England takes on New Zealand, for the 1st Test of a two-match series to be played at Lord’s in London between 2 and 6 June 2021. This will be the Kiwi’s preparatory series heading into the World Test Championship to get accustomed to the English playing conditions. For England, this is the chance to propel their chances for the next WTC finals.
Looking to make their mark, Today we take a look at the top 5 English players expected to perform in the upcoming series.
Joe Root
One part of the top three, Joe Root has been the most successful batsman for England in the longest format of the game. Hitting an amazing double century against India on his 100th Test shows his rich vein of form and can cause serious dents in New Zealand’s chances of winning the game.
Having played 103 Test matches, He has scored 8617 runs at an average of 49.24 including 20 centuries and 49 half-centuries. If afforded time and space, Joe Root can dictate how the game plays out.
Zak Crawley
The young right-handed batsman has come into the International cricketing fold recently and has opened the innings for England on various occasions. Making his debut against the Kiwis in 2019, the 23-year-old showed immense promise and potential, Being a particularly adept player against fast bowling, especially as he pulls and cuts, Zak Crawley has never ceased to impress.
Having played 12 matches so far, he has scored at an average of 34.15 including 1 century and 4 half-centuries. He will be keen to make a name for himself with this series.
James Anderson
The veteran bowler had long proved himself as the most skillful and potent bowler of the English bowling lineup. Perhaps the best swing bowler at the present moment, James Anderson’s threat level increases leaps and bounds in home conditions. With ideal wickets and conditions for pace bowling, with pace and ability to swing the ball both ways, the kiwi batsman will be in his sights.
Playing 160 Test matches over the years, the English paceman has taken 614 wickets including 30 5fers and three 10 wicket hauls. With the finish line drawing near soon, the paceman will be on the lookout to finish with a bang.
Mark Wood
Bowling at terrifying speeds, Mark wood is 6ft tall and is much of a hit-the-deck bowler. Able to generate movement with the ball, The English paceman usually beats the batsman with his pace. The right-arm quick can generate good speeds and bowl consistently at 140kph or above which can trouble any batsman in the world.
Having played 18 Test matches, he has picked up 53 wickets including 1 four-wicket haul and 2 five-wicket hauls. With home conditions suiting his trade and skills, the Kiwi batsman will be in for some tough questions.
Jack Leach
A classical left-arm spinner, Jack leach is England's leading spin bowler. Asked to lead the bowling attack in India’s spinning conditions. The 29-year-old didn't fail to impress and held his own among the skillful Indian spinners. With the ability to bowl consistent lines and lengths, his tall frame extracts bounce.
The 29-year old has represented England on 16 occasions in his career, picking up 62 wickets including 6 four-wicket hauls and 2 five-wicket hauls. Jack Leach will pose a different challenge in these pace celebrated pitches.
With the series set to begin soon, the English players will be keen to make early inroads and pave their way to the top of the league. Let us know your comments on what you make of our selections and who you think will be England's most impactful players. Also, do read our picks on the top 5 New Zealand players to watch out for in the upcoming 2-match Test series.
