NZ vs ENG: Test series – 5 Players to watch out for
After winning nine out of their last ten Test matches, the English players will now take on New Zealand in a two-match Test series, starting February 16. Ever since Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum took over the responsibility of the Test side, the Three Lions have played an aggressive brand of cricket which eventually transformed red-ball cricket in general. They have been extremely successful in the process and would hope to repeat the same but beating New Zealand on their home turf might be a bit tricky for the side.
On the other hand, this will be Tim Southee’s first major test as the skipper of the side. Despite performing well, the team failed to clinch the series against Pakistan and thus, will aim to return to winning ways. On that note, here are five players you need to keep an eye on –
Tim Southee
Skipper Tim Southee has picked up 353 wickets in the 90 Test matches he has played in his career. He has been tremendously successful in the longest format of the game but the equation is a bit different this time around. England will come hard and Southee may find it difficult to stop England’s juggernaut.
On top of that, his long-time partner Trent Boult is not part of the squad and thus, he will have to take more responsibility with the ball.
Harry Brook
Young English batter Harry Brook has been sensational so far in Test cricket. The 23-year-old has played four Test matches, scoring 480 runs at an average of 80. In the absence of Jonny Bairstow, he is he will provide the much-needed stability that the English team needs. Thus, he can prove to be extremely vital in the series.
Joe Root
Former England skipper Joe Root has played 127 Test matches and has 10629 runs to his name in the longest format. He is England’s premiere Test batter and is an extremely vital piece of the jigsaw. When it comes to his recent form, the 32-year-old was brilliant in his last couple of matches for Dubai Capitals in the ILT20. He also looked in great shape and touch, when England took on New Zealand XI ahead of the Test series. The top-order batter smashed 77 off 69 deliveries and with that, it proves that the intention is clear that he too will play a fearless brand of cricket in Tests from now on.
Kane Williamson
The word consistency is often associated with Kane Williamson as he keeps on performing for the New Zealand side time and again. He has played 90 Test matches for the side and has 7645 runs to his name. Meanwhile, he averages 37.08 against England and that needs to improve in the coming series. Overall, he will be extremely vital for the Kiwi batting order. Just like Root, he is the pillar of New Zealand’s batting order and can be New Zealand’s game-changer in the upcoming series.
Ben Stokes
Like previously mentioned, England skipper Ben Stokes revolutionised Test cricket in recent times. He has been sensational with his decision-making as a captain and as a player, he has been clinical. With the bat, the 31-year-old has scored 5602 runs from 89 matches while picking up 193 wickets in the process.
