The T20 World Cup is almost upon us and the amount of cricket played in the last few months has given us a very good indication of the form of the top teams.
To Win Tournament:
India 3/1
Australia 3/1
England 4/1
South Africa 6/1
New Zealand 8/1
Pakistan 8/1
West Indies 14/1
Sri Lanka 22/1
Two teams are arguably the joint-favourites for the crown for slightly different reasons.
Most current markets have hosts Australia and India as the joint-favourites to win the tournament.
India are a side that could probably name two or three squads capable of winning this tournament.
They have scary depth powered by the amazing success that is the Indian Premier League.
India’s winning mentality when it counts remains the one question mark hanging over a team that really should be winning international cricket trophies.
Australia were unfancied ahead of the 2021 tournament but their form throughout that stunning run to the title and in subsequent series suggests that they have what it takes to defend the title.
However, there will be little margin for error from either side and both have shown that at times they can be quite fragile.
India tend to get a little carried away with their attacking approach to the game and Australia are prone to a collapse under pressure while chasing.
Only a spate of injuries prevents England from being considered among the top favourites.
The bolder punter might consider the good value delivered by South Africa or the even better odds available on the excellent New Zealand and Pakistan teams who are both loaded with potential match-winners.
Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup triumph might encourage a few to take a very bold stance and back the Lions for the trophy, even if they will have to get through a preliminary round to go up against the big guns.
The West Indies are long shots for a reason and you might be better off backing Afghanistan if you’re really in the mood to be reckless.
