Can India break their duck in South Africa?
With arguably the most talented batting line-up in world cricket, India should be more than capable of winning the forthcoming three-Test series in South Africa. But they have an appalling record there and go into the first Test, starting on Friday, as ra
Simon Cambers
14-Dec-2006
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With arguably the most talented batting line-up in world cricket, India should be more than capable of winning the forthcoming three-Test series in South Africa. But they have an appalling record there and go into the first Test, starting on Friday, as rank outsiders to win the series at 7/1 (8.00) with South Africa 1/4 (1.25) and the draw 9/2 (5.50).
In nine Tests between the two sides in South Africa, the home side have won four, drawn five and lost none.
India used to be the worst travelling side among the top teams, but in recent times they have improved, winning eight and losing just five of their past 20 outside India. South Africa always used to be dominant at home but they have lost their way lately.
A record of 11 wins from their past 20 at home seems decent but they have only won four of their past 10 and two of their past five. Overall, they have won seven of their past 20 Tests, which won't do much for their confidence.
India have won nine of their past 20 Tests in all, but they have revamped their team a little, bringing back VVS Laxman as vice-captain to bolster the batting side, while Sachin Tendullkar will be looking to enjoy himself, fully fit again and raring to go.
Top bat
Tendulkar averages just 37 against South Africa but has been showing signs of his best form recently and only the ultra-consistent Rahul Dravid (at 9/4 (3.25) is ahead of him in the betting to be India's top series batsman.
Tendulkar averages just 37 against South Africa but has been showing signs of his best form recently and only the ultra-consistent Rahul Dravid (at 9/4 (3.25) is ahead of him in the betting to be India's top series batsman.
Tendulkar is 5/2 (3.50), while Virender Sehwag is 4/1 (5.00). Then come Laxman, the recalled Sourav Ganguly and Wasim Jaffer, all at 7/1 (8.00).
South Africa are not the side they were a few years ago but they still have plenty of talent in their ranks and the batting market is headed by Jacques Kallis at 9/4 (3.25).
Captain Graeme Smith is 3/1 (4.00) and Herschelle Gibbs 7/2 (4.50) and then there's a gap to AB De Villiers at 11/2 (6.50) and Ashwell Prince at 15/2 (8.50).
First Test
The first Test takes place at the New Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, where the home side have won 11 and lost just seven of the 28 Tests there.
The first Test takes place at the New Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, where the home side have won 11 and lost just seven of the 28 Tests there.
Of the past 10 there, however, they have won just five and lost three.
Please note that odds are correct at time of publication and are subject to change.
Simon Cambers is Cricinfo's betting correspondent