As we move through April and towards May, the County Championship gets into full swing, with most sides having already played a couple of games each. Here, TacticalBet takes a quick look at the contenders for success and failure this season, with the usual array of tips and predictions.
Division One
Lancashire claimed a historic victory last September, but an early season struggle has left them playing catch up, already 35 points behind early leaders Nottinghamshire - and are placed at 8.4 to retain their trophy. This means there are new favourites to achieve glory, and Warwickshire lead the betting at 4.5, with Surrey and Somerset also just under 5's. It would be a remarkable success if Surrey were to win having only just gained promotion last season, so it seems a step too far to back them. TB"s tips would be Somerset - always a threat in every competition and with some stellar names - and also Durham at 6.2, who have Graham Onions in fine early season form. In terms of relegation, the names to look out for would be Middlesex, already struggling, alongside Worcestershire.
Division Two
It's a lot more open down in Division Two, and as we've so often seen anybody can perform well. Hampshire, Yorkshire and Kent are all placed cheaply reflecting that they will be up there at the end of the season. However, Essex can't be counted out at 6's, with a strong side and having picked up 23 points in their opening game. Perhaps a left wing shout would be Derbyshire, every improving since their induction to the main competition, and they are 5.1 to be promoted in either of the top two slots come the end of the season.
Obviously with 16 games, there is such a long way to go and nothing will be decided until deep into August and early September. If the past few seasons are anything to go by, it could even go to the final game.
HA
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