6/1 West Indies the value bet
With England's odds so short it maybe that the value bet lies with the West Indies at 9/2 for the match and a tempting 6/1 for series victory
England start the first Test against West Indies at Lord's as strong favourites to win both the match, and the series. Following their dominant tour of the Caribbean, it comes as no surprise that they are valued at just 1/1 to win the Lord's opener, and 1/3 on to come out on top in the series overall.
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England are deservedly hot favourites, having recently beaten West Indies 3-0 on their home patch, however it would be hasty to assume that this series represents a continuation of the Caribbean tour. The skiddy Fidel Edwards and all action Tino Best may enjoy bowling on some of England's seamer-friendly wickets. Edwards looks like good value at 14/1 to win the Man of the Match award at Lord's, with Best at a generous 18/1. Brian Lara is rated as favourite to pick up the award at 13/2, with the red hot Steve Harmison close behind him at 8/1.
Andrew Strauss returns to play on his home ground with his maiden Test century still fresh in his (and our) minds from his debut here against New Zealand earlier this summer. At 9/2 he should not be overlooked as a potential leading runscorer in England's first innings. With his bowling capabilities limited, Flintoff will be keen to justify his selection as a batsman, and 11/2 is a reasonable price for him to be England's topscorer in the first innings. This market is particularly open, so perhaps Geraint Jones is worth a look at 12/1.