England go into the fourth and final test match against India with a 3-0 lead and the world number one crown, freshly wrestled out of India’s grip. While that scoreline of 3-0 looks imposing, and England’s last win was full of class, it should be remembered that India have struggled with a depleted team this series. Should some of their top players fire, they could very quickly reverse their form.

The biggest disappointment for fans has been the form of champion batsman Sachin Tendulka. He came to England this summer with 99 test centuries to his name and the expectation each match was that he would finally deliver that 100th 100. Perhaps he can redeem himself in this last test. The outcome of this test will depend on two factors, both of them mental. With England now safe at the top of the rankings as world number one, will they play with the same desire?

This match is, to all intents and purposes, a dead rubber. England can claim an historic 4-0 series win over India, and that could be a driving force. On the other side is the wounded tiger – will India step up a gear to at least go home with some pride intact. Fans in India are very emotional and they won’t take too kindly to a 4-0 whitewash – a 3-1 series with injured players will at least calm some of their fans.

Bookmakers are treating this match warily opening England at 6/4 in cricket betting. This is in stark contrast to the odds on they offered before the third test. India are 6/1 while the draw is favourite at 11/10. England will accept a draw and a 3-0 series win – you can expect India to go all out for the win.

We’re tipping India to restore some pride and win what should be an exciting test match. Series betting has England to win 3-0 favoured at 1/1, to win 4-0 at 15/11 and to win 3-1 at 27/5. A those odds, back India to win at 6/1. It’s better value than the series win betting at 27/5.