Australia Favourites for Fourth Ashes Test despite Edgbaston Embarrassment

Michael Clarke’s dropped catch in the third test isn’t the only thing slipping through his fingers. The urn is edging ever closer to English hands with the hosts holding a huge advantage heading into the fourth Test. England embarrassed Australia inside 3 days at Edgbaston and another victory at Trent Bridge will see them win the Ashes. The Aussies will want to win the fourth Test, while a draw will see the series decided at The Oval.

Trent Bridge Betting

Despite comprehensively outplaying Australia in the third Test, England are $3.25 outsiders with Tom Waterhouse to win the next encounter. Their odds would surely be shorter if their best bowler was available. But Jimmy Anderson’s injury last week was one of few sour notes for the English and his absence from the fourth Test may prove pivotal. Australia’s batsmen won’t mind he’s missing, especially the openers. But can the tourists take advantage? The Aussies are $2.10 to claim victory at Trent Bridge, while the draw is paying $3.60. The side which has led after the first innings has won all 3 Tests so far so who’ll be ahead at the half way point? England are over even money to lead heading into the second innings while Australia are $1.70 favourites.

Can Clarke Deliver at Awesome Odds?

It’s sad to say, but one of Australia’s worst performers has been the skipper. Michael Clarke’s made just 94 runs from 6 innings at an average of 18.80. To put his tally into perspective, both Mitchell Johnson and Mitchell Starc have made more runs. Australia are in trouble and it’s time he steps up. The captain is paying $2.70 to hit a half century in his first knock while he’s $5.75 to score a much needed ton. At $6.50 to be Australia’s highest runscorer in the opening innings, Clarke’s on the fourth line of betting, behind favourite Steve Smith, David Warner and Chris Rogers. If you fancy Pup to produce a Test winning performance he’s at a juicy price of $21 to be named man of the match.

We can expect twists and turns at Trent Bridge, but whatever happens Australia must ensure they avoid defeat. Will you back the Baggy Green to square the series?