After settling for a draw in the opening Test at Lord’s, England and New Zealand will battle it out with the series on the line in the second Test at Edgbaston from today.
The hosts had to battle hard on the final day of the opening Test at Lord’s, with a well-disciplined batting performance earning them a draw.
Opener Dom Sibley impressed with a composed knock of 60 not out on the final day while his opening partner Rory Burns was the star of the show in their first innings, scoring 132.
England though will miss the services of pacer Ollie Robinson, who picked up seven wickets in the match, due to his suspension. Craig Overton could get the nod in his place in the second Test.
New Zealand have been dealt a significant blow, however, with it emerging on the eve of the match that Captain Kane Williamson would miss the Test as he nursed an ‘irritated left-elbow.’
The decision to rest him, Coach Gary Stead said, “has been made very much with the ICC World Test Championship Final at Southampton in mind and we are confident he will be ready for that match.”
Despite the big loss, New Zealand will still be hopeful of victory. They pushed hard to clinch a victory in the first Test but will be satisfied with their overall performance. Opener Devon Conway had a dream start to his Test career with a scintillating double ton in the first innings.
Experienced pacer Tim Southee also showcased his skills, picking up seven wickets in the match, including a six-wicket haul in the first innings.
The Kiwis could be bolstered by the return of paceman Trent Boult, who could feature at Edgbaston due to a relaxation in the quarantine rules in the UK.
(ICC)
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