The cricketing world braces itself for an epic battle as New Zealand squares off against Australia in the 2nd and final Test match on March 08 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch. Following a dominant performance by Australia in the first Test, the stage is set for a gripping encounter as both teams vie for supremacy.
First Test Recap: In the inaugural Test, Australia displayed their prowess, securing a resounding victory over New Zealand by a margin of 172 runs. While New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips showcased brilliance with a gritty 71 in the first innings and a remarkable five-wicket haul in Australia’s second innings, the team struggled to match the relentless onslaught of the Australians.
Battling Woes: Both teams grapple with batting inconsistencies, highlighting the urgency for top-order contributions. While Cameron Green’s majestic 174 anchored Australia’s innings, the team faces the challenge of bolstering their batting lineup beyond individual brilliance. New Zealand, led by the indomitable Kane Williamson, seeks redemption after a lackluster performance in the first Test.
Team Previews:
New Zealand Preview:
With Devon Conway sidelined due to injury and Will O’Rourke’s absence, New Zealand welcomes Ben Sears as a replacement. All eyes are on stalwarts like Kane Williamson, Glenn Phillips, and Tim Southee, who aim to spearhead the team’s resurgence.
Australia Preview:
Australia eyes consistency, banking on stalwarts like Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, and Nathan Lyon to maintain their dominance. The pace trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc remains a formidable force, poised to capitalize on favorable conditions.
Predicted Playing XI
Australia Predicted Playing 11
Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood
New Zealand Predicted Playing 11
Will Young, Tom Latham, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Ben Sears
Click here for team previews, Dream11 Prediction, betting tips, latest odds, and Today match prediction
Australia Test Stats and History
Total Match Played = 865
Won = 413
Lost = 231
Draw = 218
Tie = 2
New Zealand Test Stats and History
Total Match Played = 469
Won = 115
Lost = 184
Draw = 170
Australia vs New Zealand Head To Head Stats
Total Match Played = 61
Australia Won = 35
New Zealand Won = 8
Draw = 18
Match Details and Streaming:
The highly anticipated clash will commence at 3:30 AM IST at Hagley Oval, Christchurch. Fans can catch the action live on TNT Sports, TVNZ, Amazon Prime Video, and Discovery+.
Toss and Pitch Analysis:
With conditions favoring batting for the initial three days, winning the toss becomes crucial, with the preference to bat first. However, the pitch is expected to provide ample assistance to bowlers throughout the match, particularly aiding swing in the initial stages and favoring spinners on days four and five.
Weather Forecast:
While the weather remains clear for the first two days, anticipation looms with predicted rain during the final three days of the test match, adding an element of unpredictability to the proceedings.
Winning Prediction
Australia emerges as the frontrunner, backed by their formidable track record and potent bowling attack. With a 2-0 win predicted for Australia, the team boasts a compelling case for victory, further solidifying their dominance over New Zealand.
Prediction: Australia Will Win
As cricket aficionados await this titanic clash, the Hagley Oval is set to witness an enthralling spectacle of skill and strategy in the ultimate showdown between New Zealand and Australia.