England v South Africa

Trent Bridge will play host to the 5th and final match of the ODI series between England and South Africa on Wednesday, with both teams hoping to claim a win. A series win will also be hoped for by both nations, which could lead to a No.1 spot in the world for ODI cricket, and either of these teams could seal that spot.

Much controversy surrounded English cricket of late after Kevin Pietersen sent ‘provocative’ text messages to members of the opposing team, whilst also involving himself in a bit of a wrangle with the England and Wales Cricket Board over his playing commitments. Following this news, but not due to it, captain Andrew Strauss announced his retirement from all cricket and this will undoubtedly still be fresh for the players who will now be captained by Alastair Cook.

Ian Bell guided England to a 2-1 lead in the 4th ODI at Lords, with 88 from 137 balls he ensured England’s run chase would stay on course, although this proved quite difficult when rain caused a 20- minute delay.

Graeme Swann has been rested for the remainder of the one-day series and so will not feature in this final match. This leads cricket followers to believe there are deep concerns about his troublesome elbow injury which may require some surgery in the future. James Tredwell, who proved crucial in the 4th ODI match, replaced him for the final three matches.

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England are at 4/5 to win Wednesday’s match with the option to back South Africa at evens, it’s likely Ian Bell will be top England batsman after his superb performance in the 4th, and he is at odds of 11/4, with other options of Jon Trott at 7/2 and captain Alastair Cook at 4/1.

The top South African batsman is likely to be in form Hasim Amla who is at odds of 9/4. With odds of 4/1 available if you fancy Graeme Smith or Abraham De Villiers chances.