring injury sustained during the one-day series against England was the main reason behind Hussey's absence from the squad. The injury has cleared up though and Hussey turned out for Western Australia against Queensland last week in their Sheffield Shield clash and the Cricket World Cup betting tips now suggest he can make a big impact.

Hussey's presence in the Aussie's squad will definitely strengthen their bid to win their fourth consecutive World Cup title and fifth in total. Australia have looked comfortable enough so far in this tournament but having Hussey in the line-up will be a major boost for the whole team and the cricket world cup predictions reflect this.

Hussey was obviously delighted after hearing about his recall and the left-hander is just keen to get going.

"I thought my dream of a World Cup was over. Now it's alive, I just can't wait to get over there," he said.

Hussey was part of the squad that lifted the trophy four years ago, although his form was below-par. After being given this late chance, Hussey will be determined to make up for lost time and this move could be a tournament changing one by the Aussie management.