England v New Zealand First ODI: Prediction & Best Bets

After the T20I series ended in a stalemate, England and New Zealand square off in a four-match ODI series in preparation for the upcoming Cricket World Cup. The first ODI of the series will take place at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on Friday, with the home side coming in as favourites at 1.47. We have prepared our best bet for this encounter.

Sophia Gardens is one of the toughest venues to bat on in England, with all types of bowlers getting a good amount of help. The long boundaries also help bowlers.

Jonny Bairstow

Jonny Bairstow is perhaps one of the first names on the England playing XI and as he looks to get into rhythm ahead of the World Cup, he would look to maximise his recent form. He has scored at least 73 in four of his last seven international innings. Back him to be the hosts’ top batter at 4.00.

Trent Boult

Trent Boult’s exceptional performance in Major League Cricket showcased his prowess as a left-arm seamer. With his impressive ODI record, I’m backing him to be the Kiwi’s top bowler at 4.00.

Mark Wood

Mark Wood’s exceptional pace and skill set make him a potential match-winner. With the venue favouring bowlers, he’s well-placed to capitalize on the conditions. Back him to be the player of the match at healthy odds of 15.00.

Stats

The average first innings score from 30 ODIs here reads 220, with the team batting second winning 18 games.

Eight of the last ten List A/ODI games in Cardiff were won chasing.

England have only lost three of their 15 completed ODIs at this venue, all three coming against sub-continent sides.

Jos Buttler in Cardiff ODIs: five 50s from eight innings at 7.95rpo.

His battle against Tim Southee could be one for the number of enthusiasts. Southee conceded 8.63rpo against Jos Buttler in ODIs (3/82).

Matt Henry to Joe Root in ODI/T20I: 0/77 from 91 balls.

New Zealand haven’t won an away ODI match against England since June 2015, losing four and tying one.

Prediction

Looking at the recent head-to-head record between these two teams, England hold an edge with seven outright victories in the last 10 games and two losses. Back to the present, England have a better batting unit, which should propel them in this game.