Bookies at odds over favourite to win
Surprise from bookmakers at shortlist announcement
9 September 2008
Following the announcement of the Man Booker Prize 2008 shortlist today (9 September 2008), two of the major UK bookmakers have released details on their favourites to win.
William Hill were amazed that neither of their favourites, Joseph O'Neill or Salman Rushdie, made the shortlist of six titles.
"We were convinced that the winner would be either Joseph O'Neill or Salman Rushdie and are amazed that neither even made the shortlist. As a result it looks like a very open competition with everyone in with a chance," said William Hill spokesman Graham Sharpe.
They have now placed Sebastian Barry, who was also shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize in 2005, as their favourite to win at 2/1.
Conversely Ladbrokes have put Aravind Adiga as their favourite to win with Orange Prize winner, Linda Grant, as a close second. Ladbrokes were equally surprised at the shortlist announcement.
Ladbrokes spokesman, Nick Weinberg, said: "Punters had been going crazy for Netherland and The Enchantress of Florence in the lead up to the announcement. We're breathing a huge sigh of relief as Joseph O'Neill and Salman Rushdie were the two worst results in our book."
The judges meet again on 14 October 2008, and the winner will be announced that evening at an evening event at Guildhall, London.
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