England-India First ODI Betting Tips

November 11, 2008 - A.J Ryder There are a number of factors at play as Kevin Pietersen's men take on the best the subcontinent has to offer during their lengthy tour of India for two tests and an ODI series. Australian bookmaker Centrebet, well known for their stellar odds and coverage of cricketing events, has released a number of interesting lines on the weekend's action.
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Head to Head

India is listed at lower odds than England and, after demolishing Ricky Ponting's Australian team last weekend, they will be in good spirits and undeniably good form going in. Currently, India is listed at 1.63 to win the first ODI outright with England at a longer 2.25. I think England could very well surprise the Aussies, especially after some of their exhibition matches have left a bit to be desired, and they could be ready to spring a few surprised in the first ODI. Back England.

Opening Partnership

India are also favoured to have the higher opening partnership, but this one is close. 1.80 for India to an even 2 for England. I would be tempted to back India to take this right away if VVS Laxman had been playing in this first match-up, but I think they will be relying more heavily on Virender Sehwag and Gautum Gambhir. Mahendra Dhoni is always dangerous, but I have a feeling that if England's spinners can make use of the pitch and get the ball turning they may be able to break the early partnerships.

Hi Bat

In India's case I can see good things coming from either Sehwag of Gambhir. Both are listed at 4.75 and 5, respectively. In England's case, Ian Bell and Kevin Pietersen are both favoured to make moves with the bat, both listed at 5. A number of English players round out the 6's with Alistair Cook, Flintoff, Matty Prior and Owais Shah all on equal footing.
 
Most Sixes

I can see the Indians taking this one as they were pounding them over the boundary in the Australian phase, however, I think if England can keep it tight then you will see more singles from the Indians. If you're betting on this though, back India.