Match Timing: 05 October 2023 14:00
Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, India
England, the reigning champions of the white ball format, are set to begin the quest to defend their 50-over World Cup title against New Zealand, the team they faced in the 2019 final. Despite being an aging side, England, led by Jos Buttler, are formidable contenders, having clinched the T20 World Cup recently. New Zealand, on the other hand, faces challenges due to injuries, with captain Kane Williamson and senior pacer Tim Southee recovering from surgeries.
The match will be played on the batting-friendly Ahmedabad pitch, which favors England's aggressive batting lineup, strengthened further by Ben Stokes' return from retirement. With explosive players like Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, and Harry Brook, alongside experienced names like Joe Root, Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow, England boasts one of the longest batting orders. Their IPL exposure adds to their adaptability in different conditions.
England's bowling attack, featuring pacers like Mark Wood and leg-spinner Adil Rashid, gives them an edge, although they miss the services of leading wicket-taker of the last edition Jofra Archer, who is on a comeback trail. New Zealand, missing key players, relies on Daryl Mitchell, Devon Conway, and Tom Latham, although Latham's recent form raises concerns. Hard hitters like James Neesham and Glenn Phillips, along with in-form batsman Will Young, provide some strength
While England seems stronger on paper, past records suggest that matches between England and New Zealand are unpredictable, making the outcome uncertain despite England's recent series win.
Injury update
Ben Stokes is a doubtful starter for England. Kane Williamson and Tim Southee will miss the first game for New Zealand
Probable Playing XI
England:
Jonny Bairstow
Dawid Malan
Joe Root
Ben Stokes/ Harry Brook
Jos Buttler(Captain & Wicket-Keeper)
Liam Livingstone
Moeen Ali
Sam Curran
Chris Woakes
Adil Rashid
Mark Wood
New Zealand
Devon Conway
Will Young
Mark Chapman/James Neesham
Daryl Mitchell
Tom Latham(Captain & Wicket-Keeper)
Glenn Phillips
Mitchell Santner
Matt Henry
Ish Sodhi
Trent Boult
Lockie Ferguson
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Fantasy XI
Jonny Bairstow(captain)
Devon Conway(vice-captain)
Joe Root
Daryl Mitchell
Jos Buttler
Liam Livingstone
Moeen Ali
Lockie Ferguson
Adil Rashid
Trent Boult
Mark Wood
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