Stokes to flourish as axe falls on England’s failing stars

Ben Stokes, in just his second Test match, scored an impressive maiden Test ton at Perth, registering the tourists first set of three figures in the process. His place in the side is therefore assured for the remainder of the tour and, at odds of 7/1, looks a cracking piece of value to be England’s leading batsman in the series.

The Durham all-rounder is just 23 runs short of Ian Bell, who currently leads the way, and after a confidence-boosting ton is surely overpriced to kick on and claim the run-scoring spoils.

At the top of the order, Michael Carberry has looked unflustered in the heat of battle, only falling for less than 30 twice so far. If he can convert one of those many starts into what the England set up calls “a daddy hundred” then his odds of 7/2 are worth taking too.

As England’s best batsman for the last two series and current top scorer, Ian Bell is the natural favourite in the betting at 5/2 but given how tight the runs are among England’s willow wielders – 37 runs separates Bell in first and Joe Root in sixth – seeking value elsewhere is advised.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

Fancy a flutter? Sign up today to claim three £10 free bets when you bet £10.