England vs New Zealand Prediction: Who Will Win ENG vs NZ 1st ODI Match on 26th October 2025?
England vs New Zealand prediction: The first ODI between England and New Zealand promises to be a captivating battle as both teams begin their white-ball campaign at the scenic Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The match is scheduled for Sunday, 26th October 2025, with both sides eager to start the three-match series on a winning note.
As per our England vs New Zealand prediction, the visitors hold a clear upper hand owing to their explosive batting lineup and recent dominance over the Kiwis. England has won three of their last four ODIs against New Zealand, displaying superior adaptability and depth.
On the other hand, New Zealand is under pressure following their T20I series loss and must regroup quickly to challenge England’s momentum. England’s firepower through the likes of Buttler, Root, and Brook will be crucial, while New Zealand’s hopes will rely heavily on Williamson and Conway’s consistency. Bay Oval’s balanced pitch promises a competitive contest between bat and ball.
Match Details
| Match | ENG vs NZ, 1st ODI, England Tour of New Zealand 2025 |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday, October 26th, 2025 |
| Time | 6:30 AM IST |
| Venue | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui |
| Live Streaming | FanCode, Amazon Prime Video |
New Zealand Team Preview
Mitchell Santner’s men enter this ODI series after a disappointing T20I defeat, eager to bounce back in front of their home fans. While New Zealand’s recent ODI form has been decent, they face a huge test against England’s world-class lineup. Santner will look to inspire his team through a disciplined bowling performance and calm leadership.
The batting responsibility will lie on the shoulders of Will Young and Rachin Ravindra, who must provide a solid start against England’s pace attack. The experience of Kane Williamson in the middle order remains vital, while Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell will play key roles in stabilizing the innings. Lower-order contributions from Tom Latham, Michael Bracewell, and Mitchell Santner will be essential to post or chase a competitive total.
Bowling remains New Zealand’s concern. Kyle Jamieson and Jacob Duffy need early breakthroughs, while Santner and Nathan Smith must control the middle overs. The home side will rely heavily on their spin combination of Rachin Ravindra and Bracewell to contain England’s aggressive batting order.
New Zealand Predicted Playing XI:
Mitchell Santner (c), Will Young, Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Michael Bracewell, Nathan Smith, Kyle Jamieson, Jacob Duffy
England Team Preview
England, led by Harry Brook, enters the ODI series in excellent form after clinching the T20I series. Their recent dominance in white-ball cricket reflects their adaptability and strength across departments. The visitors will aim to begin this series with an emphatic win, maintaining their unbeaten streak in New Zealand since 2023.
Ben Duckett and Jamie Smith form a promising opening duo capable of setting an attacking tone early. The experience of Joe Root adds balance and stability to the middle order, while Harry Brook and Jos Buttler will provide explosive finishes. England’s lower middle order, including Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, and Liam Dawson, offers both batting depth and bowling variety.
Bowling-wise, England remains formidable despite resting Jofra Archer. Luke Wood and Brydon Carse will spearhead the pace attack, supported by Sam Curran’s swing and control. Adil Rashid will play a crucial role in the middle overs with his variations, while Liam Dawson and Jacob Bethell will provide spin support. England’s overall balance makes them the favourites to draw first blood.
England Predicted Playing XI:
Harry Brook (c), Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith, Joe Root, Jos Buttler (wk), Jamie Overton, Brydon Carse, Sam Curran, Adil Rashid, Liam Dawson, Luke Wood
England vs New Zealand Today’s Fantasy Prediction – 26th October
| Player | Role | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Jos Buttler (C) | Wicketkeeper | ENG |
| Joe Root (VC) | Batter | ENG |
| Harry Brook | Batter | ENG |
| Ben Duckett | Batter | ENG |
| Kane Williamson | Batter | NZ |
| Rachin Ravindra | All-rounder | NZ |
| Sam Curran | All-rounder | ENG |
| Mitchell Santner | All-rounder | NZ |
| Adil Rashid | Bowler | ENG |
| Kyle Jamieson | Bowler | NZ |
| Luke Wood | Bowler | ENG |
Captain & Vice-Captain Suggestions:
- Captain: Jos Buttler
- Vice-Captain: Joe Root
Players to Avoid:
- Nathan Smith – inconsistent bowling form
- Jamie Overton – limited ODI experience in New Zealand conditions
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
England enters the match as clear favourites. Their squad is more balanced and boasts incredible batting depth, capable of handling any situation. The presence of seasoned campaigners like Joe Root and Jos Buttler, along with power hitters such as Harry Brook and Sam Curran, gives England an edge in both departments. Moreover, England’s bowlers, led by Adil Rashid, are well-suited to exploit New Zealand’s middle-order vulnerabilities.
New Zealand, on the other hand, has shown inconsistency, particularly in chasing big totals. Their bowling lacks the penetration needed to restrict England’s aggressive lineup. The English team’s recent form and adaptability across conditions make them the stronger side, and their aggressive intent could decide the outcome of the opening match.
England ODI History
England has played 818 ODIs, winning 407 and losing 372. They are renowned for their attacking style and hold one of the strongest batting lineups in modern ODI cricket.
New Zealand ODI History
New Zealand has played 842 ODIs, winning 390 and losing 402. Known for their resilience and team spirit, they remain consistent performers in world cricket despite periodic rebuilding phases.
Head-to-Head Record
| Matches | England Won | New Zealand Won | No Result | Tied |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 96 | 45 | 45 | 4 | 2 |
At Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui:
Matches Played – 1 | England Won – 1 | New Zealand Won – 0
Both sides are evenly matched historically, but England’s recent form and dominance in New Zealand tilt the odds in their favour.
Also Check: England vs New Zealand Head to Head in ODI
Pitch Report
The Bay Oval pitch is generally batting-friendly with some early seam movement. Spinners get grip in the second innings. A score of 280+ is competitive, and chasing has been easier under lights.
Weather Report
Mount Maunganui will witness clear skies with mild wind and temperatures around 22°C. No rain is expected, ensuring a full 50-over contest.
Broadcast Details
- Live Streaming: FanCode, Amazon Prime Video
- TV Broadcast (India): Sony Sports Network
Toss Prediction
Teams prefer bowling first due to dew and chasing advantage. Our toss prediction: New Zealand to win the toss and bowl first.
Match Prediction
England looks too strong in all departments. Their superior batting lineup, balanced bowling unit, and confidence from the T20I series make them firm favourites.
Our Winner Prediction: England will win the match.
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
FAQ – ENG vs NZ 1st ODI
Q1: When will the England vs New Zealand 1st ODI take place?
The match will be played on Sunday, 26th October 2025, at 6:30 AM IST.
Q2: Where will the ENG vs NZ 1st ODI be played?
The game will be hosted at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui.
Q3: Which platform will stream the England vs New Zealand ODI live?
The match will be streamed live on FanCode and Amazon Prime Video.
Q4: Who has won more head-to-head ODIs?
Both teams are tied with 45 wins each from 96 encounters.
Q5: What is the pitch condition at Bay Oval?
The pitch favours batting early and assists spinners later in the innings.
Q6: Who are the best fantasy picks for the ENG vs NZ match?
Jos Buttler, Joe Root, and Sam Curran are top fantasy selections.
Q7: Who should be captain and vice-captain in fantasy team?
Jos Buttler (C) and Joe Root (VC) are ideal choices.
Q8: Which team is favourite to win today’s ODI?
England are favourites due to superior form, power-hitting depth, and bowling balance.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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