Monday 7 November 2016 18:13, UK
Rob Key believes England are capable of troubling India in their forthcoming Test series, live on Sky Sports 2 HD.
Alastair Cook's men have the odds stacked against them for the five-match series with the world's top-ranked Test side after failing to beat Bangladesh.
Sky Bet are reporting that over 60 per cent of all bets have been on India recording a 5-0 whitewash but, speaking to the online bookmaker on Facebook Live, Sky Sports pundit Key is confident of a competitive contest.
"I think it's going to be a good series. Everyone seems to think that England haven't got a chance but I don't think you should underestimate this team," he said.
"The toss is massive and I think if England can win a few of them then there's every chance they can nick a Test match.
"India will have watched the Bangladesh series and think they need to produce turning pitches as well, but in a way that gives England a chance.
"I know England's spinners didn't produce in the two-match series but if you get on a surface which is ragging from ball one, then there's a chance they make it hard work for India's batsmen, if they bowl better.
"I can't see there being many draws with the nature of Test cricket right now. India are right to be favourites but I think that it will be a bit closer than people are suggesting and I'd be looking at 3-2 for the home side."
The former England batsman is also taking on the favourites in the top batsman market, tipping Moeen Ali to be the tourists' top scorer.
He added: "Joe Root is absolutely England's best player but the bet I would look at is Moeen Ali at 12/1.
"If you want a favourite then Root is well worthy, but if you want some real value then look at Ali.
"There's every chance Ali bats four or five. He batted well at five against Bangladesh and he's going to get plenty of opportunities.
"He's a fine batsman and before he played for England he was one of the top batsmen in country cricket. He was a proper top-order batsman and I think he's going to be important for England."
England take on India in the first Test of their five-match tour, in Rajkot, from 3.30am this Wednesday on Sky Sports 2. Watch the complete Test for £10.99 with no contract, with a Week Pass from NOW TV.
