After the semi-farcical (okay, fully-farcical) scenes during the last match-up in the NatWest series, you can almost consider this one a clean slate for both teams. It's been an interesting few matches so far and while I don't think the third fixture will be the best out of the five, there are enough interesting betting options to make this a worthwhile way to spend a day in front of the telly (or checking text updates on your mobile, it just depends on how much time you have to blow).
The encouraging comments from Vettori directed towards Brendon McCallum will do a world of good for the young man's confidence. I am predicting a strong performance from him and I can see several sixes in his future if he can deal with England's attack properly. There are rumors afloat that all-rounder Jacob Oram could also make an appearance for the Kiwis but he is more likely to feature next week.
On the England front, we've seen the return to form of Paul Collingwood who seems to be back in a proper mind-frame after some disappointing test performances as of late. I think he will have a stand-out match and if Sidebottom is fit, then I can see England beating the Kiwis, but only just.
Recommendations:
McCullum for top New Zealand run-scorer at 11-4
Andrew Strauss as England's top scorer at 5-1
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