England vs New Zealand: New Zealand keen to bounce back at Leeds

Date – 24th May 2013Time – 3:30 pm (IST)

After their dismal show in New Zealand, Alastair Cook would have been satisfied with their performance at Lord’s. James Anderson and Stuart Broad led the pace-attack and took England to a massive victory against the mediocre New Zealand side. New Zealand, on the other hand, would be disappointed with the result, after having England in control for the first three days.

But the top order hasn’t fired for England and consequently, the middle order has been burdened to get the runs. Clearly, the absence of Kevin Pietersen was felt by England. The only recognised batsman in the middle order was Jonny Bairstow. He was able to combat the swing on day one and, therefore, it made the job easier for James Anderson and Stuart Broad. The fielding was outstanding from England as they didn’t drop even a single catch. Anderson and Broad were exceptional with the ball as they completely out-played New Zealand. But it’s the top order that needs to get into the groove to shield the middle order.

New Zealand, on the other hand, would be disappointed with their performance at Lord’s. New Zealand’s bowlers exploited the conditions to perfection, but their batting collapse was the major reason for the defeat. They also have a few injury concerns as Martin has been ruled out of the second Test due to an injury. Daniel Vettori is expected to return for New Zealand after a gap of 10 months. So, New Zealand looks an unsettled side for second Test. Nevertheless, Vettori brings in the much needed experience in the spinning department as he has played a lot of Cricket in England. If the New Zealand batsmen can deliver, then it should be a great contest at Leeds.

Pitch and Conditions

The wicket is expected to be dry and probably will assist spinners from the third day. The weather condition at Leeds is good and there is no possibility of rain. So, a run-feast is expected in the second Test at Headingly. Since the wicket may aid spinners from day three, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to bat first.

Team news

England are likely to stick with the same combination that won them at Lord’s. But New Zealand have been forced to make a change as Vettori may replace the injured Martin. More about team news here - https://www.sportskeeda.com/2013/05/21/england-name-unchanged-squad-for-second-test

Players to watch

Ian Bell has played quite a fabulous innings at Headingly. He has also been the consistent performer for England at number four. He has to take the responsibility and play a big innings for England as the middle order is inexperienced. WHile the wicket is expected to be dry, England have to score a minimum of 500 runs so that Graeme Swann’s ehas some runs to bowl with. If Ian Bell can play a big innings, then England will certainly have their noses ahead.

Ross Taylor batted brilliantly in first Test at Lord’s. He scored at a brisk rate, but couldn’t convert his start into a meaningful innings. Since the wicket is expected to favour batsmen at Leeds, Ross Taylor has another opportunity to play a magical innings for his side. If he can replicate his form, then it should be a great contest at Leeds.