England have enjoyed one of their best ever years in Test cricket and proudly sit at the top of the rankings on the eve of the New Year. They have now had a nice break and should be raring to go when they face Pakistan in a couple of weeks time. There will be some tough challenges in 2012 and we will take a look at the reasons why they could still rule the world in 12 months time (England 11/10, Pakistan 5/2, draw 9/4 Series Winner).

Andrew Strauss has said that he wants to remain as England captain until at least after the next two Ashes series and become the first post-war skipper to win four contests against Australia. England are currently ranked as the top team in Test cricket, so is Strauss the man to lead them to further glory? (England 8/15, Australia 3/1 2013 Ashes Series Winner).

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp looks set to return to the dugout for his side’s Premier League clash with Aston Villa on Monday, with the Londoners hoping to extend their unbeaten league run to nine games.

England booked their place in the Four Nations final with an emphatic win over reigning champions New Zealand, but it will take another huge effort if they are to see off Australia and take the crown on Saturday.

Ten years after their last major international football tournament was overshadowed by the Roy Keane-Mick McCarthy spat, the Republic of Ireland will be back on the big stage at Euro 2012.

There will be no better yardstick for England to assess where they stand in world football than when they take on the mighty Spain at Wembley on Saturday evening, with the kick-off at 5.15.

Saturday’s Four Nations showdown between England and New Zealand at the KC Stadium is arguably the biggest game for head-coach Steve McNamara since he took the job (England 11/8, draw 18/1, New Zealand 8/13).

England (13/5 – 2012 Six Nations Outright) appear to be at yet another crossroads following the dismal showing at the recent World Cup, but Martin Johnson has been backed to stay at the helm by former captain Lewis Moody.

Another break for internationals means now is the perfect time to take stock and see what conclusions can be drawn from the 2011/12 football season so far.

England have not played a rugby league Test at the national stadium since 1997 and now head-coach Steve McNamara and his men have their biggest challenge, when they take on Four Nations favourites Australia at Wembley on Saturday (9/2, draw 25/1, Australia 1/7 in the match betting).