England vs New Zealand, 1st ODI

The opening ODI of England's 2025 tour to New Zealand at Bay Oval is set to be a fascinating clash between two white-ball powerhouses. England, under their aggressive brand of cricket, have enjoyed a solid run in bilateral ODIs, with consistent performances from the likes of Jos Buttler and Joe Root. Their recent form has seen them win 3 of their last 5 ODIs, blending youth and experience seamlessly. New Zealand, playing at home, are never to be underestimated, especially with experienced campaigners like Kane Williamson and Trent Boult in their ranks. The Black Caps have the advantage of familiar conditions and a well-balanced XI, but have stumbled slightly in recent matches with 2 wins out of their last 5. Historically, England hold a slight edge in ODIs, winning close head-to-head battles, but New Zealand's home record – particularly at coastal venues like Bay Oval – is formidable. Key match-ups will revolve around England's top order handling Boult's swing, and how New Zealand's middle order copes with Mark Wood's pace. The strategy for both sides will likely involve utilizing their swing bowlers early, while maximizing the middle overs with aggressive batting. Recent player form and squad fitness may nudge the odds slightly towards the hosts, but England’s explosive batting can alter the game swiftly.

AI suggested match winner

England: 52%, New Zealand: 48%

If England bat first on a typical Bay Oval wicket, expect them to post 285–305 with their aggressive top order and deep batting. Should New Zealand set the pace, 270–290 appears likely, given their familiarity with local conditions but facing world-class English seamers. Conditions favour a par score around 290.

Bay Oval is renowned for true bounce and good carry, aiding batsmen early and allowing fast scoring. The average first-innings score is around 278, but totals above 300 are frequent in day games. Teams chasing have a slightly better record, winning 54% of matches. Conditions are expected sunny, with minimal wind and early swing likely. Best Performance: For England, Joe Root’s 102* remains a highlight here; for New Zealand, Martin Guptill’s 138 is memorable. Top all-time bowler on this ground from these teams: Trent Boult, who has claimed 10 wickets in just 4 ODIs at Bay Oval.

Total ODIs	England Wins	New Zealand Wins
95	42	43

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 ODIs
England	W, L, W, W, L
New Zealand	L, L, W, L, W

Jos Buttler: England’s captain is in sublime touch, averaging 60+ in his last 10 ODIs, often anchoring key chases. Joe Root: A consistent performer at number three, Root has 3 half-centuries in his previous 5 ODI innings. Mark Wood: His extreme pace and ability to bowl at the death make him dangerous; picked 8 wickets in his last 5 games. Kane Williamson: Returning to peak form, Williamson averages 47 at home recently and is key stabilizer in the New Zealand middle order. Trent Boult: Exceptional with the new ball, Boult’s home record is stellar, striking early in almost every outing at Bay Oval. Rachin Ravindra: Has impressed with both bat and ball in the last year, averaging 42 and picking up 7 wickets in his last 6 ODIs.