WTC Final: New Zealand's predicted playing XI for the clash against India

All-rounder: Kyle Jamieson

England v New Zealand: Day 4 - First Test LV= Insurance Test Series

This is where there's some doubt regarding New Zealand's possible strategy for the WTC final. Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry and Ajaz Patel are locked in a fight for one spot in the playing XI, and the outcome of this battle will determine who bats at No. 7.

But the most likely playing XI for England features Kyle Jamieson at No. 7 and Ajaz Patel as the lone spinner, meaning De Grandhomme and Henry miss out. Is Jamieson good enough to bat at No. 7? His Test batting average certainly suggests he is.

Since New Zealand already have four world-class pacers, they don't need to play either Henry or De Grandhomme, even if their batting is weakened slightly by the inclusion of Patel. The fact that the 34-year-old all-rounder didn't play in the second Test might be a sign that he isn't in the team's plans for the WTC final, although he could have been rested to preserve him for the summit clash.

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Bowlers: Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Neil Wagner, Ajaz Patel

England v New Zealand: Day 1 - Second Test LV= Insurance Test Series

Tim Southee, Trent Boult and Neil Wagner make up a fearsome pace trio in the lower order. All three bowlers are among the best in the world in Test cricket, with the left-armers having troubled the Indian batsmen in the past. Southee has a superb record in England and has plundered wickets over the two calendar years.

Patel may not have a massive role to play in Southampton, especially if the conditions are overcast. But as a left-arm spin option who can bowl consistently and act as a wicket-taker, he could produce a Moeen Ali-esque impact against Virat Kohli's side.