Can the English cricket team hang on to the Ashes? Can they win their first series down under since 1987? There is a glimmer of hope in the eyes of many of the English players and it is growing stronger every day following the Australians 2-0 loss to India earlier this month. Betting exchanges are ripe with those wanting to bet against the Australians – this may be a good time to seek out some decent bets.

The Australians’ once great bowling attack is looking fairly thin at present. However, their batting is still as strong as ever and that could be a telling point. Fortunately for England, they only need to draw the series to retain the trophy, and that is an important consideration going into this series.

Bookmakers have the Australians as easing favourites at 4/5. They were as short as 1/2 prior to the Indian test series. England have firmed slightly from 11/4 to 9/4 while a drawn series has seen considerable interest and firmed quickly from 8/1 to 11/2.

Punters on the betting exchanges are keen to back Australia with some betting to 4/6. Remembering that a drawn series is also a loss, backing Australia to lose at 4/6 is the same as backing both a drawn series or English win at 6/4 with either result paying out for the one bet.

It’s early days and I wouldn’t be rubbing the Aussies out just yet. An Ashes series at home is far different to a two test off season series against India in India. You can still find some good wagers on Australia with a 2-1 series win good value at 8/1. Check out the betting exchanges for some of these early Ashes bets – there is some good value to be found if you look a little closer.