Okay, let me get this off my chest early – if you want a solid bet on the ICC World Cup, then head on over to one of the betting exchanges and lay England. On current form, they will be lucky to qualify for the quarterfinals let alone win the trophy. England’s form has been so topsy-turvey it’s impossible to follow them.

First, England figure in a spectacular tie with India and then follow that with an equally spectacular loss to lowly Ireland. That’s forgivable, although losing to Ireland may not be, especially when they follow that performance with a great win over second favourites South Africa. However, they reached the lowest of low on Friday with a weak loss to Bangladesh. When bowlers give away over 30 free runs then lose by six balls – you know things are not going well.

With Pietersen and Broad both back at home and unable to play another game, England’s chances of proceeding are getting slimmer every day. On the betting exchanges, their odds have slipped out past 12/1. Those same exchanges are starting to rate New Zealand and the West Indies as better prospects than England – that should be a worry for betters who have backed the English.

If you’re looking for a saver bet, then you may want to consider the Australians. They have strengthened their chances by including Hussey, a real dynamo when it comes to one day cricket and fast scoring. Why they left him out in the first place has puzzled everyone, but his inclusion has seen the Australians firm considerably in betting to second favourite, a touch ahead of South Africa.

India remain as firm favourites, and well they should since they are playing at home. An India v Australia final has now firmed to an even money favourite in betting – well worth consideration. As for England, lay them now while the odds are good with the betting exchanges.