CRICKET: WORLD CUP - BETTING

TODAY

INDIA ARE the bookmakers' firm favourites to win at Trent Bridge and are best priced at 4-7 (Ladbrokes). New Zealand offer better value (11-8, Coral), because, although they are likely to struggle to make a sizeable score, the Indians will not be looking forward to facing Geoff Allott, whose 19 wickets so far have made him the most prolific wicket-taker in any World Cup. Backing Tendulkar to top score for India (2-1, generally) offers little value on current form. Dravid (11-4) is recommended, as is Twose for the Kiwis (4-1).

TOMORROW

THERE'S VALUE to be had whoever you fancy to win at Headingley, with the favourites Australia available at a best- priced 5-6 (Ladbrokes) to beat South Africa, who can be backed at 6-4 (Coral). Ladbrokes offer a "most points" bet, where 1 point is awarded per run, 15 per catch, 15 per wicket and 20 for the Man of the Match. If South Africa do prevail, there's a good chance that Klusener will have something to do with it, and he is the recommended tip (9-4). Moody for the Aussies (8-1) offers some value as an outsider.