mvaughan

It's the second day and England are already out of sight but in a rain shortened Test do the home side have the time to win? Michael Vaughan has an idea.


Betfair customers may make the draw odds-on at 1.47 but I am a confident backer in a fourth and final win for England to round off a Test series they have dominated.

And I see it all happening in classic Test style on the final afternoon of the fifth day at The Oval.

For me, the second day has been a microcosm of the series. England have been positive, while India have disappointed.

Centurions Ian Bell and, in particular, Kevin Pietersen have been exceptional. They have concentrated and played in the bubble, doing what they have to do, with Pietersen getting the team going by playing quick and forcing the pace nicely. A total of around 600 will be the target and if India bat as they have this series - and there's no reason to think they will suddenly improve - then it's advantage England. Again.

India did well this morning, carrying a bit of threat and removing Andrew Strauss, but it's just not a very good attack. I don't see any wickets in the bowling. It's not comparable to the 2007 vintage and, in the case of RP Singh, physically so - he's a different shape to what he was.

If this England bowling attack is as good as the ranking say it is - and India are still yet to score more than 300 in an innings - then you have to risk a few of your hard-earned on the home side again. Jimmy Anderson has been so impressive this summer and, for me, he will be the leading wicket taker in the first innings.

Let's not fool ourselves, the draw might happen, but it's worth backing England. I think England will win again and at the current price it'll provide a profitable end to the summer.


Recommended Bets

Back England to win @ 3.25
Back Day 5 Evening, Test Match End @ 1.37




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