Little appeal in backing struggling Australia despite record in Perth
MOMENTUM is with England as the Ashes roadshow heads west to Perth for the third Test of a series that has so far seen the tourists soothe some painful memories.
The draw in Brisbane and win in Adelaide has given England a huge boost and their fortunes couldn’t be more different to four years ago. England lost by 206 runs at the Waca on their last visit and have only won once and drawn three of 11 Tests on the banks of the Swan River. That victory was in 1978 and the last five clashes all ended in comfortable home wins.
While statistics should be respected, it must be considered just how badly this Australia side is struggling. So much so that England are pre-match favourites with most bookmakers and 6/4 with Paddy Power.
Ricky Ponting’s men are best-priced at 7/4 and while some might argue that represents value, the evidence points to mounting problems. Their batting line-up is average at best compared to yesteryear and to describe their bowlers in the same light would be hugely flattering.
The Waca normally provides a result and the weather is not expected to determine the outcome. Despite England’s record on this ground the opportunity to take an unassailable series lead is real. Australia have lost two of their last three Tests at Perth while the Waca has lost some of the hostile pace which made it so feared.
Taking 20 wickets has proved impossible for Australia so, for spread bettors, Sporting Index’s Volcano market could appeal. It makes a prediction on which side will score the most aggregate runs over both innings and buying England’s supremacy at 15 looks the way to go.
POINTERS…
Back England to win the third Test at 6/4 with Paddy Power
Buy England’s Volcano (total runs) supremacy at 15 with Sporting Index