The county championship cricket season starts on April 8, a date likely to prompt intense betting interest based upon whether Nottinghamshire can continue their success of 2010 with another Division 1 victory.

The midlands county topped the standings after achieving positive results throughout the season which culminated with a nail-biting draw against Lancashire, achieved during the final hour of the season’s last fixtures. Nevertheless, it proved enough for them to top the division.

WILL it be the brilliance of Pakistan or the determination of New Zealand that wins the day in the first Test match?

Betting on Pakistan is a risky business, not least because their results in recent years highlight how inconsistent this team has been.

But if the problems which have plagued this team and resulted in them plunging down cricket’s world standings are finally over, then before punters elect to make their final bet, the odds on them triumphing in New Zealand should be worth investigating.

THE modern-day powerhouses of world cricket square up in Cape Town in January for the Third Test. South Africa and India are writing their own slice of history and the odds are this could develop into a classic series.

Results between the teams have traditionally favoured the home side. However, the low, slow pitches of South Africa should give an advantage to India’s spin attack, although the Proteas’ strength is in their pace bowling.

100,000 spectators baying for blood. More than 100 years of sporting history echoing throughout the stadium. The Boxing Day Ashes Test between Australia and England is like no other sporting fixture.

After more than 20 years of Australian domination, the onus (and betting favouritism) is shifting towards England.

While the UK shivers, betting odds on the Test match are hotting up, with Andrew Strauss’ team having the better of a record-breaking first Test in Brisbane.