Bazball Poised For New Zealand Examination

The English test summer is set to begin today, with England beginning a three-match series against New Zealand at Lord’s this morning.

It was a chastening winter for Ben Stokes’ side, who endured a torrid time down under in their 4-1 Ashes defeat to Australia.

And in the immediate aftermath, media and fans alike were expecting sweeping changes to the England set-up, with ECB managing director Rob Key, head coach Brendan McCullum and a clutch of first-team players all facing the axe.

But after an internal review, both Key and McCullum kept their jobs, while the squad announcement last week revealed only a small number of changes to the playing personnel.

The main batting casualty is opener Zak Crawley, who had a poor series in Australia and has been unable to pick up any kind of form with the bat during Kent’s opening handful of games in the second division of the County Championship.

His replacement is Emilio Gay, who has started the season superbly for Durham, including two centuries in his opening three outings.

That said, the 26-year-old traditionally bats at number 3, so he faces a tough test opening up against the likes of Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke, all of whom have caused England problems in the past.

Also out for England is Ollie Pope, who was dropped during the Australia series, with Jacob Bethell almost certain to continue at 3.

And there’s no place for paceman Jofra Archer, who is rested following a long IPL campaign with the Rajasthan Royals. He’s also doubtful for the second test at the Oval.

Despite those absences, England are favourites with the bookies to clinch victory in the first test. The Three Lions are around even-money to get over the line inside five days, but with rain forecast over the weekend, a draw could well be the play at 5/2.