New Zealand vs England Test Preview

England kick off their New Zealand Test Series on Wednesday as Brendon McCullum’s side travel to Christchurch in the first game of three on his home nation’s soil. The former Black Caps captain will hope to steer his side to victory after consecutive defeats to Pakistan back in October.

With England nowhere near their best in Asia, they will hope to turn this form around before they take on some more difficult fixtures this summer. Here at Engage we take a look at what to expect in New Zealand and what it could mean for the visit of India in 2025.

A series defeat for England in Pakistan raised questions on the quality of an England side who were spun to defeat in Asia. Pakistani spinners Norman Ali and Sajid Khan took 19 of the 20 England wickets in the final match of the series to complete a 2-1 series win, as a disappointing collapse saw England bowled out for 112.

England began the series in dominant style winning by an innings and 47 runs having put on an astonishing 823 runs in a single innings. Harry Brook and Joe Root made 579 between them in what was a magnificent display. However, England couldn’t repeat this thumping victory in the following games, ultimately leading to their downfall. If they are to travel to New Zealand with any chance of a result, they will certainly have to improve.

New Zealand vs England Test Series

Can England turn their fortunes around in New Zealand? New Zealand go into this one with their ‘tails up’. A convincing victory on their tour of India saw the Black Caps come away 3-0 series winners, and they will certainly be keen to do the same to their visitors. England will travel to Christchurch, Wellington and Hamilton as part of their tour in the hope they can cause an upset.

If England can set up well, there is no reason why they can’t claim victory in New Zealand. England make three changes from the team that lost to Pakistan. Jacob Bethell will make his test debut while Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse are introduced into the Eleven. Jamie Smith, Rehan Ahmed and Jack Leach are all left out Down Under with McCullum opting for pace bowling rather than spin. Meanwhile, Harry Brook’s impressive ‘triple-century’ in Pakistan sees him retain his place in the team.

With McCullum and Stokes hoping pace is the answer to their problems, they will be hoping New Zealand are unable to cope. With that said, it was spin-bowler Ravindra Jadeja who caused trouble for the Black Caps against India last time out taking 10 wickets in the final test. Should England have persisted with spin? Or will conditions be different on New Zealand soil?

If England are to beat New Zealand it will certainly bode them well for their future fixtures. The hosts will be seeking vengeance for their defeat to Pakistan with New Zealand expected to bear the brunt of their fury.

With both sides gunning for a result to end 2024 on a high, it’s hard to say who will come out on top. With conditions in New Zealand’s favour, they may go into this series as the favourites, but only just. If Ben Stokes can get his England side fired up, then they will be ruthless against any sides lacking their ‘A game’.

England vs India Test Series 2025

If you fancy watching Ben Stokes and his side live on English soil, why not check out the England vs India 2025 Test Series? Taking place across England at venues such as Edgbaston, Headingley and of course The Home of Cricket, come and watch the cricket with Engage Hospitality.

Engage are offering some wonderful packages for you to enjoy all of the action at Lord’s, Headingley, Edgbaston, the Kia Oval and Emirates Old Trafford. Experience hospitality like no other with magnificent experiences including luxury seating, talks from cricketing legends, beautiful food, afternoon tea and more from our ICON facilities!

Support England next year from the best seats in the house as they prepare for the 2025/26 Ashes Series in Australia!

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