Table of Contents
After an exciting T20I series between England and New Zealand ending at 2-2, attention now shifts to the ODI leg, starting on Friday (September 8) in Cardiff.
The upcoming four-match series serves as crucial preparation for the ODI World Cup 2023. While, England will be happy to see Ben Stokes donning the ODI jersey once again, New Zealand rejoices the return of their premier pacer Trent Boult. However, they will miss the services of their regular skipper Kane Williamson, who is recovering from his knee injury.
ODI Stats and Records at Sophia Gardens:
- Total matches played: 30
- Matches won batting first: 8
- Matches won bowling first: 18
- Average first innings scores: 220
- Average second innings scores: 205
- Highest total recorded: 386/6 (50 Ov) by England against Bangladesh
- Lowest total recorded: 125/10 (34.1 Ov) by Afghanistan against South Africa
- Highest score chased: 304/6 (48.2 Ov) by Pakistan against England
- Lowest score defended: 169/10 (23.3 Ov) by England against New Zealand
Sophia Gardens Pitch Report:
The Sophia Gardens pitch stands out as one of England’s most competitive surfaces. It’s a track that has been particularly favoured by fast bowlers, offering ample bounce and significant movement with the new ball. However, once the batters settle in, they tend to relish the opportunity to unleash powerful shots.
Also READ: ENG vs NZ 2023, ODI series: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and Where to Watch in India, Australia, USA, UK & other countries
In terms of the toss, the team captain who wins it is inclined to opt for fielding first. This strategic choice is backed by historical data, as out of the 29 ODIs played at this venue, teams that have chased a target have emerged victorious in 17 of those matches.
Cardiff Weather Report:
Cardiff is expected to encounter partly cloudy weather conditions with a slight 20% chance of rainfall. The day is predicted to offer a pleasant experience, as the maximum temperature is set to reach 26 degrees Celsius, ensuring comfort for both players and spectators. Humidity levels are estimated to be around 77%, and the wind is projected to blow at a gentle pace of 6 kilometres per hour.
Also READ: Harry Brook added to England squad for New Zealand ODIs; Zak Crawley named captain for Ireland series
ENG vs NZ Probable Playing XIs for 1st ODI:
England: Jonny Bairstow (wk), Jason Roy, Joe Root, Moeen Ali, Liam Livingstone, Jos Buttler (c), Ben Stokes, Sam Curran, Reece Topley, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood
New Zealand: Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Tom Latham (c & wk), Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Kyle Jamieson, Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Southee, Trent Boult
