Unchanged XIs for Second Test as WTC Final Race Intensifies

New Zealand and England have opted for unchanged line-ups for the second Test starting December 6 in Wellington, with both teams focusing on continuity as the competition for a spot in the ICC World Test Championship Final heats up. 

New Zealand, coming off an eight-wicket defeat in the opening Test in Christchurch, faced calls to make changes following their poor performance, compounded by a points penalty for a slow over-rate. Despite these setbacks, captain Tom Latham confirmed they would retain the same XI, resisting the temptation to include Will Young or Mitchell Santner. Latham expressed confidence in the existing combination, emphasising the versatility of their top seven batters, who offer spin options when needed. 

This decision marks only the third time in 47 Tests that New Zealand have fielded an unchanged XI. Latham acknowledged his team’s underwhelming fielding in the first Test, particularly their eight dropped catches during England’s first innings. However, he indicated there had been no special emphasis on fielding in practice, stating the team’s approach remains consistent. 

England, buoyed by their dominant performance in the series opener, also announced an unchanged XI. Harry Brook, whose brilliant 171 was the highlight of the Christchurch Test, will be a key player again. 

As both sides aim to refine their game plans, New Zealand will look to improve their fielding and overall execution, while England will seek to maintain their momentum in this pivotal encounter.

New Zealand XI: Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Glenn Phillips, Nathan Smith, Tim Southee, Matt Henry, Will O'Rourke

England XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ollie Pope (wk), Ben Stokes (c), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Shoaib Bashir