The Bazball era of the England Test team is well underway and the bold approach has already yielded results. The Black Caps now turn their attention toward Headingley and a chance at some redemption.
For New Zealand, it has been a difficult series with batting failures ultimately costing them the chance to win the three-match exchange.
England vs New Zealand | 23 – 27 June 2022 | Headingley, Leeds
To Win Match
England 1/1 | Draw 11/4 | New Zealand 24/10
England
England may have won both matches so far but will be concerned with the level of dependance they have on Joe Root.
Root has struck 305 runs in the series to date with no other English batman able to pass 200 as yet.
Ben Stokes and Jonny Bairstow are capable of heroics though and have pulled things out for the team as well.
Stokes is enjoying a dream first series as skipper, even if it is clear that this side has some way to go to claim to once again be the best in the world.
New Zealand
Daryl Mitchell’s runs and Trent Boult’s wickets have proven not enough for New Zealand to get the job done in the preceding scraps.
Like England, New Zealand have suffered from a capitulation problem and have also struggled to maintain their hold on the game when they have gained the upper hand.
New Zealand have played their part in making this an intriguing series and they will keep fighting with World Test Championship points on offer.
Headingley might suit Tim Southee, allowing the veteran quick to make a splash in a series where he has been anonymous.
Verdict: England 1/1
England should complete a series whitewash with their newfound killer instinct.
