First Test

OK, so we took a hit on the spread for England’s first runs, but if you’d got on the draw at the right time, there was definitely profit there

England v West Indies

UPDATE, MONDAY, 11:45: Despite taking a hit on the spread earlier on in this match, we’re now in good position with the draw, with rain already stopping play this morning. The draw was priced at 3.25, and is now at 1.1 – so you can cash in now or hang on.

UPDATE, FRI, 16:30: England are piling on the runs, so it’s get on the home side or the draw. This game now depends on England’s bowling and the Windies’ batting. It’s a slow pitch and the weather is set fair, and if two West Indian batsmen get settled, this one should be a draw.

UPDATE, FRIDAY, 11:00: Glorious sunny day. Plans today are: If Eng do well then the draw price will come in a bit leaving me a draw lay opportunity for when England bowl. There is a hint of weather for the rest of the week though but not enough to scare me off a result yet. If England lose wickets then rethink time.

UPDATE, THURS, 12:30: Sun is out so the pitch will get easier which does not help our sell of runs at 350. I am inclined to take a hit on this now and start again.

UPDATE, THURSDAY, 11:00: On this pitch to start I am a seller of England runs at 350 with sporting index

PREVIEW

No Flintoff, no fifth bowler and no ideas how well prepared either side is.

This makes it hard to start, but West Indies have won the toss and done the best thing and inserted England. The pitch looks green and should help the seamers – how could it be anything other after the last 3 weeks of rain? – and so we need Jermoe Taylor to get us off to a flyer by getting some early wickets.

My plan is to be cautious to start and watch the pitch and first hour. Also to keep an eye on England runs (not up yet). We have less depth batting so instinctively I am a seller but we must see what the game offers us.

On betfair the news England are batting has lengthened them a couple of ticks but not much. I will wait for my half bet (half is on already) and hope for us to be 50-2 and then above evens on the prices.

Updates will come as and when I change my plans during the days and quite probably by lunchtime today.