by England begin their final Test series of 2024 when they take on New Zealand in Christchurch this week, in what promises to be an intriguing three-match contest.
Here, PA looks at some of the key areas of focus ahead of the opener.
Will Bethell’s gamble backfire?
England have once again thrown convention out the window by choosing highly talented but unproven debutant Jacob Bethell at number three. He was still likely to play once Jordan Cox’s broken thumb created a vacancy in the lineout, but putting him in a pivot position he’s never featured in at first-class level is a punt clear clearance. It’s a huge ask for a 21-year-old who has never scored a professional century, but very much in line with the selection policy of the ‘Bazball’ era. If he succeeds, it will seem like a stroke of genius, but if he fails, it could hurt both the team and the youngster.
The Pope has a lot to do
England vice-captain Ollie Pope endured a grueling tour of Pakistan last month, averaging just 11 from five disappointing innings. With question marks growing over his form, he needs a decent series to ease the scrutiny. But Cox’s injury changed the equation, forcing Pope to take over as makeshift wicket-keeper and end up at number six. At best, the role change could give him some freedom and help him achieve a much-needed score, but donning the gloves also adds to his workload and risks tiring a player who needs to be at his best.
The Black Caps are brimming with confidence
England have not won a Test series in New Zealand since 2007/08, losing twice and drawing on their last visit after losing by just one run in Wellington. Arguably their task is even tougher than ever against the hosts who are coming off one of the most remarkable results in modern Test history. Their 3-0 win at Lime in India defied all precedent and expectations and proved that they are a top team with quality in all facets. The fact that they did so without record signing Kane Williamson, who is fit to return against England, is another warning sign.
Root… in Lehmann’s terms
Joe Root hit back at Darren Lehmann after the Australian claimed the England slugger was a ‘step below’ the all-time greats 👀 pic.twitter.com/lQ38F5votS
– Barmy Army of England 🏴🎺 (@TheBarmyArmy) November 26, 2024
With almost exactly a year until the next Ashes, former Australia head coach Darren Lehmann chose his moment to take a quick swipe at the opposition by claiming Joe Root was “a rung below” a trio of modern greats – Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Williamson. . Root now has the perfect opportunity to express himself on the field as he becomes the 11th player in Test history to win 150 caps. He is already the format’s most prolific run-scorer in 2024, with 1,338 at an average of 58.17, and would relish the opportunity to make Lehmann eat his words with a sixth century of the year.
Bashir seeks his role
Despite being bowled out by Jack Leach in Pakistan, Shoaib Bashir retained his role as first-choice spinner – a long-term move aimed at preparing him for next winter’s Ashes series. But he could face a tough challenge on a Hagley Oval pitch that historically favors seam and offers little to slow bowlers. England could easily have gone for an extra pace option on a green surface, meaning Bashir could have limited opportunities to make his presence felt or reduce a bowling average of 37.90.
