Edgy England nose into lead after early Dubai joy

BOWLERS continued to dominate batsmen in the England versus  Pakistan series in the UAE as 16 wickets fell in Friday’s first day of the third and final Test at Dubai’s International Cricket Stadium.

The Three Lions bowlers looked to have restored some pride after two bewildering defeats when bowling out Misbah-ul-Haq’s men for 99 after he had decided to bat first. But they were then reduced to 104-6 in scenes reminiscent of last week in Abu Dhabi when skittled for 72 with 145 needed for victory.

Having gone 14-1 about England not making 100, bet365 freely admitted their relief. The firm's overnight runs-line was 5-6 over/under 168.5 runs and Andrew Strauss, xx not out, is 5-6 to make 62 or more runs.

Hills reacted to events by offering 7-1 that the match finishes on Saturday and going 1-2 that it’s over by the end of Sunday. The firm also put their day two wickets line at 5-6 over/under 8.5.

Friday night’s best match prices were 4-7 England, 13-8 Pakistan and 50-1 the draw.