England start their 2023 World Cup preparations with a four-match ODI series when they take on New Zealand. The T20 series ended in a 2-2 draw, who will come out on top in the ODI series? Check out our best tips, predictions and price boosts for the ODI series.
England v New Zealand ODI Cricket Betting Tips & Predictions (Friday, 12:30 BST)
Ben Stokes guided England to a comfortable 181-run victory at The Oval to take a 2-1 lead against New Zealand with one ODI match to be played.
Stokes came out of retirement a few weeks ago to put his hand up to play in the World Cup this year as England look to retain their title.
The England Test captain has major problems with his knees, but when he is in top form he doesn’t need to run. He blasted 15 fours and nine sixes as he scored 182 runs from 124 balls.
No England player has ever scored 200 runs in a ODI game, but Stokes now leads the table for England as he overtook Jason Roy at the top.
England made 368 all out off 48.1 overs with Dawid Malan scoring 96. Trent Boult was the pick of the bowlers for New Zealand with 5-51.
In reply, Liam Livingstone and Chris Woakes both claimed three wickets apiece as the Black Caps were skittled out for 187 runs.
Sometimes the result doesn’t matter as long as players hit form, but England will be full of confidence for the way dismantled an experienced New Zealand side.
I wouldn’t be surprised if Stokes was rested for this game to ensure he is 100% fit for the World Cup. The likes of Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root need to produce a big score to get into some form, but I am backing Malan to prove he should be in the starting XI with the most runs for England in another win.
For New Zealand, Glen Phillips has been in fine form in the series. He has scored 72 runs on Wednesday, so I am backing him to top-score for the tourists again.
