Match Details
Date: June 10, 2021
Time: 3:30 pm (IST)
Venue: Edgbaston Cricket Stadium, Birmingham
Live Ball-by-Ball Commentary: SportsTiger App
Preview:
England are all set to take on New Zealand in the second Test match of the two-match series commencing on Thursday at the Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham. While the first Test ended in a draw after no play was possible on Day 3 owing to heavy rain in London, it would be fair to say that the Kiwis looked the better side and showed better intent out of the two teams. Devon Conway was one of the star performers with the bat for the Blackcaps as he stitched a memorable ton on debut at Lord's, while Tim Southee scalped a six-wicket haul in the first innings.
England, although struggled, had their own moments of brilliance, as Rory Burns produced a fighting hundred. His opening partner Dominic Sibley also looked firm in his defence in the second innings with England managing to get a draw. In addition, Ollie Robinson was also impressive but has been suspended from international cricket after his old controversial tweets resurfaced on internet.
While the Kiwis could rest some of their pacers so that they are fresh and ready for the World Test Championship final beginning on June 18, England will look to hand opportunities to other stars in sync with their rotation policy and due to the suspension of Robinson.
Weather Report:
Pitch Report:
Analysis:
Although both Joe Root and Kane Williamson did not have the best of outings in the first Test match, they are too good players to be not given a place in the fantasy XI especially in this form of the game. Despite Williamson's average numbers in English conditions, he has been trusted with a place in the fantasy side. Meanwhile, back the players in form and so each of Rory Burns, Devon Conway and Dominic Sibley earns a pace in the side. Moreover, one can trust the experience of Ross Taylor or go with the younger options from either sides. BJ Watling is an overwhelming favourite from the wicketkeepers lot but trust James Bracey as well if there is a place in the side since he can fetch points with the gloves. Among the all-rounders and bowlers, fantasy experts would have wanted more from Mitchell Santner, maybe he can get a go here along with Tim Southee, James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Kyle Jamieson. Neil Wagner is typically a hit the deck bowler who may not be too effective in these conditions.
The pro tip is to finalise the XI after the toss since the final XI could vary.
Team 1:
Team 2:
Probable Playing XI
England:
Dominic Sibley, Rory Burns, Zak Crawley, Joe Root (c), Ollie Pope, Daniel Lawrence, James Bracey (wk), Craig Overton/James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Jack Leach, Olly Stone/ Mark Wood
New Zealand:
Devon Conway, Tom Latham, Kane Williamson (c), Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, BJ Watling (wk), Mitchell Santner/ Colin De Grandhomme, Kyle Jamieson/ Doug Bracewell, Ajaz Patel, Matt Henry/ Tim Southee, Neil Wagner/Trent Boult
Best 14
Wicketkeepers: BJ Watling, James Bracey
Batsmen: Joe Root, Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, Rory Burns, Ross Taylor
All-rounders: Mitchell Santner, Colin De Grandhomme, Craig Overton
Bowlers: Tim Southee, Mark Wood, James Andeson, Stuart Broad, Kyle Jamieson
Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are personal opinion of the author. They do not reflect the views of SportsTiger. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. SportsTiger does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.