Can England beat New Zealand ?

New Zealand are hot property at the moment, and on the evidence of England's struggles to assert themselves in Barbados this week,

they have every chance of catching their hosts cold when the first Test gets underway at Lord's on May 21

"Any time you play England in their own conditions it's going to be tough and obviously they'll have even more motivation

coming off a loss against West Indies,"  RossTaylor said.

"We know we'll have to be at our best to compete against them here."

The Kiwis are gonna kick some Pommie arses this summer.

www.espncricinfo.com/england-v-new-zeala...nt/story/870811.html


but it is totally different with the Duke ball swinging around in the spring.


But we've got some youngsters here, soaking up the atmosphere, and it'll be very enjoyable to come here and play."

I would personally actually favour NZ in this particular series. They have a good recent away record and have pace bowlers ideally suited for England. NZ have developed an impressive team, Bond in particular deserves all of the credit he receives for his work with the bowlers.

not going to happen.  England playing at home will be a handful.  Plus, Kiwis might be hot now but they are hot at home.  Away from home is a different story! 

Going back to the start of 2012, New Zealand, away from home, have won 2 Test series, drawn 3 and lost 3. New Zealand haven't won a Test series in England since 1999. In 16 series in England, New Zealand have won 2 series, lost 13 and drawn 1.

According to The Guardian , Brendon McCullum, Kane Williamson, Corey Anderson, Tim Southee, Trent Boult and Matt Henry are expected to arrive in England three days prior to the start of the first Test. It looks as though all six will be available for selection though how much, if any, this will hamper their preparation, will be interesting to see. Either way, it looks as though New Zealand will be at full strength.

NZ should have had a 5 test series in England.

did anyone expect any better from that bunch.