England will be hoping to get their home record on track when they come up
against the New Zealand test cricket team this coming Thursday 15th of
May 2008 at the Lords. England lost their last home series against
India 1-0 last year and with confidence seeping through the side after their
exploits back in New Zealand couple of months back, they will go into the first
test match as firm favourites.
Click for Live Score Card of England vs New Zealand
England come into this clash on a wave of optimism as they rolled over traditional
rivals New Zealand at their home turf, coming back from 1-0 down to wrap up
the series 2-1. In a commendable team effort, the likes of Ryan Sidebottom
and James Anderson really stood up to the task to hand them a fine victory.
England will go in this clash with one of their strongest sides in recent years
with the return to fitness of Matthew Hoggard. The bowling attack wears
a menacing look with the likes of Hoggard, Sidebottom and Anderson well complemented
by spinner Monty Panesar. The off spinner of Indian decent has been brilliant
in the past few years and will be take a lead in the chase for being the best
left arm spinner around ahead of Daniel Vettori. The form of Phil Mustard has
given a much needed stability to the batting line up that has struggled in recent
years due to a lack of depth. Andrew Strauss makes a comeback while Andrew Flintoff
is still out of reckoning due to a knee injury. However, Paul Collingwood is
back after taking painkillers to subdue an injury and much will be expected
from the all rounder in the upcoming fixture.
On the other hand, New Zealand cricket is on the crossroads as they attempt
the generation jump after the retirement of their major superstars. The likes
of Stephen Fleming, Craig McMillan , Nathan Astle, Chris Cairns and Shane
Bond who were regulars veterans for the national side have all retired and their
absence has put a big blot on New Zealand's current record. The Black Caps have
lost to both South Africa and England in their last few matches and things certainly
are looking dim for the young Kiwi side. However, there is still an abundance
of talent in the young side and they will not be lacking in motivation as they
make the step up to play at Lords. New Zealand will have the likes of Ross Taylor,
Daniel Vettori, Jacob Oram and Brendon Mcculum back for this clash after their
stint in the Indian Premier League and the intense workout under hot conditions
in India will leave them in good fettle for this clash. New Zealand last won
a major series against a top test nation two years ago and will be hoping to
take the lead against England with a win in the first test starting this Thursday
at the Mecca of test cricket, Lords.
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