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New Zealand
Australia
As the spotlight shifts from the fast-paced T20 cricket to the timeless elegance of Test cricket, cricket fans brace themselves for an exhilarating showdown between New Zealand and Australia in the first Test of the two-match series, set to unfold in Wellington.Β
Following Australia's triumph in the recent limited-overs clashes, the stage is now set for a gripping contest as the Trans-Tasman rivals lock horns to assert their dominance in the prestigious World Test Championship 2025.
Intriguingly, history tilts heavily in favour of the Kangaroos, with the visitors emerging victorious in all 5 of their previous five Test encounters against the Kiwis, leaving no room for drawn matches.Β
However, amidst this dominance, New Zealand finds itself perched atop the WTC points table, flaunting a commendable position, while Australia trails closely behind in third place.Β
Considering the recent dominance, Australia appears slightly favoured in this Test. But given the potential for twists and turns, itβs better to consider a safer betting approach.
The betting tip is...
Draw No Bet on Australia
66 %
34 %
New ZealandAustraliaThe New Zealand team will be bolstered by the return of key players Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell. Williamson, who was rested during the T20I series, will bring his unparalleled batting prowess to the forefront, while Mitchell's recovery from injury adds depth to the squad. Additionally, the return of Rachin Ravindra after missing the last two T20Is provides a further boost to the team's composition.
In the batting department, the formidable presence of Kane Williamson cannot be overstated, with his impressive record of 1298 runs at an astonishing average of 86.53 and a strike rate of 52.69.Β
The bowling attack will rely on the leadership of Captain Tim Southee, who has scalped 29 wickets in 10 matches at an economical rate of 2.71, along with the consistent performance of Matt Henry, who boasts 25 wickets in 6 matches with an equally impressive economy rate of 2.73.
Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Scott Kuggeleijn, Tim Southee (c), Neil Wagner, Matt Henry.
Predicted Lineup: Kane, Mitchell and Rachin will all start.
The Aussies will witness the return of Usman Khawaja, who re-enters the fray following Warner's retirement from Test cricket. With Warner's departure, the responsibility of the opening slot will now fall upon the capable shoulders of vice-captain Steve Smith.
Khawaja's return brings a wealth of experience, with the batsman boasting 855 runs in 10 matches at an impressive average of 45 and a strike rate of 41.06. Alongside him, Smith, with his consistent performances, will aim to further solidify the batting lineup, having accumulated 687 runs in 10 matches at an average of 40.41 and a strike rate of 50.88.
Starc has 43 wickets in 9 matches at an economy rate of 4.21, and Cummins has 42 wickets in 10 matches at an economy rate of 3.57, are expected to spearhead the pace attack, while Lyon's expertise as the sole spinner adds depth to the bowling arsenal. The inclusion of Boland, Hazlewood and Neser provides further options for the team, ensuring a well-rounded lineup.
Expect a full-strength Aussie side.
Predicted Lineup: Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.
Despite Australia's dominance in the previous Test encounters against the Kiwis, New Zealand's current position atop the World Test Championship standings cannot be overlooked.
With key players like Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell returning to the New Zealand squad, alongside the inclusion of Rachin Ravindra, the hosts boast a formidable lineup. Williamson's stellar batting record, coupled with the leadership of Tim Southee and Matt Henry's bowling prowess, adds depth and balance to the team.Β
On the other hand, Australia welcomes back Usman Khawaja to bolster their batting order. With a potent bowling attack led by Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon. While Australia's historical dominance may give them an edge, New Zealand's recent form and home advantage could tilt the scales in their favour. Predicting Australia to win the match.
