The second test between England and India has reached an interesting stage. There are two days to play and England will resume at six down for 441 on a strip that appears to be good for batting. England have a lead of 374 which they should push to 400 by lunch today. India will most likely have five sessions in which to get those runs, plenty of time in which to win, or lose the match. Barring rain, I think you can eliminate the draw from the equation.

This test has already had a taste of the ridiculous/controversy with the run-out-not-out situation involving Ian Bell. India are to be applauded in showing such good sportsmanship by withdrawing their appeal for Bell’s run-out. It still made for some interesting entertainment, especially the deep boos turning to cheers when Bell reappeared. He added another 22 before being dismissed, but he had already done the damage with a great century prior to his dismissal.

Bookmakers have made England short odds on favourites at 4/11 to win while India have drifted right out to 12/1. With Dravid in great form and Tendulkar yet to make an impression, the situation is ripe for another famous Indian get of trouble partnership from these two. Tendulkar is hovering on that 99 career centuries, and this would be the perfect scenario for him to achieve it. Dravid has already scored a couple of good hundreds on this tour, another one would really swing the match in their favour.

England’s bowlers have been the real difference so far in this series. If they can continue to dominate, then England will be number one by tea tomorrow and India will be looking at 0-2 series with two to play. India, at 12/1, are really good value considering the current state of play. I know they have to smack a record last innings score to win, but then, that’s what records are all about. India to sneak home and add interest to this series. Who’s your money on?