While these two countries tackle each other on the cricket field today, they face off in Dublin on Saturday in a sport that you would associate more regularly with the rivalry that exists between these two nations.
The 30 man squads for the world cup may have been named, but there are plenty of betting opportunities to be had here.
At the time of writing, betting on an Ireland win could get you as much as 4/6 with Bet Fred, Paddy Power and Boyle Sports while a gamble on a win for England is priced at 13/10 with Bet 365. For the sake of order, if you want to complete the betting options, a draw is available at 20/1 with most bookmakers.
It may seem that England’s only hope is in a cagey affair with neither side wanting to give too much away ahead of the big tournament in New Zealand.
After England narrowly beat Wales at the start of the month, it was a surprise to many to see them installed as favourites when they travelled to Cardiff the following week. Therefore, if you’d had the foresight to bet on Wales, you have collected handsomely.
The bookmakers are taking no such chances this weekend and with Ireland leading the betting at 4/6, those odds look about right and it really is hard to see anything other than a home win. If you agree, then take a no risk free bet or dip into funds but whichever way you want to look at it, a gamble on Ireland is your only option.