Live on Skysports 1: Thu 23.30: Australia are 13/5 with Sportingbet to take the 2nd Test down in Adelaide as the rain makes the draw fav.
Unseasonal rain and a chance repeat of massive batting stands has meant the price for the draw has come right in to just evens (888sport) for the 2nd Test while England can be backed at 3/1 with Betfred.
Surely it’s the tourists who have their tails up, dragging themselves from a dire position, 220 runs dows, to earn a draw at the Gabba. It’s no win but the Aussies must have been concerned for Mitchell Johnson’s complete ineptitude and their general lack of penetration in the 2nd spell of bowling.
Adelaide is traditionally a batter’s pitch, giving way to some spin late on but the recent rain may make things a little lively. Certainly, Anderson and Swann must be the 2 key bowlers for England and they are 3/1 (Skybet) and 9/4 (Coral) to be the top wicket takers for England; the former was on fire in Brisbane but the latter may be the pick due to favourable conditions. For Australia, it’s tough to know who will actualy play; 5 fast men are vying for 3 spots but last time’s key bowler, Pete Siddle, is 11/4 fav with bet365 while spinner Xavier Doherty is an interesting 7/1 with Coral.
As for batting, there were bountiful positives for England and 2 stand out performances in Australia’s only meaningful contribution and Jonathan Trott will be looking to extend his excellent record against Australia – he is 9/2 with Totesport to be the top run scorer. As for the hosts, Watson showed a few nice touches and it’s between him and the captain, Ponting, to top score for the Baggy Greens. Watson is 4/1 at Coral, Ponting the same at Stan James.
With all that in mind then, does any side have a dominant chance of winning? Not really but Australia would be the team of choice. They proved they could skittle England and weather a quality attacking spell and whilst they did concede that huge 500+ score for one wicket, their opponents were aided massively by the track. Take Australia at 10/11 (Stan James) on the draw no bet market if you are concerned about the conditions.
Compare all 2nd Test odds and bet at the best price.
