England v S. Africa - 3rd Test Game Odds: Kevin Pietersen Text Scandal Gives Punters Edge
England v S. Africa – 3rd Test Game betting odds had England promising a payout of US$25 for every US$10 bet while South Africa would pay out US$18. A “texting” scandal involving England Cricketer Kevin Pietersen has overshadowed much of the betting activity taking place for this Thursday’s upcoming matchup.
Headlines throughout the day Monday read “Kevin Pietersen WorldTwenty20 Hopes Fading Fast” and “Row Over Texts Overshadows Build-Up to Third Test”.
Pietersen, who was born in South Africa, was dropped by the England team due to his refusal to deny allegations that he was critical of his captain, Andrew Strauss, as part of a series of texts sent to the opposing team.
Pietersen was not budging Monday evening and had no immediate plans to apologise for what allegedly transpired.
Shane Warne has since issued a stinging attack on Andy Flower and Andrew Strauss over their handling of Pietersen matter.
(Shane) Warne said it was the job of Strauss and Flower to incorporate disparate characters into a successful team, adding: “That’s leadership!”
He wrote: “For English cricket to be in this situation after so much good work, there’s only one way now for our friendly English buddies (and) that’s unfortunately down the rankings.
"It’s hard to work out how it has got this bad. Management and leadership has to be looked at.
“Cricket lovers around the world will miss watching KP’s serious talent and skill on the international stage.
Needless-to-say, punters may have an edge coming into Thursday’s 3rd Test Game with England quite possibly demoralized. The value play here is quite obviously on South Africa paying US$18 for every US$10 bet at BetOnline.
- Alistair Prescott, Gambling911.com