New Zealand and England go head to head the fifth and final ODI of this series to be hosted by the Hagley Oval with the series locked at 2-2.
A thoroughly entertaining, high-scoring fourth ODI has set the stage for a sensational deciding match this weekend. New Zealand will be eager to defend their home turf and claim the series win.
England’s batsmen showed promise but couldn’t quite perform in Dunedin. It’s imperative they bounce back and justify captain Eoin Morgan’s confidence within the next few days.
New Zealand v England | Saturday, 10 March | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | 0:00
Match Betting Odds
New Zealand 23/20
Tie 35/1
England 72/100
New Zealand
The ongoing debate over selections, especially between Ish Sodhi and Lockie Ferguson, continues. While Sodhi has generally been preferred, Ferguson’s determined form after Tim Southee’s less impressive fourth game might see both in action. Tim Southee’s recent performances have been mixed, and this all-important final might test the wisdom of resting veteran players versus risking form and fitness.
New Zealand showed remarkable resilience to recover from early setbacks in Dunedin, and their collective fighting spirit will be key again. Ross Taylor’s masterful performance was a highlight, and as long as injury doesn’t sideline him, his experience along with Kane Williamson’s will be crucial to steady the middle order. Although the likes of Tom Latham and Henry Nicholls are progressing well, they still rely on the solidity provided by their seasoned teammates.
England faces a significant challenge in containing players like Colin de Grandhomme, whose explosive lower-order batting has been troublesome. Tom Curran will need to add more variation to his slower balls, and the introduction of left-arm seamer David Willey in place of Mark Wood is a tactical option that could pay off.
England
Captain Morgan highlighted that while the team has the ability to pile up big scores, the middle-order’s collapse is a concern. After strong starts from Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root, losing momentum is costly. He remains optimistic this isn’t an enduring issue, but if it happens again in Christchurch, the team’s composure and ability to close matches will definitely be scrutinised.
The English side has shown glimpses of brilliance throughout the series, and this final match is their chance to turn potential into victory. Failure to do so will raise questions about their temperament in big matches and their knack for capitalising on critical moments.
Spinners Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid will play key roles on a ground known for its relatively small boundaries but also for being tough on spinners. Historically, New Zealand has an unbeaten record in ODIs here over eight games. England’s previous game against Scotland at this venue during the 2015 World Cup saw Ali shine with bat and ball, and a repeat performance could be decisive.
Weather could be a factor, with a 70% chance of rain on the day of the match. Ideally, the captain winning the toss might want to bat first if conditions are damp, making the ball harder to handle for fielders later on.
Final Verdict: New Zealand 72/100
Although New Zealand hasn’t won as many matches as hoped in this five-game series, claiming one more victory will secure another memorable ODI series triumph at home for Kane Williamson and his squad.
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