16th May 2012 | Cricket
England v West Indies Test Series Preview
England look to reaffirm their status as the number one Test playing nation with a three-match series against the West Indies.
The British weather might be harking back to winter but Lord’s presides over the first Test of the summer, as England host the West Indies in a three-match series.
In the last two years England have won 12 out of 18 home tests, losing only two. Regardless of opposition that makes them a 1/2 chance; they are 1/6 (Betfred) to win the first test.
The West Indies make up the other side of the equation and despite having won only 1 Test away from home in the last two years they are proving difficult to beat. In their last 11 away Tests, they have lost only four times.
Shivnarine Chanderpaul is the linchpin in their batting order. The 37-year-old was leading run-scorer in the recent series against Australia, with 346 runs at an average of 86.50. He is 15/8 (Blue Square) to be his team’s highest run contributer again.
The betting is forecasting an England whitewash at 2/1 (Betfred), with the bowler-friendly conditions supposedly favouring the home side. The inclement weather could work against them however, with a drawn series 7/1 with Sportingbet.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 14:23 16th May, 2012 but subject to change
