Beefy names Kent spinner as one of his picks for the fifth ODI
Tuesday 9 December 2014 18:38, UK
Sir Ian Botham is calling for James Tredwell to be recalled for Wednesday's crucial fifth ODI with Sri Lanka as England battle to keep the series alive.
The Kent spinner was left out of Sunday's side, who suffered a six-wicket defeat with two balls to spare in Colombo, a result that saw England go 3-1 down in the seven-match series.
However, Botham expects Tredwell and skipper Alastair Cook, who is available again after a one-match suspension, to return for the must-win clash in Pallekele, live on Sky Sports 2 HD.
"It's a match England must win - they have to win to keep the series alive," said the Sky Sports cricket pundit.
"They nearly got home in the last match, running Sri Lanka very close and they could have won it."
Botham was impressed with the displays of Nottinghamshire's James Taylor, who hit 90, and stand-in skipper Eoin Morgan, who hit 62, in Colombo and remains optimistic England can make it 3-2.
The former England all-rounder said: "I think Tredwell and Cook will come in. Tredwell should have played at Colombo but I think the selectors wanted another look at Stokes but it backfired.
"I think due to the conditions the wicket at Pallekele will be tacky - it's won't be quick for sure - and Tredwell may get some purchase out of it."
Botham, who has picked Tredwell to be England's top bowler in the match at odds of 7/2 with Sky Bet, also feels the toss will be crucial to England's hopes.
He added: "They are a better side in my opinion when they have a score to chase.
"I think this England side is better batting second. The weather could play a part so more reason to put the opposition in and chase them down."
On Sunday Beefy successfully tipped Kumar Sangakkara to be Sri Lanka's top run scorer at 3/1 and he's keeping faith with the opener for Wednesday's match.
Check out all Beefy's Bets for the fifth ODI below.
England win fifth ODI - 6/4
England to win and Joe Root top England runs - 14/1
Joe Root top England runs - 5/1
Kumar Sangakkara top Sri Lanka bat - 3/1
Joe Root top England bat and James Tredwell top England bowler - 28/1
