Sunday, May 20th, 2012
The England v Pakistan series has built up to an unexpectedly fascinating conclusion ahead of the 4th Test. After England cruised to two wins, Pakistan came back with style in the 3rd test and could square the series with another win.
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England look under pressure suddenly, despite Alistair Cook getting a much needed century, while Pakistan’s seam and spin options were both potent in their 3rd Test win.
We just hope the weather doesn’t ruin things – find out our best bets below…
England: 8/11 with Betfred, Pakistan: 9/2 with Bet 365, Draw: 11/4 with Boylesports
From a neutral point of view, Pakistan’s third test win has kicked life into what was a pretty moribund series. Neither side has shown too much consistency with the bat, and the bowlers have made hay. All that means a clear result looks likely in this final test and without weather intervening, this is going one way or the other, and the draw can be discounted pretty safely.
England have added Tim Bresnan to their squad, but even coach Andy Flower has admitted that it’s the batting that is a worry, with collapses concerning him., but he has kept faith in his bowlers. Matt Prior’s good form with the bat has proved vital, and it’s Andrew Strauss who is the man struggling for runs.
Pakistan have a big decision to make, as bowler Umar Gul is likely to be fit. They surely can’t drop Wahab Riaz after the impact he made on his test debut, but at the moment, one of Gul, Riaz, Mohammed Asif, or Mohammad Amir will miss out. It’s always dangerous to proclaim a revival in Pakistani test match cricket – the Shahid Afridi one didn’t last long – but there are encouraging signs.
Winning the toss and dictating play will be vital here. There could be some early movement, plus the Lord’s slope to give the bowlers an advantage.
Best Bets: This test is closer than Pakistan being 9/2 shots – get on them with Bet 365 now! They offer up to £200 in free bets too! For England, lay Andrew Strauss as top scorer for England on Betfair!