ODI World Cup Match 1: England vs New Zealand Match Preview

Four years back, England and New Zealand produced a classic, which will be etched in the brain of every cricket fan in the world. The final of the 2019 ODI World Cup ended on controversial terms, as England won on boundary count – something that never happened in the history of the game. Hence, the BlackCaps will be gunning for revenge when they take on The Three Lions in the opening game of the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

However, there are plenty of concerns at the moment. Skipper Kane Williamson is not yet 100% fit to return to action and hence, is very likely to miss the game. Ace pacer Tim Southee is on the same boat as well, but his recent statement confirmed that the cricketer is trying his best to be back on the field for the opening game.

Other than these concerns, the team looks well settled to win their maiden white-ball world title. They are always one of the favourites to get the job done, but often fall short, finishing as runner-ups in the last two editions of the marquee competition. Hence, the aim this time will be to smile with the trophy and not without it.

When it comes to England, not much have changed regarding their approach. Just like Eoin Morgan, skipper Jos Buttler has given the freedom to all his players to express themselves on the field and play an attacking brand of cricket to put pressure on the opposition. They have been playing some remarkable cricket and hence, are once again one of the favourites to get the job done.

The return of Ben Stokes is definitely one of the biggest positives for the team. However, the all-rounder will not be bowling as he is currently dealing with a knee injury. Even so, the team has multiple world-class all-rounders who can come in handy from time to time. Overall, another classic game is expected when these two heavyweight giants come face-to-face at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Also Check: England vs New Zealand Live Updates, 1st ODI Match, World Cup 2023

ENG vs NZ Pitch and Conditions

The surface in Ahmedabad is expected to be extremely batting-friendly. A high-scoring game is expected, and thus, bowling first would be ideal. Spinners are likely to get an advantage after the initial overs. However, it will be difficult to bowl under lights as the dew might play a role towards the fag end.

ENG vs NZ, Probable Playing XIs for ODI World Cup 2023, Match 1st

England

Dawid Malan is in remarkable form at the moment and hence, can prove to be crucial for the team in the opening game. However, in the absence of Jason Roy, he might have to open alongside Jonny Bairstow. Sam Curran meanwhile may have to sit out to make room for Chris Woakes.

England’s predicted XI:

Dawid Malan, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler (c & wk), Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Reece Topley, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood

New Zealand

New Zealand might confirm their playing XI on the morning of October 5. Since Kane Williamson and Tim Southee are still under observation, the team might take their own sweet time. If they eventually miss out, Will Young and Matt Henry will likely replace them.

New Zealand’s predicted XI:

Devon Conway, Will Young, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Trent Boult, Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson

Also Check: ENG vs NZ Dream11 Team

ENG vs NZ Head-to-Head in ODIs

ENG vs NZ Broadcast Details: