India v England: Fourth Test Preview & Odds

As we look ahead to this crucial fourth Test, here at betting,bet you’ll find the very best Test odds from our betting partners at bet365

England and India reignite their rivalry in the upcoming fourth Test set in Ranchi. The action gets underway on Friday at 4:00 am UK time, with England trailing 2-1 in the series and just two matches left to play. As we look ahead to this crucial fourth Test, here at betting,bet you’ll find the very best Test odds from our betting partners at bet365.

While England's remarkable triumph in the first Test in Hyderabad seems like a distant memory, their disappointing defeat by 434 runs in Rajkot last week, after initially reducing the hosts to 33-3 on day one, has left fans disheartened. Despite promising positions, England's batting has needed more assertiveness, only managing to surpass the 400-run mark once in the series. The middle order, notably Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow, has struggled to make a significant impact.

However, writing England off would be naive. This team has shown resilience before, as witnessed by their comeback from a 2-0 deficit in last summer's Ashes. Their ability to bounce back should not be underestimated.

As the action moves to Ranchi, speculation about the playing surface is rife. While early indications suggest a dry pitch with visible cracks, assumptions should be taken with a pinch of salt. Surprisingly, a heavily spinning track might favour England, given their struggles against Indian spinners on flatter surfaces.

One player to keep an eye on is Kuldeep Yadav, whose performance in the previous Test was instrumental in India's victory. With Jasprit Bumrah rested, Kuldeep's spin could pose a significant threat to England's batting lineup. Kuldeep Yadav is 11/2 to be the 1st innings’ top bowler.

Despite the pitch's uncertainties, it would be unwise for India to gamble on conditions that turn the match into a lottery, especially with a series lead to defend.

Ravi Jadeja and Zak Crawley stand out as potential game-changers. Jadeja's recent form against England, coupled with his improved batting, makes him a strong contender for a fifty and possibly even a century in the first innings. Ravi Jadeja is 12/1 to be the top batter in the 1st innings. Similarly, Crawley's proficiency on true pitches with next to no movement could see him shine, especially without threats like Bumrah. Crawley is 9/4 to score a 1st innings 50 and 7/1 to notch up a century.

India v England: Fourth Test odds