November 08 Friday 2002
Bookmakers write off England after opening day

LONDON: England's chances of winning the Ashes were written off by British bookmakers Thursday after the team's disastrous start to the series in Brisbane. 

With Australia racing to 364 for two at stumps, William Hill quoted the English at 20-1 to win the series and pushed them out to 25-1 to win the first test. 

The Australians were listed at 1-6 favorites to win the opening test. A draw was rated 100-30.