Another double century in sight for Cook as England take initiative
Published:New day, new ground, new Test match, but little else has changed as Alastair Cook continues his run fest against Australia to leave England in a strong position to claim the Ashes initiative ater the second day of the second Test.
Building on his 235 not out that ensured England saved the first Test at the Gabba, Cook this time handed England the chance of victory with another unbeaten 136.
This helped England reach 317-2, a first innings lead that currently stands at 72 runs, and Andrew Strauss’ team have shortened from 4/5 after day one to 4/6 to win the second Test.
Australia still need 18 wickets to win the Test and with their toothless attack still toiling away unsuccessfully, their betting odds have drifted to 25/1 to win the second Test and take a 1-0 series lead.
The main problem for England is that they still need to bowl out Australia again and with the Adelaide pitch providing little bowling support, this could be a challenge.
It is 5/4 that the second Test follows the same path as the first and ends in a draw.
The day didn’t start great for England as Strauss fell in the first over of the morning, but Jonathan Trott scored 78 alongside Cook and then Kevin Pietersen reached 85 not out.
England will now want to bat for the whole of the third day and if they manage this Strauss will probably declare to have two whole days to try to take the needed ten wickets.
Cook is no doubt in the form of his life and betting odds are being offered on what milestones he reaches in his innings.
The Essex opener is 1/5 to successfully reach 150, 5/6 to score at least 180 and 11/8 to make it back-to-back double hundreds.
Meanwhile, Pietersen is 2/9 to reach his century, although the 3/1 offered on him falling before adding another 15 runs to his score may represent good value, as Australia currently have the use of the new ball.
A £10 bet on the next England wicket being a run out could lead to a return of £200. New Ladbrokes customers can sign up here for a free £10 bet.
