3rd Test: England vs South Africa
What a series we have bubbling up here. After England stormed to victory in the First Test at Lords, South Africa hit back hard at Trent Bridge.
So at 1-1 in a four-match series, there’s all to play for, and sports betting fans can look forward to another great game at the Oval on Thursday. England started the series as clear favourites, but the tourists’ impressive recovery has evened things up. Our Asian handicap betting odds pitch England at 2.00 to win in Surrey, South Africa at 2.80 and the draw 3.80.
Joe Root has learned a lot about England captaincy over the last couple of weeks, leading from the front to win well at Lords by 221 runs, before watching his talented team capitulate at Trent Bridge in the second test.
The Proteas bowled magnificently in Nottingham, with Morne Morkel and, particularly, Vernon Philander finding England’s flaws, taking 3 for 24 in the second innings. Philander’s becoming a key player for South Africa, also registering 54 and 42 with the bat to frustrate England’s bowlers in both innings.
And England are likely to come up against Kagiso Rabada again after the pacey young bowler has completed his one-match suspension. The battle to grab control could take shape quickly if England bat first. With an explosive line-up from four to seven comprising Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes and Moeen Ali, they can destroy any bowling attack in minutes.
But the first three needs more spark. Alistair Cook is prolific but works at his own pace, Keaton Jennings is learning the ropes, and Gary Ballance has had a wretched time at three. Poor Ballance breaking his finger has saved the selectors making a decision, and Essex’ Tom Westley is lined up for a debut. The number three spot is there for the taking.
And so is this wonderful series.
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Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
