England has played exceptionally well in the ICC World Twenty20 heading into the match with New Zealand in Barbados today. Their only loss came against The West Indies in the group stages. However, both teams are pretty evenly matched in the betting.
England is a shoe in for the semifinals after victories over South Africa and Pakistan. New Zealand badly needs a win to reach the next stage. England wasn’t expected to make an impact heading into the tournament with little practice and not much experience at the international level. But, Craig Kieswetter, Michael Lumb and Michael Yardy have provided a spark with Eoin Morgan carrying the team. The English will be without Kevin Pietersen, who flew back to England for the birth of his child, so Lumb is a good bet for top batsman. Ravi Bopara steps in for Pietersen, but you usually can’t go wrong with Morgan. If either team reaches a first innings total of 170, it will be difficult for the opponent to catch up.
After a loss to South Africa and a one-run win over Pakistan, New Zealand needs another miracle to reach the semifinals. The Kiwi’s rely on their defense so they stand a chance if they bat first. Brendon McCullum is in great form and is reliable as New Zealand’s top batsman. A loss could still get England into the semifinals if Pakistan beats South Africa. The teams haven’t faced off in more than a year. New Zealand comes in with four runs in the last five matches. England has three wins, a no-result and a single loss. The match should be close since New Zealand has more to gain from a win, but the Kiwis haven’t hit top gear so far in the tournament.
England vs. New Zealand Match Odds
England: 3/4 William Hill
New Zealand: 11/10 Eurobet