NZ vs AUS Match Preview
You can look forward to an entertaining fixture between two of the top teams in Test cricket. The trans-Tasman rivals frequently put up great contests, but New Zealand will know they have not beaten the Aussies in at least their last five Test meetings.
The Kiwis have homeground advantage this time, but the Australians are good travellers. Pat Cummins and Tim Southee are both bowling captains, so the toss is sure to be an interesting one. Recent Test records at this ground suggest the team to win the toss will bowl first regardless.
Kane Williamson has been in outstanding form for the Black Caps. He should be one of the first names you select when inputting your Dream11 team. Williamson will head into this series against the Aussies on the back of three Test tons against South Africa.
New Zealand won't have Trent Boult, which is somewhat of a blow to their bowling attack. But with Daryl Mitchell back and Scott Kuggeleijn in the mix, the home side's seam-bowling attack should have enough depth to trouble the Australian batters.
Steven Smith is new to opening the batting in Test cricket. It's a fresh challenge for the Austrailan kingpin, who has spent his prolific career in the middle order. Smith is well worth naming in your Dream11 team as well. He could offer plenty of value if he really gets going.
For a top spinner, look no further than Nathan Lyon. The man has been prolific for a lengthy period. He has recovered from the injury that ruled him out of the bulk of the Ashes series - and looks back to his best. Have Lyon in your Dream11 team - he's a must.
Weather Report
There is no rain forecast in Wellington across the scheduled five days for this Test series opener at the Basin Reserve. New Zealand conditions can be chilly, though, despite the lack of rain.
Pitch Report
A first-innings score of 400-plus can be considered competitive here. This is certainly among the '40 wickets' venues in world Test cricket.
Both teams should sports a pace-laden attack with one specialist spinner.
Notable stats
Kane Williamson in fine form.
Williamson's last four Test knocks have been 133 not out, 43, 118 and 109. He has so much momentum going into this series against New Zealand's old enemy.
Team News
It's probable New Zealand will give Kuggeleijn his second ever Test in the absence of Boult. Australia might play Michael Neser ahead of Josh Hazlewood.
NZ vs AUS Probable 11
NZ Playing 11
- Tom Latham (Wk)
- Will Young
- Rachin Ravindra
- Kane Williamson
- Glenn Phillips
- Mitchell Santner
- Daryl Mitchell
- Matt Henry (C)
- Tim Southee
- Neil Wagner
- Scott Kuggeleijn
AUS Playing 11
- Steven Smith
- Usman Khawaja
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Travis Head
- Mitchell Marsh
- Cameron Green
- Pat Cummins (C)
- Alex Carey (Wk)
- Mitchell Starc
- Michael Neser
- Nathan Lyon
Dream11 Prediction
It's a change of format, but Australia will likely continue their recent dominance over New Zealand with another Test match win. The Aussies recently outdid the Kiwis 3-0 in the T20I series. The visitors' bowling attack should have a big say.
Top Picks
Kane Williamson: Name the New Zealand talisman in your middle order and look forward to plenty of runs.
Pat Cummins: The reigning ICC Test Cricketer of the Year is primed for another big performance with the ball.
Steven Smith: The prolific right-hander is still finding his feet at the top of the order, but runs are not far away.
NZ vs AUS Dream11 Team 1
Keeper: Devon Conway
Batters: Steven Smith, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell
All-rounders: Mitchell Marsh, Mitchell Santner (VC), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips
Bowlers: Pat Cummins (C), Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon
