England too strong for Ireland

Ireland did superbly to beat Pakistan in the group stages and seal their place in the Super Eights but even the most optimistic of fans probably don't believe they can beat England when the two neighbours clash in Guyana on Friday.

England have not exactly impressed yet but they are unlikely to play as recklessly as Pakistan did and their bowling is much better, so Ireland's batsmen could struggle.

Bet365 make them 1/16 (1.06) to win it, while Ireland are 8/1, not rank outsiders but not fancied that much and those prices are about right, I'd say, and don't offer much value.

Instead, we have to look further down through the markets to find some.

The batting markets are interesting in matches like this as there is always a chance that, providing England dominate as they should, that as few as four or five of the top order may actually get a bat.

That means the openers have a big advantage and it's no surprise to see Ed Joyce installed as favourite at 5/2 (3.50). Captain Michael Vaughan is just behind at 11/4, while Andrew Strauss, who has yet to play a match, is 3/1.

Kevin Pietersen, who will bat at No 4, is 7/2 and Ian Bell, the No 3, a 4/1 chance, but then there is a massive gap to Paul Collingwood, at 9/1, whose time at the crease could be limited.

For Ireland, Jeremy Bray is the 11/4 favourite after his fabulous century in the group stages. Eoin Morgan is 4/1, and Niall O'Brien and William Porterfield both 11/2, with Kevin O'Brien 13/2

Bet365 offer a couple of batsmen match bets and Joyce is 8/13 favourite to outscore Bell, who is a 6/5 chance.