New Zealand vs England: Key battles to watch out for
England and New Zealand face each other in the final of the ICC World Cup 2019 at Lord's on Sunday. Both these nations are looking to win their first World Cup. Several star players will look to have an influence in this grand finale. England enter as the favorites and here are the key battles to watch out for.
England pacers vs Kiwi opening batsmen
England opening pacers Chris Woakes and Jofra Archer have a combined 32 wickets together in 10 games. They are exceptional as a pair and will target the struggling Martin Guptill and Henry Nicholls. Both Woakes and Archer can start off on a strong note and get those key wickets to give England the edge. Guptill and Nicholls will have to be at their best.
Henry-Boult combo against England's top three
Matt Henry and Trent Boult were commanding against India's top order in the semis. The two speedsters like their English counterparts can be on the money straightaway. They decimated a star-studded Indian top order and the question here is can these two stop a resurgent English top three? England's top order batsmen are in form and can attack from the word go.
Williamson vs Morgan: Who will be a better captain?
Captaincy of both Morgan'>Eoin Morgan and Kane Williamson has been terrific throughout the tournament. Williamson's calm and composed nature could work well once again. Morgan has the trust and faith intact and the players have risen under his leadership in ODIs. Things could get tight here and the skipper with a better hold of the situation will trump the other.
Rashid, Santner's application in middle overs a key factor
Adil Rashid will look to be influential once again in the middle phase with his leg-spin. He can get those key scalps. Tying down Ross Taylor could work well. Also, his battle against Williamson will be intense. Meanwhile, Mitchell Santner hardly gives anything away. His application against a free-flowing England batting can determine the tie. Santner will have some serious work tomorrow.
An intense battle on the cards at Lord's
The match is set to start at 3:00 PM IST. England go into the match as the favorites. They will be aiming to keep New Zealand under the mat. Morgan's side has the momentum. Kiwis will be out to spoil English party.
