Cricket Betting: New Zealand vs England ODI Series Preview
After a disappointing T20 Tri-series where both of them were walloped by Australia, New Zealand and England get ready for the five-match ODI leg of England’s tour to the antipodes. This is the strongest suit of the visitors who have come here after thrashing the Aussies 4-1 in their own den. Not that the Kiwis are any easy meat – as was shown in consecutive series wins over Pakistan and West Indies.
There’s so much going on in cricket at the moment as England and New Zealand prepare to face off while Australia are on the verge of a highly anticipated series with South Afrcia. Be sure to check out our cricket tips page to stay up to date with all of the action.
New Zealand – can they continue their winning run at home?
The Kiwis are probably the most affable side in international cricket. It is easy to see why they are tough to beat at home – conditions suit them, they like being underdogs, and they revel in team play. This is the perfect recipe for winning!
They have shown in recent times that most of their bases are covered. While Martin Guptill and Colin Munro don the role of dashers, Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor play sheet anchors.
With the ball, the duo of Tim Southee and Trent Boult once again join forces. It would be interesting to see how Williamson would use his two spinners – Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi.
England – time to extend their pristine form
England’s success in the ODIs in recent times has been largely due to their aggressive tactics. Alex Hales, Jason Roy, and Jonny Bairstow give them an aggressive outlook at the top of the order while Joe Root works as a glue for the side, helping stitch big scores with his calm presence.
It is the presence of all-rounders that gives this side an advantage. Ben Stokes comes back from his oblivion while Chris Woakes and Moeen Ali will continue to give the edge for Morgan. With a fairly balanced side at his disposal, it is easy to see why England start as favourites!
Stats
England have won their last five bilateral ODI series while New Zealand have their last two.
At home, the Kiwis have won eight of their last nine ODI series played, with a loss against South Africa being the exception.
New Zealand won their last eight ODIs, all at home. England won eight of their last nine completed ODIs.
Key players
The series will witness some of the biggest hitters in ODI cricket, but it will also be a clash of classic batting with Williamson and Root holding forte for their sides. Keep an eye on their calm presence in the middle and their silken touch.
Picks
England start as heavy favourites to win the series and at odds of $1.57 (Sportsbet), they look good to continue their red-hot streak.
TIP: England to win the series – $1.57 at Sportsbet
Root is likely to be the top batsman for the visitors at odds of $3.25 (Sportsbet) while Martin Guptill at odds of $3.50 (Sportsbet) looks set to top the charts for the hosts.
TIP: Root to be the top English run scorer – $3.25 at Sportsbet