Countdown to the Ashes Starts Right Now

We’re just a few short days away from the kick-off on the 2010/11 Ashes Series in Australia, where Andrew Strauss’ England attempt to defend the famous urn on Australian soil for the first time in decades.

It looks increasingly clear that Australia’s years of dominance in the test arena are rapidly coming to a halt but the chance for Ricky Ponting to get one over his biggest rivals in front of a captivated nation could wind up being decided on the final day of the final test. Rest assured, this one could go down to the wire.

The bookmakers are giving the slimmest of edges in favour of England to retain the Ashes and it’s worth keeping in mind that a drawn series would see England keep the trophy.

In regards to the outright correct score odds, the current prices indicate that a 2-2 series draw is the preferred outcome while a 2-1 result to Australia is the next shortest-priced option. The prospect of two drawn tests would be music to the ears of the English team.

While consistent team performances are the best way to ensure an Ashes victory, individuals stepping up can be the biggest deciding factor in individual tests. Things seem to be shaping up well for Graeme Swann according to the bookmakers and he is the distinct favourite at 8/1 to be named player of the series. Australian captain Ricky Ponting is tied with Andrew Strauss at 10/1. The outside bets here are Mitchell Johnson at 12/1 and James Anderson at 20/1.

Swann also gets a distinct edge as a potential top series bowler. He is placed well ahead of Aussie favourite Mitchell Johnson. James Anderson looks likely to take advantage of swing-favouring conditions in Australia and he could prove to be a deciding factor here. An in-form Anderson could give Australia a torrid time with the bat.

Ricky Ponting and Simon Katich both look the current favourites to be named top batsmen as Andrew Strauss is fifth in line to secure the honours. Ponting, Katich, Clarke and Watson are all considered slightly more likely than Strauss to be named top batsmen. This could be a real chance for Kevin Pietersen to step up and make a real statement.

Stay tuned to Betting Choice for player previews for the 2010/11 Ashes Series!