STEVE HARMISON COULD DOMINATE THE 2ND ASHES TEST AT LORDS

We have two quality sides meeting at the home of cricket tomorrow with Ricky Ponting's Australia taking on Andrew Strauss' England side. Top UK bookmaker William Hill has declared England`s James Anderson to be named the top English bowler of the 2nd test, but if the latest interview with Ricky Ponting is anything to go by, the Aussies will be fearing the presence of the massive Steve Harmison. A wicket-taking bowler when he`s on top form, Harmison has peppered the Aussies with hostile short-balls and bouncers have been coming from all directions over the past few years. Hills have him listed at 7/2 to outbowl the other English players with Flintoff available at 3/1. Injury concerns are hovering over him so I am a bit hesitant to back Flintoff as the top bowler. Graeme Swann and Stuart Broad are both listed at 4/1 and you may be tempted to have a bash on Ashes debutante Graham Onions at 9/2. Keep in mind these odds are for the first innings only. Kevin Pietersen is the favourite to be named top English batsman with a 10/3 pricetag. Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook and Ravi Bopara are all sharing a 4/1 price. Ian Bell is at 9/2 while Paul Collingwood is listed at 5/1. Matt Prior sits at 8/1 with Flintoff available at 12/1. The bookmakers are leaning towards a draw in this one and I reckon it could drop to odds-on from its current price of evens by the time the first few sessions are finished. An Australia victory (and they have a good record at Lords) is available at 6/4 and England are an enticing 4/1 to pull off the victory. The value is certainly with England and you can also back either England or Australia to win (effectively betting against the draw) at 8/11. England are 7/4 on a draw no bet. William Hill also has match betting between bowlers and batsmen and be sure to check out the in-play markets- you can make some fast money there!