The much-anticipated three-match Test series between New Zealand and England is set to begin on Thursday (November 28) at Hagley Oval. Both teams look to make a strong statement in the first Test as they eye supremacy. The series is going to be quite competitive, with both sides coming into the series on the back of contrasting outcomes in their previous assignments. 

New Zealand enter the series after a commanding 3-0 series win over India, while England will be eager to bounce back and continue their aggressive "Bazball" approach, which, however, has produced mixed results. England’s most recent assignment against Pakistan ended in disappointment after the host (Pakistan) beat England to clinch the series 2-1. 

New Zealand will have strong momentum coming into this series as they ride high after their impressive 3-0 victory against India. Their dominant performance in the subcontinent gave glimpses into their all-round strength. Meanwhile, they will further be bolstered by the return of Kane Williamson, who has been out of action for long due to an injury. 

The Black Caps’ depth in both batting and bowling, led by the likes of Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, and Devon Conway in the batting department, alongside the skillful pace duo of Tim Southee, and Matt Henry, will be crucial for New Zealand. New Zealand’s confidence is sky-high, and they will be determined to build on their recent success and carry that form into this high-profile series against England.

On the other hand, England’s approach to Test cricket under captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum has revolutionised the format. But, over the past few months, there has been significant dip in their performance as they have failed to live up to the expectations in their recent outings. 

England’s aggressive approach has earned them significant success, including series wins against top-tier sides, but their goal will be to bounce back to challenge pumped up New Zealand. For England, standout player will be Harry Brook, whose scintillating form in recent times has been incredibly helpful for England.

Head to Head

MATCHES -122

ENG WON - 52

NZ WON - 13

DRAW - 47

New Zealand XI: Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Glenn Phillips, Nathan Smith, Tim Southee, Matt Henry, William O'Rourke

England : Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ollie Pope (wk), Ben Stokes (c), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Shoaib Bashir