Rupert’s cricket round-up

It looks like the one day specialists are struggling to emulate the test match squad as England’s preparations for the one-day series in India went from bad to worse as they lost again in the space of three days and need to get their act together before the first ODI on the 11th January. You’d have to say the 8/11 for the hosts looks a decent bet at the moment.

After being beaten by India (A) on Sunday, Alastair Cook’s side suffered a six-wicket defeat to Delhi, who had nine balls in hand, despite posting a formidable 294 for five.

Ian Bell again was top run scorer, adding 108 to his previous 91, but there will be big worries about the performance of the bowlers. Odds of 7/2 to be top England run scorer look good value for the man in form. Runs for Bell, Eoin Morgan (52) Cook (44) and Craig Kieswetter (41no) mean there are some positives to take but there was a lifeless feel to their attack that must be improved before Friday’s meeting with India in Rajkot.

Delhi were in, inspirational-run-chasing form, and you can only see the national side being even better.

Delhi required 75 from the last 10 overs and that became 30 off five as the chase went too comfortably and England must regroup but will look at the positives. Craig Kieswetter ended the innings emphatically, getting some valuable time in the middle and making 41 in 27 balls, including sixes off the last two balls of the innings.

Without Swann or Panesar to conjure up some magic in the attack, it will be a struggle; the top England bowler market suggests this, as none of the firms know who should be favourite. My tip is Jade Dernbach, who was most economical in the latest warm up game and picked up a valuable wicket. Also, I’d take the 11/2 on offer to be top Series wicket taker for the tourists.