India’s spin kings have pitch to suit

Sports Betting: NEW Zealand are a best-priced 6-4 to win the Cricket World Cup after their thrilling victory over South Africa in Auckland on Tuesday.

The Black Caps successfully chased down 298, completing their task when Grant Elliott hit a six off the penultimate ball of the final over.

The second semi, between Australia and India in Sydney tomorrow, is expected to go the way of the hosts according to the bookies. They are 4-9 to progress, with India 21-10.

But this might not be as clear-cut as the odds suggest. India are far removed from the side that finished bottom of the Tri Series against the Aussies and England, and have yet to lose a match in the World Cup.

If Australia have an Achilles heel it is their lack of a quality spinner and, given the Sydney pitch invariably offers some turn, India have a venue that gives them their best chance of causing an upset. As for the competition as a whole, Australia are 6-5 to lift the trophy, with reigning champions India 5-1.


ENGLAND were a shambles in the World Cup, but the odds-layers don’t expect a repeat at Test level during next month’s three-match series against the West Indies.

It says much for the Windies’ deficiencies that they are 9-2 to beat a vulnerable England team on home turf, though I wouldn’t rush to back our boys at 8-13. Perhaps the draw at 15-4 offers a touch of value.